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spacetimewithstuartgary · 10 days ago

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NASA tests new ways to stick the landing in challenging terrain

To support this, NASA's Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) is pursuing a regular cadence of flight testing on a variety of vehicles, helping researchers rapidly advance these critical systems for missions to the moon, Mars, and beyond.

"These flight tests directly address some of NASA's highest-ranked technology needs, or shortfalls, ranging from advanced guidance algorithms and terrain-relative navigation to lidar-and optical-based hazard detection and mapping," said Dr. John M. Carson III, STMD technical integration manager for precision landing and based at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston.

Since the beginning of this year, STMD has supported flight testing of four precision landing and hazard detection technologies from many sectors, including NASA, universities, and commercial industry. These cutting-edge solutions have flown aboard a suborbital rocket system, a high-speed jet, a helicopter, and a rocket-powered lander testbed. That's four precision landing technologies tested on four different flight vehicles in four months.

"By flight testing these technologies on Earth in spaceflight-relevant trajectories and velocities, we're demonstrating their capabilities and validating them with real data for transitioning technologies from the lab into mission applications," said Dr. Carson. "This work also signals to industry and other partners that these capabilities are ready to push beyond NASA and academia and into the next generation of moon and Mars landers."

The following NASA-supported flight tests took place between February and May:

Identifying landmarks to calculate accurate navigation solutions is a key function of Draper's Multi-Environment Navigator (DMEN), a vision-based navigation and hazard detection technology designed to improve safety and precision of lunar landings.

Aboard Blue Origin's New Shepard reusable suborbital rocket system, DMEN collected real-world data and validated its algorithms to advance it for use during the delivery of three NASA payloads as part of NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative. On Feb. 4, DMEN performed the latest in a series of tests supported by NASA's Flight Opportunities program, which is managed at NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California.

During the February flight, which enabled testing at rocket speeds on ascent and descent, DMEN scanned the Earth below, identifying landmarks to calculate an accurate navigation solution. The technology achieved accuracy levels that helped Draper advance it for use in terrain-relative navigation, which is a key element of landing on other planets.

Several highly dynamic maneuvers and flight paths put Psionic's Space Navigation Doppler Lidar (PSNDL) to the test while it collected navigation data at various altitudes, velocities, and orientations.

Psionic licensed NASA's Navigation Doppler Lidar technology developed at Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, and created its own miniaturized system with improved functionality and component redundancies, making it more rugged for spaceflight.

In February, PSNDL along with a full navigation sensor suite was mounted aboard an F/A-18 Hornet aircraft and underwent flight testing at NASA Armstrong.

The aircraft followed a variety of flight paths over several days, including a large figure-eight loop and several highly dynamic maneuvers over Death Valley, California. During these flights, PSNDL collected navigation data relevant for lunar and Mars entry and descent.

The high-speed flight tests demonstrated the sensor's accuracy and navigation precision in challenging conditions, helping prepare the technology to land robots and astronauts on the moon and Mars. These recent tests complemented previous Flight Opportunities-supported testing aboard a lander testbed to advance earlier versions of their PSNDL prototypes.

Researchers at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, developed a state-of-the-art Hazard Detection Lidar (HDL) sensor system to quickly map the surface from a vehicle descending at high speed to find safe landing sites in challenging locations, such as Europa (one of Jupiter's moons), our own moon, Mars, and other planetary bodies throughout the solar system. The HDL-scanning lidar generates three-dimensional digital elevation maps in real time, processing approximately 15 million laser measurements and mapping two football fields' worth of terrain in only two seconds.

In mid-March, researchers tested the HDL from a helicopter at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with flights over a lunar-like test field with rocks and craters. The HDL collected numerous scans from several different altitudes and view angles to simulate a range of landing scenarios, generating real-time maps. Preliminary reviews of the data show excellent performance of the HDL system.

The HDL is a component of NASA's Safe and Precise Landing—Integrated Capabilities Evolution (SPLICE) technology suite. The SPLICE descent and landing system integrates multiple component technologies, such as avionics, sensors, and algorithms, to enable landing in hard-to-reach areas of high scientific interest. The HDL team is also continuing to test and further improve the sensor for future flight opportunities and commercial applications.

During a series of flight tests in April and May, supported by NASA's Flight Opportunities program, the university's software was integrated into Astrobotic's Xodiac suborbital rocket-powered lander via hardware developed by Falcon ExoDynamics as part of NASA TechLeap Prize's Nighttime Precision Landing Challenge.

The SDSU algorithms aim to improve landing capabilities by expanding the flexibility and trajectory-shaping ability and enhancing the propellant efficiency of powered-descent guidance systems. They have the potential for infusion into human and robotic missions to the moon as well as high-mass Mars missions.

By advancing these and other important navigation, precision landing, and hazard detection technologies with frequent flight tests, NASA's Space Technology Mission Directorate is prioritizing safe and successful touchdowns in challenging planetary environments for future space missions.

IMAGE: New Shepard booster lands during the flight test on February 4, 2025. Credit: Blue Origin

#science #space #astronomy #physics #news #astrophysics

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klimkovsky · 5 months ago

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Awaiting the first launch of Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket

Blue Origin is a direct and perhaps the closest competitor to SpaceX. Its founder, Jeff Bezos (Jeffrey Preston “Jeff” Bezos), better known as the founder and owner of Amazon, as well as the head of the Washington Post publishing house, was the richest man on the planet for several years, and only a couple of years ago he gave up his place in this rating to Elon Musk. Almost simultaneously with Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos assessed the prospects of the private sector in American and world cosmonautics, and began to actively invest in this industry — he created an aerospace company, whose name for many years was associated only with commercial suborbital jumps to the edge of the earth’s atmosphere — an attraction for the rich. But in parallel with this, a heavy-class carrier was being developed, strategically aimed at reusability.

This development has been delayed. The launch of the New Glenn rocket (named after the first American astronaut to make the first orbital flight, John Glenn) has been expected for many years. Its creation began more than 10 years ago, but since then the dates for demonstrating at least something have only been postponed. Contracts were even signed for the launch of payloads, but most of them were terminated due to the unreadiness of the carrier, or postponed indefinitely. For example, in 2021, New Glenn was supposed to deliver a research station to the Moon, and in 2023, send another rover to Mars. Most of the failed Blue Origin contracts went to (it’s not hard to guess who) SpaceX. It’s gotten ridiculous — like SpaceX, Blue Origin aims to create its own satellite constellation for broadband Internet access around the world (this is the so-called Project Kuiper — an analogue of the Starlink system), and the New Glenn rocket was primarily developed for this project, but the first devices of Jeff Bezos’ satellite constellation were launched into orbit by Elon Musk’s Falcon 9 carriers.

The delay in the development of New Glenn is largely due to problems in the development of BE-4 engines. These are innovative engines on a Methane-Oxygen fuel pair. Elon Musk preferred Kerosene-Oxygen fuel for his workhorse Falcon 9 and was right. Despite the promising benefit of using methane, the technology of methane engines is still only being researched. But Bezos decided not to waste time on temporary solutions and ended up getting stuck at the development and testing stage, which also let down industry partners — the American space giant ULA (United Launch Alliance), whose Vulcan rocket (which replaced the Atlas-5 launch vehicle, which used Russian RD-180 engines) also could not put anything into orbit for several years, since there were no BE-4 engines for it. And most of ULA’s contracts also went to SpaceX.

But now the engines are ready, and even Vulcan has already launched a couple of times. But New Glenn still couldn’t take off — apparently, the development was stuck on something else besides the engines. At the end of 2024, the stumbling block was the launch permit from the FAA, which had previously passionately slowed down test flights of the Starship system from SpaceX, but now it seems the American regulator has a new passion.

However, permission has already been received — in the first days of the new year 2025. Fire tests of the carrier, which has been on the launch pad at Cape Canaveral for many days, have been conducted. The launch may occur in the very near future, but not earlier than January 10.

This will be a demonstration flight, during which a demo version of the orbital tug “Blue Ring Pathfinder” will appear in space, which will not even separate from the second stage — it will be deorbited (submerged) together with it. Orbital tugs are a relatively new direction in space technology. The cost of launches is rapidly falling. And the cost of the payload is still quite high. For example, launching into orbit can cost from 50 to 100 million dollars, but the device itself can cost a billion. Its service life is limited by the wear of solar panels or the supply of fuel for correction and raising the orbit. What if it was possible to refuel a satellite worth a billion for 100 million dollars or transfer it to another orbit, replace a number of components right in orbit, or even deorbit it — with the help of a special satellite — a tug? Previously, this was not thought about. Of course, the Space Shuttle system sometimes solved such problems, but now it is gone, and there are satellites waiting for servicing in orbit. New players in the space technology market are also trying to fill this niche with their developments. Blue Origin is also developing tugs. “Blue Ring Pathfinder” is their brainchild. It turns out that in the upcoming flight we will see a demonstration of two promising technologies at once.

