News
Space Station Assignments Out for NASA’s SpaceX Crew-8 Mission
Four crew members now are assigned to launch on NASA’s SpaceX Crew-8 mission for a long-duration stay aboard the International Space Station.
NASA astronauts Commander Matthew Dominick, Pilot Michael Barratt, and Mission Specialist Jeanette Epps, along with Roscosmos cosmonaut Mission Specialist Alexander Grebenkin, will join Expedition 70 and 71 crew members aboard the station in early 2024 to conduct a wide-ranging set of operational and research activities.
This will be the first spaceflight for Dominick, who became a NASA astronaut in 2017. He is from Wheat Ridge, Colorado, and earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of San Diego, California, and a master’s in systems engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. He is an active-duty U.S. Navy astronaut. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School in Patuxent River, Maryland, and then served as a test pilot specializing in testing landing on and catapult launches from U.S. Navy aircraft carriers.
This will be Barratt’s third trip to the space station. In 2009, Barratt served as a flight engineer for Expeditions 19 and 20 as the station transitioned its standard crew complement from three to six, and performed two spacewalks. He flew aboard the space shuttle Discovery in 2011 on STS-133, which delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module and fourth Express Logistics Carrier. He has spent a total of 212 days in space. Born in Vancouver, Washington, he Considers Camas, Washington, to be his hometown. Barratt earned a bachelor’s in zoology from the University of Washington, Seattle, and a doctor of medicine from Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois. He completed residencies in internal medicine at Northwestern and aerospace medicine along with a master’s degree at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio. After nine years as a NASA flight surgeon and project physician, Barratt joined the astronaut corps in 2000.
This also will be Epps’ first trip to the space station. She is from Syracuse, New York, and earned a bachelor’s in physics from LeMoyne College in Syracuse, New York, and a master’s in science and a doctorate in aerospace engineering from the University of Maryland, College Park. Prior to joining NASA, she worked at Ford Motor Company and the Central Intelligence Agency. She was selected as an astronaut in July 2009, and has served on the Generic Joint Operation Panel working on space station crew efficiency, as a crew support astronaut for two expeditions, and as lead capsule communicator in the Mission Control Center at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. Epps previously was assigned to NASA’s Boeing Starliner-1 mission. NASA reassigned Epps to allow Boeing time to complete development of Starliner while also continuing plans for astronauts to gain spaceflight experience for future mission needs.
Grebenkin, who graduated from Irkutsk High Military Aviation School, Irkutsk, Russia, majoring in engineering, maintenance, and repair of aircraft radio navigation systems, also is flying on his first mission. He graduated from Moscow Technical University of Communications and Informatics with a degree in radio communications, broadcasting, and television.
This is the eighth rotational mission to the space station under NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, which works with the American aerospace industry to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation to and from the orbital outpost on American-made rockets and spacecraft launching from American soil.
For more than 22 years, humans have lived and worked continuously aboard the International Space Station, advancing scientific knowledge and demonstrating new technologies, making research breakthroughs not possible on Earth. As a global endeavor, 244 people from 19 countries have visited the unique microgravity laboratory that has hosted more than 3,000 research and educational investigations from researchers in 108 countries and areas.
The station is a critical testbed for NASA to understand and overcome the challenges of long-duration spaceflight and to expand commercial opportunities in low Earth orbit. As commercial companies focus on providing human space transportation services and destinations as part of a robust low Earth orbit economy, NASA is able to more fully focus its resources on deep space missions to the Moon and Mars.
Find more information on NASA’s Commercial Crew Program at:
https://www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew
Source: NASA
Daily News
Star Wars Day: The Force is Strong on May 4th
Star Wars Day: A day for fans to celebrate and honor the iconic franchise on May 4th with the catchy tagline “May the Fourth be with you.” #StarWarsDay
Star Wars Day, celebrated annually on May 4th, has become a cherished occasion for millions of Star Wars fans across the globe. On this special day, fans gather to honor and revel in the beloved Star Wars media franchise, created by the visionary filmmaker George Lucas.
The origins of this holiday are rooted in a delightful pun on the iconic Star Wars phrase, “May the Force be with you.” The amusing play on words goes, “May the Fourth be with you.” Ever since this catchy tagline emerged, it has captured the hearts of fans and has become synonymous with Star Wars Day. While the holiday was not officially endorsed by Lucasfilm, its popularity soared among fans who embraced the opportunity to commemorate it.
