Science
Nuclear Propulsion Could Help Get Humans to Mars Faster
This is from a NASA press release dated February 12, 2021…
As NASA’s Perseverance rover homes in on the Red Planet, engineers on the ground are furthering potential propulsion technologies for the first human missions to Mars. NASA is looking at two types of nuclear propulsion systems – nuclear electric and nuclear thermal propulsion.
Nuclear electric propulsion systems use propellants much more efficiently than chemical rockets but provide a low amount of thrust. They use a reactor to generate electricity that positively charges gas propellants like xenon or krypton, pushing the ions out through a thruster, which drives the spacecraft forward. Using low thrust efficiently, nuclear electric propulsion systems accelerate spacecraft for extended periods and can propel a Mars mission for a fraction of the propellant of high thrust systems.
Credits: NASA
Nuclear thermal propulsion technology provides high thrust and twice the propellant efficiency of chemical rockets. The system works by transferring heat from the reactor to a liquid propellant. That heat converts the liquid into a gas, which expands through a nozzle to provide thrust and propel a spacecraft.
NASA, in coordination with the Department of Energy (DOE), is asking industry for preliminary reactor design concepts for a nuclear thermal propulsion system. The agencies plan to fund several efforts to explore different approaches. Future follow-on contracts will generate more detailed reactor designs and build preliminary testing hardware.
“While NASA’s immediate priority is returning humans to the Moon with the Artemis program, we are also investing in ‘tall pole’ technologies that could enable crewed missions to Mars,” said Jim Reuter, associate administrator of NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD). “We look forward to seeing what innovations industry offer in nuclear propulsion as well as fission surface power via a forthcoming request for proposals for that technology.”
Human Missions to Mars
To date, only robotic explorers have traveled to Mars, without the need for returning to Earth. Waiting for optimal planetary alignment for the return trip would require astronauts to loiter at Mars for more than a year, stretching the round-trip mission to more than three years.
NASA’s goal is to minimize the time the crew travels between Earth and Mars to as close to two years as is practical. Space nuclear propulsion systems could enable shorter total mission times and provide enhanced flexibility and efficiency for mission designers.
To keep the round-trip crewed mission duration to about two years, at a minimum, NASA is looking at nuclear-enabled transportation systems to facilitate shorter-stay surface missions. The systems would take advantage of optimal planetary alignment for a low-energy transit for one leg of the trip and the new technology’s enhanced performance to make the higher-energy transit for the other leg.
It’s too soon to say what propulsion system will take the first astronauts to Mars, as there remains significant development required for each approach.
Illustration of a spacecraft with a nuclear-enabled propulsion system. Credits: NASA
Technology Readiness
NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, leads the agency’s space nuclear propulsion project in partnership with a DOE team that includes scientists and engineers from Idaho National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratory, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory. STMD’s Technology Demonstration Missions program funds the technology development.
Nuclear electric propulsion builds on NASA’s work maturing solar electric propulsion thrusters and systems for Artemis, as well as the development of fission power for the lunar surface. Significant investment has also been made in relevant fuel and reactor technologies for small, terrestrial reactors that could be adapted to space reactors to power electric propulsion. The U.S. government’s aim to establish a fuel fabrication capability has a range of applications, including nuclear propulsion and fission surface power.
Credits: NASA/Mick Speer
Nuclear thermal propulsion has been on NASA’s radar for more than 60 years. The new hardware design and development phase pursued through a request for proposals released Feb. 12, 2021, builds on existing efforts to mature crucial elements of a nuclear thermal propulsion system.
NASA, in partnership with DOE, is developing and testing new fuels that use low-enriched uranium for space applications to see how they perform under the extreme thermal and radiation environments needed for nuclear thermal propulsion. NASA is working closely with DOE, industry, and universities to put fuel samples in research reactors at Idaho National Laboratory’s Transient Reactor Test (TREAT) facility and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Nuclear Reactor Laboratory for nuclear testing. The team is also performing non-nuclear testing in simulated reactors at Marshall test facilities.