Blue Ring — a space tug from Blue Origin

Source: Universe and Human

Author: Andrey Klimkovsky

#space #blue origin #new glenn #space technology #SpaceX

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sunaleisocial · 14 days ago

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stick the landing in challenging terrain

New Post has been published on https://sunalei.org/news/stick-the-landing-in-challenging-terrain/

stick the landing in challenging terrain

Advancing new hazard detection and precision landing technologies to help future space missions successfully achieve safe and soft landings is a critical area of space research and development, particularly for future crewed missions. To support this, NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) is pursuing a regular cadence of flight testing on a variety of vehicles, helping researchers rapidly advance these critical systems for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

“These flight tests directly address some of NASA’s highest-ranked technology needs, or shortfalls, ranging from advanced guidance algorithms and terrain-relative navigation to lidar-and optical-based hazard detection and mapping,” said Dr. John M. Carson III, STMD technical integration manager for precision landing and based at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.

Since the beginning of this year, STMD has supported flight testing of four precision landing and hazard detection technologies from many sectors, including NASA, universities, and commercial industry. These cutting-edge solutions have flown aboard a suborbital rocket system, a high-speed jet, a helicopter, and a rocket-powered lander testbed. That’s four precision landing technologies tested on four different flight vehicles in four months.

“By flight testing these technologies on Earth in spaceflight-relevant trajectories and velocities, we’re demonstrating their capabilities and validating them with real data for transitioning technologies from the lab into mission applications,” said Dr. Carson. “This work also signals to industry and other partners that these capabilities are ready to push beyond NASA and academia and into the next generation of Moon and Mars landers.”

The following NASA-supported flight tests took place between February and May:

Identifying landmarks to calculate accurate navigation solutions is a key function of Draper’s Multi-Environment Navigator (DMEN), a vision-based navigation and hazard detection technology designed to improve safety and precision of lunar landings.

Aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard reusable suborbital rocket system, DMEN collected real-world data and validated its algorithms to advance it for use during the delivery of three NASA payloads as part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative. On Feb. 4, DMEN performed the latest in a series of tests supported by NASA’s Flight Opportunities program, which is managed at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California.

Several highly dynamic maneuvers and flight paths put Psionic’s Space Navigation Doppler Lidar (PSNDL) to the test while it collected navigation data at various altitudes, velocities, and orientations.

Psionic licensed NASA’s Navigation Doppler Lidar technology developed at Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, and created its own miniaturized system with improved functionality and component redundancies, making it more rugged for spaceflight. In February, PSNDL along with a full navigation sensor suite was mounted aboard an F/A-18 Hornet aircraft and underwent flight testing at NASA Armstrong.

The high-speed flight tests demonstrated the sensor’s accuracy and navigation precision in challenging conditions, helping prepare the technology to land robots and astronauts on the Moon and Mars. These recent tests complemented previous Flight Opportunities-supported testing aboard a lander testbed to advance earlier versions of their PSNDL prototypes.

Researchers at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, developed a state-of-the-art Hazard Detection Lidar (HDL) sensor system to quickly map the surface from a vehicle descending at high speed to find safe landing sites in challenging locations, such as Europa (one of Jupiter’s moons), our own Moon, Mars, and other planetary bodies throughout the solar system. The HDL-scanning lidar generates three-dimensional digital elevation maps in real time, processing approximately 15 million laser measurements and mapping two football fields’ worth of terrain in only two seconds.

In mid-March, researchers tested the HDL from a helicopter at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with flights over a lunar-like test field with rocks and craters. The HDL collected numerous scans from several different altitudes and view angles to simulate a range of landing scenarios, generating real-time maps. Preliminary reviews of the data show excellent performance of the HDL system.

The HDL is a component of NASA’s Safe and Precise Landing – Integrated Capabilities Evolution (SPLICE) technology suite. The SPLICE descent and landing system integrates multiple component technologies, such as avionics, sensors, and algorithms, to enable landing in hard-to-reach areas of high scientific interest. The HDL team is also continuing to test and further improve the sensor for future flight opportunities and commercial applications.

Providing pinpoint landing guidance capability with minimum propellant usage, the San Diego State University (SDSU) powered-descent guidance algorithms seek to improve autonomous spacecraft precision landing and hazard avoidance. During a series of flight tests in April and May, supported by NASA’s Flight Opportunities program, the university’s software was integrated into Astrobotic’s Xodiac suborbital rocket-powered lander via hardware developed by Falcon ExoDynamics as part of NASA TechLeap Prize’s Nighttime Precision Landing Challenge.

By advancing these and other important navigation, precision landing, and hazard detection technologies with frequent flight tests, NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate is prioritizing safe and successful touchdowns in challenging planetary environments for future space missions.

Learn more: https://www.nasa.gov/space-technology-mission-directorate/

By: Lee Ann Obringer NASA’s Flight Opportunities program

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amrutmnm · 5 months ago

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Regional Market Share Analysis: North America’s Dominance in Rocket Propulsion

The Rocket Propulsion Market is witnessing transformative growth as the global appetite for space exploration and satellite deployment intensifies. Valued at USD 4.23 billion in 2018, the market is expected to reach USD 6.36 billion by 2023, reflecting a robust CAGR of 8.50%. This growth is propelled by increased satellite launch services, advancements in reusable launch vehicles, and the budding concept of space tourism.

The rocket propulsion market comprises technologies that enable launch vehicles to propel payloads, such as satellites and spacecraft, into orbit or beyond. Innovations in propulsion systems, such as hybrid propulsion and reusable rockets, are reshaping this dynamic industry. With applications spanning military, government, and commercial sectors, the market stands at the forefront of the new space race.

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Key Drivers of the Rocket Propulsion Market

One of the pivotal forces behind the growth of the rocket propulsion market is the surging demand for space launch services. These services cater to a variety of applications, including placing satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO), as well as carrying human spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS). Additionally, space exploration missions and space tourism are emerging as key drivers. The introduction of private spaceflight companies offering suborbital and orbital experiences is fueling interest in advanced rocket propulsion systems.

Reusable launch vehicles are revolutionizing the industry, reducing costs associated with space travel and expanding the scope of rocket propulsion applications. Companies like SpaceX have demonstrated the economic and environmental benefits of reusing rocket engines and components, which significantly lower the cost per launch.

Another significant driver is the rise in military and government investments in space-based technologies. Defense organizations rely on satellites for surveillance, communication, and navigation, contributing to the demand for reliable and efficient rocket propulsion systems.

Segments of the Rocket Propulsion Market

The rocket propulsion market is categorized by type, propulsion system, orbit, launch vehicle type, and end user.

The rocket engine segment is projected to experience the highest growth during the forecast period. This growth is fueled by the increasing number of private and government launch service providers, the falling costs of launches, and the demand for reusable engines. Rocket engines are essential for heavy payload delivery, deep space exploration, and tourism missions.

In terms of propulsion type, hybrid propulsion systems are leading the charge. Combining the benefits of solid and liquid propulsion systems, hybrid propulsion offers enhanced control, safety, and efficiency. This system is particularly suited for payload delivery to LEO, MEO, and geostationary Earth orbit (GEO).

The unmanned launch vehicle segment is gaining prominence, with a higher CAGR expected during the forecast period. These vehicles, used primarily for satellite deployment and cargo delivery, are becoming increasingly sophisticated as investments in automation and robotics grow.

Regional Dynamics in the Rocket Propulsion Market

The rocket propulsion market exhibits varying growth dynamics across regions. In 2018, North America led the market, primarily due to the presence of key industry players and a surge in space-related investments. The region’s focus on space exploration, satellite launches, and space tourism drives its dominance. The U.S., in particular, is at the epicenter of innovation, with companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Aerojet Rocketdyne leading advancements in propulsion technologies.

Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific region is poised for the fastest growth, with increasing investments in space programs and launch services. Countries like China, India, and Japan are bolstering their capabilities in satellite deployment and deep-space exploration. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries are examples of regional entities advancing rocket propulsion technologies.

