Breaking Space News: August 25 - 31, 2024

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• SPACE SCIENCE

  • 4.6 Billion-Year-Old Stardust May Clues to the Lif …

  • Juno’s Stellar Compass: Mapping Jupiter’s Radiatio …

  • SETI Institute Pioneers Low-Frequency Search for E …

  • EarthCARE’s Lidar Captures Wildfire Aerosols and S …

  • India’s ISRO Prepares for Gaganyaan's Uncrewed Tes …

  • NASA’s Solar Sail Extends in Space, Deployment on …

  • Lockheed Martin’s Inflatable Airlock Passes Critic …

• SPACE GOVERNANCE

  • Falcon 9 Landing Failure Sparks FAA Probe, Delays …

  • Space Domain Awareness, Satellite Imaging Setbacks …

• MILITARY IN SPACE

  • Chinese Researchers Urge for Enhanced Space Situat …

  • Policy vs. Practice: The Persistent Divide in U.S. …

  • Trump Proposes Space National Guard to Further U.S …

• SPACE COMMERCE

  • Blue Origin Advances with Suborbital Tourism Launc …

  • As Starliner Returns Empty Next Week, NASA Astrona …

  • NASA and SDA Allocate Over $600M for Lunar and Mil …

• RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT

  • Towards Room-Temperature Superconductors: Recent B …

  • South Africa's MeerKAT Telescope Reveals an Odd Ra …

SPACE SCIENCE

4.6 Billion-Year-Old Stardust May Clues to the Life Cycle of Stars

Research into ancient grains of dust from space, known as presolar grains, are providing valuable insights into the life cycle of stars. These microscopic grains, which predate our solar system, have been found in primitive meteorites on Earth. Sachiko Amari, research Professor of Physics, Arts & Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis, US, writes for The Conversation, that researchers have identified these grains as remnants from stars that existed over 4.6 billion years ago.

One such grain, extracted from the Murchison meteorite, is composed of silicon carbide (SiC) and exhibits a carbon isotope ratio indicative of its stellar origin. This grain likely formed in an asymptotic giant branch star, a type of star at the end of its life cycle that expels dust into space.

The study of presolar grains helps scientists understand nucleosynthesis in stars, the mixing of different zones within stars, and the changes in elemental abundances over time in the galaxy. These findings not only shed light on the history of our solar system but also enhance our understanding of the broader cosmic processes that shape the universe.

Juno’s Stellar Compass: Mapping Jupiter’s Radiation in 3D

NASA’s Juno mission has achieved a significant milestone by developing the first complete 3D radiation map of the Jupiter system. This breakthrough was made possible by the Advanced Stellar Compass (ASC) star tracker cameras, designed and built by the Technical University of Denmark, and the Stellar Reference Unit (SRU) from Leonardo SpA in Italy. These instruments, originally intended for deep-space navigation, have been innovatively repurposed to measure radiation levels around Jupiter.

The radiation map reveals the intensity of high-energy particles near Jupiter’s orbit, including the icy moon Europa, and shows how the radiation environment is influenced by smaller moons orbiting near Jupiter’s rings. By counting ‘fireflies’—flashes of light caused by high-energy particles hitting the cameras—scientists can determine the radiation levels the spacecraft encounters during each orbit.

This detailed radiation mapping is crucial for future missions to Jupiter and its moons. Using navigation cameras as radiation detectors showcases the Juno mission team's creative problem-solving.

SETI Institute Pioneers Low-Frequency Search for Extraterrestrial Technology

The SETI Institute, in collaboration with the Berkeley SETI Research Center and the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research, has initiated the first low-frequency search for alien technology in distant galaxies. Utilizing the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA) in Western Australia, this study covers 2,800 galaxies, focusing on low radio frequencies around 100 MHz. This innovative approach aims to detect technosignatures from advanced extraterrestrial civilizations, potentially harnessing the energy of their stars or even entire galaxies.

Despite not finding any technosignatures in this initial search, the study, published in the Astrophysical Journal sets important constraints on the power of potential alien transmitters and highlights the need for continued exploration of different radio frequencies.

EarthCARE’s Lidar Captures Wildfire Aerosols and Storm Debby

The Japanese Space Exploration Agency (JAXA) and European Space Agency’s (ESA) EarthCARE satellite, launched in May 2024, is making significant strides in profiling atmospheric particles. Equipped with advanced instruments, including an atmospheric lidar, EarthCARE, short for Earth Cloud Aerosol and Radiation Explorer, has captured detailed vertical profiles of aerosols and clouds, providing crucial data on their distribution and properties. This information is vital for understanding the role of aerosols and clouds in Earth’s energy balance and improving air-quality forecasts.

