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NASA Awards Advance 3D Printing, Quantum Tech for Climate Research

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The Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina is seen from the International Space Station on Feb. 21, 2012. A new NASA Space Technology Research Institute will specialize in advancing quantum sensing technology for improved mass change measurements from orbit, which will help scientists understand the movement of ice and water on Earth’s surface.
Credits: NASA

New technology is a key to helping NASA advance its long-term exploration goals for the benefit of all. To support its effort, the agency announced Thursday it will create two new institutes to develop technology in critical areas for engineering and climate research.  

Two new Space Technology Research Institutes (STRIs) will leverage teams led by U.S. universities to create multidisciplinary research and technology development programs critical to NASA’s future. By bringing together science, engineering, and other disciplines from universities, industry, and non-profits, the institutes aim to impact future aerospace capabilities through investments in early-stage technology.

One of the research institutes will focus on quantum sensing technology in support of climate research. The other will work to improve understanding and help enable rapid certification of metal parts created using advanced manufacturing techniques.

“We’re thrilled to draw on the expertise of these multi-university teams to create technology for some of our most pressing needs,” said Jim Reuter, associate administrator for the agency’s Space Technology Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “Their work will enable next-generation science for studying our home planet and broaden the use of 3D-printed metal parts for spaceflight with state-of-the-art modeling.”

Each institute will receive up to $15 million over five years.

A NASA project called Long Life Additive Manufacturing Assembly (LLAMA) is 3D printing methods for building rocket engine components. A new NASA Space Technology Research Institute will develop advanced computer models to help engineers better understand and validate the characteristics of additively manufactured metal parts for use in spaceflight.Credits: NASA

Quantum Pathways Institute

The University of Texas at Austin will lead the Quantum Pathways Institute, focused on advancing quantum sensing technology for next-generation Earth science applications. Such technology would enable new understanding of our planet and the effects of climate change. 

Quantum sensors use quantum physics principles to potentially collect more precise data and enable unprecedented science measurements. These sensors could be particularly useful for satellites in orbit around Earth to collect mass change data – a type of measurement that can tell scientists about how ice, oceans, and land water are moving and changing. Though the basic physics and technology for quantum sensors have been proven in concept, work is required to develop quantum sensors at the precisions necessary for next-generation science needs during spaceflight missions.

“Quantum sensing methods have shown a great deal of promise in computing, communications, and now for Earth science remote sensing applications,” said Dr. Srinivas Bettadpur, principal investigator for the institute and professor of aerospace engineering and engineering mechanics at the University of Texas at Austin. “Our intent is to advance this technology and get it ready for space as soon as we can.”

The institute will work to further advance the physics underlying quantum sensors, design how these sensors could be built for space missions and understand how mission design and systems engineering would need to adapt to accommodate this new technology.

Partners on the institute include University of Colorado Boulder; University of California, Santa Barbara; California Institute of Technology; and the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Institute for Model-Based Qualification & Certification of Additive Manufacturing (IMQCAM)

Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh will lead Institute for Model-based Qualification & Certification of Additive Manufacturing (IMQCAM) aiming to improve computer models of 3D-printed – also called additively manufactured – metal parts and expand their utility in spaceflight applications. The institute will be co-led by Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.

Metal parts 3D-printed are made from powdered metals, which are melted in specific ways and shaped into useful parts. Such parts could be useful for things like rocket engines – giving more flexibility to create new parts when designs change – or as part of a human outpost on the Moon, where bringing pre-fabricated parts would be expensive and limiting. However, efficient certification and use of such parts requires high-accuracy predictions of their characteristics.

“The internal structure of this type of part is much different than what’s produced by any other method,” said Tony Rollett, principal investigator for the institute and US Steel professor of metallurgical engineering and materials science at Carnegie Mellon University. “The institute will focus on creating the models NASA and others in industry would need to use these parts on a daily basis.”

Detailed computer models, known as digital twins, will allow engineers to understand the parts’ capabilities and limitations – such as how much stress the parts can take before breaking. Such models will provide the predictability of part properties based on their processing that is key for certifying the parts for use. The institute will develop digital twins for 3D-printed parts made from spaceflight materials that are commonly used for 3D printing, as well as evaluating and modeling new materials.

