Science
NASA Pursues Lunar Terrain Vehicle Services for Artemis Missions
NASA is seeking industry proposals for a next-generation LTV (Lunar Terrain Vehicle) that will allow astronauts to go farther and conduct more science than ever before as they explore the south polar region of the Moon during Artemis missions.
Artemis astronauts will drive to explore and sample more of the lunar surface using the LTV than they could on foot. NASA will contract LTV as a service from industry rather than owning the rover. Contracting services from industry partners allows NASA to leverage commercial innovation and provide the best value to U.S. taxpayers while achieving its human spaceflight scientific and exploration goals.
“We want to leverage industry’s knowledge and innovation, combined with NASA’s history of successfully operating rovers, to make the best possible surface rover for our astronaut crews and scientific researchers,” said Lara Kearney, manager of NASA’s Extravehicular Activity and Human Surface Mobility program at the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.
The LTV will function like a cross between an Apollo-style lunar rover and a Mars-style uncrewed rover. It will support phases driven by astronauts and phases as an uncrewed mobile science exploration platform, similar to NASA’s Curiosity and Perseverance Mars rovers. This will enable continued performance of science even when crews are not present on the lunar surface. Artemis astronauts will use the LTV to traverse the lunar surface and transport scientific equipment, extending the distances they can cover on each moonwalk.
Under the Lunar Terrain Vehicle Services request for proposals, NASA has provided requirements for companies interested in developing and demonstrating the LTV, including an approach that encourages companies to produce an innovative rover for use by NASA and other commer cial customers for multiple years.
Engineers will be able to operate the LTV remotely to transport cargo and scientific payloads between crewed landing sites, enabling additional science returns, resource prospecting, and lunar exploration. This will expand scientific research opportunities on the Moon during uncrewed operations, allow scientists to investigate future surface mission locations, and inform research goals and objectives for each site.
To handle the unique environment near the lunar South Pole, which includes permanently shadowed regions and extended periods without sunlight, the LTV will need to incorporate several systems to support both crewed and uncrewed operations. Some of the more critical systems include advanced power management, semi-autonomous driving, state-of-the-art communication and navigation systems, and protection from the extreme environment.
As part of the proposals, companies are required to provide end-to-end services, from development and delivery to the lunar surface, to execution of operations. Each rover must be able to carry two suited astronauts, accommodate a robotic arm or mechanism to support science exploration, and survive the extreme temperatures at the lunar South Pole. The company will be asked to successfully demonstrate the LTV in the lunar environment prior to using it in a crewed capacity.
NASA intends to use the LTV for crewed operations beginning with Artemis V in 2029. Prior to crew arrival, the rover will be used for uncrewed and commercial activities once it lands on the lunar surface.
Proposals for the LTV services contract are due July 10, 2023, with the contract award scheduled for November 2023. This request for proposals incorporates feedback from industry through a draft request for proposals and a previous request for information.
Through Artemis, NASA will send astronauts – including the first woman and first person of color – to explore the Moon for scientific discovery, economic benefits, and to build the foundation for crewed missions to Mars. Together, NASA’s Space Launch System rocket, Orion spacecraft, Gateway lunar orbital outpost, advanced spacesuits and rovers, and human landing systems are the agency’s foundation for deep space exploration.
Learn more about this request for proposals at:
https://www.nasa.gov/jsc/procurement/ltv
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Mysterious Lights Over Oregon: Pilots Report Unusual Aerial Phenomena
This past weekend, the skies of Oregon became the backdrop for an extraordinary event that has both puzzled and dazzled observers. At least four commercial pilots reported encountering unexplained bright lights displaying incredible speeds and erratic movements, renewing interest and debate about aerial phenomena.
The Encounter Details
The first report came from a pilot operating an air ambulance who described a startling experience. A bright, red light zoomed towards his Life Flight plane, only to reverse direction and head back towards the Pacific Ocean at bewildering speeds. The event left the pilot and his crew astounded by the light’s velocity and abrupt maneuvers.
Meanwhile, the pilot of a United Airlines flight over Eugene also reported seeing multiple mysterious objects. These unidentified lights moved vertically and horizontally in patterns that defied easy explanation, with no evidence of military activity in the area at the time.
