NOLA.com: Shuttle flights have helped explore the final frontier: Sara Pagones
Early in the space shuttle program, a friend told me her husband, an aerospace engineer who worked at Michoud, had sought her reaction to a launch.
It wasn't the first time the shuttle had lifted off, it was perhaps the third or fourth. And she felt bad telling him that it had seemed, well, kind of routine.
But he was thrilled to hear that the thrill was gone -- "That's exactly how it should be,'' he told her.
Now, the era of shuttle flights is ending as NASA's workhorse heads for retirement. Discovery, the oldest and most traveled of the space program's fleet, left Cape Canaveral Thursday for its final trip. Two more flights, one by Atlantis and one by Endeavor, are all that remain.
In the shuttle program's 30 years, the feeling that manned space flight had become routine was shattered twice: by the explosion of the Challenger and the disintegration of the Columbia. Both accidents were horrifying reminders that space exploration is anything but run-of-the-mill. It's a dangerous enterprise that human beings have barely begun.
But for my generation, which grew up believing that people would walk on the moon and seeing it happen, it's hard to watch the shuttle program end without a clear idea of what comes next.
It's painful, too, to see the loss of jobs here -- more than 5,000 people worked at the Michoud Assembly Center when it was manufacturing external tanks. Now, Michoud is losing its connection to NASA.
Discovery is destined for a museum, where it will help people look back at 30 years of shuttle flight. But we also need to look forward -- to a future where space flight is, if not routine, at least considered worth pursuing.
Monday, February 28, 2011
SwRI signs contracts to fly 8 missions
SpaceRef: SwRI signs contracts to fly 8 missions with payload specialists aboard reusable suborbital launchers with options for more flights
Bolder, Colorado -- February 28, 2011 -- Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) announced pioneering agreements today to send three scientists as payload specialists aboard eight suborbital flights -- some to altitudes greater than 350,000 feet, above the internationally recognized boundary of space.
No other organization has yet concluded contracts to fly its researchers in space aboard next-generation suborbital spacecraft. Also unique is the number of payload specialist researcher seats involved -- eight at a minimum, with options up to 17 high altitude or space flights.
The program, supported by SwRI internal research and development funding, is led by SwRI Space Science and Engineering Division Associate Vice President Dr. Alan Stern.
At least two SwRI researchers will fly into space aboard the world's first commercial crewed spaceship, Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo, which carries two pilots and up to six researchers above the internationally accepted boundary of space. SwRI also has plans to later fly a dedicated six-seat research mission in Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo, and has contract options for up to three additional XCOR Lynx I flights.
Virgin Galactic's SpaceshipTwo is the commercial version of SpaceShipOne which won the Ansari X Prize in 2004 as the world's first privately built crewed space vehicle. SpaceShipTwo and its carrier aircraft WhiteKnightTwo have both been built and are flying regularly in an extensive test flight progam. SpaceShipTwo's large cabin enables researchers to work together in an "out-of-seat" micro gravity environment and provides an extremely generous capacity for scientific research in terms of payload mass, volume and microgravity time.
SwRI researchers will also fly at least six high altitude missions aboard XCOR Corporation's Lynx Mark I high-altitude rocket plane, which carries a pilot and a single researcher at altitudes up to 200,000 feet. Lynx I is currently in development, with test flights expected to begin in 2012.
On these flights, SwRI payload specialists will perform research using existing biomedical, microgravity and astronomical imaging experiments conceived and prepared for flight at SwRI. Both SpaceShip Two and Lynx I are designed to offer robust data collection systems and allow researchers to conduct their experiments either inside a pressurized cabin environment or externally, giving instruments direct exposure to the upper atmosphere or, aboard Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo, outer space itself.
"We are strong believers in the transformational power of commercial, next-generation suborbital vehicles to advance many kinds of research," says Stern, who serves as principal investigator. "We also believe that by putting scientists in space or the upper atmosphere with their experiments, researchers can achieve better results at lower cost and with a higher probability of success than with many old-style automated experiments. The program we're announcing today places SwRI at the leading edge of this revolutionary new kind of suborbital research."
Stern and project co-investigators Dr. Daniel Durda and Dr. Cathy Olkin have trained for suborbital spaceflight aboard zero-G aircraft, in NASTAR centrifuges and aboard Starfighter F-104 jet fighters since early 2010. The three are expected to fly and operate suborbital experiments during the flight sequence now under contract.
"We are excited to work with SwRI to provide world-leading scientists affordable access to space for the first time in history," says George Whitesides, president and CEO of Virgin Galactic. "Not only is helping scientists conduct experiments in space an important and growing part of our business, but serving society by enabling new science is also key to our philosophy. Scientists from a wide range of fields will make important and inspiring discoveries in space, and we look forward to working with great organizations like SwRI to give them the research flights they need to do so."
Andrew Nelson, XCOR's chief operating officer, notes, "SwRI is pioneering the frontiers of suborbital space science with this contract, funding and performing pathfinder experiments that will lay the groundwork for those that follow. Working with XCOR engineers to define best practices, safe processes, optimum flight profiles and open interface standards will be a key trigger that opens up this projected billion-dollar marketplace, encourages our youth to pursue science and technology careers, and creates numerous high-tech jobs across the United States."
"We're another step closer to the era of routine 'field work' in space research," says Durda. "More and more researchers will soon fly with their own experiments in space, and do it regularly enough to allow the important advances that come with iterative investigations. I'm looking forward to that future and helping it become a reality."
"It's exciting to be a part of this next phase of space exploration as commercial spaceflight opens up new opportunities for research and education," adds co-investigator Olkin. "Regular access to space for scientists will revolutionize many kinds of space research, and we intend to be leaders in that for many years to come."
SwRI's innovative and groundbreaking next-generation suborbital research program is just a beginning. Says Stern, "We hope to leverage these initial flights into a wide range of additional flight projects in next-generation suborbital spaceflight stretching out across this decade. We're excited to be getting started and to be pioneering 21st century science done by scientists in space."
Bolder, Colorado -- February 28, 2011 -- Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) announced pioneering agreements today to send three scientists as payload specialists aboard eight suborbital flights -- some to altitudes greater than 350,000 feet, above the internationally recognized boundary of space.
No other organization has yet concluded contracts to fly its researchers in space aboard next-generation suborbital spacecraft. Also unique is the number of payload specialist researcher seats involved -- eight at a minimum, with options up to 17 high altitude or space flights.
The program, supported by SwRI internal research and development funding, is led by SwRI Space Science and Engineering Division Associate Vice President Dr. Alan Stern.
