Articles tagged with Astronautics
A new study from the University of Copenhagen reveals that astronauts experience changes in their gut bacteria shortly after leaving Earth and gravity behind. The researchers found increased protein fermentation, which may contribute to constipation, and suggest potential interventions for future long-duration space missions.
Dr. Olivier Mousis has been elected an Academician of the International Academy of Astronautics, a full member recognizing his distinguished contributions to space science and exploration. He leads research on the origin and evolution of the solar system at SwRI.
MIT engineers have developed a new propulsion system that integrates chemical and electrical thrusters, allowing small satellites to perform both fast maneuvers and precise adjustments. The system uses a special propellant called ASCENT, which powers both types of thrusters, enabling smaller and more flexible spacecraft.
Researchers discovered the Zwan-Wolf effect in the Martian atmosphere, which helps move solar wind plasma around the planet and makes it less dense. This finding advances scientists' understanding of how the sun interacts with the solar system, particularly on unmagnetized bodies like Mars.
Researchers subjected fruit flies to extreme gravitational forces and found they adapted and recovered, showing resilience in movement and energy use. The study suggests the brain makes energy trade-offs based on gravity levels, with moderate increases pushing for more movement and higher energy demands.
Dr. Ben Thacker has been appointed as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Southwest Research Institute (SwRI), directing its technical divisions and internal research program. Under his leadership, the institute aims to strengthen its operational foundation to support innovation.
Dr. Chris Thomas recognized for technical excellence and leadership in combustion technologies, including propulsion systems and battery safety. His research has led to significant contributions to the field of blast physics and lithium-ion battery safety.
Researchers from UC3M and the Spanish Space Agency conducted a parabolic flight campaign to study microgravity's effects on human body, testing an innovative technique to protect cardiovascular and ocular health. The results will be crucial for future space exploration and could have applications on Earth for treating vascular diseases.
Researchers at Ohio State University are developing a new nuclear thermal propulsion system, called the centrifugal nuclear thermal rocket (CNTR), which could potentially double an engine's efficiency. The CNTR concept aims to improve rocket performance while minimizing risk and enabling faster travel times to distant destinations.
Scientists have developed a technology that can extract water from lunar soil and convert carbon dioxide into oxygen, fuel, and chemicals for human exploration. This innovation has the potential to mitigate the need for transporting essential resources like water and fuel from Earth.
The project aims to improve propellant and life-support compound production in lunar and Martian environments. The researchers will evaluate the performance of a patent-pending electrolyzer developed with NASA support, testing its ability to produce fuel and oxygen.
The PUNCH spacecraft will study the solar corona and track space weather events in three dimensions for the first time. The constellation includes four small suitcase-sized spacecraft that will provide a clear view of the Sun's outer atmosphere, allowing scientists to discern the exact trajectory and speed of coronal mass ejections.
The partnership aims to develop cutting-edge training programs, pioneer medical research, and enhance response capabilities in high-risk environments. UCF is creating a new space medicine curriculum involving students from various disciplines.
A recent UBC study found that there's a 26% annual chance of space rocket junk re-entering the atmosphere and passing through a busy flight area, highlighting the potential for uncontrolled debris to disrupt flights. The researchers emphasize the need for policymakers to take action to address this issue.
The In-Space Physical AI Workshop, held at Rice University's Ion District, brought together top scientists and experts to explore AI applications in space. Key findings included the potential of AI to streamline spacecraft navigation and crew health management.
A McGill-led study found significant shifts in certain gut bacteria corresponding to changes in liver and intestinal genes, suggesting spaceflight may suppress the immune system and alter metabolism. The research could help ensure the success of future space missions and medical advancements on Earth.
Researchers investigate the effects of space travel on astronauts' eye health, specifically fluid shift and its relation to Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS). They examine potential countermeasures, such as lower body negative pressure, to combat microgravity-induced changes in ocular perfusion pressure.
A new biomarker database, Space Omics and Medical Atlas (SOMA), has been developed to improve astronaut health, but its findings may also be useful for people on Earth with limited mobility or bedridden conditions. The database provides insights into short and long-term health impacts of spaceflight.
The University of Central Florida is establishing itself as a leader in hypersonics and space propulsion research with substantial new funding from the US Department of Defense. The funding will support the construction of a hypersonic testing facility, flight experiments and further advancements of the technology.
Researchers at Staffordshire University and the University of Hull studied bloodstain patterns in microgravity, revealing unique challenges for forensic investigators. The study found that amplified surface tension and cohesion cause blood droplets to stick to surfaces, leading to slower spread rates and altered shapes.