The earliest recorded use of the phrase dates back to 1979, the day following Margaret Thatcher’s ascent to become the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. In a gesture of congratulations, Thatcher’s political party, the Conservatives, published an advertisement in the Evening News featuring the message, “May the Fourth Be with You, Maggie.”
Over the years, this pun has made appearances in various forms, from a UK Parliament defence debate in 1994 to astrophysicist Jeanne Cavelos’ book “The Science of Star Wars” in 1999. The phrase continued to gain traction and prominence.
In 2008, the first Facebook groups dedicated to celebrating Star Wars Day emerged. Then, in 2011, the inaugural organized celebration took place in the vibrant city of Toronto, Canada. This event featured trivia games, costume contests, and screenings of tribute films, setting the stage for future festivities.
In 2013, The Walt Disney Company, following its acquisition of Lucasfilm in 2012, officially acknowledged Star Wars Day and commenced hosting events and galas at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. This extraordinary collaboration prompted a wave of fresh and exciting Star Wars content and experiences that enthralled fans on every Star Wars Day.
While May 4th holds a special place in the hearts of Star Wars enthusiasts, other dates have also found themselves intertwined with the saga’s celebrations. May 5th has become affectionately known as “Revenge of the Fifth,” focusing on the notorious Sith and other villains within the franchise. Additionally, May 25th, the anniversary of the release of the original Star Wars movie in 1977, has been officially declared Star Wars Day by the Los Angeles City Council.
The widespread adoration for Star Wars Day has transcended beyond the realms of movies and fandom. Major League Baseball, association football, and college sports teams all pay homage to Star Wars, and Minor League Baseball teams often put together captivating promotions centered around the galactic adventure.
Even astronauts aboard the International Space Station celebrated Star Wars Day in 2015 by enjoying screenings of the films. In a delightful gesture, the carillon bells inside the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada chimed to the tune of “The Imperial March” theme from Star Wars, further immortalizing the magic of the franchise.
In 2023, on Star Wars Day, the late Carrie Fisher, who stole hearts with her portrayal of the iconic Princess Leia, will receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This momentous occasion serves as a testament to the enduring significance and profound impact Star Wars has had on popular culture.
Star Wars Day continues to unite fans worldwide, cultivating a sense of community and channeling their boundless love for the epic saga. This annual celebration allows enthusiasts to pay tribute to the beloved franchise and perpetuate its timeless legacy. May the Fourth be with you!
Daily News
Title: Presidential Medal of Freedom Awarded to NASA’s Esteemed Experts
President Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to NASA’s Dr. Ellen Ochoa and Dr. Jane Rigby, celebrating their stellar contributions to space exploration. #NASA #PresidentialMedalOfFreedom
The White House was abuzz with excitement as President Joe Biden bestowed the Presidential Medal of Freedom upon two distinguished individuals from NASA. Dr. Ellen Ochoa, former center director and astronaut at Johnson Space Center, and Dr. Jane Rigby, senior project scientist for the James Webb Space Telescope, were set to receive this esteemed recognition for their remarkable achievements and contributions to the field of space exploration.
Praise for Ochoa and Rigby:
In his speech, President Biden acknowledged Dr. Ochoa’s impressive career, emphasizing her groundbreaking role as the first Hispanic woman in space. He lauded her years of service to NASA, including her dedication as an astronaut and her invaluable contributions as a center director and director of Flight Crew Operations at Johnson Space Center. Likewise, he commended Dr. Rigby for her pivotal work on the James Webb Space Telescope, a revolutionary observatory that has made profound discoveries about our vast universe.
Administrator Bill Nelson also expressed his pride in Ochoa and Rigby, recognizing their invaluable roles in inspiring future generations of scientists and space explorers, and further establishing NASA’s legacy of excellence.
Dr. Ellen Ochoa:
Dr. Ochoa, hailing from California with a doctorate in Electrical Engineering, dedicated over three decades to NASA, assuming various notable positions. From being the director of Flight Crew Operations to becoming the second female director of Johnson Space Center, Dr. Ochoa’s contributions were undeniably impactful. Her impressive resume boasts four spaceflights as a veteran astronaut, including her notable mission aboard the space shuttle Discovery during STS-56 in 1993.
