Space and Tech

Back on Earth: NASA’s SpaceX Crew-8 Mission Splashes Down Off Florida

Published

4 weeks ago

October 26, 2024

Charles Elliot

In a remarkable testament to human ingenuity and collaboration, NASA’s SpaceX Crew-8 mission concluded with a successful splashdown at 3:29 a.m. EDT Friday, just off the coast of Pensacola, Florida. This milestone marks the end of a nearly eight-month scientific expedition—NASA’s eighth commercial crew rotation mission to the International Space Station (ISS).

Crew-8: A Journey to Remember

The Crew-8 mission launched on March 3 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Astronauts Matthew Dominick, Michael Barratt, and Jeanette Epps, along with Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexander Grebenkin, spent an impressive 232 days living and working aboard the ISS. During their time in space, the crew traveled nearly 100 million miles and completed an astounding 3,760 orbits around Earth, all while pushing the boundaries of human exploration.

Science in Space

The Crew-8 mission was not just about being in space; it was about advancing our understanding of the universe and improving life on Earth. The crew engaged in a variety of groundbreaking research projects aimed at enhancing human health, both in space and on our planet. Some highlights of their work included:

Stem Cell Research: The astronauts developed organoid models to study degenerative diseases, a vital step in understanding potential treatments and therapies.
Material Flammability Studies: Investigating the effects of fuel temperature on material flammability in the unique environment of space could lead to safer spacecraft and equipment for future missions.
Spaceflight and Immune Function: The team studied how prolonged exposure to spaceflight influences the immune system of astronauts, which is crucial for ensuring their health during long-duration missions.

These research endeavors contribute significantly to space medicine and help prepare for future human exploration beyond low Earth orbit, potentially easing the challenges of long-term space travel.

Safe Return and Next Steps

Upon splashdown, recovery teams from NASA and SpaceX were quick to secure the spacecraft and assist the returning astronauts as they exited. The crew will now make their way to NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, where they will debrief and reflect on their experiences. Meanwhile, the Dragon spacecraft will be returned to SpaceX facilities at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station for inspection and refurbishment—readying it for future missions.

The Crew-8 mission’s return is particularly notable, as it follows the arrival of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 team to the ISS on September 29. Both missions are part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, an initiative focused on providing reliable access to space through partnerships with private companies. This collaborative approach maximizes the use of the ISS for research and development and supports future missions aimed at deep space exploration.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate the successful return of Crew-8, we also look ahead to the future of space exploration. The insights gained from this mission will not only enhance our ability to live and work in space but will also contribute to advancements that benefit humanity on Earth. The journey of exploration is far from over, and with missions like Crew-8 paving the way, we are excited to see what lies ahead in our quest to understand the cosmos. Welcome back, Crew-8!

Learn more about NASA’s Commercial Crew program at:

https://www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew

The science section of our news blog STM Daily News provides readers with captivating and up-to-date information on the latest scientific discoveries, breakthroughs, and innovations across various fields. We offer engaging and accessible content, ensuring that readers with different levels of scientific knowledge can stay informed. Whether it’s exploring advancements in medicine, astronomy, technology, or environmental sciences, our science section strives to shed light on the intriguing world of scientific exploration and its profound impact on our daily lives. From thought-provoking articles to informative interviews with experts in the field, STM Daily News Science offers a harmonious blend of factual reporting, analysis, and exploration, making it a go-to source for science enthusiasts and curious minds alike. https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/

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Space and Tech

NASA Coverage of the Upcoming Progress 90 Cargo Resupply Mission

Published

2 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Charles Elliot

Excitement is building as NASA prepares for the upcoming launch of the Progress 90 spacecraft, a critical mission that will deliver essential supplies to the crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS). With a launch scheduled for 7:22 a.m. EST on Thursday, November 21, from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, this unpiloted Roscosmos cargo spacecraft will transport nearly three tons of food, fuel, and vital equipment to the Expedition 72 crew.

Tune In for Live Coverage

NASA is offering live launch coverage starting at 7:00 a.m. EST on the day of the launch, available on NASA+ and their official website. This is a fantastic opportunity for space enthusiasts and curious minds alike to witness firsthand the relentless efforts of international space collaboration. Not sure how to catch the excitement? NASA has made it easy! Their live coverage can be accessed through various platforms, including social media, so you won’t miss a moment of this thrilling event.

Mission Timeline

Following the launch, the Progress 90 spacecraft will embark on a two-day journey to the ISS, a remarkable feat of engineering and logistics. It is scheduled to autonomously dock at the space-facing port of the Poisk module on Saturday, November 23, at 9:35 a.m. EST. Make sure to tune in for NASA’s coverage of the docking process, which will begin at 8:45 a.m. that same day. Observing the intricate choreography of rendezvous and docking showcases the ingenuity of modern space missions.

