Stumble It!
Due to long stays on the Space Station, NASA wants astronauts to be people-people. Specifically, they need to be:
•Diplomat. The station is operated jointly by the United States and Russia, soon to be joined by Europe and Japan. International relations can get rocky, and the station crew must work together while their bosses on Earth argue. "That's probably the biggest stress" on the crew, says Kenneth Bowersox, a former astronaut who commanded the station in 2002-03 and the shuttle in 1995 and 1997.
•Linguist. The main languages on the station are English and Russian. That's also true on the Russian spaceships.
•Scientist. Dozens of experiments are conducted on the station. The crew keeps them running.
•Repair technician. The station is a complex machine, and things break. Sometimes that means just getting out the wrench. Sometimes that means going on a spacewalk to fix a broken motor, as the crew did last week.
Staff
|
 |
prag·ma·tism (prgm-tzm)
n.
A way of approaching situations or solving problems that emphasizes practical applications and consequences.
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
NASA Wants People-People for Astonauts
NASA Unveils $17.6 Billion Budget for 2009
[update] Jeff Foust discusses the boring budget.
WASHINGTON, Feb. 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- NASA announced a $17.6 billion budget for fiscal year 2009 to continue exploring the solar system, building the International Space Station, studying Earth from space and conducting aeronautics research.
NASA Deputy Administrator Shana Dale said the increase for NASA's 2009 budget demonstrates President Bush's commitment to the agency's missions. With the increase, NASA still accounts for less than 1 percent of the federal budget.
The NASA budget includes $5.78 billion for the space shuttle and space station programs, $4.44 billion for science, $3.5 billion for development of new manned spacecraft systems and $447 million for aeronautics research.
Dale noted steady progress with NASA's missions, with three successful space shuttle launches last year and up to six planned for this year, including a flight to service the Hubble Space Telescope. The agency also is making progress in developing the Orion spacecraft and Ares launch vehicles to replace the aging shuttle fleet and prepare for journeys to the moon and destinations beyond.
NASA has 55 science missions currently in space, about half involving international partnerships, with 15 additional missions scheduled for launch by the end of 2009.
"In Earth science, NASA's investments in measuring the forces and effects of global warming are allowing policymakers and the public to better understand its implications to our home planet," Dale said.
A recently completed decadal survey for Earth Science includes views of the scientific community that will help the agency develop and prioritize new missions to add to humanity's knowledge of Earth and its climate and ecosystems. NASA will dedicate $910 million to develop new missions to add to our Earth-observing fleet of spacecraft.
The budget also includes funding for lunar science to further scientific understanding of the moon and for planetary science and astrophysics to continue exploring worlds beyond Earth and to study dark energy and other mysteries of the cosmos.
In aeronautics, NASA is helping address fundamental research needs facing the Next Generation Air Transportation System, aimed at making U.S. air travel safer and more efficient.
As the International Space Station nears completion, the NASA budget provides funding to help spur development of commercial space transportation services to send cargo and possibly crews to the station after the shuttles retire in 2010. Without commercial providers, the United States will depend on the Russian Soyuz spacecraft to carry astronauts between Earth and the space station.
"The development of space simply cannot be 'all government all the time,'" Dale said. "NASA's budget for FY 2009 provides $173 million for entrepreneurs - from big companies or small ones - to develop commercial transport capabilities to support the International Space Station. Over the longer term, NASA is designating $500 million toward the development of this commercial space capability.
"With over $2.6 billion in NASA funds available over the next five years to purchase cargo and crew services to support ISS operations, we would much rather be using this money to purchase cargo and crew services from American commercial companies than foreign entities," she added.
NASA to use Russian Rockets if COTS Fails
If the companies selected by NASA for COTS fail to produce cargo delivery service to the ISS in 2010, NASA says they will buy seats from Russia. Currently SpaceX, the first COTS selection, is preparing to launch a Falcon 9 rocket from Florida later this year. NASA is expected to make the selection of the other private company this month.
Update: Elon Musk has said: "There will be no gap in American access to the space station," Musk said in a statement.
Iran Launches Rocket
Iran launched a rocket on Monday designed to carry its first locally-made research satellite in 2009. This is a concern to the US with worries of Iran's nuclear program and their hatred of Israel and the US.
Bigelow Aerospace and Lockheed Martin Converging on Terms for Launch Services
Atlas V Would Be Booster for Bigelow-Built Commercial Space Complexes
Las Vegas, NV 02/05/08 – Bigelow Aerospace and Lockheed Martin Commercial Launch Services are engaged in discussions and converging on terms to supply Atlas V launch vehicles to provide crew and cargo transportation services to a Bigelow-built space complex.
Bigelow Aerospace already has successfully launched two of its Genesis units that demonstrated the technology and feasibility of its expandable space module technology. This experience has formed the basis for a larger commercial space complex, which is now proceeding into full-scale development.
Bigelow Aerospace is on schedule to provide a low-cost, low-Earth orbit space complex that is accessible to the private sector for commercial activities. The Bigelow architecture can be adapted for a variety of missions and is designed to provide increased volume, enhanced safety and reduced costs to the extent that space-based activities will become more affordable for entrepreneurs, small businesses and the public at large.
“I don’t think anyone could deny the excellent record and pedigree of the Atlas V401 as a quality choice to be upgraded to carry human passengers,” said company founder and President Robert T. Bigelow.
“The Atlas V is ideal to provide commercial crew and cargo transportation for this pioneering commercial space venture,” said David Markham, president of Lockheed Martin Commercial Launch Services. “Bigelow Aerospace possesses an unparalleled vision and entrepreneurial perspective that is crucial to truly opening the commercial space market to a larger segment of the population. Targeting the Atlas V for use demonstrates a commitment to flight-proven domestic launch services to ensure success.”
The Atlas booster has been used for decades to launch government and commercial payloads to a wide range of orbits and its reliability record is at the top of the space industry. As the simplest, most robust, and most reliable version of the Atlas V family, the 401 configuration has been selected by Bigelow to launch its space complex. This launch vehicle, compliant with the Federal Aviation Administration’s stringent requirements for unmanned spaceflight, will undergo modest system upgrades that will augment existing safety features prior to flying the first passengers.
During the operational phase, which is currently planned to begin in 2012, up to 12 missions per year are envisioned, increasing as demand dictates.
About Bigelow Aerospace:
Bigelow Aerospace is an entrepreneurial space development company headquartered in Las Vegas, Nev. Its goal is to open the frontier of space to all of humanity by drastically reducing the costs and enhancing the efficacy and utility of space-based activities. The company’s primary focus is on the development of robust, next-generation expandable space habitats. Bigelow Aerospace has manufacturing facilities and offices in Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Houston and Maryland.