Ask for Sample Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=131843671

Opportunities and Challenges

Opportunities abound in the rocket propulsion market, with the ongoing development of reusable technologies and hybrid propulsion systems. Reusable rockets are significantly reducing the cost of access to space, opening doors for more frequent and varied missions. Additionally, innovations in propellants and engine designs are enhancing payload capacities and efficiency.

However, challenges persist, particularly regarding the high costs associated with developing cutting-edge technologies. Investment in research and development for next-generation propulsion systems is capital-intensive and requires collaboration between governments, private entities, and academia.

Another hurdle is the infrastructure required to support the growing number of launches. Launch sites, ground control systems, and manufacturing facilities must be scaled to meet demand while maintaining safety and efficiency.

The Role of Key Players

Several key companies dominate the rocket propulsion market. SpaceX has set new benchmarks with its Falcon and Starship series, emphasizing reusability and affordability. Aerojet Rocketdyne, known for its RS-25 and RL10 engines, provides propulsion solutions for both government and commercial missions. Orbital ATK specializes in solid rocket motors, contributing to defense and space programs. In Asia, Antrix Corporation, the commercial arm of ISRO, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries play pivotal roles in satellite launches and space exploration missions.

These companies are shaping the industry through strategic partnerships, technological innovation, and sustainable practices. Their efforts are not only advancing rocket propulsion but also enabling new frontiers in space exploration and commercialization.

The Future of Rocket Propulsion

As the demand for satellite launches and space exploration grows, the rocket propulsion market will continue to evolve. Innovations in propulsion systems, such as electric and nuclear propulsion, are on the horizon, promising to revolutionize space travel and deep-space exploration. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into launch vehicle systems is expected to enhance performance, safety, and reliability.

Space tourism is another burgeoning area with the potential to redefine the rocket propulsion landscape. Companies are actively working on vehicles designed specifically for human spaceflight, blending cutting-edge technology with commercial viability.

The rocket propulsion market is not merely a technological endeavor but a reflection of humanity’s aspirations to explore and inhabit the cosmos. Its growth signals a new era of collaboration, innovation, and discovery.

To Gain Deeper Insights Into This Dynamic Market, Speak to Our Analyst Here: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/speaktoanalystNew.asp?id=131843671

FAQs

What is the current size of the rocket propulsion market?

The rocket propulsion market was valued at USD 4.23 billion in 2018 and is projected to grow to USD 6.36 billion by 2023, at a CAGR of 8.50%.

What factors are driving the growth of the rocket propulsion market?

Key drivers include increased demand for satellite launch services, advancements in reusable rocket technology, and the emerging space tourism industry.

Which region dominates the rocket propulsion market?

North America is the leading region, with significant investments in space exploration, satellite deployment, and tourism. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period.

What are the challenges facing the rocket propulsion market?

The primary challenges include high development costs, the need for advanced infrastructure, and regulatory complexities.

Which companies are key players in the rocket propulsion market?

Prominent companies include SpaceX, Aerojet Rocketdyne, Orbital ATK, Antrix Corporation, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

#rocket propulsion market #rocket engines #space launch services #space tourism #hybrid propulsion #satellite launch

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the-eternal-quest-for-balance · 7 months ago

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SpaceX Flight Six

Flight 6 is the sixth test flight of SpaceX’s Starship system, with the goal of demonstrating reusability and advancing the technology. Here are the key highlights:

Launch Window: The launch is scheduled for November 19, 2024, with a 30-minute window opening at 5 p.m. EST (2100 GMT).

Vehicle Configuration: The Starship upper stage (Ship 31) will be paired with Booster 13, a modified Super Heavy rocket.

In-Flight Objectives:

Catch the booster (Booster 13) at the launch tower using the “chopstick” arms, similar to Flight 5.

Demonstrate the relighting of a single Raptor engine in space, a critical capability for Starship flights beyond low Earth orbit and future missions to the moon and Mars.

Test the limits of the flaps during reentry at a steeper angle than previous flights.

Evaluate new thermal protection materials and heat shield designs.

Recovery: If the booster catch is successful, it will be recovered at the launch site. If not, it will default to a controlled splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico.

Similarity to Flight 5: The flight profile for Flight 6 mirrors that of Flight 5, with the Super Heavy booster returning to the launch site and the Starship upper stage flying a suborbital trajectory.

Additional Context

Flight 6 marks the final Block 1 Starship flight, with future missions expected to use the upgraded Block 2 design.

NASA has contracted SpaceX to develop a Starship variant for the Artemis 3 mission, which aims to return astronauts to the lunar surface.

SpaceX has completed propellant load testing and preflight checkouts ahead of the launch.

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market-insider · 10 months ago

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Space Tourism Market Strategic Assessment: Market Size, Share, and Growth Projections

The global space tourism market size is expected to reach USD 10.09 billion by 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. It is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 44.8% from 2024 to 2030. Space tourism is defined as human space travel for recreational, leisure, or business purposes. High-net-worth individuals' growing appetite for transformative experiences is driving demand, with some willing to pay premium prices for the novelty of space travel. Concurrently, private companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic are significantly investing in R&D, propelling advancements in reusable rockets, spacecraft design, and life support systems, which are gradually reducing costs and enhancing safety. These technological breakthroughs are attracting more players to the market, fostering competition and innovation. In addition, strategic partnerships between aerospace firms, luxury brands, and governments are emerging, creating a supportive ecosystem for space tourism infrastructure, including plans for orbital hotels and lunar excursions.

Space Tourism Market Report Highlights

The suborbital segment is expected to dominate the market and expand at a CAGR of 44.4% from 2023 to 2030. This growth is driven by lower ticket prices compared to orbital flights, shorter training requirements, and a rapidly expanding fleet of suborbital vehicles from companies like Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin, making it the more accessible entry point for space tourists.

The commercial segment is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. This high CAGR in the commercial space tourism sector is fueled by aggressive private investment, technological advancements reducing launch costs, and a growing ecosystem of companies offering not just flights but also ancillary services like space hotels and in-orbit experiences.

Market analysis indicates that the U.S., followed by Russia, Japan, and China, will be the primary source market for space tourism. Industry players will focus their promotional efforts on the U.S. due to its high concentration of affluent consumers and potential for significant market impact.

In June 2024, Virgin Galactic completed its 12th mission to date, 'Galactic 07,' with one researcher and three private astronauts aboard. The flight served as the seventh research mission. With a focus on advancing space exploration, the mission carried out experiments and demonstrated the company's capabilities, furthering its vision of commercial human spaceflight.

For More Details or Sample Copy please visit link @: Space Tourism Market Report

Space tourism is anticipated to democratize access to space research, enabling individuals to engage more actively in space science. With the high costs associated with space exploration, these flights will provide a more affordable avenue for conducting research. In addition, space tourism is expected to drive innovation and the development of new technologies. Many technological advancements have stemmed from space exploration, with inventions such as running shoes, bulletproof vests, and foam mattresses being byproducts of lunar visits.

Space tourism is bifurcated into suborbital and orbital tourism. Suborbital flights cater to clients seeking a brief but intense exposure to the space environment. These journeys involve reaching the fringes of Earth's atmosphere without entering orbit, with total flight durations generally spanning from a few minutes to approximately two hours. This segment targets customers who prioritize the novelty of experiencing microgravity and viewing Earth from high altitude over extended time in space.

In contrast, the orbital segment offers a more immersive space travel product. Clients in this category remain in Earth's orbit for significantly longer durations, typically ranging from several days to weeks. This extended timeframe allows for a comprehensive experience, potentially including activities such as scientific experiments, extended Earth observation, or stays in orbital habitats. The orbital segment appeals to clients who seek a more profound engagement with the space environment and are willing to invest more time and resources in this comprehensive experience.

Space tourism raises environmental concerns due to the environmental impact of rocket launches. Rocket engines burn fuel, emitting black carbon (soot particles) and harmful gases into the upper atmosphere, leading to ozone depletion. However, some space companies, like Blue Origin's New Shepard, use liquid hydrogen-fueled engines that produce water vapor instead of carbon emissions. Despite this, the potential popularity of space tourism poses a significant environmental threat, as increased rocket launches will result in higher carbon footprints. For example, Virgin Galactic plans to launch 400 flights annually, contributing to the release of black carbon. The cumulative impact of 1,000 space tourism flights could lead to a one-degree Celsius increase in the temperature of Antarctica.

List of major companies in the Space Tourism Market

Blue Origin

Virgin Galactic

SpaceX

Airbus Group SE

Boeing

Zero Gravity Corporation

Axiom Space, Inc.

