Science
NASA Selects Axiom Space for Third Private Astronaut Station Mission
Credits: NASA
NASA and Axiom Space have signed a mission order for the third private astronaut mission to the International Space Station, targeted to launch no earlier than November 2023 from the agency’s NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
“The diversity of currently available commercial orbital human spaceflight opportunities is truly astounding. NASA’s commercial crew flights to the space station for our government astronauts paved the way for fully private missions to space like Inspiration4 and Polaris as well as private astronaut missions to the orbiting laboratory like the one we are announcing today,” said Phil McAlister, director of commercial space at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “We are starting to see the incorporation of space into our economic sphere, and it is going to revolutionize the way people see, use, and experience space.”
Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) is expected to spend 14 days docked to the space station. A specific launch date is dependent on spacecraft traffic to the space station and in-orbit activity planning and constraints. NASA and Axiom Space mission planners will coordinate in-orbit activities for the private astronauts to conduct in coordination with space station crew members and flight controllers on the ground.
“Axiom Space’s selection to lead the next private astronaut mission to the International Space Station enables us to continue expanding access to nations, academia, commercial entities, and emerging industries to research, test, and demonstrate new technologies in microgravity,” said Michael Suffredini, CEO and president of Axiom Space. “As NASA’s focus shifts back to the Moon and on to Mars, we are committed to transforming low-Earth orbit into a global space marketplace, where access to space moves beyond the partners of the space station to nations, institutions and individuals with new ideas fueling a thriving human economy beyond Earth.”
Axiom Space will submit four proposed crew members and two back up crew for the Ax-3 mission to the station’s Multilateral Crew Operations Panel for review. NASA is requiring all private astronaut mission providers to select a previously flown NASA astronaut as the spacecraft commander. Following review and approval from NASA and its international partners, the prime crew members for the mission will be named.
The Ax-3 crew members will train for their flight with NASA, international partners, and SpaceX, which Axiom Space has contracted as launch provider for transportation to and from the space station and to familiarize the private astronauts with systems, procedures, and emergency preparedness for the space station and the Dragon spacecraft. Based on current mission planning, team crew training is scheduled to begin this spring.
Axiom Space is obtaining NASA services to conduct the mission via both the mission specific order and Reimbursable Space Act Agreements.
Through the mission specific order, Axiom Space is obtaining services from NASA such as crew supplies, cargo delivery to space, storage, and other in-orbit resources for daily use. The order also accommodates up to an additional contingency week aboard the space station. This mission is subject to NASA’s pricing policy for the services the agency is providing to Axiom Space for in-orbit activities that are above space station baseline capabilities.
The order also identifies capabilities NASA may obtain from Axiom Space, including the return of scientific samples that must be kept cold in transit to and from Earth, return cargo capability, and the capability to use the private astronaut mission commander’s time during the docked mission to complete NASA science or perform tasks for NASA.
Through Reimbursable Space Act Agreements, Axiom Space will reimburse NASA for services to enable the mission, such as training for crew members and use of facilities at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston and Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In addition, SpaceX has a Reimbursable Space Act Agreement with Kennedy for launch services.
NASA made the selection for the third private astronaut mission from proposals received in response to its September 2022 NASA Research Announcement and evaluated the mission proposals based on the provider’s ability to execute a mission successfully, NASA’s ability to support the proposed mission, and the mission’s contribution to the agency’s goal of low-Earth orbit commercialization. NASA also solicited proposals for a fourth private astronaut mission opportunity in 2024 and will announce the mission after successful completion of negotiations results in an award.
For more than 22 years, NASA has supported a continuous U.S. human presence in low-Earth orbit. The agency’s goal is a low-Earth orbit marketplace where NASA is one of many customers, and the private sector leads the way. This strategy will provide services the government needs at a lower cost, enabling the agency to focus on its Artemis missions to the Moon and on to Mars while continuing to use low-Earth orbit as a training and proving ground for those deep space missions.
Learn more about how NASA is fostering a robust commercial low-Earth orbit economy at:
https://www.nasa.gov/leo-economy
Source: NASA
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
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 blog, Instagram, Facebook, and X.
Learn more about International Space Station research and operations at:
https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/
News
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
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:
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
astronomy
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!”
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.
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.
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)
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