About Lockheed Martin Commercial Launch Services:
Lockheed Martin Commercial Launch Services performs all commercial Atlas launch service missions, and provides marketing, contracting, sales and mission management for commercial Atlas missions. Atlas is manufactured by United Launch Alliance, a joint venture between Lockheed Martin and The Boeing Company, formed in 2006.
Sunday, February 03, 2008
Video of SpaceShipTwo Unveiling
Michael Belfiore has a video of the unveiling of SpaceShipTwo last month. He also live blogged the event if you haven't seen it yet.
Friday, February 01, 2008
Addressing the Practical Challenges of Commercial Space and Private Aviation Start-ups
NEW YORK, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Imaginova Corp. and Esther Dyson of
EDventure announced today that they will jointly present Flight School
2008: Where the Rubber Meets the Clouds. The intensive three-day workshop
allows participants to identify and address the major challenges facing
entrepreneurs in private aviation and commercial space. Flight School 2008
will take place June 4 to 6 at the St. Julien Hotel in Boulder, Colorado.
Flight School 2008 participants will include entrepreneurs, marketers,
equipment manufacturers, aircraft and facilities operators as well as
analysts, investors and regulators. They will come together to share
experiences, refine strategies and better understand each other's common
pursuits and competitive positions.
"Personal spaceflight and private aviation start-ups are transforming
the establishment in an exciting way," said Dyson, creator of the Flight
School workshops, chairman of EDventure and former host of PC Forum. "Years
ago, I watched the Internet and the PC transform information technology
from a world of scientists and government-funded high priests into a
vibrant, innovative sector of commercially energized and fearless start-ups
who have changed the world. Flight School 2008 is assembling the pioneers
who will lead a similar transformation in air and space."
Planned discussion topics for Flight School 2008 include:
- The air traffic control challenge: Growing up around an old model
- Air taxis: What have we learned so far?
- Air charter economics: Can they last?
- Safety, reliability and innovation
- Environmental issues: Facing the facts
- Finance: Where the money meets the clouds
- Insurance and legal issues
- Sizing the commercial space market
- The aftermarket: Hotels, tours and training
Flight School 2008 workshop sessions will be moderated by Dyson; Lon
Rains, Editor-in-Chief of Space News and Christian Kjelgaard, Senior Editor
of Aviation.com.
Lead-off speakers for the interactive sessions will include "new
veterans" such as:
- Eric Anderson, President and CEO of Space Adventures
- Peter Diamandis, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Zero-G Corporation
- Dan Gerrity, CEO of Naverus Corporation
- Eric Haseltine, Managing Partner of Haseltine Partners LLC (formerly
with the Directorate of National Intelligence and Walt Disney
Imagineering)
- John Higginbotham, Chairman of SpaceVest
- Ed Iacobucci, President and CEO of DayJet
- Vern Raburn, CEO of Eclipse Aviation
- Andrew Steinberg, Attorney-at-Law (Former Assistant Secretary of
Transportation for Aviation and International Affairs and Chief Counsel
of the Federal Aviation Administration)
Participants will also have the opportunity to register separately for
a Zero-G weightless flight after the close of the workshop on June 6.
"As publisher of Space News, Space.com and Aviation.com, Imaginova has
been at the forefront of chronicling the growth and development of personal
spaceflight and commercial aviation. It was a natural fit for us to co-
present Flight School 2008," said Dan Stone, President and CEO of Imaginova
Corp. "Esther Dyson is one of those exceptional talents whose curiosity,
imagination and business acumen make her a true visionary. Assembling the
best minds and rallying them around solutions will undoubtedly help propel
innovation and we're proud to be a partner in this exciting endeavor."
Early bird registration for Flight School 2008 begins January 31, 2008.
For session details, an agenda, an updated list of speakers and their bios
and registration information, please visit:
http://www.aviation.com/flightschool.
About Imaginova
Imaginova is a leading digital media and commerce company and the
preeminent online destination for the Intellectually Curious. The Imaginova
Network of media properties, including LiveScience.com, Space.com,
Aviation.com, Newsarama.com and Space News (SpaceNews.com), delivers
engaging and entertaining editorial and multimedia content to a robust
community of curious and well-informed users. Imaginova's original content
is syndicated through major online portals and licensed by educational
publishers and institutions. Imaginova is also the premier source of
innovative consumer and educational products available at
OrionTelescopes.com, LiveScienceStore.com, and StarryNightStore.com.
Founded in 1999, Imaginova Corp. is privately held and based in New York
City, with offices and news bureaus in Virginia, California, Toronto and
Paris. For more information, please visit http://www.Imaginova.com.
About Esther Dyson and EDventure
Esther Dyson is a long-time catalyst of start-ups in information
technology in the US and other markets, including Russia. Since selling her
company EDventure Holdings to CNET Networks in 2004, she has taken on newer
challenges in private aviation and space as well as health care (as a
director of 23andMe, a consumer genetics company). Her IT investments have
included Flickr and del.icio.us (both sold to Yahoo!), Medstory (sold to
Microsoft), as well as Meetup Inc., Eventful.com, Boxbe and Voxiva; she
sits on the boards of the latter four companies. Dyson is also an active
investor in air and space, with holdings in Space Adventures and Zero-G
Corporation, as well as XCOR Aerospace, Constellation Services, Coastal
Aviation Group, Airship Ventures and Icon Aircraft. She does business under
the (reclaimed) name of EDventure.
For more information, please visit http://www.edventure.com.
PlanetSpace to Locate Launch Site in Breton Canada
PlanetSpace will launch from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada if they will the $175 million dollars currently avalible from NASA's COTS program.
(Update 2/2/08, it is apparently Cape Breton -djs)
Thursday, January 31, 2008
ESA Press Conference on ATV Launch
The ESA briefed the press on the comming launch of the Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) dubbed the 'Jules Verne' on Tuesday. The ATV is scheduled for launch to the ISS on February 22, 2008.
Messenger Shows 100 Mile Cliffs on Mercury
NASA's probe to the planet Mercury has used its modern imaging equipment to show 100-mile cliffs on the small world.
Atlantis is a Go for Launch February 7th
NASA has given a go for STS-122. Space Shuttle Atlantis will launch on February 7th.
China Still Pushes for Space Arms Race Treaty
China is asking for a treaty (presumably between China, USA, and Russia) to keep everyone else from building space based weapons while they catch up technologically in space. Yeah, that's not a good idea.
Yuri's Nikght 2008: Get Involved
Yuri's Night, the annual celebration of the first human in space, is set for April 12, 2008. The Executive committee for Yuri's night is asking you to get involved.