Adding to the intrigue, the Life Flight pilot noted that one of the lights engaged in a corkscrew pattern, an observation that was corroborated by the aircraft’s collision avoidance system. Air traffic control, maintaining a cautious approach, authorized the pilot to maneuver as necessary to maintain safety.
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTYVWd4ew
Visual Evidence and Continued Sightings
Throughout these encounters, several pilots managed to capture brief video clips. These clips, although hard to discern due to the dark conditions, show glimpses of the unusual red, circular lights. Another report from two Horizon Airlines pilots further confirmed that whatever was out there wasn’t isolated to a single incident or observer.
Experts Weigh In: Possible Explanations
In the wake of these mystifying sightings, experts have been quick to offer explanations. Douglas Buettner, a scientist who has researched similar incidents, suggests that these lights could likely be flares from Starlink satellites. Starlink, a constellation designed by SpaceX to provide global broadband coverage, has been known to produce vivid optical flares when its panels reflect sunlight.
Buettner’s research, which includes previous pilot reports and observations, supports the idea that this natural reflection of sunlight could explain the phenomena observed. However, he also admits the current data is insufficient to conclusively rule out other possibilities.
Government and Public Response
Following these reports, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the sighting of unidentified lights by a pilot, although they have not commented further. In a recent Senate hearing, the Pentagon’s director overseeing unidentified anomalous phenomena indicated a spike in such reports since the launch of satellite constellations like Starlink, underscoring the growing interest and concern regarding these observations.
The Broader Implications
While the most likely explanation for these mysterious lights points to satellite flares, the repeated occurrences of such phenomena continue to stir the public’s imagination and scientific curiosity. As we advance in our technological capabilities, the skies above us grow increasingly populated with human-made objects that can sometimes return to us as bewildering spectacles.
In either case, these events serve as a reminder of the vast and unexplored frontiers above us and the ever-present human quest for understanding the mysteries of our universe. Whether they turn out to be mundane or truly otherworldly, the skies over Oregon this weekend have given us all something to ponder and marvel at.
Related Link:
https://nbc16.com/news/local/life-flight-pilot-reports-seeing-ufo-near-eugene
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New Jersey Drone Sightings: Unraveling the Mystery
In recent weeks, New Jersey has increasingly found itself under the watchful eye of mysterious drones. These sightings have captivated residents and officials alike, leading to widespread speculation and calls for action. Below is a comprehensive update on the current situation regarding drone sightings in the Garden State, including insights from government officials and community reactions.
The Surge of Sightings
Reports of large drones—up to six feet in diameter—flying over various regions of New Jersey have surged since mid-November. Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia highlighted the unusual characteristics of these drones, often flying with their lights off and evading detection by traditional methods. Though the origin and purpose of these drones remain unclear, many are convinced that they are not the product of hobbyists.
Notably, many sightings have been concentrated near sensitive locations such as the Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military research facility, and Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster. Concerns have only intensified since these drones seem to be operating outside the realm of normal commercial or recreational use.
Government Investigations and Assurances
Federal and state law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), have become actively involved in investigating these sightings. Despite receiving over 5,000 tips, officials state that there is currently no evidence suggesting that these drones pose a threat to national security or public safety. Instead, authorities believe that many of the reported sightings can be attributed to legal drones and other aerial phenomena, including misidentified manned aircraft and even celestial bodies like stars.
Governor Phil Murphy has reinforced this perspective, emphasizing that while drone sightings have raised valid concerns, there’s no immediate threat to public safety. The governor has called for federal assistance in the investigation and urged Congress to empower states with more authority to manage drone activities.
Congressional Response and Public Sentiment
The situation has sparked a debate among lawmakers, with some calling for stricter regulations or even a temporary ban on drone flights in New Jersey. Notably, two congressional representatives have gone so far as to request that the military intervene, highlighting the urgency felt by some constituents. U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew even suggested that a foreign entity could be behind the sightings, a theory that has been categorically denied by federal officials.