Recently, EarthCARE’s instruments have been instrumental in monitoring the spread of hazardous wildfire particles. As wildfires raged across Canada and Mexico, the satellite’s lidar detected a striking red layer of aerosols, highlighting the impact of these particles on air quality and climate. The data collected by EarthCARE is expected to enhance weather forecasting and contribute to a better understanding of how aerosols influence weather patterns and global warming.

India’s ISRO Prepares for Gaganyaan's Uncrewed Test Flight Amidst 70-Mission Plan

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for an ambitious series of space missions over the next five years, with plans to launch more than 70 missions, including over 50 satellite launches. Among these, the highly anticipated Gaganyaan mission stands out, with its first uncrewed test flight scheduled for December 2024. This mission will test the Gaganyaan crew vehicle, a crucial step towards India’s goal of achieving human spaceflight capabilities.

ISRO Chairman S. Somanath revealed that the Gaganyaan mission will involve the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3) rocket, which will carry a humanoid robot named Vyomitra (Sanskrit for "space friend") to space to verify systems. The mission aims to test all systems for a full crewed flight, including reentry, parachute deployment, and a splashdown in the Bay of Bengal. The success of this mission will pave the way for subsequent uncrewed and crewed missions, with the ultimate goal of sending Indian astronauts into low Earth orbit.

In addition to the Gaganyaan mission, ISRO’s plans include future Chandrayaan missions and the launch of a space station module by 2028.

NASA’s Solar Sail Extends in Space, Deployment on Rocket Lab’s ‘Beginning Of The Swarm’ Mission Marks a New Era in Space Propulsion

NASA’s Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3) has successfully deployed its solar sail in space, marking a significant milestone in solar sail technology. Launched on April 24, 2024, aboard Rocket Lab’s Electron vehicle during the “Beginning Of The Swarm” mission, the ACS3 aims to test new composite materials that can be folded into a small package and deployed in space. The sail, now fully extended, spans approximately 860 square feet, about half the size of a tennis court.

The deployment was confirmed on August 29, 2024, with data showing the successful extension of the sail-hoisting boom system. In the coming weeks, the team will test the sail’s maneuvering capabilities, offering insights for future solar sail missions. Solar sails use sunlight pressure for propulsion, similar to how wind powers a sailboat, eliminating the need for rocket propellant. This technology holds promise for deep space exploration, offering a fuel-free propulsion method by harnessing sunlight.

The “Beginning Of The Swarm” mission also included NEONSAT-1, an Earth observation satellite for the Satellite Technology Research Center (SaTReC) at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). Future missions could benefit from solar sail propulsion, including space weather early-warning satellites and asteroid reconnaissance missions.

Lockheed Martin’s Inflatable Airlock Passes Critical Test

Lockheed Martin has successfully tested an inflatable airlock at the Waterton Canyon facility. The test involved pressurization and depressurization cycles to evaluate the airlock’s Vectran material, known for its strength and stability. This material, similar to Kevlar but with better creep life, allows the airlock to become as rigid as steel when pressurized. Creep life refers to the material’s ability to withstand prolonged stress and deformation over time without significant degradation.

Inflatable structures offer several advantages over traditional metal hardware, including greater volume for less mass and improved protection against radiation and thermal conditions. These benefits make them ideal for future lunar and Mars missions. Lockheed Martin’s investment in this technology aligns with broader industry trends, as companies like Max Space and Sierra Space also explore inflatable habitats. Read more about this story at SpaceNews.

SPACE GOVERNANCE

Falcon 9 Landing Failure Sparks FAA Probe, Delays Polaris Dawn Mission

In a series of recent events, SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket has faced significant setbacks, culminating in an investigation by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The Falcon 9, which had just completed its record-breaking 23rd mission, encountered a critical failure during its landing on a droneship in the Atlantic Ocean. Flames erupted from the rocket’s base, causing it to topple over shortly after touchdown. This incident marks the second grounding of the Falcon 9 in two months, following a previous anomaly in July.

On August 29, the FAA mandated a thorough investigation into the mishap, halting all Falcon 9 launches till the conclusion of the investigation. SpaceX has been tasked with conducting the investigation under FAA oversight, with the agency emphasizing that any system, process, or procedure related to the anomaly must not compromise public safety. However, just two days after the landing failure, the FAA has now cleared SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket to return to flight operations, with the investigation still ongoing. SpaceX can resume launches while ensuring all other license requirements are met. This clearance is a relief for the Polaris Dawn crew, who are now awaiting a new target launch date.