Local Party:
Huntsville, Alabama
34°42'49"N, 086°35'10"W
Contact Party Host
To find a party in your area go to: Find Party
-----------------------------
If you believe manned spaceflight is worth celebrating, then join us
in a party that will span the globe. Yuri's Night 2008 is only 71
days away! Mark your calendars NOW for Saturday, April 12.
If you've never heard of Yuri's Night: It's literally a worldwide
party on the anniversary of the first human spaceflight in 1961
(and the first shuttle flight in 1981). First started in 2001, the
event has had record-breaking growth nearly every year.
Want more information? Visit the main website at http://yurisnight.net/
If you've been part of a Yuri's Night party before, you know what a
positive experience it can be and how much it helps public outreach
in the space arena. Last year, more than 126 cities celebrated on six
continents; this year, we hope to have even more -- we hope even in
Antarctica!
If you're interested, go to the website and find a party near you....
or even start your own! It doesn't have to be big.
Tell your friends. Tell your local media. If you're a blogger --
blog about it before, during, and after! Spread the word.
If you really want to help out, support the Yuri's Night executive
committee with a donation (tax deductible through Space Generation).
See you on April 12... On to space!
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
New Video on Bigelow Aerospace Web site
Technology, Cosmologists and a Unique Indy Documentary
If anyone is interested -djs
----------------------------------------------
I thought you might be interested in this pretty cool story that might in turn interest your site readers.
BLAST is a film that follows a team of cosmologists as they journey from the Arctic to the Antarctic to launch a unique telescope on a massive NASA high-altitude balloon.
In a great example of how technology is transforming the independent film world, BLAST is opening itself up, via ArtistShare (the first film to do so on ArtistShare), to interested participants on several levels. If you want to be Executive Producer, $150k gets you there. Want to participate on other levels, from $50k down to $19.95? No problem: There are a total of nine levels of participation.
Here's the BLAST site:
http://www.blastthemovie.com/
Here's the ArtistShare page:
http://www.artistshare.com/projects/project_experience.aspx?ProjectID=156&artistID=92
And here's an interview with filmmaker Paul Devlin:
http://docsinprogress.blogspot.com/2008/01/polar-opposite-approach-to-fundraising.html
I hope you find this worth sharing with your audience. If you have any suggestions on where else I might be able to spread the word about BLAST, please don't hesitate to let me know.
Thanks for reading.
www.ckpcreative.com
custom editorial | internet marketing | digital project management
screening calls at: 215-675-9882 | blogging daily at: www.lohad.com
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Space Exploration and the Presidential Debates
How you can influence the presidental race for space:
This week, the presidential candidates will be at the podium again
discussing the significant topics of our nation, and YOU have a chance
to ask about what's important. As a supporter of space, this is your
opportunity to get questions about Space Exploration at the forefront
of the debate. Please check out the following link:
http://capwiz.com/spaceadvocate/utr/1/OSTZIARNGS/ATHLIARRAS/1699546401, and vote for your favorite question, or submit one
of your own. Questions about candidates' views on Space Exploration
have been in the top 10 for over a week. Let's keep these on the
radar. Be sure to check out the "most popular" area in both the
Democratic and Republican section to see the specific question and
submit your vote.
SpaceAdvocate.com is current undergoing maintenance at this time.
However, you CAN make a difference by making your voice heard this
week. Cast your vote or submit a question….TODAY!
Sincerely,
SpaceAdvocate.com and the Coalition for Space Exploration
XCOR to Make an Annocement next Month
TU24 will Pass Within 334,000 Miles of the Eart Tonight
Get your telescopes ready. Asteriod TU24 will pass within 334,000 miles of the Earth (about three times the distance to the Moon) 2008 Jan. 29 08:33 UT (2:33 AM CST). Not sure what magnitude it is, but according to NASA it will be visible with a 3" scope (which should make it better than 11.4).
Where it will appear:
Star Map from NASA
Nik Halik Named Backup for Space Tourist Flight
Nik Halik, the Australian financial strategist, has been named Richard Garriott's backup for the next "space tourist flight" in October. He has reportedly paid $3 million to train alongside Garriott and will take his place if Garriott can not make the flight.
SpaceX Fires Multi-Engine Falcon 9
SpaceX performed a test-firing of its multi-engine Falcon 9 on January 18 at their test site in McGregor, TX. The test generated 180,000 lbs of thrust. According to Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX:
"No significant problems were encountered transitioning from single-engine testing in November, which suggests that we will be able to ramp up rapidly to a full complement of nine Merlin engines. Our propulsion and test team has done a remarkable job."
The first Falcon 9 is scheduled for delivery to the SpaceX launch site at Cape Canaveral (Complex 40) by the end of 2008. The first launch of the Falcon 9 is planned for late 2008.
SpaceX is one of the finalist in NASA's COTS program for ISS resupply after the shuttle is retired in 2010.
Monday, January 28, 2008
John McCain's Support for Space
After his offhand remark about "yeah lets go to Mars" a few weeks ago, John McCain has become the first Republican candidate to officially support President Bush's vision for space exploration. It might be enough to get me to vote for him. I stress might.
Atlantis to Launch February 7th
In case you missed it, Space Shuttle Atlantis, STS 122 carrying the ESA ISS module, Columbus, is set to launch February 7th.
US Satellite to Smash into Earth
NASA has warned that sometime in February, a US spy satellite will crash into the Earth.
Virgin Galactic Ticket Sales Accelerating
According to Whil Whitehorn, president of Virgin Galactic, ticket sales for a suborbital flight are accelerating following the unveiling of the ship's design last week. The new design can be seen here under images. There is also a nice video as well.
Here is the story of the new designs unveiling.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
SpaceX Launch in Florida this Year
Cape Canaveral is going to have an interesting year with as many as three SpaceX Falcon 9 launches starting this June. It also includes five NASA Shuttle launches as well as three GPS satellite launches.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Space Lifestyle Magazine on MySpace and Facebook
Take a look if you are into the social networking sites.
http://www.myspace.com/spacelif
http://www.facebook.com/ and search for "Space Lifestyle Magazine."
EAS Mercury Mission to use Ion Engines
Europe's Mercury Mission, BepiColumbo, plans to use an Ion drive similar to the one NASA used on Deep Space 1 in 1998.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
NASA Narrows COTS Field to Four
NASA has narrowed the field of companies competing for the remaining $175 million in costs money to four:
- Spacehab (who has confirmed they were contacted by NASA January 14.