At least two SwRI researchers will fly into space aboard the world's first commercial crewed spaceship, Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo, which carries two pilots and up to six researchers above the internationally accepted boundary of space. SwRI also has plans to later fly a dedicated six-seat research mission in Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo, and has contract options for up to three additional XCOR Lynx I flights.
Virgin Galactic's SpaceshipTwo is the commercial version of SpaceShipOne which won the Ansari X Prize in 2004 as the world's first privately built crewed space vehicle. SpaceShipTwo and its carrier aircraft WhiteKnightTwo have both been built and are flying regularly in an extensive test flight progam. SpaceShipTwo's large cabin enables researchers to work together in an "out-of-seat" micro gravity environment and provides an extremely generous capacity for scientific research in terms of payload mass, volume and microgravity time.
SwRI researchers will also fly at least six high altitude missions aboard XCOR Corporation's Lynx Mark I high-altitude rocket plane, which carries a pilot and a single researcher at altitudes up to 200,000 feet. Lynx I is currently in development, with test flights expected to begin in 2012.
On these flights, SwRI payload specialists will perform research using existing biomedical, microgravity and astronomical imaging experiments conceived and prepared for flight at SwRI. Both SpaceShip Two and Lynx I are designed to offer robust data collection systems and allow researchers to conduct their experiments either inside a pressurized cabin environment or externally, giving instruments direct exposure to the upper atmosphere or, aboard Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo, outer space itself.
"We are strong believers in the transformational power of commercial, next-generation suborbital vehicles to advance many kinds of research," says Stern, who serves as principal investigator. "We also believe that by putting scientists in space or the upper atmosphere with their experiments, researchers can achieve better results at lower cost and with a higher probability of success than with many old-style automated experiments. The program we're announcing today places SwRI at the leading edge of this revolutionary new kind of suborbital research."
Stern and project co-investigators Dr. Daniel Durda and Dr. Cathy Olkin have trained for suborbital spaceflight aboard zero-G aircraft, in NASTAR centrifuges and aboard Starfighter F-104 jet fighters since early 2010. The three are expected to fly and operate suborbital experiments during the flight sequence now under contract.
"We are excited to work with SwRI to provide world-leading scientists affordable access to space for the first time in history," says George Whitesides, president and CEO of Virgin Galactic. "Not only is helping scientists conduct experiments in space an important and growing part of our business, but serving society by enabling new science is also key to our philosophy. Scientists from a wide range of fields will make important and inspiring discoveries in space, and we look forward to working with great organizations like SwRI to give them the research flights they need to do so."
Andrew Nelson, XCOR's chief operating officer, notes, "SwRI is pioneering the frontiers of suborbital space science with this contract, funding and performing pathfinder experiments that will lay the groundwork for those that follow. Working with XCOR engineers to define best practices, safe processes, optimum flight profiles and open interface standards will be a key trigger that opens up this projected billion-dollar marketplace, encourages our youth to pursue science and technology careers, and creates numerous high-tech jobs across the United States."
"We're another step closer to the era of routine 'field work' in space research," says Durda. "More and more researchers will soon fly with their own experiments in space, and do it regularly enough to allow the important advances that come with iterative investigations. I'm looking forward to that future and helping it become a reality."
"It's exciting to be a part of this next phase of space exploration as commercial spaceflight opens up new opportunities for research and education," adds co-investigator Olkin. "Regular access to space for scientists will revolutionize many kinds of space research, and we intend to be leaders in that for many years to come."
SwRI's innovative and groundbreaking next-generation suborbital research program is just a beginning. Says Stern, "We hope to leverage these initial flights into a wide range of additional flight projects in next-generation suborbital spaceflight stretching out across this decade. We're excited to be getting started and to be pioneering 21st century science done by scientists in space."
Friday, February 25, 2011
Hawaii trying to capitalize on commercial space exploration
Pacific Business News: Hawaii trying to capitalize on commercial space exploration
The Hawaii Senate is considering a bill that would authorize the state to pursue a Federal Aviation Administration spaceport license that could launch the state into the multibillion-dollar space exploration and tourism business.
Senate Bill 112 would enable the state’s Office of Aerospace Development to conduct the environmental and safety assessments that are required for the license, said Sen. Will Espero, D-Ewa Beach-Waipahu, author of the bill. A similar measure was passed by the Legislature in 2009, but funds were not released by then-Gov. Linda Lingle.
Read more: Hawaii trying to capitalize on commercial space exploration | Pacific Business News
The Hawaii Senate is considering a bill that would authorize the state to pursue a Federal Aviation Administration spaceport license that could launch the state into the multibillion-dollar space exploration and tourism business.
Senate Bill 112 would enable the state’s Office of Aerospace Development to conduct the environmental and safety assessments that are required for the license, said Sen. Will Espero, D-Ewa Beach-Waipahu, author of the bill. A similar measure was passed by the Legislature in 2009, but funds were not released by then-Gov. Linda Lingle.
Read more: Hawaii trying to capitalize on commercial space exploration | Pacific Business News
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Shuttle Discovery Clears the Tower for the Last Time
EWeek.com: Shuttle Discovery Clears the Tower for the Last Time
When I first wrote about a Space Shuttle in a technology publication, it was twenty six years ago, and in the first paragraph, I wrote the words, “…and Discovery Clears the Tower.” Time changes all things. Discovery was making its first flight, and I was watching the video on a computer monitor using something new in those days–something called “multimedia.”
In the mid 1980s computers were just getting graphical displays. The first Macintosh was selling to a tiny number of customers. Microsoft was starting to distribute something called Windows which was so crude it was useful more as a bad example than as a productivity tool.
But those were brave days. We saw the future of technology ahead of us and it reminded us of Ronald Reagan’s Shining City upon a Hill when he said those words in his farewell address. For years the space program and the shuttle fleet inspired us. When Discovery launched the Hubble Space Telescope we gained the ability to see the universe almost to the beginning of time, and to see the vastness of the universe–and it allowed us to prove once and for all that the cosmological theories of Albert Einstein and later Stephen Hawking were right.
In those 26 years of Discovery, we’ve moved from exploring space to creating a place to live and do research. We’ve had our tragedies as two of those shuttles were lost and we gained a new shuttle when Atlantis replaced Challenger to allow the shuttle flights to continue into the 21st Century.
But as I said, time changes everything. Technology ages. Airframes become brittle. Little flaws become dangerous faults. Each time we learn, but there reaches a time when we must move on. Discovery’s final flight will help complete the Space Station and it will deliver a humanoid robot. The Space Station will be serviced, crews will be exchanged, and then Discovery will land, one last time.
