New Zealand’s First Satellite Payload ‘Korimako’ Successfully Launched
New Zealand achieves a significant milestone in space operations with the successful launch of its first satellite payload, ‘Korimako.’ The payload, deployed aboard an American satellite, marks a milestone for New Zealand’s defence and space capabilities. The deployment demonstrates international collaboration and showcases New Zealand’s growing significance in the global space arena.
Blue Origin Achieves Milestones in Development of Orbital Reef Space Station
Blue Origin, the space company founded by Jeff Bezos, has achieved a significant milestone in its contract with NASA to develop a new space station, Orbital Reef. The $172 million contract aims to create a space station capable of supporting both astronauts and tourists. NASA’s investment in potential replacements for the International Space Station has led to the collaboration between Blue Origin and Sierra Space in the development of Orbital Reef. Recently, NASA announced that Blue Origin has successfully passed four key milestones, demonstrating the progress of Orbital Reef’s crucial technology. One of the notable achievements is the development of a system to recycle urine from future astronauts and tourists. These milestones are essential in ensuring that Orbital Reef can sustain human life in space, as stated by Angela Hart, manager of NASA’s Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program.
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.
NASA’s SpaceX to Launch 30th Commercial Resupply Mission
NASA’s SpaceX is set to launch its 30th Commercial Resupply Mission, delivering new science investigations, food, supplies, and equipment to the International Space Station. Registration for the virtual event is free and will provide participants with communications about launch schedule changes and access to curated mission resources. Arlington, VA also has a range of upcoming events to look forward to, including the Helmsmen Toastmasters Club meeting, an Irish Stew cooking class, and a Margaritas and Karaoke Happy Hour Party in Washington DC.
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 Monitoring Increased Air Leak in Russian Space Station Module
NASA is closely monitoring an increased air leak in a Russian International Space Station module, which has doubled in magnitude. Despite the concerning increase, the space agency has assured that it does not pose a safety risk. The leak, located in a vestibule known as PrK, has been extensively analyzed and previous attempts to address the issue have been made. NASA and its international partners are actively working to ensure the continued safety and functionality of the International Space Station.
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.
NASA and SpaceX Delay Crew-8 Mission to Avoid Conflict with IM-1 Lunar Lander Launch
NASA and SpaceX have announced a delay in the launch of the four-person Dragon Crew-8 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) from February 22 to no earlier than February 28 to avoid potential conflict with the launch of Intuitive Machines’ IM-1 lunar lander mission. The Crew-8 Dragon Endeavour launch date will be reassessed following a successful launch of the IM-1 lunar lander, and it could be subject to further changes. This delay is part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and success of space missions amidst increasing interest and activity in space exploration.
Sierra Space Successfully Integrates Dream Chaser Spaceplane with Shooting Star Module at NASA Facility
On February 2, 2024, Sierra Space achieved a significant milestone in its ongoing test campaign as it successfully mated its Dream Chaser spaceplane to the Shooting Star module at NASA’s Neil Armstrong Test Facility in Ohio. This development brings the…
International Space Station Captures Breathtaking View of Earth’s Glowing Atmosphere
The International Space Station (ISS) has recently treated the world to a breathtaking view of Earth’s glowing atmosphere, captured from a vantage point 258 miles above the Pacific Ocean. This mesmerizing image, shared on Instagram, has garnered widespread admiration, accumulating…