- Orbital Sciences
- Andrews Space
- PlanetSpace of Chicago
I am a little surprised to not see SpaceDev or T/Space on here, but let the competition continue. Note that NASA has not confirmed the down-select.
Scaled Composites Cited in Explosions
After investigating last July's explosion that killed three people at Scaled Composites, the California safety inspectors have cited the company for not providing "effective information and training of the health and physical hazards associated with nitrous oxide." The company has 15 days to pay the fine or appeal it.
Americans in Orbit-50 Years to Re-Create The Flight of the First American to Orbit
MADISON, Ala., Jan. 18 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today Americans in
Orbit-50 Years has announced plans to re-create the NASA mission in which
John Glenn became the first American to Orbit the Earth. Inspired by the
1962 Friendship 7 mission, the plan is to re-create the flight on the 50th
anniversary, February 20, 2012. Craig Russell, President of Americans in
Orbit-50 Years, stated, "This is the first attempt to re-create a manned
orbital spaceflight. We plan to launch an astronaut from Cape Canaveral
aboard an improved Mercury capsule." The flight is scheduled to "splash
down" in the Atlantic, just as Glenn's 1962 mission.
Americans in Orbit-50 Years has been able to recruit an Advisory Board
made up of a distinguished group of space program veterans: T.J. O'Malley,
Charles Arthur (Chuck) Biggs, Sr., Larry R. Capps, William Coleman, Lt.
Col. USAF (Ret.), Hugh W. Harris, Konrad K. Dannenberg. We will continue to
add members over time.
The purpose of the project is twofold; commemoration and education. Our
hope is to honor all of those who were associated with Project Mercury.
Many of these people went on to work on both the Gemini and Apollo programs
which resulted in the moon landing. The Dittmar Associates Study,
commissioned by NASA, noted the steady decline of interest in space
exploration over the last few years, particularly among the younger
generations. Americans in Orbit-50 Years will re-ignite interest by
allowing students to actively participate with space science experiments
and small satellites in the adaptor section. Russell has contacted
professors at several major universities, and they have all expressed
interest and a desire to be involved in the project.
The organization proposes to use a Falcon 9 rocket for the launch. The
Falcon 9 is being developed and tested by SpaceX, a California based space
exploration company. The two stage rocket will be able to lift
approximately 22,000 lbs. into orbit.
About Americans in Orbit-50 Years, Inc. - Americans in Orbit-50 Years
is headquartered in Madison, Alabama, just outside Huntsville, Alabama
(home of Marshall Space Flight Center, U.S. Space and Rocket Center, and
Space Camp). The mission is to develop and manage a program to commemorate
the 50 year anniversary of NASA's Friendship 7 mission, create excitement,
public awareness of space exploration, and promote the National Space
Science Education Program (NSSEP). For more information, visit their
website at http://www.aio50.org.
ESA Contracts for Mercury Mission
The European Space Agency (ESA) signed a contract with Astrium today to build the mission to Mercury. The mission is lead by BepiColomboESA with support by the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). BepiColombo is set to launch in August of 2013 and will be the most comprehensive study of Mercury in history.
Friday, January 18, 2008
271 Extrasolar Planet Discovery at TW Hydrae
TW Hydrae b is offically the 271st known extrasoloar planet. The planet is 1.2 Jupiter masses and orbits its sun at 0.041 AU (1.0 AU is the distance from the Earth to the sun) with a 3.56 day year. TW Hydrae is a K type sun 0.7 times the size of our sun.
Overview of the Virgin Galactic Experience
Luxury Travel has an overview of Virgin Galactic and the experience travelers will get.
ATV Cleared for Launch
Europe's first human-rated space-craft has the green light for a launch to the ISS in February.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
LCROSS Gets Ready to Find Water on the Moon
Set to launch the end of 2008, LCROSS is getting cameras and sensors to detect water on the Moon.
Space Adventures in Top Five Luxury "Cruises"
Karen Bartlett talks about luxury "cruises" for those will cabin fever. One of these is the Moon flyby available from Space Adventures.
ESA's X-Wing ATV
Wired has a run-down of the soon to be launching ATV (Automated Transfer Vehicle) from the European Space Agency. The ATV is meant to carry supplies to and garbage from the ISS.
Andrews Space Receives AS9100B Certification for Quality Management
SEATTLE, Jan. 15, 2008 -- Andrews Space, Inc., an affordable integrator of aerospace systems and a developer of advanced space technologies, today announced it received AS9100B certification by Perry Johnson Registrars, Inc. for comprehensive aerospace systems engineering, design and analysis, development, rapid prototyping, integration, and program management.
AS9100 certification is an internationally recognized aerospace sector standard and is reserved only for companies committed to providing excellent customer service, continual improvement, and outstanding product quality. The standard embodies the complete text of ISO 9001:2000.
"This certification is an important milestone for our company's continued success, and demonstrates Andrews' commitment to serving our aerospace customers," said Jason Andrews, President of Andrews Space. "It places Andrews on par with the best quality practices in the aerospace industry."
Andrews has experienced significant growth and profitability since its founding in 1999. Andrews now has offices in Alabama, California, Colorado, Texas, and Utah.
In 2007, Andrews acquired Automated Controlled Environments Incorporated (ACEi), a California-based company that develops fault-tolerant aerospace avionics and advanced control systems. This acquisition makes Andrews a leader in advanced aerospace avionics, robotics, and systems engineering and integration.
Marian Joh, Andrews CEO, said, "We offer outstanding hardware testing and production resources to the industry. Our Andrews Rapid Prototyping Laboratory (ARPL) near Seattle's Boeing field houses Andrews' software and avionics integration, cryogenic test facilities, fabrication machine shop, and hardware integration and test facilities. Our acquisition makes Andrews a leader in advanced aerospace avionics, robotics, and systems engineering and integration."
About Andrews Space, Inc.
Andrews Space, Inc. (Andrews) is a privately held business founded in 1999 to be a catalyst in the commercialization and development of space. Andrews' customers include NASA and the Department of Defense, as well as aerospace prime contractors. Andrews is currently engaged in several launch vehicle and spacecraft development efforts in both the prime and subcontractor role. To learn more, please visit www.andrews-space.com.
Monday, January 14, 2008
SpaceDev Attracts Institutional Investor
(SpaceDev) - Raises $2.8 Million in Private Financing
POWAY, CA - SpaceDev, Inc. (OTCBB: SPDV) announced that it has entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement and Stockholder Agreement with Loeb Partners Corporation, a New York based investment firm. Pursuant to the Stock Purchase Agreement, SpaceDev issued and sold 3,750,000 shares of SpaceDev common stock in a private transaction to Loeb for $2,812,500, or $0.75 per share, an above market price at the time of the transaction.