Rocket Lab USA

#SpaceTourismMarket #AstronomicalTourism #SpaceTravel #CommercialSpaceTourism #ReusableRockets #Aerospace #Spacecraft #OrbitalVehicles #SuborbitalVehicles #AstronomicalFlight

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stevecarell600 · 2 years ago

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US Reusable Launch Vehicle Market Industry Brief Analysis and Top Leading Players by 2027

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the U.S. Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) market was characterized by significant advancements and competition among private aerospace companies aiming to revolutionize space access. Key players like SpaceX and Blue Origin were at the forefront of this market, driving innovation and reducing launch costs through the development of reusable rockets. The U.S. reusable launch vehicle market size stood at USD 482.4 million in 2019 and is projected to reach USD 1,634.9 million by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 14.77% during the forecast period.

Informational Source:

SpaceX's Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets had already demonstrated the viability of reusability by successfully landing their first stages back on Earth after launch. This achievement significantly lowered launch costs, making space access more economically feasible and fostering an environment for increased satellite deployment, space tourism prospects, and exploration missions.

Blue Origin, led by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, was working on their New Shepard suborbital vehicle and New Glenn orbital rocket, with both designs featuring reusability as a central tenet. These efforts aimed to offer more flexibility to a variety of customers, ranging from satellite operators to government agencies and commercial entities, and potentially pave the way for more ambitious space missions.

Major Companies Covered in U.S. Reusable Launch Vehicle Market are:

ArianeGroup (Paris, France)

Blue Origin LLC (Washington, the U.S.)

Lockheed Martin Corporation (Maryland, the U.S.)

Master Space Systems (California, the U.S.)

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) (Washington, the U.S.)

Rocket Labs USA (California, the U.S.)

Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) (California, the U.S.)

The Boeing Company (Illinois, the U.S.)

The Spaceship Company (California, the U.S.)

United Launch Alliance (ULA) (Colorado, the U. S.)

Other Players

The U.S. government agency NASA was also fostering the growth of the RLV market through its Commercial Crew and Commercial Resupply Services programs, which aimed to facilitate the transportation of astronauts and cargo to the International Space Station using privately developed spacecraft. This support encouraged competition and diversity in the launch vehicle market.

A reusable launch vehicle (RLV) is a type of vehicle that can help a satellite or payload lift off into space. The vehicle makes use of several modern concepts and its ultimate aim is to reduce the massive costs that are incurred for launching satellites. The RLV has the ability to recover and re-use all components of the system. Recent advances in RLV by private as well as government space organizations such as NASA will have a massive impact on the growth of the US reusable launch vehicle market in the coming years. The presence of several large scale companies in this market, coupled with the increasing adoption of reusable vehicles by companies such as Tesla (SpaceX), will bode well for the growth of the regional market in the foreseeable future.

Delays in Proposed Satellite Launches during the Covid-19 Pandemic to have a Negative Impact on the Market

The recent coronavirus outbreak has had a negative impact on several industries across the world. As most businesses have been compelled to shut down, it has become difficult to operate in a constrained environment. The rising Covid-19 cases in the United States, has not only affected the economy, but has also resulted in an increase in the unemployment rate. Several companies had lined up respective space launches in the year 2020, but with limited manpower and confined budgets, these satellite programs have been delayed.

Company Mergers are an Increasing Trend Among Major Companies in the United States

The report encompasses several factors that have contributed to the growth of the market in recent years. Among all factors, the increasing number of company mergers and acquisitions as well as collaborations has made the highest impact on the growth of the market. In April 2020, Masten Space announced that it has signed a contract with the US Air Force. The company announced that this contract is part of the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program. Through this contract, the company will be developing a reusable rocket-powered landing craft. This contract will not just be beneficial for the company, but also for the regional market. Increasing number of company collaborations will have a massive impact on the growth of the market in the coming years.

Industry Developments:

August 2020: Space Exploration Technologies Corp. announced that it has received a contract worth USD 316 million for Falcon Heavy launch by the U.S. air force.

In summary, the U.S. Reusable Launch Vehicle market was marked by intense competition among companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin, leveraging reusability to reduce launch costs and broaden access to space. These developments were anticipated to have significant implications for various sectors, including satellite deployment, space tourism, and exploration missions. Please note that developments in this field may have occurred after September 2021, and I recommend checking more recent sources for the latest information.

#US Reusable Launch Vehicle Market Share

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lonestarflight · 1 year ago

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"The X-34 A-2 resting derelict in open storage on the east shore of Rogers Dry Lake, parked off a public road."

Date: March 17, 2010

NASA ID: NSIAD-99-176

#Orbital Sciences X-34 #X-34 #Spaceplane #Reusable Launch Vehicle #NASA #cancelled #Suborbital Reusable-Rocket Technology Demonstrator #Advanced Space Transportation Program #ASTP #Dryden Flight Research Center #Edwards Air Force Base #California #March #2019

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drcpanda12 · 2 years ago

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The realm of space exploration and technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with groundbreaking advancements on the horizon. From space tourism to ambitious missions to the Moon and Mars, innovative technologies are shaping the future of space exploration. Private companies, space agencies, and research institutions are actively working on projects that promise to revolutionize our understanding of the universe and open up new possibilities for human exploration beyond Earth's boundaries. In this article, we will explore some of the exciting upcoming space technologies that hold the potential to transform the way we interact with and explore outer space. From reusable rockets to satellite constellations and advanced space telescopes, these developments are set to redefine the possibilities of what we can achieve in the vastness of the cosmos. Join us as we delve into the forefront of space technology and witness the dawn of a new era in human space exploration. Space Tourism Space tourism refers to the concept of enabling individuals to travel to space for recreational purposes. It involves the transportation of private individuals, who are not astronauts or space agency personnel, to experience space travel and witness the unique perspective of Earth from space. Companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic are at the forefront of developing space tourism programs. These companies aim to make space more accessible and affordable for private individuals by pioneering reusable rocket technology and spacecraft. Space tourism experiences typically involve suborbital flights, where passengers are taken to the edge of space, experience weightlessness, and enjoy breathtaking views of Earth before returning to the planet. These flights offer a relatively short duration in space, typically ranging from a few minutes to a couple of hours. While the cost of space tourism remains high, efforts are being made to bring down the prices and increase the frequency of flights to cater to a broader market. The introduction of commercial spaceports and the development of advanced spacecraft capable of carrying more passengers are among the steps being taken to make space tourism more accessible in the future. Space tourism holds the potential to not only offer a unique and awe-inspiring experience to individuals but also contribute to the further development of space technologies and infrastructure. It is an exciting frontier that brings us closer to a future where space travel becomes a part of our everyday lives. Reusable Rockets Reusable rockets are a significant advancement in space technology that aims to revolutionize space travel by making it more cost-effective and sustainable. Traditional rockets have been mostly expendable, meaning they are used once and discarded after a single mission. However, reusable rockets are designed to be capable of returning safely to Earth and being used for multiple missions, significantly reducing the cost of space missions. Companies like SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, have made significant strides in developing and demonstrating the viability of reusable rockets. SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket, for example, is equipped with landing legs and a guidance system that allows it to autonomously land back on Earth after delivering its payload to orbit. The recovered first stages can then be refurbished and launched again, reducing launch costs significantly. The key advantage of reusable rockets is their ability to drastically lower the cost of space missions. By reusing the most expensive and complex components of the rocket, such as the first stage, companies can save a substantial amount of money on each launch. This cost reduction opens up opportunities for increased access to space, including commercial satellite deployments, resupply missions to the International Space Station (ISS), and future crewed missions to the Moon and Mars. In addition to cost savings, reusable rockets also contribute to the sustainability of space exploration.

