Shenzhou-18 Crew Completes Record-Breaking Spacewalk Mission
On May 28, 2024, the Shenzhou-18 crew members aboard China’s orbiting space station successfully completed their first spacewalk mission, setting a new record for the longest single spacewalk by Chinese astronauts. This achievement, facilitated by the space station’s robotic arm and ground support, highlights China’s dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and technology in space exploration.
SpaceX’s Dragon Capsule Successfully Departs ISS for Earth
SpaceX’s 30th Dragon cargo capsule has successfully departed from the International Space Station (ISS) and is now on its way back to Earth. The Dragon capsule is expected to make an ocean splashdown off the coast of Florida, carrying over 4,100 pounds of supplies and scientific experiments designed for the microgravity environment of the ISS. This mission, known as CRS-30, marks the 30th cargo delivery mission to the ISS conducted by SpaceX under a Commercial Resupply Services contract with NASA.
China’s Tiangong Space Station Damaged by Debris Strike, Astronauts Conduct Repairs
China’s Tiangong space station faced a setback after being damaged by a debris strike, resulting in a partial loss of power supply. Astronauts from the Shenzhou 17 mission successfully repaired the damage through spacewalks. China plans to enhance its space debris procedures to prevent future incidents, highlighting the growing concern of human-generated orbital debris and the need for proactive measures to protect space infrastructure.
Artemis Astronauts’ Moonwalk Should Include Zoom Call for Students
Artemis astronauts are scheduled to walk on the moon in late 2026, conducting scientific exploration and leaving behind instruments for long-term study. But in addition to their mission objectives, they should also engage with young students around the world through a ‘Ask the Artemis Astronauts’ event, providing inspiration for the new generation of explorers.
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.
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.
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.
Cygnus Cargo Spacecraft Set to Launch on Falcon 9 Rocket for the First Time
A Cygnus cargo spacecraft is set to launch on a Falcon 9 rocket for the first time, marking a significant milestone in space exploration. The mission, designated NG-20, is scheduled to lift off from Cape Canaveral’s Space Launch Complex 40…
NASA’s Crew-8 Mission News Conferences Scheduled
NASA is gearing up for its upcoming Crew-8 mission to the International Space Station, and the agency has scheduled a pair of news conferences to provide details about the mission and the crew involved. The briefings will take place on…
Voyager Space and Airbus Defence and Space Partner to Develop Starlab Commercial Space Station
Voyager Space and Airbus Defence and Space have officially solidified their partnership to develop the Starlab commercial space station. The joint venture, known as Starlab Space LLC, will oversee the design, construction, and operation of the station, aiming to attract…