There are two more Shuttle flights, Endevour and Atlantis, and then, by mid-summer, America’s manned space program will die. It won’t be sudden and there won’t be a climactic event–it will simply wither away under the weight of misguided budget cutting, Congressional ignorance and that most intractable of all foes, bureaucracy.
Back when my first mention of Discovery appeared in my column in the long-gone Byte Magazine this was all an exciting business. Technology was leading us to a bright and hopeful future. We could only imagine the wonders ahead of us, the marvelous things we could do. Perhaps we really would be able to converse with our computers, or perhaps they would gain capabilities that we couldn’t imagine. Perhaps the time would come when we really could ask HAL to open the pod bay doors.
When I first wrote about a Space Shuttle in a technology publication, it was twenty six years ago, and in the first paragraph, I wrote the words, “…and Discovery Clears the Tower.” Time changes all things. Discovery was making its first flight, and I was watching the video on a computer monitor using something new in those days–something called “multimedia.”
In the mid 1980s computers were just getting graphical displays. The first Macintosh was selling to a tiny number of customers. Microsoft was starting to distribute something called Windows which was so crude it was useful more as a bad example than as a productivity tool.
But those were brave days. We saw the future of technology ahead of us and it reminded us of Ronald Reagan’s Shining City upon a Hill when he said those words in his farewell address. For years the space program and the shuttle fleet inspired us. When Discovery launched the Hubble Space Telescope we gained the ability to see the universe almost to the beginning of time, and to see the vastness of the universe–and it allowed us to prove once and for all that the cosmological theories of Albert Einstein and later Stephen Hawking were right.
In those 26 years of Discovery, we’ve moved from exploring space to creating a place to live and do research. We’ve had our tragedies as two of those shuttles were lost and we gained a new shuttle when Atlantis replaced Challenger to allow the shuttle flights to continue into the 21st Century.
But as I said, time changes everything. Technology ages. Airframes become brittle. Little flaws become dangerous faults. Each time we learn, but there reaches a time when we must move on. Discovery’s final flight will help complete the Space Station and it will deliver a humanoid robot. The Space Station will be serviced, crews will be exchanged, and then Discovery will land, one last time.
There are two more Shuttle flights, Endevour and Atlantis, and then, by mid-summer, America’s manned space program will die. It won’t be sudden and there won’t be a climactic event–it will simply wither away under the weight of misguided budget cutting, Congressional ignorance and that most intractable of all foes, bureaucracy.
Back when my first mention of Discovery appeared in my column in the long-gone Byte Magazine this was all an exciting business. Technology was leading us to a bright and hopeful future. We could only imagine the wonders ahead of us, the marvelous things we could do. Perhaps we really would be able to converse with our computers, or perhaps they would gain capabilities that we couldn’t imagine. Perhaps the time would come when we really could ask HAL to open the pod bay doors.
Cargo ship gets to space station ahead of shuttle Discovery
Cargo ship gets to space station ahead of shuttle Discovery
A huge European cargo ship linked up with the International Space Station Thursday, delivering tons of supplies for the outpost's crew just hours before NASA's planned launch of the shuttle Discovery.
The robotic spacecraft, which is the size of a double-decker bus, docked with the space station at 10:59 a.m. EST (1559 GMT) as the two vehicles soared high over the Atlantic Ocean. Known as the Automated Transfer Vehicle 2, or ATV-2, the hefty space freighter is packed with 7 tons of supplies for the station's six-person crew.
"Contact confirmed, capture confirmed," Russian cosmonauts on the station radioed mission control after the successful docking.
Most popular Wis. stalemate: Deal struck as cops hunt Dems Toyota recalling 2.17 million vehicles in U.S. Gadhafi blames bin Laden, drugs for unrest Shuttle Discovery's final launch Officer on psy-ops order: ‘We weren’t gonna do it’ The ATV-2 is named the Johannes Kepler and is the second robotic cargo spacecraft built by the European Space Agency to ferry supplies to the International Space Station. It launched atop an Ariane 5 rocket on Feb. 16.
Beating NASA's space shuttle
The cargo ship hooked up with the space station less than six hours before the space shuttle Discovery's planned launch toward the orbiting laboratory, clearing the way for the orbiter's flight, NASA officials said.
NASA had already fueled Discovery for a 4:50 p.m. EST (2150 GMT) launch from the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla., at the time of the docking in space. The six astronauts set to launch on Discovery were apparently keeping track of the ATV-2 docking even as the geared up for their own flight.
"ATV docking complete! ISS just got bigger," Discovery astronaut Nicole Stott wrote in a Twitter post. "Congrats to ESA and all the station partners around the world!
If Discovery launches on time, the shuttle will arrive at the International Space Station on Saturday. It is the final flight of space shuttle Discovery before the orbiter is retired later this year.
A huge European cargo ship linked up with the International Space Station Thursday, delivering tons of supplies for the outpost's crew just hours before NASA's planned launch of the shuttle Discovery.
The robotic spacecraft, which is the size of a double-decker bus, docked with the space station at 10:59 a.m. EST (1559 GMT) as the two vehicles soared high over the Atlantic Ocean. Known as the Automated Transfer Vehicle 2, or ATV-2, the hefty space freighter is packed with 7 tons of supplies for the station's six-person crew.
"Contact confirmed, capture confirmed," Russian cosmonauts on the station radioed mission control after the successful docking.
Most popular Wis. stalemate: Deal struck as cops hunt Dems Toyota recalling 2.17 million vehicles in U.S. Gadhafi blames bin Laden, drugs for unrest Shuttle Discovery's final launch Officer on psy-ops order: ‘We weren’t gonna do it’ The ATV-2 is named the Johannes Kepler and is the second robotic cargo spacecraft built by the European Space Agency to ferry supplies to the International Space Station. It launched atop an Ariane 5 rocket on Feb. 16.
Beating NASA's space shuttle
The cargo ship hooked up with the space station less than six hours before the space shuttle Discovery's planned launch toward the orbiting laboratory, clearing the way for the orbiter's flight, NASA officials said.
NASA had already fueled Discovery for a 4:50 p.m. EST (2150 GMT) launch from the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla., at the time of the docking in space. The six astronauts set to launch on Discovery were apparently keeping track of the ATV-2 docking even as the geared up for their own flight.