By reducing the amount of space debris generated from discarded rocket stages, reusable rockets help mitigate the growing issue of space debris, enhancing the long-term viability of space activities. The development of reusable rockets represents a significant step forward in the commercialization and exploration of space. As technology continues to advance, it is expected that reusable rockets will become more commonplace, making space travel more affordable, frequent, and sustainable. Satellite Internet Constellations Satellite Internet Constellations involve deploying hundreds or even thousands of small satellites into orbit, forming a network that works in unison to provide internet connectivity. Each satellite in the constellation communicates with neighboring satellites, relaying data signals and ensuring continuous coverage as they orbit the Earth. Companies like SpaceX (Starlink), Amazon (Project Kuiper), and OneWeb are leading the development of satellite internet constellations. They leverage advances in miniaturized satellite technology and efficient launch systems to deploy their constellations rapidly. The satellites in these constellations are typically smaller and lighter than traditional communication satellites, allowing for more cost-effective production and deployment. They operate in LEO, which offers lower latency compared to geostationary satellites, resulting in faster internet connections. Satellite internet constellations work by establishing a connection between ground-based user terminals (dishes or antennas) and the satellites. These terminals communicate with the satellites, transmitting and receiving data signals to access the internet. The satellites, in turn, relay the data signals to one another and eventually connect to ground-based gateway stations that interface with the internet backbone. The proliferation of satellite internet constellations has the potential to bridge the digital divide by providing internet access to underserved and remote regions worldwide. It can support a range of applications, including residential internet access, rural connectivity, emergency communications, and global connectivity for Internet of Things (IoT) devices. However, the deployment of satellite constellations has raised concerns about the increasing amount of space debris and the potential impact on astronomical observations due to their visibility in the night sky. Efforts are being made to address these challenges through responsible satellite deployment and orbital debris mitigation measures. In-Space Manufacturing In-Space Manufacturing aims to reduce the cost, complexity, and logistical challenges associated with launching fully assembled structures from Earth. By manufacturing and assembling components in space, it eliminates the need for launching large, pre-assembled structures, which can be expensive and difficult to transport. ISM technologies include 3D printing (also known as additive manufacturing), robotic assembly, and in-orbit manufacturing techniques. These technologies allow for the creation of complex structures, such as spacecraft components, satellites, antennas, and even habitats for future human space exploration missions. One of the key advantages of ISM is the ability to utilize resources available in space, such as lunar or asteroid resources, as raw materials for manufacturing. This concept, known as In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU), could potentially enable sustainable space exploration by reducing the dependency on Earth for resources. ISM has the potential to revolutionize space missions by enabling on-demand manufacturing and repair capabilities in space. It can lead to faster mission turnaround times, reduced costs, and increased flexibility in designing and adapting space infrastructure. The development of ISM technologies is still in its early stages, with ongoing research and experimentation being conducted by space agencies, private companies, and research institutions.

The International Space Station (ISS) has served as a platform for testing and validating ISM technologies in the microgravity environment. Asteroid Mining Asteroids are rocky bodies that orbit the Sun, primarily located in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. They contain a vast array of resources, including precious metals like platinum, rare earth elements, water ice, and other minerals. These resources have immense value both on Earth and for supporting future space missions. The process of asteroid mining involves identifying suitable asteroids, capturing them, and extracting the desired resources. Several methods have been proposed for mining asteroids, including robotic missions to extract materials, using solar-powered furnaces to process the resources, and even redirecting small asteroids closer to Earth for easier access. The potential benefits of asteroid mining are numerous. It could provide a sustainable source of raw materials for space exploration, reducing the need to launch everything from Earth. The extracted resources can be used for in-space manufacturing, construction of space habitats, refueling stations, and supporting long-duration missions to other planets, such as Mars. Asteroid mining also holds commercial potential, as the resources obtained from asteroids can have significant value on Earth. Precious metals and rare earth elements, for example, could be used in industries such as electronics, renewable energy, and manufacturing. While asteroid mining offers exciting possibilities, it also poses technical, legal, and ethical challenges. The technical complexities involve identifying suitable asteroids, developing efficient extraction methods, and transporting the extracted resources back to Earth or using them in space. Legal and ethical considerations include issues surrounding property rights, environmental impacts, and the preservation of celestial bodies for scientific research. Currently, asteroid mining is in its early stages, with ongoing research, feasibility studies, and missions being planned by both private companies and space agencies. It represents a frontier that holds the potential to unlock valuable resources and shape the future of space exploration and commercial endeavors.

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knewtoday · 2 years ago

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201914864caic2021 · 4 years ago

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A Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Space Race: What You Need to Know About the Space Race in 2020

‘3…2...1…0. Ignition. Lift-off… Go NASA! Go Space X! Godspeed!’ These words uttered before the Crew Dragon spacecraft launch on May 30th, 2020 are all too familiar to us today, and the generations that have grown up in an era in which space travel is possible. The countdown, NASA, the behemoth that is the rocket, the agonising anticipation, and the eventual relieving launch are all at this point usual sights, and feelings associated with a standard space launch. Yet this event was different in so many ways to a typical launch and offered something new. The new, and revolutionary technology on display was undoubtably a part of this, with the rocket, and space suits looking like something straight out of a sci-fi movie, and the rocket’s reusable Falcon booster being landed with previously unseen precision. However, another noticeable element of the launch was the participants involved. Of course, as previously mentioned NASA were involved in the launch, but they were not alone in this endeavour. Sharing the honour with NASA on this occasion was Elon Musk, and his Space X company, with the launch marking the first time a private company has sent humans into space, and a spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS). As such it can be argued Space X in 2020 is currently leading in a new ‘Space Race.’ This begs several questions. What is a Space Race? Who are the competitors is today’s Space Race? Who is winning? And should we even encourage such a competition?

The First Space Race (1955-1975)

The original ‘Space Race,’ has been defined by Space.com as a ‘series of competitive technology demonstrations between the United States, and the Soviet Union, aiming to show superiority in spaceflight… a tense global conflict that pitted the ideologies of capitalism, and communism against one another.’ This first Space Race started with announcements four days apart in 1955 from Leonid I Sedov of the Soviet Union, and James C Hagerty of the United States that the two nations intended to launch the first manmade satellites into orbit. The Soviets were first to succeed in this effort, launching their Sputnik I satellite in October 1957. Following this, on October 1st, 1958 NASA opened, but was able to achieve little compared to the Soviet space programme in its early years, with the Soviet Union taking more victories, and making history by putting both the first man (Yuri Gagarin), and first woman (Valentina Tereshkova) in space on April 12th, 1961, and June 16th, 1963 respectively. It was in between these two events in 1961 that President John F Kennedy (JFK) challenged NASA to send a man to the moon ‘before this decade is out,’ resulting in the establishment of the Apollo Programme. It is through this program that NASA was able to eventually turn the tide, and on July 20th, 1969, landed on the moon and the US ‘effectively won,’ the Space Race. This Space Race is largely regarded as coming to an end with the collaboration of the US, and Soviets on the Apollo-Soyuz mission in 1975, which saw a US Apollo craft, and Soviet Soyuz craft dock with one another, and the crew shake hands. Since then, the US, and Soviets have largely co-operated on space projects together. Particularly the ISS, described by NASA as ‘the most politically complex space exploration programme ever undertaken,’ has seen extensive US-Soviet co-operation, as well as widespread international collaboration, with 15 countries in addition to the ‘[principle]… space agencies of the United States, Russia, Europe, Japan, and Canada, being involved in the ISS. In addition to this, 18 countries in total have visited the ISS. Evidently, the Space Race no longer exists in its initial form, and the US, and Soviet Union (Now Russia) are no longer competitors, but rather allies. But who are the participants in the Space Race today?’

The New Space Race

China

China is arguably a candidate for this new Space Race. With a ‘trade war,’ declared by Donald Trump ongoing between the US, and China since 2018, and the two countries blaming each other for the COVID 19 pandemic, it is clear a great deal of economic, and political animosity exists between the two nations. This combined with China’s exclusion from the International Space Station in 2011, and an already ongoing battle for ‘technology primacy,’ in which (in Cold War fashion) Trump accused China of using its Huawei devices for spying has naturally set up China, and the US for a space industry conflict reminiscent of the original Space Race. China conducted the most launches of any nation in 2019 and is ‘the only country in the world to obtain all industrial categories listed in the United Nations industrial classification,’ leading the world in both steel, and aluminium production. Despite this ‘China has suffered setbacks on… its heavy-lift launch vehicle program,’ and as a result of exclusion from co-operation with other space agencies ‘lags behind in its human spaceflight, and space station programme.’ As a result, whilst China can be viewed as a contender in the Space Race in 2020, the country is certainly not amongst the most powerful within the space industry. However, it should be recognised that ‘China has all the technology available, and figured out,’ and with so many of the materials necessary for the construction of space equipment being domestically produced, China could be a major power within the space industry in the near future and may be able to turn things around similar to the US in the Space Race of the 20th Century.