The Polaris Dawn mission, which aims to perform the first commercial spacewalk, has already faced multiple delays due to technical issues and unfavorable splashdown weather. The crew, led by billionaire Jared Isaacman, remains patient and focused despite the setbacks. The mission’s unique requirements, including limited life support consumables and no ISS rendezvous, necessitate precise launch and reentry conditions. As SpaceX works to resolve the Falcon 9 issues, the space community watches closely, recognizing the broader implications for commercial spaceflight reliability and safety.

Space Domain Awareness, Satellite Imaging Setbacks and Artemis Delays: The U.S. Space Sector’s Urgent Needs

NASA’s Artemis program faces significant challenges as the Office of Inspector General (OIG) issues a critical report on the Mobile Launcher 2 (ML-2) project. Initially projected to cost $383 million, the ML-2’s expenses have ballooned to an estimated $1.8 billion, with potential further increases to $2.7 billion. The delays and cost overruns threaten to push back the Artemis IV mission to 2029, highlighting the complexities of managing large-scale space projects.

Meanwhile, experts warn that the U.S. is falling behind in the satellite imaging race. Former National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) official David Gauthier emphasized that current funding for commercial satellite imagery is insufficient to maintain U.S. competitiveness. The conflict in Ukraine has underscored the strategic importance of real-time satellite data, yet the U.S. commercial satellite industry struggles to meet evolving military needs for tactical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR).

Additionally, the U.S. military's space domain awareness (SDA) capabilities are lagging, reports SpaceNews. Despite the U.S. Space Force's creation, SDA efforts are limited to basic cataloging, lacking the predictive and analytical capabilities needed for a congested and contested space environment. Retired U.S. Space Force General John Shaw stressed the need for dynamic tracking of hard-to-detect targets in non-standard orbits.

These developments underscore the urgent need for innovation and investment in U.S. space capabilities to maintain leadership in the increasingly competitive space domain.

MILITARY IN SPACE

Chinese Researchers Urge for Enhanced Space Situational Awareness Following U.S. Assessment

Chinese researchers are calling for enhanced space situational awareness (SSA) capabilities following an assessment of U.S. advancements in this area. The review, published in the journal ACMSR, highlights the development, status, and future trends of U.S. SSA satellites, focusing on significant programs such as the Midcourse Space Experiment (MSX), the Space-Based Surveillance System (SBSS), the Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP), and Silentbarker. The U.S. Space Force’s expanded concept of space domain awareness, which includes understanding the behavior and intentions of other space actors, is also noted.

The report underscores the need for China to boost its SSA capabilities to protect its space assets and support national defense and foreign policy. China is already developing a sophisticated network of ground-based optical telescopes and radars for detecting, tracking, and characterizing space objects. This call for action reflects the growing importance of SSA in maintaining national security and fostering international cooperation in the increasingly contested space environment.

Policy vs. Practice: The Persistent Divide in U.S. Space Sector

Despite policies promoting private sector innovations, a gap remains between rhetoric and action in the U.S. space sector. Experts note the Department of Defense (DoD) lacks processes to prioritize commercial capabilities early in budgeting. Mandy Vaughn, co-chair of a Defense Science Board study, emphasized the need for a cultural shift within the government to leverage private sector capabilities.

The Defense Science Board’s final report highlights the need to integrate commercial space innovations to maintain U.S. space leadership. It calls for better data on the industry's economic contributions and strategic government investments. Retired Space Force General John Shaw noted that while progress has been made, the full potential of commercial space for national security remains untapped. SpaceNews has more on the story.

Trump Proposes Space National Guard to Further U.S. Militarization of Space

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced his intention to create a Space National Guard if elected to a second term. Speaking at the 146th National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) General Conference in Detroit, Michigan, Trump emphasized the need for a dedicated combat reserve for the U.S. Space Force. He highlighted the Space Force’s importance, noting its establishment during his first term as one of his proudest achievements.

The proposal for a Space National Guard has been circulating since 2021 but has yet to gain sufficient support in Congress. Critics, including the Biden administration, argue that it would create unnecessary bureaucracy and expense. Despite this, Trump remains committed to the idea, citing strong support from key figures like Senator Marco Rubio.

This announcement underscores the ongoing debate over the best way to support and expand the U.S. Space Force, reflecting broader discussions about the future of U.S. military space operations.

SPACE COMMERCE

Blue Origin Advances with Suborbital Tourism Launch and A Date for New Glenn’s Mars Mission Debut

Blue Origin has recently achieved significant milestones in both suborbital and orbital spaceflight. On August 29, 2024, Blue Origin successfully launched its eighth suborbital space tourism mission, NS-26, from its West Texas spaceport. The mission, which carried six passengers, reached an altitude of approximately 341,000 feet before safely returning to Earth. This flight marks another step forward in Blue Origin’s efforts to make space tourism more accessible. The launch and the eventual touchdown/capsule landing can be seen in the following video between 40 and 50 minutes.