"ATV docking complete! ISS just got bigger," Discovery astronaut Nicole Stott wrote in a Twitter post. "Congrats to ESA and all the station partners around the world!
If Discovery launches on time, the shuttle will arrive at the International Space Station on Saturday. It is the final flight of space shuttle Discovery before the orbiter is retired later this year.
E.W. Scripps launches SpaceTimesNews.com
The Commercial Appeal: E.W. Scripps launches SpaceTimesNews.com, website devoted to news about NASA, space exploration
Want to read the latest about NASA’s space program? Watch a live feed of the shuttle lifting off today? Discuss the future of space exploration? Read some of the best blogs about the cosmos?
The newspaper division of the E.W. Scripps company, the parent company of The Commercial Appeal and commercialappeal.com, is launching a new site, SpaceTimesNews.com.
The niche site of Scripps Treasure Coast newspapers pulls together content from partners, other newspapers and websites, many of which closely cover space exploration due to their proximity to hubs of the space program and space industry. It aims to tap the intense interest audiences have regarding the future of space exploration, the U.S. space program and the International Space Station
Want to read the latest about NASA’s space program? Watch a live feed of the shuttle lifting off today? Discuss the future of space exploration? Read some of the best blogs about the cosmos?
The newspaper division of the E.W. Scripps company, the parent company of The Commercial Appeal and commercialappeal.com, is launching a new site, SpaceTimesNews.com.
The niche site of Scripps Treasure Coast newspapers pulls together content from partners, other newspapers and websites, many of which closely cover space exploration due to their proximity to hubs of the space program and space industry. It aims to tap the intense interest audiences have regarding the future of space exploration, the U.S. space program and the International Space Station
Robot Butler Hitching Ride to Space on Shuttle Discovery
FoxNews: Robot Butler Hitching Ride to Space on Shuttle Discovery
Life aboard the International Space Station will get a little cushier when a robot butler arrives at the orbiting lab later this week.
The space shuttle Discovery, slated to launch Thursday afternoon, is carrying a humanoid robot named Robonaut 2 up to the orbiting lab. Robonaut 2 — also known as R2 — is a prototype robotic assistant designed to help human crews with chores and repairs. Researchers will use the bot as a test bed to help develop more advanced robotic helpers in the future.
"This project exemplifies the promise that a future generation of robots can have both in space and on Earth, not as replacements for humans but as companions that can carry out key supporting roles," John Olson, director of NASA's Exploration Systems Integration Office, said in a statement. [Photos: NASA's Robonaut 2 Space Droid]
Robonaut 2: The basics
Robonaut 2, which will become the first humanoid robot in space, looks a bit like a boxer's training aid.
Related Video
NASA Introduces Robonaut 2
Humanoid robot heading to space
Related Links
Robonaut's Space Debut a 'Giant Leap for Tinmankind'
NASA Prepares First Ever Robonaut for Space Shuttle Discovery Launch
Will Robonaut Boldly Go Where NASA Won't? The $2.5 million space bot consists of a head and torso, along with a pair of dexterous arms that pack down into a puncher's pose. R2 stands 3 feet, 4 inches (1.01 meter) tall and weighs about 330 pounds (150 kilograms).
R2 is a joint project of NASA and carmaker General Motors. It's the product of a cooperative agreement to develop a robotic assistant that can work alongside humans, whether they're astronauts in space or workers at GM plants here on Earth, NASA officials have said.
The bot is made primarily of aluminum and steel. Its head houses five cameras — including one infrared camera in the mouth — to provide stereo vision and depth perception. The torso contains 38 PowerPC processors, and R2 carries a backpack that can be filled with batteries or a power conversion system. [Infographic: Meet Robonaut 2]
Each of R2's arms can carry about 20 pounds (9.1 kg), and its hands have articulating fingers and thumbs. The robot, which builds on NASA's work with its first Robonaut project, should be able to use the same tools astronauts on the space station use, agency officials said.
The robot's job
Astronauts will install Robonaut 2 inside the station's U.S. Destiny laboratory and put it through some test paces. The goal is to see just what the robot helper can do — how it can work side-by-side with astronauts to make station operations run more smoothly.
"We're going to use Robonaut on orbit to learn more about how robots can take over astronaut tasks — some mundane things and then potentially some of the more dangerous tasks," said Scott Higginbotham, payload manager for Discovery's STS-133 mission.
Robonaut 2 was designed to use both internal and external interfaces, so future bots could eventually be installed on the station's exterior to aid in spacewalks and other difficult or dangerous tasks. However, R2 itself will likely stay inside, officials said, since the bot lacks protection against the extreme cold of space.
As advanced as it is, R2 represents an early stage in the effort to get robots more involved in space travel and exploration.
"I think we see Robonaut as the program does — a technology demonstration," said astronaut Michael Barratt, a mission specialist for STS-133. "This is very much a first step, but we’ll be identifying and mapping some of the tasks and capabilities that Robonaut demonstrates over the years."
Life aboard the International Space Station will get a little cushier when a robot butler arrives at the orbiting lab later this week.
The space shuttle Discovery, slated to launch Thursday afternoon, is carrying a humanoid robot named Robonaut 2 up to the orbiting lab. Robonaut 2 — also known as R2 — is a prototype robotic assistant designed to help human crews with chores and repairs. Researchers will use the bot as a test bed to help develop more advanced robotic helpers in the future.
"This project exemplifies the promise that a future generation of robots can have both in space and on Earth, not as replacements for humans but as companions that can carry out key supporting roles," John Olson, director of NASA's Exploration Systems Integration Office, said in a statement. [Photos: NASA's Robonaut 2 Space Droid]
Robonaut 2: The basics
Robonaut 2, which will become the first humanoid robot in space, looks a bit like a boxer's training aid.
Related Video
NASA Introduces Robonaut 2
Humanoid robot heading to space
Related Links
Robonaut's Space Debut a 'Giant Leap for Tinmankind'
NASA Prepares First Ever Robonaut for Space Shuttle Discovery Launch
Will Robonaut Boldly Go Where NASA Won't? The $2.5 million space bot consists of a head and torso, along with a pair of dexterous arms that pack down into a puncher's pose. R2 stands 3 feet, 4 inches (1.01 meter) tall and weighs about 330 pounds (150 kilograms).
R2 is a joint project of NASA and carmaker General Motors. It's the product of a cooperative agreement to develop a robotic assistant that can work alongside humans, whether they're astronauts in space or workers at GM plants here on Earth, NASA officials have said.