Somnath Ghosh, the Michael G. Callas professor in civil and systems engineering at Johns Hopkins University’s Whiting School of Engineering, will serve as the co-principal investigator and will co-direct the institute, along with Rollett. Additional partners on the institute include Vanderbilt University, University of Texas at San Antonio, University of Virginia, Case Western Reserve University, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Southwest Research Institute, and Pratt & Whitney.

STMD’s Space Technology Research Grants program funds each STRI. For more information about NASA’s space technology work, visit:

https://www.nasa.gov/spacetech

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Space and Tech

Exciting News: NASA Live Coverage of Roscosmos Cosmonauts on a Spacewalk!

Don’t miss NASA’s live coverage of Roscosmos cosmonauts on a spacewalk outside the International Space Station! #SpaceExploration

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"Two cosmonauts conducting a spacewalk outside the International Space Station"
Expedition 70 Flight Engineer Nikolai Chub from Roscosmos is pictured during a spacewalk to inspect a backup radiator, deploy a nanosatellite, and install communications hardware on the International Space Station’s Nauka science module. NASA

Get ready to witness a truly incredible event – a spacewalk outside the International Space Station conducted by two Roscosmos cosmonauts! NASA will be providing live coverage of this historic moment on Thursday, April 25, starting at 10:30 a.m. EDT. You definitely don’t want to miss this!

The spacewalk, expected to begin at 10:55 a.m. EDT, could last up to an impressive seven hours. So make sure to clear your schedule and prepare yourself for some out-of-this-world action!

But don’t worry if you can’t be near a TV, because NASA has got you covered. They will be streaming the spacewalk on various platforms including NASA+, NASA Television, the NASA app, YouTube, and their very own website. How convenient is that?

If you’re wondering how to catch this incredible event, fret not! NASA has made it super easy for everyone to enjoy the live coverage. You can stream NASA TV through numerous platforms, including social media. Just follow the instructions provided and you’ll be all set to witness history!

During this captivating spacewalk, Expedition 71 crewmates Oleg Kononenko and Nikolai Chub will embark on their mission. Their primary objective is to complete the deployment of a panel on a synthetic radar system located on the Nauka module. They will also be installing equipment and experiments on the Poisk module, which will be used to analyze the level of corrosion on various surfaces and modules of the space station. Science at its finest!

This noteworthy spacewalk will mark the 270th in support of the International Space Station. For Kononenko, this will be his seventh spacewalk, and he will be wearing the distinguished Orlan spacesuit with the red stripes. Chub, on the other hand, will be going on his second spacewalk and will be wearing the awe-inspiring spacesuit with the blue stripes. Talk about a fashionable space adventure!

So grab your popcorn, gather your friends and family, and get ready for an exhilarating experience. This upcoming spacewalk promises to be an event that will leave you in awe of the immense accomplishments and ongoing science conducted aboard the International Space Station.

Remember, you can catch all the action on NASA+, NASA Television, the NASA app, YouTube, and their website. Don’t miss out on this thrilling live coverage. Be a part of history and witness the wonders of space exploration firsthand. See you there!

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

Learn more about International Space Station research and operations at:

https://www.nasa.gov/station

https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/

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NASA Leadership Visits Mexico: Strengthening Cooperation for a Brighter Future

NASA leadership visiting Mexico to strengthen cooperation in space exploration, climate change, and STEM education. Exciting partnership ahead! 🚀🌎🔬 #NASA #MexicoCooperation

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NASA leadership visiting Mexico to strengthen cooperation in space exploration, climate change, and STEM education.
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson discusses the agency’s goals during the annual State of NASA address, Monday, March 11, 2024, at the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters Building in Washington.

In a remarkable effort to deepen ties and enhance space collaboration with nations across the globe, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy will be visiting Mexico City on April 22 and 23. This visit aims to foster bilateral cooperation in various innovation and research areas, including Earth science and exploration. Recognizing the significance of such interaction, this blog post delves into the details of this auspicious visit, highlighting the potential benefits and areas of collaboration between NASA and Mexico.

Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation:
NASA’s engagement with senior Mexican government officials, such as President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and Mexican Space Agency (AEM) leaders, underscores the intent to strengthen the relationship between the two countries. With a collective focus on addressing climate change, both NASA and AEM are working collaboratively to achieve mutual goals. This cooperation extends not only to environmental challenges but also encompasses technology development, space exploration, and scientific research.

Nanosatellite Technology Demonstrators:
Mexico’s involvement as a signatory of the Artemis Accords reinforces the country’s commitment to participating in a practical and prosperous alliance for space exploration. NASA and AEM are investing effort and resources in nanosatellite technology demonstrators, which hold immense promise for the future of space exploration. Through joint endeavors, both organizations are pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge while fostering innovation and pushing the frontiers of human capabilities.

Ecological Focus on Earth Day:
The timing of the visit is significant as it coincides with Earth Day on April 22. Mexico’s collaboration with NASA in Earth science initiatives will be at the forefront of discussions during the visit. By leveraging NASA’s expertise and missions, Mexico aims to further expand its understanding of our planet’s dynamics. Topics such as air quality analysis and improved water resource management hold immense potential, enabling both countries to address pressing ecological challenges and work towards sustainable solutions.

Inspiring the Next Generation:
Nelson and Melroy’s commitment to fostering scientific curiosity and excellence extends to engaging with students in Mexico. The NASA officials will participate in dialogue with students, emphasizing the importance of STEM education and their pivotal roles as members of the Artemis Generation. By inspiring young minds to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, NASA aims to empower the future workforce, ensuring continued progress and innovation.

NASA’s visit to Mexico serves as a testament to the importance of international cooperation and scientific collaboration. The shared vision of addressing global challenges, such as climate change, necessitates partnerships that transcend borders. Through strengthened ties with Mexico and initiatives focusing on Earth science, nanosatellite technology, and STEM education, NASA and its Mexican counterparts are paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future. Such cooperative endeavors hold the potential to unlock breakthrough discoveries, foster innovation, and inspire the next generation of explorers.

For more information about NASA’s international partnerships, visit:

https://www.nasa.gov/oiir/

Office of International and Interagency Relations Mission

The mission of the Office of International and Interagency Relations (OIIR) is to provide executive leadership and coordination for all NASA international and interagency activities and partnerships, and for policy interactions between NASA and other U.S. Executive Branch offices and agencies.

OIIR Organizationabout Office of International and Interagency Relations Mission

About OIIR

OIIR serves as the principal Agency liaison with the National Security Council, the Office of Science and Technology Policy, and U.S. departments and agencies.
 
OIIR is responsible for:

  • Ensuring that NASA’s international engagements are in alignment with Administration direction and U.S. laws and regulations
  • Negotiating cooperative and reimbursable agreements with foreign space and aeronautics partners
  • Providing advice and guidance to Agency leadership on the implementation of NASA interagency and international partnerships
  • Providing management oversight and staff support of NASA’s advisory committees, commissions and panels
  • Managing the NASA Export Control Program
  • Coordinating foreign travel by NASA employees

https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/

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Catch a Glimpse of the Lyrid Meteor Shower Peaking This Weekend

“Experience the Lyrid meteor shower, a celestial spectacle gracing our skies this weekend. Don’t miss out on shooting stars streaking across the night sky!”

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Spring nights are set to dazzle with the arrival of the Lyrid meteor shower, marking the first of two celestial spectacles gracing our skies this season. As we gear up for a weekend of shooting stars, let’s delve into what makes the Lyrids special, how to witness their peak, and what to expect for this year’s show.

@stmblog

Capture the mesmerizing beauty of the Lyrid meteor shower on TikTok tonight! 🌠 #LyridMeteorShower #Stargazing https://stmdailynews.com/category/sci

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What Makes the Lyrid Meteor Shower Special?