“We are very pleased to have completed this financing with Loeb Partners and to have them express confidence in our business plan and future opportunities,” said Mark N. Sirangelo, Chairman and CEO of SpaceDev. “As we look to 2008 and beyond, having investment partners, such as Loeb, opens expansion possibilities for SpaceDev. We appreciate the vote of confidence that Loeb has placed in SpaceDev and its management team and we look forward to their continued support as we grow our Company.”
About Loeb Partners Corporation
Loeb Partners Corporation and its affiliates are members of a family of privately owned companies engaging in a variety of different businesses, including a registered broker/dealer, investment advisors and private investment vehicles available to institutions and high net worth participants. Loeb’s management strategies include engaging in arbitrage, event driven and deep value investing, distressed security transactions, special situations, and private equity.
About SpaceDev
SpaceDev, Inc. is a space technology/aerospace company that creates and sells affordable and innovative space products and mission solutions. For more information please visit www.spacedev.com.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Andrews Space Named As One of Washington State’s Largest and Fastest-Growing Minority-Owned Businesses
SEATTLE, Wash., January 7, 2007 – Andrews Space, Inc. has been named as one of Washington State’s largest and fastest-growing minority-owned businesses for 2007 by the Minority Business Awards list, sponsored by the University of Washington Business School and published by the Puget Sound Business Journal.
The award recognizes minority-owned businesses with sales between $10 million and $30 million who demonstrated significant achievement in revenue size, management quality, and community service. The program was established in 1999 to recognize outstanding business achievement of minority-owned businesses in Washington State.
“Andrews is honored to be named in this list, and we owe our success to our hard-working employees,” said Marian Joh, Andrews CEO. “This has been a very good year for us in terms of business growth.” Andrews has experienced significant growth and profitability since its founding in 1999. Andrews now has offices in Alabama, California, Colorado, Texas, and Utah. The new Andrews Rapid Prototyping Laboratory (ARPL) near Seattle’s Boeing field houses Andrews’ software and avionics integration, cryogenic test facilities, fabrication machine shop, and hardware integration and test facilities.
Andrews recently acquired Automated Controlled Environments Incorporated (ACEi), a California-based company that develops fault-tolerant aerospace avionics and advanced control systems. This acquisition makes Andrews a leader in advanced aerospace avionics, robotics, and systems engineering and integration.
In August, Andrews was included in the 2007 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing entrepreneurial companies in the U.S. Andrews was also awarded the 2006 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award in the Pacific Northwest Manufacturing category.
“Part of our community involvement last year included sponsoring the Tacoma and Tahoma high school robotics teams for the FIRST competition, and also the LaserMotive team for the 2007 NASA space elevator and power beaming competition,” said Joh. “These are two examples of how we work to invest in the community and foster an environment of scientific and technical growth.”
About the Company
Andrews Space, Inc. (Andrews) is a privately-held business founded in 1999 to be a catalyst in the commercialization and development of space. The company is an affordable integrator of aerospace systems and developer of advanced space technologies. Andrews' customers include NASA and the Department of Defense, as well as aerospace prime contractors. Andrews is currently engaged in several launch vehicle and spacecraft development efforts in both the prime and subcontractor role. To learn more, please visit www.andrews-space.com.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Anti Blitz Blitz
Shubber Ali, of Space Cynic fame, is apparently against all human spaceflight. I didn't realize that. He wants to start a anti-blitz blitz against the NSS and Space Exploration Alliance 2008 Legislative Blitz to tell congress to stop all human spaceflight (particularly to the Moon and Mars). He won't bet any help from yours truly.
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Book Review: The Lunar Exploration Scrapbook
The Lunar Exploration Scrapbook
A Pictorial History of Lunar Vehicles
By Robert Godwin
Apogee Books, Burlington, Ontario, Canada
ISBN 978-1-894959-69-8
The first thing I noticed about Robert Godwin’s The Lunar Exploration Scrapbook was its beauty. This is a beautiful book, if a book can be beautiful. It is full of glossy, color photos of both conceptual and actual lunar vehicles. It would make a great coffee table book for the space enthusiast (or just the space interested).
The name was well chosen, if not witty, as this book really reads like a scrapbook. It takes you back through the history of designing lunar rockets, habs, spacesuits, and rovers much like a photo album might take you back through your families past. Each piece of lunar engineering history has a brief overview along with drawings and photos. More like a web site than a book, there is no real flow from page to page, other than chronological. This is not a book most people will read cover to cover.
As I spent more time with this book, what began to sink in was the amount of effort that went into the race to the moon. Unlike a traditional biography or history book, this “scrapbook” subtlety conveys the engineering challenge that was the exploration of the moon. With each vehicle design, both failed and successful, I realized that the Apollo mission was not a forgone conclusion. There were many trade-offs, debates, good designs that fell by the wayside, and simply bad ideas involved in allowing twelve men to go to the moon, explore it, and return safely home again.
So I would recommend this book for the space lover, history buff, and engineering nerd (I am all three so I can say it). It looks lovely on you coffee table, especially opened to page 94.
China aims for 15 Launches in 2008
To highlight their Olympic year, China plans to launch 15 rockets, 17 satellites, and 1 manned mission in 2008.
UK Wants to Build ISS Modules
Britain wants to build two habitat modules for the ISS to make living conditions better. The cost is projected to be 600 Million pounds ($1.2 [oops I mean] Billion US) spread over 7 years to 2015.
Monday, January 07, 2008
SpaceDev Completes Second Milestone for NASA
SpaceDev has completed their second milestone in accordance with the Space Act Agreement with NASA. The milestone requires SpaceDev to complete a flight test plan of their Dream Chaser spaceship.
NASA Plans Six Shuttle Launches in 2008
NASA, in an effort to try to complete the ISS by 2010, is planning six shuttle launches this year. Seems a little ambitious since they can't get one off...
NASA 2008 Budget Breakdown
Here is a breakdown on NASA's 2008 budget:
- Total Budget $17.3 Billion (as requested)
- Exploration $3.84 Billion (~$81 Million cut)
- $76 of the $81 Million cut came from COTS leaving it $160 Million
A new COTS participant should be selected next month, but it is unclear how much money will be available to them in 2008.
NASAS RFP on Interoperable Space
NASA has issued an RFP on systems engineering and analysis services on the Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) concept to provide
end-to-end, interoperable communications and navigation (C&N)
infrastructure that provides the Constellation Program elements the connectivity
required to execute the Vision for Space Exploration
China is Building a Space Monitor
China plans to build a group of observatories across its country to monitor space conditions. Wonder what else it could monitor?