Before Progress 90 arrives, it’s important to note that the previous Progress 88 spacecraft will undock from the Poisk module on Tuesday, November 19. Although NASA will not stream this undocking event, it marks another step in efficient cargo operations at the ISS.

What Happens Next?

Once docked, the Progress 90 spacecraft will remain attached to the ISS for approximately six months, providing continuous support to the crew. When it completes its mission, the spacecraft will carry away any used supplies and cargo, ensuring a tidy and efficient living environment aboard the station. It will then safely re-enter Earth’s atmosphere, disposing of invaluable trash generated during the mission.

The Role of the ISS in Space Exploration

For over 24 years, NASA has played a key role in maintaining a continuous human presence in low Earth orbit, enabling groundbreaking research and scientific exploration that simply cannot be achieved on our home planet. The ISS serves as a unique laboratory that allows for experiments in microgravity, helping scientists make discoveries that will not only benefit life on Earth but also pave the way for future space exploration.

The station is poised to support NASA’s ambitious goals for the Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon and expand our presence in the solar system. Ultimately, this sustained effort will guide us toward the dream of human exploration of Mars.

Join the Journey!

As we look forward to another exciting chapter in space travel with the Progress 90 mission, we encourage everyone to join the conversation. Share your thoughts, watch the launch, engage with fellow enthusiasts online, and marvel at the boundaries that humanity is pushing through science and collaboration. Space is within our reach, and every mission takes us one step closer to understanding our universe!

Together, let’s celebrate the spirit of exploration and the collaborative advances in human innovation that make missions like this possible. See you on launch day! 🌌🚀✨

Get breaking news, images and features from the space station on Instagram, Facebook, and X.

Learn more about the International Space Station, its research, and its crew, at:

https://www.nasa.gov/station

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Space and Tech

Blue Origin’s New Shepard NS-28: Aiming for the Stars on November 22nd

Blue Origin’s New Shepard NS-28 mission, launching on November 22, features a significant crewed aspect, promoting broader space access. The mission patch symbolizes the journey’s educational and inspirational goals. Join the excitement!

Published

2 days ago

November 19, 2024

Rod Washington

New Shepard 28

Blue Origin has once again captured the public’s imagination with the announcement of its ninth human flight, the NS-28 mission, set to launch from Launch Site One in West Texas on Friday, November 22. With the launch window opening at 9:30 AM CST (15:30 UTC), excitement is brewing as space enthusiasts and potential future astronauts gear up for another exhilarating journey into the cosmos.

One of the highlights of this mission is the crewed aspect, making it another significant step in Blue Origin’s mission to democratize access to space. Following the success of its previous flights, NS-28 promises to deliver an experience that will inspire and ignite passion for space exploration. The live webcast on BlueOrigin.com will commence at T-30 minutes, offering spectators a front-row seat to this groundbreaking event.

New Shepard 28 — Image Credit: Blue Origin

The NS-28 Mission Patch: A Story of Meaning and Symbolism

Accompanying the NS-28 mission is a beautifully designed mission patch that encapsulates the spirit and purpose of this historic flight. Each element of the patch carries deep significance, painting a portrait of the crew and their aspirations in space.

Emily Calandrelli is represented by the color pink and a girl in signature pink overalls, acknowledging her influential role as a science communicator and advocate for space education.
For Sharon and Marc Hagle, this flight marks their second journey on New Shepard, a milestone aptly symbolized by the centerline in the “2,” fostering a sense of continuity and commitment to space travel.
The stars in the mission patch signify Austin Litteral’s enduring vision of humanity’s place among the stars, highlighting the adventurous spirit that drives our quest for knowledge beyond our planet.
At the bottom of the patch, a representation of people embodies J.D. Russell’s hope for future generations to expand their understanding of the universe, underscoring the mission’s educational and inspirational goals.
Lastly, the wolf in the crew capsule’s window stands as a tribute to Hank Wolfond, symbolizing the strength, courage, and tenacity that is required for exploration beyond our earthly confines.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Space Tourism and Exploration

As Blue Origin prepares for the NS-28 mission, more than just a flight is at stake. This mission represents a significant leap in commercial space travel and signifies a broader movement towards making space accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Each launch brings us closer to a future where experiencing space is a possibility for many, rather than just a select few.

