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NASA, ULA Successfully Launch Weather Satellite, Re-entry Tech Demo

NASA successfully launched the third in a series of polar-orbiting weather satellites for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) at 1:49 a.m. PST Thursday, as well as an agency technology demonstration on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

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A United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket carrying the Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS)-2 civilian polar-orbiting weather satellite for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and NASA’s Low-Earth Orbit Flight Test of an Inflatable Decelerator (LOFTID) tech demo lifts off from Space Launch Complex-3 at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 1:49 a.m. PST (4:49 a.m. EST) Nov. 10, 2022.
Credits: United Launch Alliance

NASA successfully launched the third in a series of polar-orbiting weather satellites for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) at 1:49 a.m. PST Thursday, as well as an agency technology demonstration on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

In addition to the newest Joint Polar Satellite System or JPSS-2, also aboard was NASA’s Low-Earth Orbit Flight Test of an Inflatable Decelerator, or LOFTID, a test of inflatable heat shield technology that could one day help land astronauts on Mars.

Mission managers for NOAA’s JPSS-2 confirm the satellite is now in Sun acquisition mode (initial operations mode) with the solar array fully deployed. The operations team will continue to evaluate an earlier solar array deployment issue, but at this time, the satellite is healthy and operating as expected. The team has resumed normal activities for the JPSS-2 mission.

“NOAA is an important partner for NASA in providing essential data about climate change, weather prediction, and environmental modeling for the benefit of citizens both in the U.S. and around the world,” said NASA Associate Administrator Bob Cabana. “Our Launch Services Program has successfully launched its 100th primary mission, and on this same flight enabled us to test a new technology for atmospheric re-entry with the LOFTID demonstration.”  

JPSS-2 will circle the globe 14 times a day 512 miles above Earth, providing forecasters the benefit of three polar-orbiting satellites operating simultaneously, joining its predecessors Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (Suomi NPP) and NOAA-20.

“Exploring the unknowns of our planet to the benefit of our fellow citizens is in our DNA,” said Thomas Zurbuchen, associate administrator for NASA’s Science Mission Directorate. “The data that JPSS-2 will send back to our NASA and NOAA scientists on the ground will be critical in saving lives both on Earth and in space.”

The JPSS fleet will assist with weather forecasting, help predict extreme weather events, and help track and monitor climate change. JPSS-2 will be renamed NOAA-21 when it reaches its final orbit. The instruments will start collecting data about a month after launch.

“As partners, NOAA and NASA have successfully launched more than 60 satellite missions that have significantly improved weather forecasts, solar monitoring, and climate prediction,” said Steve Volz, director of NOAA’s Satellite and Information Service. “Launching JPSS-2 is just the latest example of what our collective agencies can achieve for the benefit of the Nation and the world at large.”

Following JPSS-2’s deployment, the LOFTID heat shield autonomously inflated and re-entered Earth’s atmosphere, splashing down about 500 miles off the coast of Hawaii just over two hours and ten minutes after launch.

Inflatable heat shields – also known as aeroshells – could enable landing heavier payloads on worlds like Mars, Venus, and Saturn’s moon Titan, as well as returning large components and samples to Earth. Inflatable aeroshells are not limited by the diameter of a launch vehicle fairing, so they can be made much larger than conventional rigid aeroshells. Larger aeroshells provide more drag, allowing them to slow heavier payloads for atmospheric entry – such as the many tons of equipment required for crewed missions to Mars.

“Proving new technologies through flight test is one of the main ways we expand capabilities for future missions,” said Jim Reuter, associate administrator for NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate. “We were pleased to work with our ULA, NASA science, and NOAA colleagues to perform this technology demonstration in conjunction with JPSS-2’s launch.”

The LOFTID team will review detailed data from the demonstration following the recovery of the aeroshell and ejectable data module to evaluate how the aeroshell performed. Results of the demonstration will be shared when available.

NOAA funds and manages the JPSS Program, operations, and data products. On behalf of NOAA, NASA develops and builds the instruments and spacecraft and launches the satellites. NASA developed the ground system, which NOAA operates and maintains. NASA’s Launch Services Program, based at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, managed the launch service.

