Articles tagged with Space Flight
A novel disturbance rejection optimal guidance method has been proposed to enhance precision landing performance of reusable rockets. The method combines adaptive optimal steering and disturbance attenuation, allowing for improved accuracy and reduced propellant usage.
Scientists have discovered birth sites of gigantic elliptical galaxies, suggesting large gas flows and galaxy collisions created these ancient systems. The research, published in Nature, may finally unravel the enigma of how these giant galaxies formed.
Researchers examined 25 astronauts' cognitive performance over a 6-month ISS mission and found slower processing speed, working memory, and attention, but accuracy remained intact. No significant cognitive impairment or neurodegenerative decline was observed after the mission.
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.
The NASA Goddard Lidar team has developed a system that can produce higher resolution data within a smaller space, significantly increasing efficiency compared to current models. This technology, known as CASALS, uses artificial intelligence and other technologies to allow the instrument to make its own decisions while in orbit.
The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has successfully developed a robotic suite capable of servicing satellites in orbit, enabling resilience for the US space infrastructure. The Robotic Servicing of Geosynchronous Satellites Integrated Robotic Payload (IRP) will enable satellite upgrades and repairs, reducing complexity and cost.
A WVU researcher says ancient tree rings can record rare and extreme space weather events, including geomagnetic storms. The study aims to better understand how to prepare for such events and mitigate their impact on communication satellites and astronauts.
Researchers have discovered Flickering Gamma-Ray Flashes (FGFs), a phenomenon that could be the missing link between Terrestrial Gamma-ray Flashes and gamma-ray glows. Studies reveal dynamic gamma-ray emissions in tropical thunderclouds, challenging previous assumptions about these events.
A new study suggests a novel way to prevent mold growth on future space stations by understanding the exposures that happen in the space environment. Repeated elevated humidity exposures can lead to rapid microbial growth and composition changes in dust, making it easier for microbes to thrive.
A research study by UCD and McGill University in collaboration with NASA found that spaceflight profoundly alters the gut microbiome, leading to immune and metabolic dysfunction. The study offers new insights into how these changes may affect astronaut health during extended missions.
A new course launched with funding from the UK Space Agency to address the growing skills gap in software, data, and AI for the UK space sector. The Securing the future of space: Space Software and Data/AI CPD programme will equip mid-career professionals with expertise in AI and data-science.
Vilas Shinde, an MSU assistant professor, has received a $1.13 million NASA grant to develop a new simulation tool for designing hypersonic vehicles. The project aims to improve the accuracy of boundary layer transition predictions, crucial for aerodynamic design and space exploration.
The design method proposes a novel approach to configuring mega constellations in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) observation. By categorizing satellites into basic and accompanying satellites, the authors optimize their orbits to minimize differences between ascending and descending nodes of basic satellites. Additionally, they utilize the Nond...
Researchers develop a method for high-precision open-loop velocity measurement of the Tianwen-1 probe, achieving an accuracy 2 times higher than traditional baseband velocity measurement. This technology enables precise orbit determination and is applied to planetary atmosphere detection.
The proposed method uses a directed graph model to maximize output current in RBS. It applies the greedy algorithm to connect batteries in parallel, achieving correct MAC values.
The article presents a stochastic modeling approach for interplanetary supply chain planning, considering demands at a Martian base as a source of uncertainty. The model minimizes total launch mass through multi-stage stochastic MILP modeling, resulting in reduced infrastructure costs and propellant requirements.
Researchers used a model of the heart and lung system to simulate how microgravity could affect space tourists with underlying health issues, such as heart conditions. The study found that entry into microgravity increases cardiac output in all individuals, but for heart failure patients, this increase is accompanied by a dangerous ris...
Researchers found that simulated microgravity significantly disrupted rhythmicity and sleep patterns in humans, leading to reduced sleep duration and increased daytime naps. The study's findings have important implications for future spaceflight and conditions involving prolonged bed rest.
The Lunar Environment Monitoring System, developed by UMD researchers, will track seismic activity on the moon's surface during the upcoming Artemis III mission. The system's data will help prepare NASA for a long-term presence on other planetary bodies.