Private Companies

Arguably, the more interesting focus of the Space Race currently though is the competition between private space companies with the ‘three that are furthest down the road [being] Space X, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic.’ The three are currently focussed on a variety of issues concerning space travel and are bidding to ‘reduce the cost of access to space,’ the reusability of spacecrafts, and ‘making space accessible to people who are not trained astronauts,’ including pushing for tourism in space. This may initially raise questions about private space agencies versus public space agencies, however ‘the… “public versus private,” space race isn’t one that NASA feels overly competitive about… relying on private corporations rather than challenging them.’ Most recently this has been demonstrated by the Artemis Program with which NASA has promising they ‘will land the first woman, and next man on the Moon by 2024,’ resulting in private space companies ‘competing to provide their services of commercial lunar payloads.’

Space X

Of these three companies Space X, founded in 2002 by Elon Musk, seems to be the strongest contender in the Space Race. As previously mentioned, Space X has already astounded the world, showing off the technological capabilities, and sheer power of its Falcon 9 rocket, as well as the prowess of its reusable launch system which was landed with previously unseen accuracy. Additionally, ‘Space X operates the largest commercial satellite constellation,’ with a total of 180 satellites in orbit. In relation to NASA contracts, Space X has also pulled ahead of course winning the contract to replace Russian rocket technology in 2019 which resulted in the Falcon 9’s flight to the ISS, as well as several other contracts, including a $50.3 million contract involving an X-Ray Polarimetry Explorer, and an $80.4 million contract for a Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem Spacecraft. Most importantly, Space X was awarded NASA contracts, alongside Blue Origin and Dynetics, totalling $1 billion towards the Artemis project. As a result, Musk’s future plans, such as sending the first humans to Mars on a Space X craft and creating a reliable Starlink satellite internet service don’t seem too far-fetched, so long as Space X keeps winning these contracts through technological development, and sheer dominance of the satellite industry. Subsequently, it seems Space X will be the leading company in the Space industry for decades to come.

Blue Origin

Competitor to Space X, and founded in 2000 by Jeff Bezos, Blue Origin has also made impressive strides within the space industry. Arguably, their most impressive achievement, the ‘Blue Moon,’ lunar lander is capable of carrying 3.6 metric tons. The company has also ‘developed a suborbital capsule system, acquired the technology of reusable rockets… made a two-stage orbital launch vehicle with ‘New Glenn,’ and has flown its New Shepard rocket 7 times. However, compared to Space X’s Falcon 9 rocket, it is apparent that Blue Origin still has a long way to go, with their New Shepard rocket reaching only a maximum velocity of Mach 3, compared to the Falcon 9 which is able to reach Mach 5.5 in it’s first stage alone, and then Mach 7.5. The New Shepard also is only able to produce 100,000 pounds of thrust, whereas the Falcon 9 can create 1.5 million pounds of thrust. Subsequently, the technological gap between the capabilities of the two companies’ spacecraft is vast, and currently Blue Origin does not seem to be able to generate the sheer power Space X has demonstrated. As a result, Blue Origin has missed out on a multitude of NASA contracts. However, as mentioned earlier, Blue Origin has been awarded contracts for the Artemis project, and the Blue Moon lunar lander appears to be a genuine candidate for the craft that will eventually land the new generation of astronauts on the moon. As well as this, Bezos has taken an interest in the space tourism industry, one that Musk appears to have little desire to pursue. Perhaps this could provide Blue Origin with the extra money they require to develop new technologies capable of bridging the gap, and rivalling Space X. For now, however, Blue Origin appears to be stuck with its only real potential challenge to Space X being its aforementioned lunar landing capabilities. Yet to win this Space Race, Blue Origin will eventually need to expand its abilities in Space travel, or ultimately admit defeat.

Virgin Galactic

The third major competitor in this private company space race, though arguably the weakest is Virgin Galactic founded by Richard Branson in 2004. Unlike Blue Origin, and Space X, Virgin Galactic’s primary focus is the space tourism industry. At first glance Virgin Galactic certainly ‘appears to be ahead of Elon Musk’s Space X, and Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin in fulfilling the vision of space tourism,’ having already sold 600 tickets to those wishing to take a journey to space. However, for several reasons Virgin Galactic currently offers little competition against Space X, and Blue Origin. Despite ambitious ideas, many of Virgin Galactic’s plans to reduce fuel usage, and costs have failed to materialise. The company’s intention to launch their Launcher One rocket from the wing of a Boeing 747, in order to use less energy during take-off was one of these failed projects, with the rocket failing ‘to climb into orbit,’ and igniting over the Pacific Ocean. Furthermore, it is evident that Virgin Galactic does not possess rockets with as much power as those of Space X, and more importantly their rival in the space tourism industry, Blue Origin. Although Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo is capable of reaching an impressive height of 295,000 feet, Blue Origin’s New Shepard exceeds this at an impressive 330,00 feet. With this in mind, and Blue Origin set to match Virgin Galactic’s prices for space tourist flights it becomes clearer that Virgin Galactic’s control over the tourist sector of space travel could be short lived. In addition, Virgin Galactic’s lack of involvement in NASA space contracts, puts Virgin at a huge disadvantage, receiving no money, or assistance from NASA in order to develop their space technology. In contrast Blue Origin’s involvement in NASA’s programs (even if they are currently losing to Space X) has aided them in bringing their space technology to new heights and allowed them to compete simultaneously in the private contract Space Race, and the space tourist sector.

Should the Space Race be Encouraged?

Another important focal point of the Space Race are the positive, and negative aspects associated with it. Many would argue that the Space Race, being a competition between multiple groups promotes conflict, which can be especially dangerous in the case of international conflict escalation. As well as this, a rather strong argument can be made that the Space Race promotes the use of resources, and spending on extra-terrestrial projects that could be better spent on initiatives on Earth. This argument against pursuing the Space Race becomes especially strong in relation to Space tourism which merely serves entertainment purposes. Furthermore, a huge issue of the current Space Race is that the private companies involved become richer, making their billionaire owners wealthier, and more powerful, reaching levels some may call excessive, and even dangerous. However, the Space Race also arguably has positive implications. With competitors pushing each other to new heights technology seems to be developing faster than ever, and with these developments in space technology also often proving useful in other fields, perhaps this extra-terrestrial competition is just what our planet needs. So far medical advancements, such as artificial hearts, and laser eye surgery, industrial developments, including the mass production of carbon nanotubes, and even progress in environmental analysis through the use of satellites can all be attributed to space travel, and the rapid development of these technologies to the competitive nature of the space industry. Furthermore, these major developments in turn provide inspiration for young people to also pursue careers in the sciences, and push these technologies even further, as demonstrated by the number of ‘graduates holding bachelor’s in science, and engineering fields [peaking] in the late 1960’s.’ The expansion of these major private space corporations simultaneously provides jobs in these fields to these young aspiring scientists, and engineers, allowing again for people to pursue these careers. As well as this, the Space Race should not be viewed as an event completely built on conflict. The original Space Race, whilst causing great division between the participants, also eventually resulted in highly effective co-operation through the aforementioned Apollo-Soyuz mission, and ISS. This Space Race seems to be exhibiting similar signs of co-operation with the introduction of the Artemis Accords a series of ‘bilateral agreements with other space agencies that want to participate in the Artemis program.’ Therefore, whilst these companies are indeed competing for contracts it must be remembered that overall, they are working towards similar goals, and often in co-ordination with NASA, and each other.

Upon examination of the Space Race in 2020, it is evident many comparisons can be made to the original US-Soviet Space Race, however this more internal, US-centric Space Race appears to have reached new heights. It is also apparent that though the Space Race is currently dominated by Space X, closely followed by other US private companies that this could change. This Space Race is also a testament of what we can achieve when we really push each other, and though we must be weary for this contest not to get out of hand (becoming a full-blown conflict) it would seem a little friendly competition is a good thing.