LOFTID is a partnership between NASA and ULA. The mission is dedicated to the memory of Bernard Kutter, manager of advanced programs at ULA, who passed away in August 2020 and was an advocate for technologies like LOFTID that can lower the cost of access to space.

The LOFTID project is managed and funded through NASA’s Technology Demonstration Missions program, part of the agency’s Space Technology Mission Directorate. The project is led by NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, with contributions from NASA’s Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley, Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, and Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California.

Source: NASA

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National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day: Celebrating Small Business Excellence in 2024

“March 29 is National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day! Let’s celebrate the small businesses that make our communities thrive. #SupportLocal”

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March 29th is a day dedicated to appreciating the hardworking small business owners who contribute to the growth and vitality of our economy, “Mom and Pop Business Owners.” On this special day, we acknowledge the more than 27 million small businesses in the country and shine a spotlight on their remarkable efforts.

National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day was established by Rick and Margie Segel in honor of their parents and the success of their clothing shop that started from humble beginnings. It’s a time to recognize the long hours, dedication, and hard work it takes to run a small business.

Celebrating National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day!

So, how can we celebrate this important day?

  1. Shop Local: Support the small businesses in your community by seeking them out and becoming a regular customer. Whether it’s a local bookstore, bakery, or boutique, make it a point to visit them frequently. If you hear about an interesting spot, go on an adventure to discover it and then share your recommendations with friends.
  2. Use Social Media: Most small businesses are grateful for any extra attention they can get. Show your support by following your favorite mom and pop shops on social media platforms, and whenever possible, promote and share their posts. A simple like or comment can go a long way in helping them reach a wider audience.
  3. Write a “Thank You” Note: Take a moment to express your gratitude to the mom and pop shop owners and employees who have made a difference in your life. Let them know how much you appreciate their hard work and dedication. A heartfelt note can mean the world to someone who puts their heart and soul into their business.

Now let’s delve into why we love mom and pop businesses:

  1. Personalized Shopping Experience: Mom and pop businesses take pride in providing personalized service to their customers. They take the time to get to know you, understand your needs, and make your shopping experience memorable. Unlike large retail chains, they genuinely care about their customers and strive to create a unique and enjoyable experience with superior customer service.
  2. Community Support: Small businesses play a crucial role in supporting the local community. They create job opportunities, hire locally, and recycle the money they earn back into the neighborhood. By choosing to spend your dollars at mom and pop establishments, you contribute to the growth and sustainability of your community.
  3. Unique Discoveries: In a world where big-box stores dominate, mom and pop shops bring a breath of fresh air and unique products to the marketplace. They often showcase goods that are different from what you’ll find in every chain store. Discovering something special and undiscovered is quite the delight, and supporting these businesses encourages innovation and diversity.

National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day is a reminder of the remarkable contributions made by small businesses. They are the backbone of our economy, providing jobs, personalized service, and unique experiences for customers. So, on March 29th, let’s show our appreciation for these hardworking individuals and make a conscious effort to support and celebrate the mom and pop shops in our communities.

https://nationaltoday.com/national-mom-pop-business-owners-day/

https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/

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Breaking Barriers: XB-1 Demonstrator Soars into the Future of Supersonic Travel

XB-1’s first flight paves the way for supersonic travel, marking a milestone in aviation history. #Boom #XB1 #SupersonicFlight

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"XB-1 supersonic demonstrator aircraft taking flight, marking a major milestone in aviation history"

Image Credit: Boom Supersonic


The aviation industry is on the brink of a revolution with the recent successful inaugural flight of Boom’s supersonic demonstrator aircraft, XB-1. This groundbreaking achievement brings us one step closer to the return of supersonic travel. Designed as a technology demonstrator, XB-1 aims to pave the way for the development of Overture, Boom’s commercial supersonic plane. With extensive ground testing and meticulous flight testing, the maiden flight of an aircraft is a crucial milestone that encompasses various elements. Let’s delve into the intriguing world of what happens during an aircraft’s first flight.