The commercial space sector has seen significant growth, with over 2,660 satellites launched into orbit in recent years. International collaborations are also expanding, enabling diverse perspectives and new ideas to emerge in science and space exploration.
Drexel University researchers develop a lightweight alternative to metal components in satellites by coating 3D-printed polymers with MXene, a conductive nanomaterial. The MXene-coated waveguides weigh up to eight times less than traditional aluminum ones and maintain nearly 95% transmission efficiency.
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.
The University of Central Florida has been awarded $50,000 each by the NASA Minority University Research and Education Project Partnership Annual Notification (MPLAN) awards. The research focuses on developing wireless multimodal sensors and studying sustainable aviation fuels to reduce environmental impact.
Researchers at Purdue University detect unprecedented levels of alloy aerosols in the atmosphere, likely from spacecraft and satellites. The team found that nearly 10% of large sulfuric acid particles contained aluminum and other spacecraft metals.
A panel of experts recommends new guidelines for conducting ethical research on humans aboard commercial spaceflights, prioritizing social responsibility and scientific excellence while minimizing risks and balancing benefits. The guidelines aim to ensure that research benefits society at large and respects participants' autonomy.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have found that weightlessness affects T cells in astronauts' immune systems, making them less effective at fighting infections. The study's results could lead to new treatments for reversing these changes.
Researchers demonstrate that perovskite solar cells damaged by proton radiation in low-earth orbit can recover up to 100% of their original efficiency via thermal vacuum annealing. The study used ultrathin sapphire substrates and found that fluorine diffusion from the dopant causes defects, which can be reversed by heat treatment.
Princeton researchers used data from NASA's Parker Solar Probe to determine that a catastrophic event, such as a high-speed collision or gaseous explosion, likely created the Geminids meteoroid stream. This is in contrast to most meteor showers, which originate from comets emitting tails of ice and dust.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that longer spaceflight missions can cause ventricle volume expansion, which tapers off after six months. Astronauts who had shorter recovery times between missions showed little to no enlargement of their ventricles post-flight.
A multidisciplinary team led by Hong Chen successfully induced a torpor-like state in mice using ultrasound, which also worked on rats. The researchers found that stimulating the hypothalamus preoptic area with ultrasound activated neurons and induced changes in body temperature and metabolism, allowing for the preservation of energy.
The European Space Agency has commissioned an engineering study to test the reliability of meta-optical elements in space. The collaboration aims to advance remote sensing systems while overcoming size and weight constraints, enabling innovative applications for Earth observation data.
Researchers found that protein modifier SUMO plays a key role in cellular adaptation to simulated microgravity. The study identified 37 proteins that physically interact with SUMO, including those involved in DNA damage repair and energy production.
The institute aims to shorten the cycle required to design, manufacture, and test parts that can withstand space travel conditions. It will develop detailed computer models of additively manufactured parts using digital twins.
Researchers investigated the impact of two diets on astronaut health during a simulated spaceflight environment. The study found that an enhanced diet high in fruits, vegetables, and fish improved cholesterol levels, cognitive function, and microbiome stability compared to a standard diet.
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 found that low irisin blood levels could represent an early prognostic marker of muscle atrophy in microgravity environments. The study also suggested that irisin may help prevent the onset of atrophy and aging of skeletal muscle during bed rest.
Ritsumeikan University researchers have developed a soft robotic microfinger that enables direct interaction with insects through tactile sensing. The study shows great promise towards realizing human interactions with the microworld and has applications in augmented reality technology.
The MICROSCOPE satellite has confirmed the equivalence principle with unprecedented accuracy, supporting Einstein's general relativity. The result shows that any deviation in acceleration is less than 1 part in 10^15, ruling out some candidate universal theories of physics.
A study of NASA astronauts found DNA mutations associated with spaceflight, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and blood cancer. Regular screening is recommended to monitor astronaut health.
A team of researchers proposes a program to collect astronauts' biological samples, enabling the use of cutting-edge technologies to understand gene, mRNA, protein, and metabolite changes in space. This approach aims to mitigate spaceflight risks and advance personalized medicine for astronauts.
A team of researchers at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory sent a tiny piece of Washington state soil into space to study how it behaves in microgravity. The experiment, called DynaMoS, aims to understand the dynamics of microbial communities and their role in plant growth, with implications for growing food on other celestial bodies.
