New NASA Astronauts Prepare for Moon Missions and Private Space Stations
New NASA astronauts and astronaut candidates from NASA and the Canadian Space Agency are preparing for missions to the moon and potential private space stations, showcasing their dedication and enthusiasm for turning science fiction into reality. Their diverse backgrounds and training demonstrate the commitment required for space exploration, reflecting the ongoing advancements and opportunities in the field.
Renowned Astronaut and Pilot General Thomas Stafford Passes Away at 93
General Thomas Stafford, renowned astronaut and pilot, has passed away at 93. Known for his achievements in Gemini and Apollo missions, his legacy in space exploration and aviation is lasting. His impact extended beyond space, as seen in his association with Omega and his memorable interview sharing insights and experiences. General Stafford’s remarkable journey has left an indelible mark on the world, inspiring future generations.
SpaceX Crew-7 Mission Successfully Returns Astronauts to Earth
The SpaceX Crew-7 mission successfully concluded as the four astronauts safely returned to Earth on Tuesday, March 12. The recovery of the Dragon capsule, Endurance, was captured live as it splashed down off the coast of Pensacola, Florida. After a 199-day stay in low-Earth orbit, the crew will undergo medical checks to ensure their health.
NASA’s Artemis II Crew Set to Return to Earth After Mission Around the Moon
NASA’s Artemis II crew members, including astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen, are set to return to Earth after a nearly 10-day mission around the Moon. A joint NASA and Department of Defense team will retrieve them from the Orion spacecraft and transfer them onto a naval ship in the Pacific Ocean. The intricate recovery operations demonstrate the meticulous planning and coordination required for the safe recovery of astronauts and spacecraft from deep space missions.
Shenzhou-17 Crew Completes Second Extravehicular Mission
The Shenzhou-17 crew completed their second extravehicular mission, conducting maintenance work on the space station’s solar wings and inspecting module status. The taikonauts are scheduled to carry out space science and technology experiments during the remainder of their space journey.
Packed Space Launch Schedule for March
This week’s space launch schedule is packed with four exciting flights, including the launch of Crew-8 to the International Space Station (ISS) from Florida, the Starlink 6-41 from Cape Canaveral, Transporter 10 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, and the debut of a new small satellite launcher from Japan. Crew-8, set to launch on March 3, will carry three NASA astronauts and one Roscosmos cosmonaut to the ISS for a six-month mission. The packed launch schedule promises an exciting start to the month of March, with multiple missions set to further humanity’s exploration of space and contribute to ongoing research and operations aboard the ISS.
Polaris Dawn private astronaut mission delayed to at least mid-2024
The Polaris Dawn private astronaut mission, backed by billionaire Jared Isaacman, has been delayed to at least the middle of 2024. The delay is due to the need for additional developmental time to ensure the completion of mission goals and a safe launch and return of Dragon and the crew. One of the key mission goals is to conduct a spacewalk, marking the first from a Crew Dragon spacecraft, requiring the development of an extravehicular activity (EVA) spacesuit and modifications to the Crew Dragon. Billionaire Jared Isaacman acknowledged the challenges, stating that the work was more difficult than expected, contributing to the delays. The Polaris Dawn mission serves as a testing ground for the suit that SpaceX plans to use for future missions, making it a significant milestone for the company.
SpaceX Testing Groundbreaking System to Tackle Communication Blackout During Spacecraft Re-Entry
SpaceX is set to trial a groundbreaking system using Starlink satellites to revolutionize re-entry communications for spacecraft. The innovative approach aims to address the persistent challenge of communication blackout caused by the plasma sheath during re-entry, potentially ensuring continuous connectivity for astronauts and mission control.
Space Shuttle Challenger Embarks on STS-41B Mission
On Feb. 3, 1984, space shuttle Challenger embarked on its fourth flight, STS-41B, marking a significant milestone in space exploration. The mission included practicing tasks required for the upcoming Solar Maximum Mission satellite retrieval and repair mission, successful test flights of the Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU) astronaut propulsion device during two untethered spacewalks, and the successful deployment of two commercial communications satellites, Westar VI and Palapa-B2. The crew for STS-41B was announced on Feb. 4, 1983, and the mission’s objectives underwent changes, ultimately including the Shuttle Pallet Satellite-01A (SPAS-01A) and practicing rendezvous maneuvers with the Integrated Rendezvous Target (IRT), an inflatable 6-foot balloon deployed from the payload bay.
Canadian Space Agency Astronaut Jeremy Hansen’s Tour to Ottawa, Regina, and Moose Jaw
Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen and backup astronaut Jenni Gibbons will be touring Ottawa, Regina, and Moose Jaw from February 6 to 9, 2024, discussing the upcoming Artemis II mission and engaging with students and the general public to inspire interest in space exploration and science.