The bot is made primarily of aluminum and steel. Its head houses five cameras — including one infrared camera in the mouth — to provide stereo vision and depth perception. The torso contains 38 PowerPC processors, and R2 carries a backpack that can be filled with batteries or a power conversion system. [Infographic: Meet Robonaut 2]
Each of R2's arms can carry about 20 pounds (9.1 kg), and its hands have articulating fingers and thumbs. The robot, which builds on NASA's work with its first Robonaut project, should be able to use the same tools astronauts on the space station use, agency officials said.
The robot's job
Astronauts will install Robonaut 2 inside the station's U.S. Destiny laboratory and put it through some test paces. The goal is to see just what the robot helper can do — how it can work side-by-side with astronauts to make station operations run more smoothly.
"We're going to use Robonaut on orbit to learn more about how robots can take over astronaut tasks — some mundane things and then potentially some of the more dangerous tasks," said Scott Higginbotham, payload manager for Discovery's STS-133 mission.
Robonaut 2 was designed to use both internal and external interfaces, so future bots could eventually be installed on the station's exterior to aid in spacewalks and other difficult or dangerous tasks. However, R2 itself will likely stay inside, officials said, since the bot lacks protection against the extreme cold of space.
As advanced as it is, R2 represents an early stage in the effort to get robots more involved in space travel and exploration.
"I think we see Robonaut as the program does — a technology demonstration," said astronaut Michael Barratt, a mission specialist for STS-133. "This is very much a first step, but we’ll be identifying and mapping some of the tasks and capabilities that Robonaut demonstrates over the years."
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Petition to Bring Retired Space Shuttle to Houston
My Fox Houston: Petition to Bring Retired Space Shuttle to Houston
HOUSTON - When the three remaining space shuttles are retired from service later this year, Space Center Houston is hoping to become home for one of them and with your help, it may just happen.
After 30 monumental years of exploration and discovery, NASA’s Space Shuttle Program is scheduled to end this year.
While many museums, science centers and organizations are worthy of showcasing one of the shuttles, the President and CEO of the Space Center said the right home is Houston.
Officials at NASA have given Space Shuttle Discover, the green light for its final launch scheduled on Thursday.
Discovery joins Atlantis and Endeavor as the three US Space Shuttles that will be retired this year.
As NASA transitions more of its multi-billion dollar annual budget towards other spacecraft that can travel deeper into space, Richard Allen, President and CEO of Space Center Houston hopes it will become the permanent home for one of space exploration's most heralded vehicles.
“Well Houston is home of all astronaut training and home to mission control, since the early 70s. JSC Houston designed the shuttle, operated the shuttle, since the very beginning on every shuttle so it makes perfect logical sense that it would be here in Houston at Johnson Space Center,” said Allen.
And there are already plans in place to expand the facility in order to showcase the shuttle.
“Right now its about 53,000 square feet to house the shuttle and what we would focus on is the astronauts and what they were able to accomplish while using the shuttle,” said Allen.
Houston is one of approximately 20 venues across the nation vying to be a final landing spot for a shuttle and if Houston is selected, Richard said it would have a lasting impact.
“It would be about a $45 million annual regional impact and it would generate another $29 million in business value and about 750 jobs. It really allows us to put a program together to draw school kids to the building to be able to use that as a stepping stone to educate them on science technology and mathematics which is so important today for the US,” said Allen.
The US Government is expected to make a decision in the spring and the Space Center is hoping through the outpouring of support, their dream can become a reality.
HOUSTON - When the three remaining space shuttles are retired from service later this year, Space Center Houston is hoping to become home for one of them and with your help, it may just happen.
After 30 monumental years of exploration and discovery, NASA’s Space Shuttle Program is scheduled to end this year.
While many museums, science centers and organizations are worthy of showcasing one of the shuttles, the President and CEO of the Space Center said the right home is Houston.
Officials at NASA have given Space Shuttle Discover, the green light for its final launch scheduled on Thursday.
Discovery joins Atlantis and Endeavor as the three US Space Shuttles that will be retired this year.
As NASA transitions more of its multi-billion dollar annual budget towards other spacecraft that can travel deeper into space, Richard Allen, President and CEO of Space Center Houston hopes it will become the permanent home for one of space exploration's most heralded vehicles.
“Well Houston is home of all astronaut training and home to mission control, since the early 70s. JSC Houston designed the shuttle, operated the shuttle, since the very beginning on every shuttle so it makes perfect logical sense that it would be here in Houston at Johnson Space Center,” said Allen.
And there are already plans in place to expand the facility in order to showcase the shuttle.
“Right now its about 53,000 square feet to house the shuttle and what we would focus on is the astronauts and what they were able to accomplish while using the shuttle,” said Allen.
Houston is one of approximately 20 venues across the nation vying to be a final landing spot for a shuttle and if Houston is selected, Richard said it would have a lasting impact.
“It would be about a $45 million annual regional impact and it would generate another $29 million in business value and about 750 jobs. It really allows us to put a program together to draw school kids to the building to be able to use that as a stepping stone to educate them on science technology and mathematics which is so important today for the US,” said Allen.
The US Government is expected to make a decision in the spring and the Space Center is hoping through the outpouring of support, their dream can become a reality.
Rep. Adams Remarks on President Obama’s NASA Budget
The State Column: Rep. Adams Remarks on President Obama’s NASA Budget
Rep. Sandy Adams released the following statement:
Washington, D.C. – Representative Sandy Adams (FL-24) gave the following remarks on the House floor last night outlining her concerns about the President’s NASA FY 2012 budget and the direction of NASA’s human spaceflight program. Adams, along with Representatives Bill Posey (R-FL) and Pete Olson (R-TX) offered an amendment – which was later withdrawn – encouraging the President to transfer $517 million out of NASA’s climate change research fund, and into human space flight. The purpose of the amendment was to highlight the Administration’s approach to NASA and the direction in which it’s heading.
“Mr. Chairman, I rise today to join my colleague, Representative Olson in support of an amendment to transfer $517 million out of NASA’s climate change research fund, and into human space flight – a proven economic driver and job creator. This amendment sends a clear message to both the Administration and the leadership of NASA that it is Congress’ intent that human space flight should not, and cannot, be ignored or marginalized.
As Representative Olson just mentioned, the purpose of this amendment is to highlight the Administration’s approach to NASA and the direction in which it’s heading. At a time when unemployment is at 12 percent in Florida and 9 percent nationwide, and our country is facing trillion dollar deficits, I believe that limited federal funds are better invested in NASA’s human space flight program, not climate change research. Doing so will help to put people back to work and stimulate the economy.