Changes in Aerospace Medicine for Space Tourists
American Medical News has an article on how space medicine will change with the massive amounts of space tourist planning to go into suborbital space soon.
Russia to Search for Life on Europa
Russia is planning to search for life on Europa as part of the ESA's mission to Jupiter's most interesting moon. The time frame is currently 2015 to 2025.
COTS 1.5 Contenders
SpaceFellowship has a roundup of all the contenders for the $175 million left after Rp/K failure to meet milestones set by NASA. We probably won't know anything until the Rp/K legal wrangle with NASA ends, though.
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Ride on a Suborbital Simulator with Richard Branson
The most surprising thing are the visuals.
With three screens in front of you and various cool-looking dials, you really do feel like you're in a spaceship.
The rear-view screen is especially impressive – I watch the coast of southern California vanishing behind me before everything suddenly goes quiet and black and I'm in space.
Bigelow Aerospace Adds "Ask a Rocket Scientist"
As part of their general web site overhaul, Bigelow Aerospace has added a "Ask a Rocket Scientist" feature where you can ask questions about various aspects of spaceflight at Bigelow.
Friday, January 04, 2008
Mars May get Smacked
Asteroid 2007 MD5 has a 1 in 28 chance of smacking into Mars in the coming days.
New Bigger Mars Rover
Wired has a writeup on the new Mars Science Laboratory that is three times the size of Spirit or Opportunity.
[update 1/5/2008] To answer Darnell's questions, here is a list of the proposed landing sites.
"The current engineering constraints call for a landing site less than 45° from the Martian equator and less than 1km above the reference datum."
NASA Gives Zero-G $4.7 Million for Weightless Flights
NASA has awarded Zero-G, the private company providing weightless flights on a jet, $4.7 million contract to give Astronauts training aboard their flights. Good for you NASA.
Florida Today says it is a $25 million contract. I will look into it.
[update] Okay according to Zero G's web site they are both right. The base 1 year contract is $4.7 million with four one year extensions at $5 million each for a total of $25.4 million.
Shuttle Launch set for Late Janurary
The launch of the Shuttle Atlantis is set for January 24 at the earliest. More likely with will be early February. The delay is due to a failing connector in the fuel tank.
Mars in 2008
CTV has a roundup of what the major space-fairing countries are doing to study Mars in the new year.
All About Elon Musk
Thursday, January 03, 2008
What the Candidates Think of Space
Nature has a table of what each Presidential candidate think of various issues, including space.
Virtual Worlds on Mars
NASA is thinking of using a virtual world, such as Second Life, to allow a Mars crew to interact with others on Earth during the long mission.
SpaceDev Receives International Lunar Observatory Contract
January 2, 2008: SpaceDev, Inc. announced today that it has been awarded a contract by the International Lunar Observatory Association (ILOA) of Hawaii to conduct requirements definition and preliminary design of the ILO spacecraft's astrophysics and communications payload. ILO will perform various astronomical observations from the South Pole of the Moon, and will also engage in commercial communications activities.
"We see this as a critical phase of work for ILO, as it will solidify the mission's goals and priorities," said Mark N. Sirangelo, SpaceDev's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "We will determine how to deliver the most valuable and desirable astrophysics data from the surface of the Moon to scientists around the world, while pursuing a design to allow the rapid, low-cost mission development that will be a hallmark of ILO."
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Baby Planet Found
Astronomers have discovered a mere baby among planets circling TW Hydrae b. The planet is believed to be only 8 to 10 million years old. In comparison the Earth is 4.5 billion years old. The planet was found inside a protoplanetary disk, where planets are believed to form. The planet is a "hot Jupiter" since it is 10 Jupiter masses and orbiting only .04 AU from it's star. TW Hydrae b is 180 light-years from Earth.
Obama Eases up on his Space Policy
Barack Obama has eased up on his gutting of NASA for education. He would still build Ares/Orion, he just wouldn't use it for anything.
Spaceport America Delayed
Because of a conflict between the environmental impact statement of New Mexico's Spaceport America and New Mexico State University's Physical Science Laboratory, the plan had to be scrapped and the groundbreaking ceremony pushed back until later this year. According to New Mexico officials, the opening date of the spaceport will not change.
14 Compete for Shenzhou VII
Fourteen Chinese men are training for three spots on the Shenzhou VII flight planned for October. The first Chinese spacewalk is planned for this flight.
Deep Impact to Study Exo Planets
Deep Impact passed by Earth yesterday, on its way to the comet Haley 2 in 2010. On its way there, its large telescope will be used to study five extrasolar systems, known to have "hot jupiters".
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Space Review this Week
If you were busy partying and didn't see it, they new Space Review came out yesterday.
Where the candidates stand on space
How to tell your ORS from a hole in the ground
Is XSS-11 the answer to America’s quest for Operationally Responsive Space?
Deepening democracy and space policy 2.0
Chinese Moon Probe Top International News Event
The Peoples Daily and China Radio International have selected the top 10 global news events for 2007. China's lunar probe, Chang'e-1, made #5. I imagine the Communist Party of China actually picked them, as the #1 on the list was:
#1 [Communist Party of China's] 17th National Congress draws more global attention to China
Yeah that was an international news event worthy of record.
No Launch Date in Sight for Atlantis
NASA has canceled the January 10 launch for Atlantis, but they have not set a new one yet. STS-122 is set to carry the European ISS module, Columbus.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Rand Simberg Reviews Rocketeers
Rand Simberg has a review of Rocketeers by Michael Belfiore in The New Atlantis.
No More Room for Space Tourists
In 2009, if all goes as planned with the Japan and Europe's science modules, a full 6 member crew will fill the ISS and leave no room for future space tourists.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Sunday, December 23, 2007
New Exoplanet CoRoT-Exo-2 b Found
CoRoT-Exo-2 b was found on December 20, 2008. It is mass is 3.53 Jupiters. It is likely a very hot Jupiter since its orbital period is only 1.743 days.
Friday, December 21, 2007
UP Aerospace reaches 2500ft
UP Aerospace sent a test launch of its cargo launch system from Spaceport America in New Mexico. The test reached it target height of 2500ft.
Lockheed Martin to Build NASA GRAIL Spacecraft
Lockheed Martin is going to build and operate the Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory (GRAIL) mission to create a high resolution gravity map of the Moon.
Congress Puts a Hold on COTS Money
Congresses' omnibus bill tells NASA not to award the COTS money set for Rocketplane/Kistler to anyone else yet. Apparently Rp/K is suing NASA because they couldn't met the milestones set for them and somehow this is NASA's fault. Congress thinks NASA should hold off on awarding the $175 million until the whining, um I mean the lawsuit, is over.