Nontraditional energy-assisted mechanical machining uses vibration, laser, electricity, etc. to improve machinability and reduce process forces in processing difficult-to-cut materials and components. The technology provides a feasible way to enhance material removal rate and surface quality.
A team of scientists found evidence that the moon's shrinkage led to surface warping in its south polar region, including areas proposed for crewed Artemis III landings. Shallow moonquakes can devastate hypothetical human settlements on the moon due to loose sediments and unstable surface slopes.
A study of 14 astronauts found that space travel depletes red blood cells and bone, but the body can eventually replenish them with the help of fat stored in the bone marrow. The researchers also discovered that younger astronauts may have an increased ability to harness energy from bone marrow fat.
Concentrations of potentially harmful chemical compounds in ISS dust exceed median values in US and Western European home floor dust. The study guides design and construction of future spacecraft by highlighting the importance of material choices.
A study found that space travel causes a rapid decrease in the strength of an astronaut's immune system due to changes in gene expression. Most genes returned to normal levels within weeks after returning to Earth, but there is still uncertainty about when full resistance returns.
The Mori3 robot is a polygon shape-shifting robot designed for space travel, capable of morphing into any 3D object and adapting to various environments. Its versatility makes it an ideal candidate for communication and external repairs in spacecraft.
Researchers develop artificial photosynthesis devices to convert sunlight into oxygen, potentially supplementing space travel with sustainable energy. These devices mimic plants' natural process, recycling carbon dioxide and producing oxygen using only sunlight.
A study of 30 astronauts found that brain ventricles expand significantly after longer space missions, taking up to three years to fully recover. The expansion is caused by fluid shifting upward in the absence of gravity, leading to potential long-term health concerns for space travelers.
Researchers developed a robust multiagent trajectory-planner that enables drones to generate collision-free trajectories even with delayed communications. The system achieved a 100% success rate in simulations and flight experiments, guaranteeing safe group operations.
Researchers found no significant changes in defensive capacity of blood cells and aggregation processes after parabolic flight. The study aimed to investigate the effects of microgravity on the human immune system with short-term exposure.
Researchers studied functional brain connectivity in fighter pilots to understand its relevance to astronauts. They found specific brain connectivity patterns that may aid in training programs for pilots and astronauts.
Students from the WüSpace association are working on a project to develop intelligent sensors and algorithms for small satellites, aiming to detect dangerous approaches and prevent collisions. The project is funded by the German Space Agency and allows students to gain hands-on experience in space technology development.
Astronauts in space can lose up to 20% of muscle mass after two weeks due to microgravity. Researchers are exploring the use of extracellular vesicles, which contain restorative chemicals, to trigger post-exercise recovery without traditional exercise.
Researchers developed a new lidar technique using 3D flash lidar combined with super-resolution algorithm for hazard avoidance during landing. The technique improved the precision and safety of robotic vehicles on Mars, enabling them to navigate through challenging environments.
The NASA Deep Space Optical Communications project has successfully demonstrated a new type of laser system that can transmit large amounts of data, including high-definition images and video, through space. The system uses a combination of flight and ground-based lasers to establish an optical link between spacecraft and Earth.
A researcher developed a system to determine the pose of cooperative spacecraft using ToF cameras and reflector markers. The system consists of three steps: reflector detection, matching, and pose calculation, and was tested in experiments with high accuracy.
The MIT-led MOXIE experiment has successfully produced oxygen from Mars' thin atmosphere, producing six grams of oxygen per hour across various conditions. This achievement demonstrates the feasibility of in-situ resource utilization, which could support human missions on Mars by generating breathable oxygen and fuel for rockets.
The review paper analyzed research advancements in data acquisition, target recognition, and monitoring for space situational awareness. The author emphasized the importance of comprehensive reviews and identified emerging trends in multiagent and synergetic constellation technologies.
Researchers estimate a 6-10% chance of casualties from uncontrolled re-entry of abandoned rocket stages within the next decade. The study suggests that governments should mandate safe re-entry guidelines to minimize risks and save lives.
Researchers at MIT developed a technique that enables an autonomous vehicle to plot a provably safe trajectory in highly uncertain situations. The algorithm considers probability of observing different environmental conditions and obstacles, and formulates trajectory planning as a probabilistic optimization problem.