For the last half century the United States has made a commitment to human space exploration, creating thousands of jobs and contributing to the economies of places like Central Florida, Texas, Mississippi and Alabama. With the shuttle program winding down, and the Constellation program no longer a priority of this Administration, I want the American people listening today to understand the fear and uncertainty felt by hard working families throughout Central Florida and the 24th District. They need to know the great benefits that NASA’s human space flight program has brought to this nation in the past, and how a policy shift from NASA administered human space flight to increased research on potential climate changes would devastate the economy of Central Florida and many other regions of our country.
The facts are that in FY 2010 the President designated $1.2 billion of NASA’s total budget toward climate change research. This is on top of the sixteen separate Agencies and departments outside of NASA that spent an additional $8.7 billion on climate change research in the same fiscal year. Now, the President’s FY 2012 proposed budget allocates even more funding for this type of research.
As NASA’s human space flight program hangs in the balance, and the tens of thousands of jobs the program supports along with it, it is time for Congress to return NASA’s directives and goals back to congressional intent and the original agency mission, keeping America in front as a global leader in space exploration and helping to rebuild struggling communities in the process.”
Rep. Sandy Adams released the following statement:
Washington, D.C. – Representative Sandy Adams (FL-24) gave the following remarks on the House floor last night outlining her concerns about the President’s NASA FY 2012 budget and the direction of NASA’s human spaceflight program. Adams, along with Representatives Bill Posey (R-FL) and Pete Olson (R-TX) offered an amendment – which was later withdrawn – encouraging the President to transfer $517 million out of NASA’s climate change research fund, and into human space flight. The purpose of the amendment was to highlight the Administration’s approach to NASA and the direction in which it’s heading.
“Mr. Chairman, I rise today to join my colleague, Representative Olson in support of an amendment to transfer $517 million out of NASA’s climate change research fund, and into human space flight – a proven economic driver and job creator. This amendment sends a clear message to both the Administration and the leadership of NASA that it is Congress’ intent that human space flight should not, and cannot, be ignored or marginalized.
As Representative Olson just mentioned, the purpose of this amendment is to highlight the Administration’s approach to NASA and the direction in which it’s heading. At a time when unemployment is at 12 percent in Florida and 9 percent nationwide, and our country is facing trillion dollar deficits, I believe that limited federal funds are better invested in NASA’s human space flight program, not climate change research. Doing so will help to put people back to work and stimulate the economy.
For the last half century the United States has made a commitment to human space exploration, creating thousands of jobs and contributing to the economies of places like Central Florida, Texas, Mississippi and Alabama. With the shuttle program winding down, and the Constellation program no longer a priority of this Administration, I want the American people listening today to understand the fear and uncertainty felt by hard working families throughout Central Florida and the 24th District. They need to know the great benefits that NASA’s human space flight program has brought to this nation in the past, and how a policy shift from NASA administered human space flight to increased research on potential climate changes would devastate the economy of Central Florida and many other regions of our country.
The facts are that in FY 2010 the President designated $1.2 billion of NASA’s total budget toward climate change research. This is on top of the sixteen separate Agencies and departments outside of NASA that spent an additional $8.7 billion on climate change research in the same fiscal year. Now, the President’s FY 2012 proposed budget allocates even more funding for this type of research.
As NASA’s human space flight program hangs in the balance, and the tens of thousands of jobs the program supports along with it, it is time for Congress to return NASA’s directives and goals back to congressional intent and the original agency mission, keeping America in front as a global leader in space exploration and helping to rebuild struggling communities in the process.”
Monday, February 21, 2011
China to Launch Mars Explorer in November
The Chosunilbo: China to Launch Mars Explorer in November
China's first Mars-exploration space probe will be launched in early November of this year from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. If the launch is successful, China will be the fifth country to send a space probe to Mars following the U.S., Russia, the European Union and Japan.
The Chinese state media on Sunday quoted an official from the China Space Technology Research Institute as saying, "Through collaborative research, Chinese and Russian researchers decided to launch the space probe in early November of this year and the liftoff will go ahead as scheduled."
The Yinghuo 1 was originally scheduled for launch in October 2009, but the Russian side put the date back two years saying it wanted to reach a higher level of technological perfection. A new Zenit booster rocket, considered an improvement on the Soyuz, will be used in the mission. The Yinghuo 1 will be joined by the Russian probe Phobos-Grunt.
A life-size model of the Yinghuo 1, China's first Mars exploration space probe /Xinhua
The Yinghuo 1 weighs 110 kg and measures 75 cm by 60 cm, but is equipped with eight state-of-the-art devices, including two high-resolution cameras, magnetic field detectors, ion probes and optical image producers. It will spend 10-11 months travelling before it enters the planet's orbit to monitor environment, solar waves and magnetic fields. It will also produce a vertical distribution chart of moisture and temperatures in the planet's atmosphere, according to Chinese media.
The probe, which has a two-year lifespan, has been designed to withstand the harsh environment of Mars, where the temperature differences between day and night are more than 100 degrees and the mercury can drop to -200 degrees Celsius at night.
China relies on Russian technology for the rocket to launch the Yinghuo 1 but plans to send a second version to Mars by 2013 using its own. It also plans to build a space station by 2020 and send an astronaut to the moon by 2025 to emerge as a rival to the U.S. and Russia in space exploration.
In 2008, China launched the Shenzhou 7 spacecraft and succeeded in its first-ever space walk. In October last year, it launched the lunar exploration probe Chang'e 2
China's first Mars-exploration space probe will be launched in early November of this year from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. If the launch is successful, China will be the fifth country to send a space probe to Mars following the U.S., Russia, the European Union and Japan.
The Chinese state media on Sunday quoted an official from the China Space Technology Research Institute as saying, "Through collaborative research, Chinese and Russian researchers decided to launch the space probe in early November of this year and the liftoff will go ahead as scheduled."
The Yinghuo 1 was originally scheduled for launch in October 2009, but the Russian side put the date back two years saying it wanted to reach a higher level of technological perfection. A new Zenit booster rocket, considered an improvement on the Soyuz, will be used in the mission. The Yinghuo 1 will be joined by the Russian probe Phobos-Grunt.
A life-size model of the Yinghuo 1, China's first Mars exploration space probe /Xinhua
The Yinghuo 1 weighs 110 kg and measures 75 cm by 60 cm, but is equipped with eight state-of-the-art devices, including two high-resolution cameras, magnetic field detectors, ion probes and optical image producers. It will spend 10-11 months travelling before it enters the planet's orbit to monitor environment, solar waves and magnetic fields. It will also produce a vertical distribution chart of moisture and temperatures in the planet's atmosphere, according to Chinese media.