In parallel, Blue Origin is preparing for the debut launch of its New Glenn heavy-lift rocket, scheduled for October 13, 2024. This inaugural flight will carry NASA’s ESCAPADE mission, which aims to study the effects of the solar wind on Mars’ atmosphere using two spacecraft. The New Glenn rocket, developed after years of delays, represents a significant advancement in Blue Origin’s capabilities and is expected to play a crucial role in future deep space missions.

As Starliner Returns Empty Next Week, NASA Astronauts Face 240 Days in Space, Will Return with SpaceX Crew-9 in 2025

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, who launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner on June 5, 2024, are now set to spend at least 240 days in space. Initially planned as an eight-day mission, their stay has been extended multiple times due to technical issues with the Starliner, including helium leaks and thruster failures. NASA’s decision to bring the astronauts back on a SpaceX Dragon capsule in February 2025 was heavily influenced by lessons from the Challenger and Columbia disasters, emphasizing safety over schedule.

To accommodate this change, NASA has removed two astronauts from the upcoming SpaceX Crew-9 mission, ensuring Wilmore and Williams have seats for their return. Meanwhile, the Starliner capsule will return to Earth uncrewed on September 6, 2024. This series of events highlights the complexities and risks of human spaceflight, as well as the critical importance of safety protocols in ensuring the well-being of astronauts.

NASA and SDA Allocate Over $600M for Lunar and Military Space Projects

NASA has awarded Intuitive Machines a $116.9 million contract to deliver six science instruments to the lunar south pole in 2027. This mission, part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program, aims to enhance our understanding of the moon’s environment by studying volatiles like water ice and measuring radiation in the region. Intuitive Machines, which successfully completed the first private lunar landing earlier this year, will use its Nova-C lander for this mission.

In parallel, General Dynamics Mission Systems has secured a $491 million contract extension from the Space Development Agency (SDA) for satellite ground systems. This extension nearly doubles the company’s existing contract, bringing the total to approximately $900 million through 2029. The contract supports the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA), a mesh network of satellites in low Earth orbit designed to enhance global military operations. General Dynamics will develop and maintain two primary operations centers and 14 ground stations to support this initiative.

RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT

Towards Room-Temperature Superconductors: Recent Breakthroughs in Superconductivity Research

Recent breakthroughs in superconductivity research at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, California and Stanford University have revealed electron pairing, a key characteristic of superconductors, at much higher temperatures in an antiferromagnetic insulator. This unexpected discovery suggests that engineering similar materials could lead to superconductors operating at higher, possibly even room temperatures.

In the study, scientists have identified an anomalous energy gap in electron-doped cuprates, which smoothly connects to the superconducting gap at optimal doping levels. This normal-state gap raises the prospect of engineering higher transition temperatures in n-type cuprates, comparable to those of p-type cuprates. These insights could pave the way for developing superconductors that function at more practical temperatures, significantly impacting various technologies, from quantum computing to energy transmission.

Understanding this phenomenon could be crucial for achieving room-temperature superconductivity. Most superconductors currently operate at very low temperatures. Type I superconductors have critical temperatures between 0.000325 K and 7.8 K, while high-temperature superconductors like cuprates function up to around 150 K (-123 degrees Celsius). The highest temperature superconductor discovered so far is lanthanum decahydride, which works up to 250 K (-23 degrees Celsius) under high pressure.

These advancements highlight the potential for higher temperature superconductors, which could transform industries by enabling more efficient energy transmission, advanced computing, and innovative transportation solutions.

South Africa's MeerKAT Telescope Reveals an Odd Radio Ring Near the Galactic Center

Astronomers have made a “serendipitous” discovery of a new radio-continuum ring-like object, nicknamed Kýklos, using the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory’s (SARAO) MeerKAT radio telescope in Northern Cape, South Africa. This object, resembling the recently discovered odd radio circles (ORCs), is located just six degrees from the Galactic plane and close to the Galactic center. Kýklos exhibits an atypical thermal radio-continuum spectrum, leading researchers to explore various formation scenarios. The most plausible explanation is that Kýklos is a circumstellar shell around an evolved massive star, possibly a Wolf-Rayet star - a type of star known for its unusual spectra, strong stellar winds and high luminosity.

This discovery, accepted for publication in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics, adds to the growing catalog of ORCs, mysterious rings of radio light that are undetectable at other wavelengths. The MeerKAT observations provide valuable insights into the late stages of stellar evolution and the complex processes occurring in the circumstellar environment. Follow-up multiwavelength observations are required to fully characterize Kýklos and confirm its nature.

Despatch Out. 👽🛸