Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jul 30, 2024
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has joined forces with the University of Florida, Florida A and M University, and Florida Institute of Technology to form the Center for Science, or C-STARS. This new multi-site organization aims to propel the development of innovative medicines, electronics, and bioenergy systems in space, situated in the heart of Florida's thriving space sector. The Nationa

Huntsville AL (SPX) Jul 30, 2024
In a new study published in the The Astrophysical Journal, a researcher from The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), a part of the University of Alabama System, explores critical aspects of a phenomenon called kinetic Alfven waves (KAWs) to provide fresh insights into an age-old heliophysics mystery. Syed Ayaz, a graduate research assistant at the UAH Center for Space Plasma and Aeronomic

Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jul 30, 2024
Engineers at NASA's Johnson Space Center have initiated electric field testing on communications hardware designed for the Gateway, the pioneering space station set to orbit the Moon. Gateway will serve as an orbiting lab for deep space science and as a staging point for lunar exploration. This project will enable NASA and its international partners to maintain a human presence on and arou

Sydney, Australia (SPX) Jul 30, 2024
A rare lunar soil sample from China's Chang'e-5 mission drew large crowds in Bangkok. In collaboration with the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) and the China National Space Administration (CNSA), the lunar sample was a key feature at the Sci Power for Future Thailand Fair, which concluded on Sunday. Displayed in a rotating crystal sphere, the 75-milligram

London, UK (SPX) Jul 30, 2024
The Multi-Range Navigation for Fast Moon Rovers project, known as FASTNAV, is spearheading the development of advanced navigation solutions for the next generation of lunar exploration rovers. This initiative, led by GMV's UK branch and supported by the European Space Agency (ESA) under the General Technology Support Programme (GSTP), aims to enhance rover capabilities for longer distances and h

Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jul 30, 2024
NASA is close to completing the radar antenna reflector for the NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) satellite in California, with ongoing tests to ensure proper deployment post-launch. The drum-shaped reflector, approximately 39 feet (12 meters) in diameter, is a key NASA contribution to this collaborative mission with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This reflector will tra

Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jul 30, 2024
NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) has successfully transmitted a laser pulse to a small retroreflector on JAXA's (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) SLIM lander on the Moon, receiving a return signal on two occasions. During two orbits on May 24, 2024, LRO passed 44 miles above the SLIM (Smart Lander for Investigating Moon) and used its laser altimeter instrument to send signals t

Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jul 30, 2024
Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (Nasdaq: RKLB) ("Rocket Lab" or "the Company"), a global leader in launch services and space systems, has finalized the integration and testing of two spacecraft that will soon journey to Mars. Rocket Lab constructed the twin spacecraft for the University of California Berkeley's Space Science Laboratory and NASA to support the Escape and Plasma Acceleration and Dynami

Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jul 30, 2024
The Starliner team successfully conducted a docked hot fire test of the spacecraft's Reaction Control System (RCS) thrusters on Saturday afternoon. This test included monitoring the helium system and collecting additional data for the Crew Flight Test's return to Earth. Under the direction of Starliner flight director Chloe Mehring and with Boeing engineers on console monitoring, flight co

Washington DC (UPI) Jul 29, 2024
United Launch Alliance plans to launch an Atlas 5 rocket's 58th and final national security mission on Tuesday from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. Liftoff is scheduled for 6:45 a.m. EDT from Launch Complex 41, with a three-hour window. There is a 55% chance of rain Tuesday, according to Accuweather.com. The launch will be streamed on ULA's website. The top-