The probe, which has a two-year lifespan, has been designed to withstand the harsh environment of Mars, where the temperature differences between day and night are more than 100 degrees and the mercury can drop to -200 degrees Celsius at night.
China relies on Russian technology for the rocket to launch the Yinghuo 1 but plans to send a second version to Mars by 2013 using its own. It also plans to build a space station by 2020 and send an astronaut to the moon by 2025 to emerge as a rival to the U.S. and Russia in space exploration.
In 2008, China launched the Shenzhou 7 spacecraft and succeeded in its first-ever space walk. In October last year, it launched the lunar exploration probe Chang'e 2
Saturday, February 19, 2011
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20110220/ap_on_sc/us_sci_oil_spill_lingers
OnlineMediaDaily: Google Gets Serious About Space Race
Commercial space flights and sponsorships will become necessary to continue exploration under President Barack Obama's proposed spending plan for fiscal 2012. (NASA will receive a budget of $18.7 billion, the same as it had in 2010, which would also fund space science and robotics exploration.)
Following the news, Google's Lunar X Prize foundation announced the official roster of 29 teams competing for $30 million that will send a robot to the moon. It will travel at least 500 meters and transmit video, images and data back to Earth. The teams come from a variety of groups, ranging from nonprofits to universities such as Penn State.
The groups will represent 17 nations on four continents. The competition, spearheaded by Google and the X Prize Foundation formed in September 2007, expects to announce a winner by 2015.
"The official private race to the Moon is on," stated Peter Diamandis, chairman and CEO of the X Prize Foundation. "What I find amazing is when we first announced this competition, we thought there might be a dozen groups talented and bold enough to compete. Instead, we have nearly 30 teams of heroic innovators showing us a new way to the moon."
Aside from Penn State Lunar Lions, the X Prize Foundation also announced seven new teams that were previously unknown. They include Mystical Moon of the U.S.A. and Space II of Israel, two teams trying to improve "scientific awareness," as well as Team Puli of Hungary, which comprises young professionals.
The Google Lunar X Prize takes space exploration from the hands of government agencies and puts it in the private sector, with investors who have the ability to fund projects. NASA recently announced it will purchase data related to lunar missions from six Google Lunar X Prize teams, with contracts worth as much as $10 million each.
Commercial space flights and sponsorships will become necessary to continue exploration under President Barack Obama's proposed spending plan for fiscal 2012. (NASA will receive a budget of $18.7 billion, the same as it had in 2010, which would also fund space science and robotics exploration.)
Following the news, Google's Lunar X Prize foundation announced the official roster of 29 teams competing for $30 million that will send a robot to the moon. It will travel at least 500 meters and transmit video, images and data back to Earth. The teams come from a variety of groups, ranging from nonprofits to universities such as Penn State.
The groups will represent 17 nations on four continents. The competition, spearheaded by Google and the X Prize Foundation formed in September 2007, expects to announce a winner by 2015.
"The official private race to the Moon is on," stated Peter Diamandis, chairman and CEO of the X Prize Foundation. "What I find amazing is when we first announced this competition, we thought there might be a dozen groups talented and bold enough to compete. Instead, we have nearly 30 teams of heroic innovators showing us a new way to the moon."
Aside from Penn State Lunar Lions, the X Prize Foundation also announced seven new teams that were previously unknown. They include Mystical Moon of the U.S.A. and Space II of Israel, two teams trying to improve "scientific awareness," as well as Team Puli of Hungary, which comprises young professionals.
The Google Lunar X Prize takes space exploration from the hands of government agencies and puts it in the private sector, with investors who have the ability to fund projects. NASA recently announced it will purchase data related to lunar missions from six Google Lunar X Prize teams, with contracts worth as much as $10 million each.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Wakata to be 1st Japanese ISS captain
Daily Yomiuri Online: Wakata to be 1st Japanese ISS captain
Astronaut Koichi Wakata will become the first Japanese captain of the International Space Station, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency announced Thursday.
Wakata, 47, will serve as head of the ISS during the last two months of a six-month mission to begin at the end of 2013.
"I'd like to bring the team together, emphasizing the Japanese spirit of wa [harmony]," Wakata said during a press teleconference connecting Tokyo and Houston.
Wakata said he was informed of his selection Thursday. "I truly feel a heavy load has been placed on my shoulders," he said.
Six crew members are scheduled to stay at the ISS for the mission. Past captains have mostly been Russian or U.S. astronauts.
"I think I was named captain because the Konotori [an unmanned Japanese cargo craft that carried supplies to the ISS last month] deepened trust in Japan," he said. "I want to use all the things I've learned and experienced. I also want to make plans that'll fully utilize the talents of each astronaut, so we can achieve the best possible results as a team."
The mission will be Wakata's second long assignment following a four-month stay in 2009, and his fourth space mission--both records for a Japanese astronaut.
Wakata is said to be highly valued by the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and now serves as the chief of NASA's ISS Operations Branch.
Astronaut Koichi Wakata will become the first Japanese captain of the International Space Station, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency announced Thursday.
Wakata, 47, will serve as head of the ISS during the last two months of a six-month mission to begin at the end of 2013.
"I'd like to bring the team together, emphasizing the Japanese spirit of wa [harmony]," Wakata said during a press teleconference connecting Tokyo and Houston.
Wakata said he was informed of his selection Thursday. "I truly feel a heavy load has been placed on my shoulders," he said.
Six crew members are scheduled to stay at the ISS for the mission. Past captains have mostly been Russian or U.S. astronauts.
"I think I was named captain because the Konotori [an unmanned Japanese cargo craft that carried supplies to the ISS last month] deepened trust in Japan," he said. "I want to use all the things I've learned and experienced. I also want to make plans that'll fully utilize the talents of each astronaut, so we can achieve the best possible results as a team."
The mission will be Wakata's second long assignment following a four-month stay in 2009, and his fourth space mission--both records for a Japanese astronaut.
Wakata is said to be highly valued by the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and now serves as the chief of NASA's ISS Operations Branch.
Obama's NASA Budget Proposal for FY2012 -- Business as Usual
Yahoo News: Obama's NASA Budget Proposal for FY2012 -- Business as Usual
Unlike last year, President Barack Obama's proposed budget for NASA in the coming fiscal year includes no great policy changes. In keeping with the President's propose to freeze domestic spending it comes out to $18.7 billion dollars for fiscal year 2012.