“The reactor underpinning a nuclear thermal propulsion system is a significant technical challenge due to the very high operating temperatures needed to meet the propulsion performance goals,” explained Anthony Calomino, NASA’s nuclear technology portfolio lead within STMD.
While most of the engine operates at modest temperatures, materials in direct contact with the reactor fuel must be able to survive temperatures above 4,600 degrees Fahrenheit. NASA and DOE have been working with industry on a viable approach, and industry will now develop preliminary designs to meet this challenge.
Technology Infusion
“We’re exploring both nuclear electric and nuclear thermal propulsion options for crewed Mars missions,” Calomino said. “Each technology has its unique advantages and challenges that need to be carefully considered when determining the final preference.”
Whichever propulsion system is ultimately chosen, the fundamentals of nuclear propulsion can enable robust and efficient exploration beyond the Moon. NASA will continue to develop, test, and mature various propulsion technologies to reduce risk and inform the Mars transport architecture.
Source: NASA
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STELLARTON, NS, July 17, 2024 /CNW/ – Stellarton Memorial Rink is getting an overhaul after an investment of $6 million from the federal government.
Minister Sean Fraser and Darren Stroud, President of the Stellarton Memorial Community Centre Association, announced the funding for this project that will turn the former arena into a green, multi-purpose, indoor recreation facility.
The project will revitalize and repurpose the former Stellarton Memorial Rink to make room to host a multitude of community events and will include an indoor walking track as well as new volleyball, basketball and pickleball courts. The facility will be renamed the Stellarton Memorial Community Centre in continued tribute to our fallen war veterans and will feature a removable stage for performances, modernized locker rooms, and retractable bleachers.
This federal government investment was made through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) and will ensure Stellarton Memorial Community Centre is accessible and energy efficient. Upgrades to the building include improved insulation and mechanical systems to allow for four season operation for indoor sports and recreation. The building will also be made fully accessible with upgraded entrance ways and washrooms.
Quotes
“Our government is committed to creating a greener and more inclusive future for all Canadians. The Stellarton Memorial Community Centre will provide multipurpose community space for all ages and abilities, while reducing its carbon footprint.”
The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
“The Stellarton Memorial Rink has been part of our community for more than 75 years, playing an important role in the lives of many families and visitors to Stellarton. That’s why the provincial government has invested in revitalising and repurposing the rink so the community can continue to use it for a variety of activities.”
The Honourable Pat Dunn, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Pictou Centre
“We are thrilled and honoured with the investments placed by both Federal and Provincial governments in the Stellarton Memorial Community Centre project. This financial support will help to ensure this facility continues to honour our veterans while serving our community in a most inclusive and efficient manner for generations to come.”
Darren Stroud, President of the Stellarton Memorial Community Centre Association
Quick Facts
- The federal government is investing $6 million in this project through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program. The Government of Nova Scotia has previously announced a contribution of $2 million to this project.
- These enhancements are expected to reduce the facility’s energy consumption by an estimated 101% and greenhouse gas emissions by 298 tonnes annually.
- The GICB program was created in support of Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan: A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy. It is supporting the Plan’s first pillar by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing energy efficiency, and helping develop higher resilience to climate change.
- The program launched in 2021 with an initial investment of $1.5 billion over five years towards green and accessible retrofits, repairs or upgrades.
- Budget 2024 announced an additional $500 million to support more projects through GICB until 2029.
- At least 10% of funding is allocated to projects serving First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, including Indigenous populations in urban centres.
- The funding announced today builds on the federal government’s work through the Atlantic Growth Strategy to create well-paying jobs and strengthen local economies.
- Federal funding is conditional on the signing of the contribution agreement.