Three University of Central Florida researchers have been awarded multi-million-dollar projects by the US Department of Defense to advance hypersonic propulsion and improve semiconductor performance. The projects will focus on developing new technologies for ultra-fast intercontinental travel and making space travel more economical.
MIT engineers mapped airplane contrails over the US in 2020 and found a 20% drop in coverage compared to prepandemic years. The team's computer-vision technique can help predict where contrails form, allowing airlines to reroute planes and reduce aviation's climate impact.
A world-first study found that space travel causes a 54% increase in red blood cell destruction, leading to severe anemia upon return to Earth. Astronauts experienced prolonged effects of anemia even after months of recovery.
The MIT team developed a levitating rover design using ion thrusters, capable of producing enough repulsive force to hover on the moon and larger asteroids. The concept uses tiny ion beams to charge up the vehicle and boost its natural surface charge.
Calculations at TU Wien show that Ramjet propulsion, which involves capturing protons and using them for a nuclear fusion reactor, cannot work as proposed. The analysis revealed huge dimensions required to achieve even minimal thrust, making it impossible for current technology to achieve.
A team of scientists from Tokyo University of Science has developed a machine learning-based tool to predict thermoacoustic oscillations in engines. The tool uses dynamical systems theory and can classify combustion into three states, identifying pressure fluctuations that indicate future combustion oscillations.
The University of Sydney's project searches for Earth-like planets around Alpha Centauri to determine if life could survive there. The team is using advanced telescope technology to analyze the stars' atmospheres and detect signs of life.
Researchers found that space travel can make cellular mitochondria dysfunctional due to changes in gravity, radiation exposure, and other factors. This has significant implications for future space travel and medical science on Earth.
Project Man in Space, initiated by social psychologist Donald Michael in 1955, aimed to capture public opinion on space exploration. The program's research revealed strong interest in Sputnik and influenced public support for new initiatives, but also perpetuated utopian narratives that obscured military applications.
The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) has announced the 2020 International Student Conference winners, recognizing outstanding research in aerospace engineering. The top three winners are from Ohio State University, the University of Texas at San Antonio, and Georgia Institute of Technology.
Jesse Little, associate professor at University of Arizona, recognized for outstanding contributions to aeronautics and astronautics. He conducts research on subsonic and supersonic flows, leading the Turbulence and Flow Control Laboratory.
University of Washington researchers create a novel solution to reduce impact forces using origami-inspired metamaterials. The team's design softens impact forces by promoting relaxation stresses in the chain, reducing stress on rocket legs during landing.
Ken M. Mitchell, a mechanical engineering graduate student at the University of Memphis, has won the 2018 AIAA Foundation Abe M. Zarem Award for his research paper on thermal conductivity and specific heat measurements. The award recognizes his outstanding scholarship in astronautics and aeronautics.
Graduate student Geoffrey Andrews from Purdue University has won the 2018 AIAA Foundation Abe M. Zarem Award for Distinguished Achievement in Aeronautics. He received the award for his paper on hybrid length scale similarity solution for swirling turbulent jets, which explores a crucial aspect of hypersonic aerodynamics.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new chip design called Navion that can process camera images and inertial measurements in real-time, allowing for accurate navigation of miniature drones. The chip consumes just 24 milliwatts of power and is about the size of a LEGO minifigure's footprint.
A team of researchers has developed a framework to optimize fuel and resource usage in space travel. By considering multiple missions together, or campaigns, they can minimize launch mass and cost. The study also explores the use of propellant depots in space, which could significantly reduce fuel needs for future missions.
Electrically charging a plane could significantly reduce its risk of being struck by lightning, according to MIT researchers. The proposed system would charge the aircraft to a negative level to dampen the more highly charged positive end, preventing it from reaching a critical level and initiating a lightning strike.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport has implemented a $20 million stormwater/glycol treatment system to address community concerns and meet operational requirements. The system successfully eliminated the airport's contribution to nuisance biofilm growth in Trout Creek, improving the local ecosystem.
Dr. Helen L. Reed, a renowned expert in aerospace engineering, has been awarded the 2018 Yvonne C. Brill Lectureship for her groundbreaking work on student design-build-fly micro- and nano-satellites. Her expertise in laminar-to-turbulent transition has significantly influenced the development of aerospace systems.
Researchers studied Felix Baumgartner's free fall and found that his irregularly shaped equipment allowed him to break the sound barrier faster than a smooth, symmetrical body. The investigation revealed that surface irregularities can reduce aerodynamic drag at speeds close to the speed of sound.