Originating from debris shed by Comet Thatcher, the Lyrid meteor shower is an annual springtime event renowned for its vibrant fireballs and occasional bursts of meteor activity. These bursts, which occur approximately every 60 years, promise an awe-inspiring display of shooting stars, though the next anticipated outburst isn’t slated until 2042.

How to See the 2024 Lyrid Meteor Shower

Running from April 14 to 30, with peak activity occurring overnight from April 21-22, the Lyrid meteor shower offers skywatchers a celestial extravaganza. To catch a glimpse of this cosmic show, look toward the constellation Lyra, rising above the northeast horizon around 10 p.m. While technically visible from the southern hemisphere, the northern hemisphere provides the optimal viewing conditions.

Will 2024 Be a Good Year for the Lyrid Meteor Shower?

This year, the Lyrids coincide with a bright waxing gibbous moon, potentially obscuring many meteors from view. However, don’t let this deter you; seek out dark-sky destinations for enhanced visibility, or await the upcoming Eta Aquariids shower, peaking on May 6 under a dim, near-new moon.

As we anticipate the Lyrid meteor shower’s peak this weekend, let’s embrace the wonders of the cosmos and revel in the beauty of shooting stars streaking across the night sky. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a casual observer, this celestial event promises to inspire awe and ignite a sense of wonderment in us all.

https://stmdailynews.com/get-ready-for-a-spectacular-show-lyrid-meteor-shower-to-illuminate-the-night-sky/

Facts About the Lyrids!

The April Lyrids meteor shower is a celestial event that occurs annually from April 15 to April 29. The radiant of this meteor shower is located in the vicinity of the constellations Lyra and Hercules, near the bright star Vega. Typically, the peak of the shower is around April 22-23 each year.

The April Lyrids meteor shower is caused by the particles of dust shed by the long-period Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher. This is the most intense annual shower of meteors that results from the debris of a long-period comet. The reason for its intensity is that the comet Thatcher has a relatively short orbital period of about 415 years as compared to other intermediate long-period comets with orbital periods of 200-10,000 years. The Lyrids have been visible and recorded since 687 BC. No other modern shower of meteors has been observed and reported as far back in time as the Lyrids.

The peak of the shower usually occurs around April 22 and the morning of April 23. Typically, there are 5 to 20 meteors per hour, with an average of around 10. However, the number of meteors seen will depend on the observer’s location, as light pollution in cities will make it harder to see them compared to rural areas. The best time to observe the meteors is during nights without the Moon in the sky, and most April Lyrid meteors are usually around magnitude +2. Some meteors can be brighter and are known as “Lyrid fireballs”. These fireballs can cast shadows for a split second and leave behind smokey debris trails that last for minutes.

Once every 60 years, the shower intensifies as the planets direct the dust trail of the comet, which has completed one orbit, onto Earth’s path. This leads to an outburst of April Lyrid meteors. Previously, it was believed that the outbursts were caused by a dust cloud moving in a 60-year orbit. However, observations in 1982 and 1922 showed rates of 90 April Lyrids per hour at the peak. An even stronger storm occurred in 1803, with up to 700 meteors per hour, witnessed by a journalist in Richmond, Virginia.

Shooting stars. This electrical phenomenon was observed on Wednesday morning last at Richmond and its vicinity, in a manner that alarmed many, and astonished every person that beheld it. From one until three in the morning, those starry meteors seemed to fall from every point in the heavens, in such numbers as to resemble a shower of sky rockets …

In recorded history, the oldest meteor shower is the one that occurred on March 23.7, 687 BC (according to the proleptic Julian calendar), which was noted in Zuo Zhuan. The shower was described as follows: “On the 4th month in the summer in the year of xīn-mǎo (of year 7 of King Zhuang of Lu), at night, the sky is so bright that some fixed stars become invisible because of the meteor shower; at midnight, stars fell like rain.” In the Australian Aboriginal astronomy of the Boorong tribe, the Lyrids are associated with the scratchings of the Mallee fowl (represented by Vega) during its nest-building season.

(Wikipedia)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lyrids

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