Associated Links
Green and Inclusive Community Buildings
https://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/gicb-bcvi/index-eng.html
Strengthened Climate Plan
https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/weather/climatechange/climate-plan/climate-plan-overview.html
Federal infrastructure investments in Nova Scotia
https://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/prog-proj-ns-eng.html
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Web: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada
SOURCE Department of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
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News
Enterobacter bugandensis: A Superbug from the Stars and Its Implications for Space Exploration
NASA has discovered *Enterobacter bugandensis*, a multidrug-resistant superbug aboard the ISS, posing significant health risks to astronauts.
Enterobacter bugandensis
In a discovery that sounds straight out of a sci-fi horror film, NASA recently announced the identification of a new multidrug-resistant bacterium aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Dubbed Enterobacter bugandensis, this superbug not only raises eyebrows but also presents significant health risks for astronauts venturing into the great unknown.
The Discovery: An Unsettling Find
The identification of E. bugandensis is a chilling reminder of the unexpected challenges that come with space exploration. This bacterium has mutated in the isolated, unique environment of outer space, rendering it genetically distinct from its Earth-bound relatives. The result? A formidable adversary for human health, capable of resisting common antibiotics that would typically combat its terrestrial counterparts.
Collaborative research conducted by IIT Madras and NASA revealed a wealth of information about this superbug, encompassing its prevalence, distribution, and colonization patterns in the microgravity environment of the ISS. The results are not just startling; they compel us to rethink our approach to microbial management in space.
Sci-Fi or Reality? The Horror Unfolds
Imagine a creature lurking within the confines of the ISS, much like an antagonist from a John Carpenter film or the ominous Hunter Seeker robo-wasp from Dune: Part One. E. bugandensis has thrived in the station’s isolated systems, benefiting from the absence of natural competition. The bacterium’s ability to acquire iron and its interactions with other microorganisms have facilitated its extraordinary resilience.
Scientists have uncovered remarkable genomic adaptations that bolster the superbug’s ability to withstand the extreme conditions of space. These adaptations diverge significantly from those found in the more benign strains of bacteria typically encountered on Earth, emphasizing the unique challenges posed by microgravity.
Intimidating Adaptations for Survival
The incredible adaptability of microorganisms is well-documented; however, E. bugandensis takes this to a new level. While most microbes aboard the ISS exist in a state of relative stability, this superbug has undergone genomic changes that allow it to thrive in a microgravity environment. Such transformations are not merely survival tactics; they underscore the bacterium’s unique evolutionary path, setting it apart from any counterparts on our home planet.
As scientists delve deeper into the genetic nuances of E. bugandensis, they reveal a complex web of interactions with other microbial inhabitants of the ISS. This interplay not only ensures the bug’s survival but also raises alarms about the potential health risks it poses to astronauts, particularly concerning respiratory infections.
Astronaut Immunity: A Critical Concern
One of the most pressing issues surrounding E. bugandensis is the compromised immune systems of astronauts during long-duration missions. The microgravity environment induces various physiological changes that may leave astronauts more vulnerable to infections. With the presence of this resilient superbug aboard the ISS, the danger of illness becomes an even greater concern, especially given the limited access to medical facilities in space.
To mitigate these risks, NASA is prioritizing ongoing studies of E. bugandensis and other microorganisms aboard the ISS. Understanding the behavior and adaptations of these space-dwelling microbes is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of astronauts on future missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
Earthbound Implications: A Cautionary Tale
While the immediate focus is on the health risks posed to astronauts, the existence of E. bugandensis also raises questions about potential implications for Earth. Could a superbug adapted to the harsh realities of space somehow find its way back to our planet? While this scenario may sound like the plot of a science fiction thriller, it underscores the need for vigilance in monitoring microbial life in extraterrestrial environments.
Dr. Kasthuri Venkateswaran of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, along with a collaborative team from IIT Madras, has been at the forefront of this research. Their work not only highlights the challenges of microbial management in space but also emphasizes the need for robust biosecurity measures to protect both astronauts and life on Earth.