Public sentiment varies significantly, with many residents expressing concerns about the unknown nature of these drones. James Edwards from Succasunna has pointed out the anxiety gripping the community, noting, “There’s so much that’s unknown,” and calling for a measured response to the sightings.
The View from Washington
At the national level, President Joe Biden has responded to the growing unease, asserting that there is nothing nefarious behind the drone sightings. He emphasized the lawful presence of over one million registered drones operating across the country and assured the public that the situation is being closely monitored.
John Kirby, the White House National Security Advisor, reiterated that the majority of drone sightings do not indicate a coordinated threat and stem from common commercial, hobbyist, or law enforcement operations.
What Lies Ahead?
As investigations continue, officials stress the importance of discerning legitimate threats from unwarranted fears. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing dialogues both in Trenton and Washington to address public concerns and craft appropriate regulatory responses.
While the mystery of the New Jersey drones deepens, it’s vital for residents to remain calm and informed. As the investigation unravels the truths behind these sightings, a collective effort from the community, lawmakers, and federal agencies can help ensure safety and transparency in the skies above New Jersey.
Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to evolve, and be sure to report any new sightings or information to the appropriate authorities. Together, we can navigate the complexities of drone activity in our airspace while embracing this new technological frontier.
Related Link:
https://apnews.com/article/drones-new-jersey-what-to-know-e6f565f5d51d9d47ad140e7e7d131842
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
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Learning from Voices of War: Honoring the 80th anniversary of World War II’s final major battle
(Family Features) The Ardennes Offensive, commonly known as the “Battle of the Bulge,” stands as the single bloodiest battle fought by the United States during World War II. Waged in the bitter cold of mid-December 1944, it took the Allies a month to secure victory. The cost was staggering: nearly 20,000 Americans were killed in action, close to 50,000 wounded and another 20,000 captured.
In honor of the 80th anniversary of this pivotal battle, the Library of Congress Veterans History Project has launched an online exhibit to commemorate the milestone. While the battle itself is etched in the annals of history, the personal stories from those who endured it remain one of the most powerful testaments to its impact.
The online exhibit, “Serving Our Voices,” features accounts from 12 Battle of the Bulge survivors, part of the thousands of narratives preserved by the project. These stories ensure future generations can gain deeper understanding of veterans’ service and sacrifice.
One such story includes Eliot Annable, a 20-year-old radio operator serving with the Army’s 106th Infantry Division. Just days after arriving at the western front, Annable found himself under German artillery barrages on. Dec. 16, 1944. He recalled the assault in his oral history, describing the intensity as “almost enough to knock you on the floor.”
The following five days became the most harrowing days of Annable’s military service. While on a communications mission, he became stranded behind enemy lines and spent nearly a week evading the enemy in the Ardennes Forest without food, shelter or appropriate winter clothing. After traveling more than 30 miles, he eventually safely rejoined the remnants of his unit.
Back home, Annable’s parents were gripped by uncertainty. On Dec. 31, 1944, his father wrote a letter expressing the family’s anguish and love for their son, regardless of what happened. The moving letter, coupled with Annable’s oral history, provides an intimate view into one soldier’s Battle of the Bulge experience.
Another featured veteran in the exhibit, Guy Martin Stephens, also served with the 106th Infantry Division. Unlike Annable, Stephens was captured by the Germans during battle. In his oral history, he recounted the surreal feeling of combat, the relentless hunger he endured as a prisoner of war and the lingering effects of his time in captivity.
“It’s hard,” Stephens said. “It’s something you can’t ever … your mind is just like a video, or camcorder, I guess. You put it in there. You get busy and get married. You get home, and you get an education, and get a job, and raise your family and everything like that. You can kind of gloss it over or try to push it back, but it’s always there, you know?”
Veterans who served during the 20th or 21st centuries are invited to establish a collection, including interviews (video or audio), letters and original photographs, even if they did not see combat. Families can also submit collections posthumously to honor their loved ones. To explore more veterans’ stories and learn how you can contribute to the program, visit loc.gov/vets.
Photos courtesy of Library of Congress Veterans History Project
SOURCE:
Library of Congress Veterans History Project
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
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