With the countdown ticking down to November 22, stakeholders, space enthusiasts, and the general public alike are encouraged to tune in to the live webcast and partake in the excitement surrounding human spaceflight. Innovations in technology and a shared passion for exploration are paving the way for a new era of discovery—one where the stars are no longer out of reach.

Join us in celebrating the NS-28 mission—an emblem of human ingenuity, curiosity, and the indomitable spirit of exploration. See you on launch day—let’s reach for the stars together!

For more information about the crew, please see our previous blog post here

Or read the post from Blue Origin here.

Follow Blue Origin on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, and YouTube, and sign up at BlueOrigin.com to stay updated on all mission details.

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Space and Tech

Blue Origin’s NS-28 Mission: A Stellar Crew Ready for Space!

Published

6 days ago

November 15, 2024

Rod Washington

Blue Origin has announced an exciting lineup for its 28th New Shepard mission, NS-28, which marks yet another milestone in the company’s quest to democratize access to space. This mission features six remarkable individuals, including renowned science communicator Emily Calandrelli and two returning space travelers, Sharon and Marc Hagle. As excitement builds for this journey, let’s take a closer look at the crew who will embark on this extraordinary mission.

The Crew of NS-28

1. Emily Calandrelli (@TheSpaceGal)
Emily is not just an engineer from MIT; she’s also a vibrant advocate for women in STEM and a beloved television personality. Known for her Emmy-nominated hosting of Xploration Outer Space and her role on Netflix’s Emily’s Wonder Lab, Emily has inspired countless young minds with her engaging approach to science. Her commitment to improving policies for breastfeeding mothers and advocating for parental leave in the aerospace industry showcases her passion for making the world a better place. With nearly three million followers, she’s ready to inspire a new generation from high above the Earth.

2. Sharon Hagle
As the founder of SpaceKids Global, Sharon is dedicated to ensuring the next generation excels in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). Her organization has reached over 867,000 students worldwide with initiatives like sending science projects to the International Space Station and partnering with Girl Scouts. Sharon’s first journey to space on NS-20 in March 2022, alongside her husband, Marc, made history as they became the first married couple to launch on a commercial space vehicle.

3. Marc Hagle
Marc, the president and CEO of Tricor International, is a leading figure in property development. An avid philanthropist along with his wife, Sharon, Marc shares her passion for education and the arts. His love for space exploration brought him back for a second trip aboard New Shepard. His previous flight on NS-20 was a testament to the couple’s adventurous spirit.

4. Austin Litteral
Austin’s journey to NS-28 fulfills a childhood dream of going to space—a dream sparked by NASA shuttle launches on his bedroom wall. As a risk management professional and a devoted husband and father, Austin exemplifies the spirit of adventure. His seat is sponsored by Whatnot, where he won a ticket through the “Whatnot to the Moon” giveaway, proving that sometimes, dreams do come true in the most unexpected ways!

5. James (J.D.) Russell
J.D. is a former law enforcement officer turned entrepreneur, who now leads InfoHOA, focusing on community management solutions. His journey to this flight is marked by resilience and dedication to giving back through his foundation, which supports children’s education and helps families of first responders. J.D.’s passion for making a difference reflects the ethos of this mission as well.

6. Henry (Hank) Wolfond
Hank, the CEO of Bayshore Capital and an experienced pilot, is not just a business leader; he also advocates for important causes like confronting antisemitism and supporting autism acceptance. His extensive flying experience enhances the adventure of space travel, and his commitment to philanthropy is evident through his involvement in numerous charitable organizations.

A Historic Mission

As New Shepard prepares for its 28th mission, this flight signifies not just individual dreams realized, but a collective effort to inspire and educate future generations. The crew for NS-28 embodies the spirit of exploration and social responsibility, each bringing unique stories, passions, and contributions to the table.

So, mark your calendars and prepare for liftoff! The journey into space represents not just a physical departure from Earth but a leap toward greater hope, curiosity, and the endless possibilities that lie beyond our atmosphere. Stay tuned as these adventurous souls launch into the great unknown!

According to Blue Origin, the flight date will be announced soon.

Follow Blue Origin on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, and YouTube, and sign up on BlueOrigin.com to stay current on all mission details.

STM Daily News is a multifaceted podcast that explores a wide range of topics, from life and consumer issues to the latest in food and beverage trends. Our discussions dive into the realms of science, covering everything from space and Earth to nature, artificial intelligence, and astronomy. We also celebrate the amateur sports scene, highlighting local athletes and events, including our special segment on senior Pickleball, where we report on the latest happenings in this exciting community. With our diverse content, STM Daily News aims to inform, entertain, and engage listeners, providing a comprehensive look at the issues that matter most in our daily lives. https://stories-this-moment.castos.com/