SpaceDev Completes Prototype Lunar Lander
Using the hybrid rocket engine technology used for SpaceShipOne, SpaceDev has completed development and a test flight on a prototype Lunar Lander. A video of the flight is here. The prototype was funded by the International Lunar Observatory Association who hope to land a spacecraft on the south pole of the Moon.
Planet GD 66 b Discovered
The newest planet, discovered just 6 days ago, is GD 66 b. It is a large, Jupiter like planet, at 2.11 Jupiter masses. It sits at an average of 2.356 AU (astronomical units) from its white dwarf star, GD 66.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
SpaceX Successfully Completes NASA Systems Requirements Review for Dragon Spacecraft Demonstration
HAWTHORNE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) has completed the Systems Requirements Review (SRR) for what will be the third Falcon 9 / Dragon demonstration under NASA’s Commercial Orbital Transportation Services (COTS) program. NASA representatives attended the event, held on the first day of regular business operations at SpaceX’s new headquarters in Hawthorne, California.
Under COTS, SpaceX will conduct three Falcon 9 / Dragon flights, demonstrating the ability to approach, berth, and ultimately deliver cargo to the $100 billion International Space Station (ISS), and return cargo to Earth. On this third demonstration, the Dragon spacecraft will approach the ISS and hold its position nearby. Then, according to the SpaceX plan, a robotic arm on the station will capture Dragon and guide it to a berthing port on the Harmony module.
“When the hatch opens, a new era in space transportation will begin,” said Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX. “By providing commercial delivery services to orbit, SpaceX will transform the way the government and private entities access space. The Falcon 9 / Dragon system will ensure that there is no gap in US space transportation capabilities following retirement of the Space Shuttle in 2010.”
During the meeting, all comments and questions raised by NASA’s experts were addressed by the SpaceX design team. “Because we connect to the ISS on this mission, NASA applied significant additional scrutiny to ensure the safety of the station and its crew,” said Max Vozoff, SpaceX Mission Manager. By receiving NASA approval for this review, SpaceX continues its record of successfully meeting all COTS milestones on schedule.
Although these demonstrations are for cargo re-supply, SpaceX designed the Dragon spacecraft to transport up to seven astronauts to Earth orbit and back.
About SpaceX
Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) is developing a family of launch vehicles intended to reduce the cost and increase the reliability of both manned and unmanned space transportation. With its Falcon launch vehicles, SpaceX offers light, medium and heavy lift capabilities to deliver spacecraft into any inclination and altitude, from low Earth orbit to geosynchronous orbit to planetary missions.
Europe ATV Ready for Launch
Europe's first human rated launch vehicle, dubbed the Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV), is ready for launch in February 22. The ship's name is Jules Verne and will launch from Kourou, French Guiana.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Scientific American Announces SciAm 50 Awards
Scientific American has announced the winners of this years’ SciAm 50.
The SciAm 50 is the magazine’s annual award celebrating the work of visionaries from the worlds of research, science, technology, industry and politics.
The XPrize was the winner of Policy Leader of the Year award.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Red Chip Announces SpaceDev Managing Director Television Interview Available Online
ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 13, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- RedChip Companies Inc. today announced that Scott Tibbitts, Managing Director of SpaceDev, Inc. (OTCBB:SPDV), a developer of space technology systems and products facilitating space exploration, was interviewed on RedChip TV, a business oriented television interview program. The interview highlighted the company's expertise as a developer of new technologies in small satellites, deployable structures, hybrid propulsion systems and advanced space vehicles. The full interview is available at: http://tinyurl.com/yv6pz8
The interview was conducted Nov. 3, 2007, in conjunction with the company's presentation at RedChip's Small-Cap Investor Conference in Orlando, Fla. SpaceDev's entire presentation to the analysts and brokers and individual investors at the conference -- including PowerPoint slides -- can be viewed by clicking on the following link: http://tinyurl.com/25k4m4
About SpaceDev, Inc.
SpaceDev, Inc. is a space technology/aerospace company that creates and sells affordable and innovative space products and mission solutions that enable space exploration. The company's products range from spacecraft actuators that power the Mars rovers, to hybrid rocket technologies that powered the first commercial astronaut to space, and from microsatellites controlled by the Internet to Dream Chaser(tm), a winged and piloted orbital commercial spacecraft. For more information, visit www.spacedev.com and www.starsys.com.
About RedChip Companies, Inc.
RedChip Companies is an international small-cap research and financial public relations firm with offices in Beijing and Orlando and affiliates in New York and San Diego. RedChip delivers measurable results for its clients through its extensive international market expertise as well as its comprehensive platform of products: RedChip Research(tm), Traditional Investor Relations, Digital Investor Relations, Institutional and Retail Conferences held throughout the United States, and RedChip Radio(tm). To learn more about RedChip's products and services please visit: http://www.redchip.com/visibility/services.asp.
"Discovering Tomorrow's Blue Chips Today"(tm)
DISCLOSURE
Any opinions expressed herein are subject to change. SpaceDev is a client of the RedChip Companies, Inc. and has contracted the RedChip Companies to increase investor awareness of SPDV to the small-cap equity community. These services may include investor conferences and digital print distribution of SPVD investor related materials. In the purview of Section 17(b) of the Securities Act of 1933 and in the interest of full disclosure, we call the reader's attention to the fact that RedChip Companies, Inc. is an investor relations firm hired by the Company. SPDV paid RedChip Visibility $30,000 for the RedChip Visibility Research Program.
CONTACT:
RedChip Companies
Jon Cunningham
(800) RED-CHIP (733-2447) ext. 107
jon@RedChip.com
info@redchip.com
www.RedChip.com
SpaceDev Investor Relations
Investor Contact:
Richard Slansky
Jessica Gerstenkorn
Media Contact:
Mark Sirangelo
(858) 375-2026
Goodyear to Build Moon Tires
Goodyear is ready to work on NASA tire needs for the next Moon missions, as they did for Apollo.
NASA Pushed STS-122 Back Again
NASA has postponed STS-122 back until at least January 10, 2008. The Shuttle Atlantis is set to launch the ESA ISS component, Columbus.
Andrews Space Reveals Cargo Vehicle Design Work
SEATTLE, Dec. 12, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Andrews Space today disclosed details of its Andrews Cargo Module, a cargo logistics system capable of addressing NASA's International Space Station (ISS) cargo logistics requirements, as well as the needs of emerging customers like Bigelow Aerospace and the Department of Defense.