The university's latest satellite, SCOOB-I, orbits the Earth with advanced payloads, including a small Earth imaging camera and a solar spectrum sensor. The mission provides valuable insights into the Sun-Earth connection and its impact on climate, marking NTU Singapore's leadership in the growing space industry.
A study of 17 international astronauts found that resistance-based exercises could help prevent bone loss and promote bone formation during spaceflight. The researchers observed that astronauts on longer missions showed less bone recovery, but those who completed more in-flight deadlift training recovered better.
Researchers found rocket exhaust gases can remain high in altitude, producing thermal nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide that can affect the Earth's climate. The team modeled fluid dynamics of rocket exhaust gases to understand the impact on atmospheric pollution.
A new study found that extended space flight increases perivascular spaces in the brains of first-time astronauts, but not those who previously served in space. No neurological deficits were detected despite the changes.
The Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) mission enables new measurements of cosmic X-ray sources, such as pulsars, black holes, and neutron stars. With its state-of-the-art telescopes and detectors, IXPE will provide high-quality polarization data of various sources, including supernova remnants, active galaxies, and blazars.
A study of NASA, ESA, and Russian space agency data found that extended spaceflight leads to changes in the brain's perivascular spaces. The research, led by Medical University of South Carolina scientists, used MRI scans to evaluate brain changes before and after six months on the International Space Station.
The study focused on the analysis and selection of Mars parachute types, with a focus on supersonic speed, low density, and harsh atmospheric conditions. The optimized tapered DGB parachute structure demonstrated improved deceleration performance, meeting the requirements for the Tianwen-1 Mars probe.
Researchers analyzed the effects of environmental pressure setting, time step, and mesh density on the pressure differential calculation results. The study used numerical simulation to improve the accuracy of calculations, with results showing that changes in ambient pressure are the primary factor affecting the pressure differential.
Researchers at UC Davis have developed genetically modified lettuce producing a drug to protect against bone density loss in microgravity. The transgenic lettuce combines parathyroid hormone with an antibody protein, allowing for stable production and potential self-administration by astronauts.
Researchers create transgenic lettuce that expresses a bone-stimulating hormone, which could help prevent osteopenia in astronauts and resource-limited areas on Earth. The lettuce would need to be consumed daily by astronauts to get a sufficient dose of the hormone.
Researchers calculate that low-power lasers on Earth could launch and maneuver small probes equipped with silicon or boron nitride sails, propelling them to much faster speeds than rocket engines. The lasers could propel tiny sailed probes on interplanetary or interstellar missions without requiring large amounts of fuel.
Researchers found significant microstructural changes in white matter tracts, indicating the brain's ability to adapt to spaceflight. After returning to Earth, these changes remained visible seven months later.
Researchers are developing systems to detect, characterize and track objects in cislunar space, or the space between Earth and the moon, to prevent lunar traffic jams and congestion.
The microsatellite will fly at a Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO), collecting data for commercial VLEO satellites with multiple applications. The satellite is designed to be sustainable, de-orbiting within days of its operational life.
A new study reveals that microbes in the guts of hibernating ground squirrels play a crucial role in recycling nutrients and maintaining muscle mass. The discovery could have significant implications for humans with muscle-wasting disorders and astronauts on extended space voyages.
A new model developed by Skoltech researchers optimizes satellite radar system design, balancing performance characteristics with other mission parameters. The study identifies optimal designs for small satellite platforms, particularly in the 8-12 GHz and 4-8 GHz frequency bands.
Researchers are reconstructing life on the ISS over two decades to understand space culture and how astronauts interact with their tools and colleagues. The project uses digital photography, crowdsourcing, and archaeological surveys to document developments and changes within the station's lifestyle and cultural makeup.
The Chang'e-5 mission achieved a successful soft lunar landing using an innovative guidance, navigation and control system. The LAM used various sensors to navigate its descent and landing, with multiple sensors providing redundancy to ensure the success of the mission.
China's space transportation systems have made significant leaps in recent decades, with advancements in launch vehicles, propulsion systems, and artificial intelligence. The country aims to become a powerful space nation by the mid-21st century, with plans for manned missions to the Moon and Mars.