The Importance of Ground Testing and Taxi Tests
Before an aircraft takes to the skies, rigorous ground testing is conducted to ensure safety and operational requirements are met. These tests encompass a series of checks, including engine runs and comprehensive evaluations of each onboard system. Moreover, taxi tests are crucial in assessing the aircraft’s performance, handling, and maneuverability on the ground. By gradually increasing speeds, the team can gather valuable data that aids in a safe takeoff, landing, and efficient ground operations. These tests provide important insights into the overall functionality and readiness of the aircraft for flight testing.

The Maiden Flight: A Leap into the Unknown
The maiden flight of an aircraft is a momentous occasion that often varies in terms of speed, altitude, and duration. Throughout history, we have witnessed significant milestones, from the historic Wright Brothers’ 12-second flight to the remarkable achievements of modern-day aviation. During a maiden flight, safety and risk mitigation are paramount. The flight envelope, which outlines the operational limits of the aircraft, expands gradually over a series of test flights as performance data is analyzed.

In the case of XB-1’s inaugural flight, Chief Test Pilot Bill “Doc” Shoemaker assumed control, while Test Pilot Tristan “Geppetto” Brandenburg monitored the aircraft from a T-38 chase plane. Climbing to a maximum altitude of 7,120 feet and a speed of 238 knots (273 mph) during the 12-minute flight, XB-1 successfully met all test objectives. The ground team, led by Vice President of XB-1 Jeff Mabry, played a crucial role in monitoring and analyzing the flight’s various aspects.

Evaluating Performance and Assessing Safety
During a maiden flight, meticulous observations are made to analyze the aircraft’s handling qualities, airspeed, and stability. An augmented reality vision system equips the pilot with improved runway visibility and enhanced aerodynamic efficiency, without compromising weight and complexity. This innovative system assists the pilot during critical phases such as landing, providing real-time data on attitude and flight path indications.

Safety measures during the maiden flight often include keeping the landing gear down. This ensures that the primary focus remains on evaluating other aspects of the aircraft’s performance during takeoff and landing. Should an emergency landing be necessary, testing the landing gear in subsequent flights allows for additional verification and validation.

XB-1’s successful first flight demonstrated the effectiveness of the team’s coordinated efforts. The pilots flew while ground engineers observed from the control room, providing insights into the various systems they had designed and tested for the past two years. The collaboration between the pilot, augmented reality vision system, and Landing Signal Officer (LSO) ensured a safe landing by optimizing the aircraft’s final approach and flight path.

The Path to the Future: Overture and the Return of Supersonic Travel
The inaugural flight of XB-1 represents a significant step towards the return of supersonic travel. As a technology demonstrator, XB-1 has laid the foundations for the design and development of Overture, Boom’s commercial supersonic plane. Overture, capable of carrying 64-80 passengers at Mach 1.7, aims to revolutionize air travel by reducing the time taken for long-haul journeys. Moreover, sustainability is a fundamental aspect of Overture’s design, with the aim of utilizing up to 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)

The maiden flight of an aircraft like XB-1 marks a defining moment in the development of supersonic aviation technology. Meticulous ground testing, followed by a successful first flight, brings us closer to the realization of supersonic travel. XB-1’s flight serves as a testament to the dedication, expertise, and collaborative efforts of the team involved. With Overture on the horizon, the return of supersonic travel is becoming an exciting reality. The aviation industry is poised to break more barriers in the pursuit of safer, faster, and more sustainable air travel.

https://boomsupersonic.com/flyby/inaugural-first-flight-xb1-supersonic-demonstrator

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

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Ready for Liftoff: Boeing’s Starliner Spacecraft Prepares to Soar

Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft overcomes safety hurdles for May launch to the ISS, marking their first crewed trip. Exciting times ahead! 🚀✨ #SpaceExploration #StarlinerLaunch

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"Boeing's Starliner spacecraft ready for liftoff to the International Space Station"
Boeing Starliner – Image Credit: NASA

After encountering numerous delays and setbacks, Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner spacecraft is finally on the brink of liftoff, targeting a launch date in May. The journey to this point has been filled with challenges for Boeing’s crew vehicle, with the most recent obstacles relating to two major safety concerns. However, during a press briefing, representatives from the company expressed confidence in the resolved issues, particularly regarding the parachutes and protective tape. Let’s delve into the remarkable journey of the Starliner as it prepares to carry NASA astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS).