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The Andrews Cargo Module is a reusable spacecraft capable of delivering 3.7 metric tons of cargo to and from the ISS. It is comprised of a common Service Module, a Pressurized (PCM) or Unpressurized Cargo Module (UCM), and a Recovery Module. This modular approach allows the system to cost-effectively address a wide range of mission requirements and customers.
The Cargo Module incorporates design features and system elements from previous efforts into a low-risk cargo module design. Andrews previously worked on crew and cargo logistics systems under contract to NASA as part of the Alternate Access to Station (AAS) and Concept Exploration and Refinement efforts. In 2005, Andrews developed a full-scale mockup of its design for the Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) to verify internal packaging for both crew and cargo transport. This mockup was transferred to NASA Johnson Space Center and has been used by NASA to conduct Orion design studies.
"One of the lessons learned from AAS is that the launch vehicle cost drives the life cycle cost of the system," said Jason Andrews, President of Andrews Space. "While our cargo module can be launched on an EELV, we've developed a low-cost launch system to make the system affordable and enable new markets."
The Cargo Module will be launched by Andrews' Hercules family of launch vehicles. Hercules is a medium- to intermediate-lift system, built around a LOX/RP core stage, capable of launching payloads between 5,000 and 25,000 lb to LEO. The Hercules launch vehicle provides commercial and U.S. Government customers with a responsive, cost-effective replacement for the Delta II, and will reduce the life cycle cost of cargo logistics services when compared to using EELVs.
In November, Andrews submitted a proposal to NASA as part of the COTS recompete. Partners in the COTS proposal include MacDonald Dettwiler and Associates (MDA), Alliant Techsystems (ATK), Reynolds Smith and Hills (RS&H), Draper Laboratory, Odyssey Space Research, Aerojet, Irvin Aerospace, and ILC Dover.
During the past year, a team of engineers has been engaged in developing the system design and maturing subsystems. In October, Andrews acquired an avionics and guidance, navigation and control (GN&C) company that will provide the fault-tolerant avionics and power subsystems. Andrews has several other funded research and development efforts that are demonstrating critical cargo module subsystems and technologies.
To further verify system performance, the Andrews team constructed a full-scale mockup of the PCM to assess cargo packaging and crew interfaces. Specific focus areas included early and late cargo access, ground operations, crew lighting, and on-orbit operations. These efforts have validated the system requirements, configuration, and performance in support of a System Requirements Review in early 2008.
Andrews' strong and diverse revenue base incorporates customers in business areas including systems development and integration, subsystem and component development, technology development, and engineering services. Customers and programs include SE&I support of NASA's Ares I and Orion programs, Department of Defense technology and vehicle development programs, and commercial hardware development, including hardware currently flying on Bigelow's Genesis II spacecraft.
About the Company
Andrews Space, Inc. (Andrews) is a privately-held business founded in 1999 to be a catalyst in the commercialization and development of space. The company is an affordable integrator of aerospace systems and developer of advanced space technologies. Andrews' customers include NASA and the Department of Defense, as well as aerospace prime contractors. Andrews is currently engaged in several launch vehicle and spacecraft development efforts in both the prime and subcontractor role. To learn more, please visit www.andrews-space.com.
Due to the competition on the NASA COTS program, no further announcements or details will be discussed until after the award of COTS.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Bigelow Aerospace Updates Web Site
Bigelow Aerospace has updated their website with a new layout and some new information.
An example is the general specs of the Genesis II. Check it out.
ATK And XCOR Successfully Complete Test Series for NASA's 7,500 lbf Thrust LOX/Methane Workhorse Engine
MOJAVE, Calif., Dec. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- XCOR Aerospace and Alliant Techsystems completed tests on a methane-burning rocket engine for NASA. This engine could help return America to the Moon and allow astronauts to tap extra-terrestrial sources of fuel. The engine work was funded by NASA's Exploration Technology Development Program at Langley, as part of the Propulsion and Cryogenics Advanced Development Project based at Glenn Research Center.
(Source: XCOR) The 7,500 lbf thrust liquid oxygen (LOX)/liquid methane (LCH4) Workhorse Engine is being used to develop and refine methane rocket technology for possible use on lunar expeditions. Methane offers higher performance relative to other storable propellants, is less expensive to handle because of its lower toxicity, and is easier to store long-term than liquid hydrogen.
An additional factor that makes this propellant combination unique is the possibility that Oxygen and Methane can be obtained or manufactured from In-Situ Resources on the moon and other planets.
"XCOR is pleased to be working with ATK in the development of this new propulsion capability for NASA. Tests to date have shown very reliable and repeatable ignition characteristics and extremely stable operation," said Jeff Greason, CEO for XCOR. The ATK/XCOR team went from program inception to the first test firing in only six months. The tests delivered critical data for NASA to assess the practicality of this new propellant combination that is intended to provide a viable option for future in-space propulsion. The regeneratively cooled design of this engine makes maximum use of the energy in the propellants and offers the highest performance potential. This test series provided data on engine ignition, startup, shutdown, nominal operation, off-nominal operation, and dynamic combustion stability.
To date, tests on the LOX/Methane rocket ignition have been performed at close to sea level static conditions at XCOR's test facility located in Mojave, CA. Because the methane engine is projected for use in space, ATK will be conducting an additional test program at its vacuum test facility in Ronkonkoma, NY. These tests will allow evaluation of various igniter concepts and demonstrate repeatable ignition characteristics in a vacuum which simulates space conditions.
XCOR Aerospace is a California corporation located in Mojave, California. The company is in the business of developing and producing safe, reliable and reusable rocket engines, rocket propulsion systems, and rocket powered vehicles. News and information can be found at its website: http://www.xcor.com.
ATK is an advanced weapon and space systems company with annual revenues in excess of $4.1 billion that employs approximately 17,000 people in 21 states. News and information can be found on the Internet at http://www.atk.com/
Boeing Wins Ares Guidance System Contract
NASA has given Boeing the $799.5 million contract to develop the guidance, navigation and control system of the Ares rocket. The work will be done in the Houston-based space exploration division of Boeing. Ares is set to take men aboard the Orion moon capsule back to the Moon in the next decade.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Chinese President on Space Exploration
Chinese President Hu Jintao said in a speech today, "China's space exploration should be used to help build the nation's social, economic and technological strength." He went on to talk about how "peaceful" their exploration plan is (cough, cough). Finally he heaped praise on the scientist behind Chang'e 1, currently orbiting the Moon.
NASA Says On Track for Moon in 2020
NASA Officials say the are "on track" for a 2020 return to the Moon and the building of a base.
Spirit to Rest for Winter
The Mars Rover, Spirit, is moving towards a wintering spot to rest and build up batter reserves. It must get there by Christmas or risk dying forever.