Conclusion: A New Chapter in Space Exploration
The discovery of Enterobacter bugandensis serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and unforeseen challenges of space exploration. As we journey further into the cosmos, understanding and managing the microbial life we encounter will be paramount for the health and safety of astronauts. In this new frontier, every unexpected finding—be it a superbug or a new form of life—requires careful consideration and proactive measures to ensure a safe return to Earth.
As we look to the stars, we must also remain grounded in our commitment to understanding the intricate web of life that exists, even in the most unwelcoming environments. The future of space exploration may depend on it.
Learn more about Enterobacter bugandensis in the peer-reviewed article published in Nature. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-018-23069-z
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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aerospace
The Return of Supersonic Travel: A Nostalgic Pilot’s First Look at the Future
Mike Bannister, former Concorde pilot, tests the futuristic flight deck of Boom Supersonic Overture.
In the heart of the summer, at the bustling Farnborough International Airshow, a significant piece of aviation history intertwined with the future of supersonic travel. Mike Bannister, the former chief Concorde pilot renowned for his extensive experience with the iconic supersonic jet, took a remarkable step into the cockpit of the future. He had the unique opportunity to test the Overture flight deck simulator—introduced by Boom Supersonic—which promises to redefine high-speed commercial flight.
Bridging Generations of Aviation
The Concorde, retired two decades ago, was a symbol of speed and luxury, though encumbered with a complex cockpit crowded with knobs and gauges. Step into the era of Boom’s Overture, and the surroundings transform into something from a sci-fi film. The cockpit unveiled at the airshow, showcased sleek touchscreen interfaces replacing the myriad buttons of the past. The new design, according to Boom, centers around pilot convenience and a stark emphasis on safety.
“For someone who’s spent years flying a plane as iconic as the Concorde, seeing and experiencing the Overture’s advanced controls—it’s exhilarating,” Bannister shared after his simulation ride. “It’s not just about reliving the past speeds but stepping into a future where flying is not just faster but also significantly simpler.”
Simplicity and Safety in Design
The Overture’s designers have not simply focused on speed but brought forward a vision to streamline and enhance the flight experience. Incorporating feedback from real-world pilots, the cockpit is designed with an intuitive layout. Features like force-feedback sidesticks—a modern alternative to traditional yokes—offer pilots tactile feedback, mimicking the real-life responses of the aircraft.
“This new stick, it’s surprisingly intuitive,” remarked Brian Oliver, another former Concorde captain, echoing Bannister’s sentiments. “For someone who flew with yokes, adapting was a breeze, and the pressure feedback feels right.”
High-Tech Enhancements
Among the most futuristic aspects is the augmented reality system, replacing the old droop nose of the Concorde, which was mechanically lowered during takeoffs and landings to aid pilot visibility. Overture pilots will use augmented reality for enhanced situational awareness, benefiting from real-time digital overlays that guide safe landings and navigation.
Feedback from Wings of Experience
The transformation from analog to digital is stark, but former Consexual pilots find the transition smoother than anticipated. John Tye, another voice from Concorde’s past, commented on the ease with which he adapted to the controls: “It tells you something when you can jump into a simulator and almost immediately feel at home.”
Looking to the Skies
As we stand on the cusp of reviving commercial supersonic travel, the innovations in Overture’s cockpit represent a leap forward in making future air travel safer and more efficient. The advancements echo a shared sentiment among those who’ve commanded both Concorde and Overture: the spirit of supersonic travel is evolving, not just returning, and it’s coming with a promise of innovation crafted around the needs of those at the helm.
Boom Supersonic’s ambitions with Overture, reinforced by collaborations with leading aerospace technology experts, mark a committed step toward bringing the world closer, faster. As the prototypes transition into reality, both pilots and passengers may soon look forward to a new era where the allure of supersonic travel is commonplace, marrying nostalgia with groundbreaking advancements. Welcome back to the future of flying, where history meets innovation at mach speeds.
Read the story on the Boom Supersonic website: https://boomsupersonic.com/flyby/pilots-point-of-view-overtures-next-generation-flight-deck-mike-bannister
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