Dr. Jane Rigby:
Dr. Rigby, originally from Delaware, played a pivotal role as an astrophysicist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. She significantly contributed to the success of the James Webb Space Telescope, an ambitious project that has rewritten our understanding of the cosmos. Dr. Rigby’s dedication extended beyond her scientific endeavors, as she has actively championed diversity and inclusion within the scientific community.
The Emotional Ceremony:
Amidst heartfelt speeches, President Biden presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to both Ochoa and Rigby. The two awardees were visibly moved, expressing their gratitude for the recognition of their hard work and dedication to both NASA and the nation.
Dr. Ochoa conveyed her surprise and honor while expressing appreciation for her NASA colleagues and the seven schools named after her, considering it one of her greatest achievements.
Dr. Rigby, in her emotional acceptance speech, acknowledged the outstanding collaboration and teamwork that made the James Webb Space Telescope a resounding success. She gratefully mentioned her family, colleagues, and the president of the American Astronomical Society, symbolizing the collective efforts of many.
The James Webb Space Telescope:
The James Webb Space Telescope, launched on December 25th, 2021, has already made substantial discoveries within its initial two years of operation. With its extraordinary capabilities, this awe-inspiring telescope is expected to continue unraveling the mysteries of the universe for years to come.
As President Biden concluded the ceremony, he once again congratulated Dr. Ochoa and Dr. Rigby, expressing his immense pride in their remarkable achievements. Leaving the White House with heads held high, Ochoa, Rigby, and the other 17 recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom left an indelible mark on science and space exploration, forever to be remembered and celebrated.
Learn more about NASA’s missions at: https://www.nasa.gov
News
Pickleball Kingdom: Conquering the World, One Court at a Time
Pickleball Kingdom sets its sights on global dominance, partnering with Franchise India Group to expand into the Middle East. #PickleballPower
In 2024, the world of sports was on the cusp of witnessing a new era unfold. Pickleball, regarded as the fastest-growing sport in America, was set to take the global stage with Pickleball Kingdom at the helm. Breaking new ground, the premier indoor pickleball facility announced a groundbreaking partnership with Franchise India Group, paving the way for its expansion into the Middle East.
The Global Ambition:
Ace Rodrigues, the Founder and CEO of Pickleball Kingdom, couldn’t contain his enthusiasm about this international expansion. His longstanding vision of taking the sport to a worldwide audience was finally becoming a reality. With 140 locations already in queue across the United States, the deal with Franchise India Group would double that number almost overnight.
A Strategic Partnership:
Franchise India Group Chairman, Gaurav Marya, shared in the excitement about partnering with Pickleball Kingdom. Recognizing the sport’s immense popularity and exponential growth, he hailed Pickleball Kingdom as the leader of the movement. Together, they would spearhead the international expansion of pickleball, promising to revolutionize the sport as we know it.
Franchise Opportunities:
Franchise India Group wasted no time in accepting applications from interested parties seeking to become franchisees of Pickleball Kingdom. They sought experienced entrepreneurs who understood the value of being pioneers in this global movement. With key stakeholders established for each territory, Pickleball Kingdom’s expansion would be well-supported.
Explosive Growth:
Pickleball had experienced an impressive growth rate of over 224% in the past three years, resulting in an astounding 36.5 million players in the United States alone. However, the demand for courts had outpaced supply. This is where Pickleball Kingdom’s franchise model created a winning solution. Their climate-controlled indoor facilities not only provided courts but also offered lessons, leagues, tournaments, parties, team-building events, and refreshments.
Strategic Expansion Plans:
Rob Streett, COO of Pickleball Kingdom, highlighted the strategic importance of partnering with Franchise India Group. The collaboration marked only the initial phase of the brand’s expansion plan, focusing on establishing a strong presence in the Middle East. This strategic move would ensure that the sport’s popularity and impact would be maximized in this new region.
Ambitions and Dreams:
Filled with enthusiasm and ambition, Ace Rodrigues declared that the time had come for pickleball to conquer the international stage. The goal was to establish a presence in every country within five years. As he looked ahead, he eagerly anticipated a world where the words “Welcome to the Kingdom!” would be uttered in every language spoken around the globe.
The stage was set, and the world was about to witness the rise of pickleball to unprecedented heights. With Pickleball Kingdom leading the charge and supported by a strategic partnership with Franchise India Group, pickleball was poised to become the first global powerhouse in the sport. From a grassroots phenomenon to an international sensation, pickleball has truly become the sport of choice for millions worldwide. The journey ahead promised excitement, growth, and the universal language of friendly competition: pickleball.
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