Throughout its development, Boeing’s Starliner faced a series of unfortunate delays. Notably, the most recent delay was due to the discovery of two significant safety hazards on the spacecraft. The first concern involved the load capacity of the parachutes, which are crucial for the safe landing of the crew vehicle. Extensive investigation revealed that the failure load limit of the fabric sections on the parachutes was lower than expected, necessitating rectification to ensure redundancy and safety. The second concern centered around flammable protective tape used to cover wiring harnesses within the Starliner. To mitigate this risk, Boeing carefully removed the tape and implemented necessary barriers or found areas where the tape posed no threat.

Boeing’s priority has always been the safety and reliability of their crew vehicle. In response to the safety concerns, Boeing developed a new parachute system that meets NASA’s meticulous safety standards. The achievement of closing the necessary paperwork for these modifications reaffirms their dedication to providing a secure mode of transportation for astronauts. Mark Nappi, vice president and program manager of Boeing’s Commercial Crew Program, expressed readiness and confidence during the press briefing, highlighting the extensive efforts made to eliminate risks.

The upcoming launch of the Starliner spacecraft to the ISS will mark Boeing’s first crewed mission. This historic flight follows the anomaly encountered during an uncrewed test flight in May 2022 when a thruster used for orbital maneuvering unexpectedly failed. The Starliner’s inaugural uncrewed test in 2019 also faced challenges, resulting in further tests and troubleshooting to ensure the spacecraft’s reliability and performance.

"Boeing's Starliner spacecraft ready for liftoff to the International Space Station"
The crew access arm is seen as it swings into position for Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner spacecraft atop a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket at the launch pad at Space Launch Complex 41 ahead of the Orbital Flight Test-2 mission, Wednesday, May 18, 2022 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. Boeing’s Orbital Flight Test-2 will be Starliner’s second uncrewed flight test and will dock to the International Space Station as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. The mission, currently targeted for launch on 6:54 p.m. ET on May 19, will serve as an end-to-end test of the system’s capabilities. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Boeing’s successful Starliner mission to the ISS will establish them as NASA’s concurrent commercial partner, joining SpaceX in providing transportation to and from the International Space Station. NASA has been primarily relying on SpaceX for crewed trips, reducing dependence on Russia’s Soyuz crew ship. This diversification of transportation options increases redundancy, safety, and autonomy for NASA. While Russia’s recent launch abort highlighted the ongoing importance of multiple commercial partners, Boeing’s readiness and ability to fulfill its role in this context positions NASA to rely on both companies for future orbital trips.

As the Starliner’s launch date approaches, the anticipation around this long-awaited mission grows. Boeing’s dedication to safety and addressing the challenges they encountered paves the way for future advancements in crewed space missions. With the commercial space industry evolving rapidly, NASA’s collaboration with multiple partners ensures reliability, innovation, and continuous progress towards exploring the mysteries of space. The imminent liftoff of the Starliner spacecraft signifies a significant milestone for Boeing, NASA, and the future of human space exploration.

What is the Starliner spacecraft?

The first of two operational Boeing CST-100 Starliner spacecraft, known as Boeing Starliner Spacecraft 2, was developed and constructed as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. Initially planned for its inaugural flight during Boe-CFT, the first crewed test flight of the Starliner spacecraft, it was later rescheduled to perform the Boe-OFT-2 mission due to the partial failure of another CST-100 in Boe-OFT. Additionally, the spacecraft was reassigned to fly Starliner-1 after being originally assigned to the CFT mission.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boeing_Starliner_Spacecraft_2

https://gizmodo.com/boeing-starliner-astronaut-flight-flammable-tape-nasa-1851359764

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

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