#caic2021

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themakersmovement · 5 years ago

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Blue Origin Opens Its New Rocket Engine Facility in Alabama Huntsville, Alabama, is now home to Blue Origin‘s brand new rocket engine production facility, the latest addition to Huntsville’s Cummings Research Park (CRP), the second-largest research park in the United States and the fourth largest in the world. The 46-acre plant in The Rocket City will strengthen the production of Blue Origin’s BE-4 and BE-3U engines, which will power both Blue Origin’s own orbital launch vehicle, the New Glenn rocket, and United Launch Alliance’s next-generation Vulcan Centaur launch system for national security, civil, human and commercial missions. The BE-4 Engine (Credit: Blue Origin) In development since 2011, the BE-4 is a liquefied natural gas (LNG) fueled rocket engine. Using an oxygen-rich staged combustion cycle, BE-4 is capable of delivering 2,400 kN of thrust at sea level. The engine uses additive manufacturing as part of its critical manufacturing processes for the thrust chamber and nozzle. And according to this article on Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Spectrum, “the BE-4 uses 3D printing to accelerate the design process, replacing cast or forged parts that used to take a year or more to source with parts made in-house in just a couple of months; the technology also allowed intricately shaped components to be made from fewer pieces.” No surprise there, additive manufacturing is powering rocket engine production and improving the time to delivery. Like its competitors, Blue Origin is expanding the use of the technology to improve the quality and efficiency of its rocket engines, offering simpler, safer and cheaper reusable products, in line with company founder Jeff Bezos founding principle, of creating low cost, reusable and highly operable rocket engines. Blue Origin CEO, Bob Smith, said during the inauguration that “at the core of every successful launch vehicle program are the engines that power those vehicles to space. Early on in Blue Origin’s history, we made a crucial decision to invest in developing the next generation of reusable rocket engines. And now, it’s an exciting time for Blue, our partners and this country – we are on the path to deliver on our promise to end the reliance on Russian made engines – and it’s all happening right here, right now, in the great state of Alabama. We couldn’t be prouder to call this our home for engine production.” Huntsville has a very rich legacy in liquid rocket engines. Nearly every major US aerospace corporation is represented in CRP and the community, and even NASA operates the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, which for the past 60 years has been leading on space propulsion, designing the rockets that put man on the moon, and is currently designing the propulsion system for NASA’s Space Launch System. The new $200 million rocket-engine facility in Huntsville will expand the state’s already robust capabilities in space flight as well as add more than 300 jobs to the local economy. The new facility demonstrates part of a bigger plan for Blue Origin, as the company is also working on two other engines, including the BE-7 destined for the company’s Blue Moon lunar lander. Although their BE-4 is the largest of the three and will undergo testing at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center on the historic Test Stand 4670. U.S. Congressman Robert Aderholt speaking at the inauguration of the Huntsville facility (Credit: Robert Aderholt) Although all early BE-4 components and full engines to support the test program were built at Blue Origin’s headquarters location in Kent, Washington, and the BE-4 is currently undergoing full-scale engine development testing at Blue Origin’s facilities in Van Horn, Texas, full-rate production of the engine will occur in Huntsville. Moreover, seven BE-4 engines are expected to power New Glenn’s reusable booster, and two BE-4 engines will drive the first stage of United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan launch vehicle. Blue Origin is hoping to move for the development of new spacecraft, and they have already flown commercial payloads aboard New Shepard nine times. The suborbital space-tourist vehicle which should make its first crewed flight later this year is being launched to carry experimental payloads that will be used for research, including materials used in student studies. The massive rocket called New Glenn could enable more lunar missions and make Bezo’s dream of “building a road to space” a reality. A big part of commercializing space entails being able to innovate, develop and manufacture new products that astronauts and space tourists can use in orbit. 2019 was a big year for space agencies and companies looking to get a place in the next big space race, and 2020 seems to be starting out with big news, let’s hope some of the deadlines for many of the space ventures hold up. One thing is for sure, 3D printing will continue to play an important role in the development of … https://buff.ly/2P8gYfV

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spaceexp · 6 years ago

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Four NASA-Sponsored Experiments Set to Launch on Virgin Galactic Spacecraft

Virgin Galactic logo. Dec. 13, 2018 A winged spacecraft will soon take off with four NASA-supported technology experiments onboard. Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo will separate from the WhiteKnightTwo twin-fuselage carrier aircraft and continue its rocket-powered test flight.

Image above: Virgin Galactic’s VSS Unity SpaceShipTwo conducted a supersonic test flight in July 2018. Image Credit: Virgin Galactic. The flight, scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 13, is Virgin Galactic’s first mission for NASA. The agency’s Flight Opportunities program helped the four experiments hitch a ride on SpaceShipTwo. The program purchased flight services, the accommodation and ride, from Virgin Galactic for the payloads. During the flight, the payloads will collect valuable data needed to mature the technologies for use on future missions. “The anticipated addition of SpaceShipTwo to a growing list of commercial vehicles supporting suborbital research is exciting,” said Ryan Dibley, Flight Opportunities campaign manager at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. “Inexpensive access to suborbital space greatly benefits the technology research and broader spaceflight communities.” NASA’s investment in the growing suborbital space industry and strong economy in low-Earth orbit allows the agency to focus on farther horizons. NASA will venture forward to the Moon – this time to stay, in a measured, sustainable fashion - in order to develop new opportunities and prepare for astronauts to explore Mars.

Animation above: Video of the Physics of Regolith Impacts in Microgravity Experiment, or PRIME, to study the response of asteroidal or lunar regolith in reduced gravity conditions on parabolic airplane flights. The Collisions Into Dust Experiment, or COLLIDE, studies the same phenomena but with longer duration and better quality microgravity on a suborbital flight. Data collected onboard Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo will help the experiment obtain data from slower impacts as well as study the behavior of the regolith and ejecta after the impact. Animation Credits: Josh Colwell/University of Central Florida. The planned technology demonstrations onboard SpaceShipTwo could prove useful for exploration missions. For Principal Investigator Josh Colwell at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, the Virgin Galactic flight will help further refine the Collisions Into Dust Experiment (COLLIDE). The experiment aims to map the behavior of dust particles on planetary surfaces. Suborbital flights let Colwell and his team gather data useful for designing exploration architectures at the Moon, Mars and beyond. The presence of dust on asteroids and moons with low surface gravity introduces challenges for both human and robotic missions. Particles can damage hardware and contaminate habitats. Understanding dust dynamics could help NASA design better tools and systems for exploration missions. On this microgravity flight, COLLIDE will simulate the dusty surface of an asteroid and a surface impact. The experiment will collect high-quality video of the dust dispersing. “We want to see how dust in microgravity behaves when it’s disturbed. How fast will it fly around? How careful do you have to be to avoid disturbing the surface too much? If you have a hard landing and disturb the surface a lot, how long will you have to wait for the dust to clear?” Colwell explained. Here on Earth, this isn’t as much of a concern. Colwell explained that in space, where the absence of gravity complicates every task at hand, such considerations are significant for mission planning.

Image above: The Vibration Isolation Platform from Controlled Dynamics Inc. has completed five successful Flight Opportunities-sponsored flights on suborbital reusable launch vehicles (sRLVs). The scheduled flight on SpaceShipTwo will mark its sixth. Image Credit: Controlled Dynamics Inc. “If you have a small dust disturbance and can work around it, great. If the dust particles have enough speed, they can contaminate and stick to equipment well above the surface, posing problems for safety as well as mission success,” Colwell said. COLLIDE data collected on its first to suborbital space, as well as data from a related experiment previously tested on NASA-sponsored parabolic aircraft flights, could help future human and robotic explorers throughout the solar system. The other technology payloads slated for the SpaceShipTwo flight are: - Microgravity Multi-Phase Flow Experiment for Suborbital Testing NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston Life support systems are an integral part of a deep space habitation capability. They typically include processes where liquids and gases interact, therefore requiring special treatment in space. This two-phase system separates gas and liquid in microgravity. The technology could also be applied to in-situ resource utilization, power systems, propellant transfer and more. https://flightopportunities.nasa.gov/technologies/20/ - Validating Telemetric Imaging Hardware for Crew-Assisted and Crew-Autonomous Biological Imaging in Suborbital Applications University of Florida in Gainesville In order to live in deep space, astronauts will have to grow their own food. This experiment studies how microgravity affects plant growth. The experiment uses a biological fluorescent imaging instrument designed to collect data on the biological response of a plant, or plant tissue. https://flightopportunities.nasa.gov/technologies/53/ - Vibration Isolation Platform Controlled Dynamics Inc. in Huntington Beach, California Spacecraft and payloads are subject to intense launch environments. This mounting interface for orbital and suborbital vehicles is designed to lessen disturbances on payloads during launch, re-entry and landing. https://flightopportunities.nasa.gov/technologies/77/ All four payloads are currently scheduled for future flight demonstrations, enabling researchers to gather additional data and mature their technologies. About Flight Opportunities The Flight Opportunities program is funded by NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate at the agency’s Headquarters in Washington and managed at NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. NASA's Ames Research Center in California's Silicon Valley manages the solicitation and selection of technologies to be tested and demonstrated on commercial flight vehicles. Virgin Galactic and other U.S. commercial spaceflight providers are contracted to provide flight services to NASA for flight testing and technology demonstration. Researchers from academia and industry with concepts for exploration, commercial space applications or other space utilization technologies of potential interest to NASA can receive grants from the Flight Opportunities program to purchase suborbital flights from these and other U.S. commercial spaceflight providers. The next solicitation for potential payloads is anticipated for release in January 2019. For information about current opportunities, visit: https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/spacetech/flightopportunities/opportunities Editor’s Note: Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo successfully flew to suborbital space Dec. 13 with four NASA-supported technology payloads onboard. The rocket motor burned for 60 seconds, taking the piloted spacecraft and payloads beyond the mission’s 50-mile altitude target. Space Technology Mission Directorate: https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/spacetech/home/index.html Armstrong Flight Research Center: https://www.nasa.gov/centers/armstrong/home/index.html Ames Research Center: https://www.nasa.gov/ames Virgin Galactic: https://www.virgingalactic.com/ Images (mentioned), Animation (mentioned), Text, Credits: NASA/Clare Skelly/Loura Hall/Armstrong Flight Research Center/Leslie Williams. Greetings, Orbiter.ch Full article

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sciencespies · 4 years ago

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China launches secretive suborbital vehicle for reusable space transportation system

https://sciencespies.com/space/china-launches-secretive-suborbital-vehicle-for-reusable-space-transportation-system/

China launches secretive suborbital vehicle for reusable space transportation system

HELSINKI — China conducted a clandestine first test flight of a reusable suborbital vehicle Friday as a part of development of a reusable space transportation system.

The vehicle launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center Friday and later landed at an airport just over 800 kilometers away at Alxa League in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp. (CASC) announced.

No images nor footage nor further information, such as altitude, flight duration or propulsion systems, were provided. The CASC release stated however that the vehicle uses integrated aviation and space technologies and indicates a vertical takeoff and horizontal landing (VTHL) profile.

The test follows a September 2020 test flight of a “reusable experimental spacecraft”. The spacecraft orbited for days, releasing a small transmitting payload and later deorbited and landed horizontally. The spacecraft is widely believed to be a reusable spaceplane concept, though no images have emerged.

Giant space and defense contractor CASC also developed that vehicle and stated that the new vehicle tested Friday can be used as a first stage of a reusable space transportation system. The implication is that the two vehicles will be combined for a fully reusable space transportation system.

The developments have not come out of the blue. China stated in 2017 that it aimed to test a reusable spaceplane in 2020. The United States Air Force’s X-37B spaceplane is currently carrying out its sixth mission in orbit. Last year Boeing exited the Experimental Spaceplane (XSP) program, also known as the XS-1 program, another VTHL concept.

The new test also follows days after a flight of Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo flew passengers to the edge of space for the first time.

A spaceplane project was included in a 2017 CASC ‘space transportation roadmap’. The plans also included fully reusable launch vehicles and, around 2045, a nuclear-powered shuttle.

Chen Hongbo, from CASC’s China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT), told Science and Technology Daily (Chinese) in 2017 that the reusable spacecraft would be capable of carrying both crew and payloads. Chen stated that some vehicles would have the characteristics of both aircraft and spacecraft. CALT was noted as the developer of Friday’s suborbital reusable demonstration vehicle.

Chen stated the aim was full reusability, moving beyond partial reusability of Falcon 9-like launchers. The spaceplane, the development and testing of which is to be completed by 2030, should be capable of being reused more than 20 times.

It will be oriented to orbital altitudes of between 300 to 500 kilometers, meet criteria of being “fast, reliable, and economical,” and meet the needs of military and civilian payloads, and be applicable for space tourism.

The China Aerospace Science and Industry Corp. (CASIC), another giant state-owned enterprise, is working on its own spaceplane, named Tengyun. Demonstration and verification of the reusable two-stage-to-orbit Tengyun spacecraft is to be completed by 2025. Tengyun will be a horizontal takeoff, horizontal landing (HTHL) system.

Chinese commercial companies and CASC are also developing reusable rockets. A number of private companies are planning “hop” tests in the coming months.

#Space

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the-moon-cheese-blog · 7 years ago

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What goes up, must come down – Re-entry and it’s many challenges

Yesterday was the anniversary of Apollo 17′s splashdown so I thought it would be a good time to talk about the ironically fatal difficulties of returning through the blue layer which supports all life on earth.

It was an early, yet not often talked about, observation in space literature that a consequence of going to space would be that you would have to come back from space. This, unsurprisingly, is quite difficult. A spaceship travels very fast to remain in orbit in the vacuum of space. When it comes back into the comparatively thick atmosphere the immense stresses a spacecraft is put under could easily be enough to rip it apart. Even then, if you could design a structure to sustain this force the things inside the capsule could be destroyed by the huge heat supplied as the craft slows down. So how did engineers view this problem, and what did they do to overcome it?

What causes things coming into the atmosphere to get hot?

Space can be considered a vacuum. As an object moving very quickly starts to enter the atmosphere it starts to compress the air it collides with. When the air is compressed by something moving at this speed it gets hot, very hot and this heat is transferred to the object moving through it. Some may remember a demonstration in science class of using a sudden compression of air with a piston in a tube to ignite a cotton bud, or know that a diesel engine works by compressing the air/fuel mixture in the chamber. It’s much the same concept.

Nearly all the kinetic energy of a spacecraft is converted into heat. As a thought experiment, let’s say we put you into a ballistic re-entry path. You are a human who weighs 50kg travelling at 17’500 mph. You have 153 million joules of kinetic energy which is enough to turn half a ton of ice into steam. Clearly spacecraft weigh much more than you and me, so we can see magnitude of the problem the engineers faced.

In the early ponderings of spaceflight, the dominant vision of a spacecraft was of a plane launched from rockets or even a runway. One of these spaceplanes, the Silverbird (above), designed by Eugen Sänger and Irene Brendt was a suborbital spacecraft that re-entered the atmosphere by “skipping”. This method would incrementally slow down the craft and extend its flight time using lift. After each skip, the heat generated during would be radiated into space. This theoretical method of re-entry lasted for many years until the 1950s when the NACA (the predecessor to NASA) labs showed it wouldn’t have been as effective as a method of direct re-entry. Under direct re-entry the temperature would be higher, but for a shorter period and thus was deemed more manageable. With the mounting pressures of the Cold War and looming space race, NACA decided to abandon the spaceplane model in favour of the blunt body capsule design we associate with the space race today.

But the craft is still dealing with large amounts of heat, how did they try to deal with this? One of the first ideas engineers designing ballistic missiles, such as NACA’s H. Julian Allen and Alfred J. Eggers in the 1950s, tried was a heat sink. The principle was that a material of high melting and sublimation point could absorb all the energy of re-entry as heat without reacting with oxygen at the very high temperatures it was subjected to. Copper, beryllium, graphite, and an alloy called Inconel X were shortlisted and subjected to a series of tests measuring their suitability as heat sinks. Graphite had the best thermal qualities, but was readily oxidized in air. As such, a large amount of copper was chosen to be the heat sink on the first warheads on missiles designed by General Electric despite the extra mass required.

Whilst the US Air Force were conducting their tests and usage of heat sinks the US Army was leading the way in ablative heat shields. An ablative heat shield is a semi-passive thermal protection system. A heat shield is constructed from a material which is designed to sublime at the high temperatures of re-entry. The gas it creates forms a boundary layer of gas which protects the craft and is jettisoned as the craft moves through the air. These heatshields proved much better at protecting the contents of the craft were lighter than the heat sinks originally posed by the air force and all future warheads and some other space craft still use the design today.

As the space race heated up as the Cold War continued the challenges faced by engineers grew even larger. Not only would they now need to be able to return a capsule at a much higher velocity (i.e. from circumlunar orbit) NASA would need the pilots to be able to control their craft through re-entry and perform a much more accurate landing. Ablator heat shields remained the main method of heat rejection, but grew in complexity and size. To control the descent accurately astronauts could now offset the centre of gravity of their ships and as such change it’s pitch to lead to much more accurate landings. However, despite their best predictions, NASA scientists could not be sure of the conditions of lunar re-entry without attempting it.

In the years after Apollo the main challenge became reusability. The space shuttle needed to go to space and return many times in it’s lifetime and so ablative heat shield technology wasn’t suitable. Instead, the famous (or infamous) tiles of the Space Shuttle were developed. These tiles are very good insulators and were incredible at absorbing heat. Today, and in future the problems of space flight will be returning not just the payload or capsule to Earth, but fuel tanks and engines used to get up there.

#space #outer space #apollo #nasa #earth #science #engineering

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