The outline of the budget proposal pretty much accepts the priorities set down in the bipartisan NASA authorization act passed last year. It promises to maintain the International Space Station. It would continue to build the heavy lift rocket and exploration vehicle, mentioning a visit to an asteroid "next decade." There is a nod to the commercial space initiative that would provide subsidies to commercial companies to build Earth to low Earth orbit space transports. The budget would fund space science and robotic exploration. It would also fund Earth science and aeronautics. There is also mention of a green energy initiative for NASA service centers.
Of the accounts, space station operations, commercial space and Earth science are increased. The rest, especially the space exploration program, are deeply cut.
The one big problem with the President's NASA budget proposal is that it seems to be more responsive to the last Congress, with which the administration had a tussle over its cancellation of the Constellation space exploration program and the doubling down on the George W. Bush era Commercial Orbital Transportation Systems (COTS) program. The current Congress already proposes to cut the current fiscal year NASA budget to just over $18.4 billion. $18.7 billion next year may be a little too high for the current Congress to swallow, all things considered.
The Obama NASA budget does not address some of the flaws of the space policy that was rolled out last year. The idea of bypassing the moon and going to an asteroid is still an unwise goal if one wants to mount a sustainable program of human space exploration. The moon has an abundance of frozen water that can be used to sustain a settlement and provide rocket fuel for deeper space missions. The moon has some resources, such as Helium 3, that might prove useful for the energy needs of human civilization. The budget just ignores those facts.
[ For complete coverage of politics and policy, go to Yahoo! Politics ]
The commercial space initiative, though it may be funded more frugally than planned, is still a program of subsidies with no consequence for failure. It is commercial only in the sense that the high speed rail program is commercial.
On top of everything else, many accounts in NASA, because of the budget deficit crisis, are not funded adequately. Very likely the schedules for commercial space ships, despite increased funding, to start flying about 2015 and voyages of exploration to asteroids by 2025, because of deep cuts in funding, will start to slip.
In other words, business as usual at NASA.
Mark R. Whittington is the author of Children of Apollo and The Last Moonwalker. He has written on space subjects for a variety of periodicals, including The Houston Chronicle, The Washington Post, USA Today, the L.A. Times, and The Weekly Standard.
Unlike last year, President Barack Obama's proposed budget for NASA in the coming fiscal year includes no great policy changes. In keeping with the President's propose to freeze domestic spending it comes out to $18.7 billion dollars for fiscal year 2012.
The outline of the budget proposal pretty much accepts the priorities set down in the bipartisan NASA authorization act passed last year. It promises to maintain the International Space Station. It would continue to build the heavy lift rocket and exploration vehicle, mentioning a visit to an asteroid "next decade." There is a nod to the commercial space initiative that would provide subsidies to commercial companies to build Earth to low Earth orbit space transports. The budget would fund space science and robotic exploration. It would also fund Earth science and aeronautics. There is also mention of a green energy initiative for NASA service centers.
Of the accounts, space station operations, commercial space and Earth science are increased. The rest, especially the space exploration program, are deeply cut.
The one big problem with the President's NASA budget proposal is that it seems to be more responsive to the last Congress, with which the administration had a tussle over its cancellation of the Constellation space exploration program and the doubling down on the George W. Bush era Commercial Orbital Transportation Systems (COTS) program. The current Congress already proposes to cut the current fiscal year NASA budget to just over $18.4 billion. $18.7 billion next year may be a little too high for the current Congress to swallow, all things considered.
The Obama NASA budget does not address some of the flaws of the space policy that was rolled out last year. The idea of bypassing the moon and going to an asteroid is still an unwise goal if one wants to mount a sustainable program of human space exploration. The moon has an abundance of frozen water that can be used to sustain a settlement and provide rocket fuel for deeper space missions. The moon has some resources, such as Helium 3, that might prove useful for the energy needs of human civilization. The budget just ignores those facts.
[ For complete coverage of politics and policy, go to Yahoo! Politics ]
The commercial space initiative, though it may be funded more frugally than planned, is still a program of subsidies with no consequence for failure. It is commercial only in the sense that the high speed rail program is commercial.
On top of everything else, many accounts in NASA, because of the budget deficit crisis, are not funded adequately. Very likely the schedules for commercial space ships, despite increased funding, to start flying about 2015 and voyages of exploration to asteroids by 2025, because of deep cuts in funding, will start to slip.
In other words, business as usual at NASA.
Mark R. Whittington is the author of Children of Apollo and The Last Moonwalker. He has written on space subjects for a variety of periodicals, including The Houston Chronicle, The Washington Post, USA Today, the L.A. Times, and The Weekly Standard.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
NASA Chief's Journey from Segregated South to Space
Space.com: NASA Chief's Journey from Segregated South to Space
In 2009, Charles Bolden became NASA's first black administrator. The former astronaut, a veteran of four space shuttle flights, is helming the space agency as it transitions through hard economic times and the looming retirement of the space shuttle program.
In honor of Black History Month, Bolden, a retired Marine Corps Major General, wrote of his journey from his home town of Columbia, S.C., to space and back. The following essay was published on the White House blog.
It's a long way from the segregated south to low Earth orbit. But I am fortunate to have made the journey and to have had many opportunities to serve my nation in a 34-year career with the U.S. Marine Corps and in many roles at NASA, currently as head of the nation's space program.
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When I was a young man, my service as NASA's first African American administrator under the nation's first black president would have been nearly unthinkable. But through the efforts of many people of all races, our nation has changed. And, thanks to the space shuttle program, and NASA's cross-disciplinary exploration missions, African Americans and many others have had access to space and also to science and technological careers. The shuttle was really instrumental in breaking the color barrier for African Americans in space, and it all happened without a single law being passed.
Today, African Americans are scientists, engineers and astronauts. They're developing instruments for spacecraft to peer beyond the edge of our solar system and opening solar arrays on the International Space Station with just a tether holding them to a vehicle moving nearly 17,000 miles per hour. NASA is reinvigorating its focus on research and development to develop technologies that don't exist today. We will send humans farther and faster into space. We'll visit places we've never been with people and robots, launch science missions to uncover unfathomable secrets of the universe and make air travel safer and cleaner here on the home front. African Americans have been, and will continue to be, key to all of these efforts.
I might never have had a chance in space were it not for the late great Ron McNair, another African American pioneer in exploration who encouraged me to apply to the astronaut corps. I was being a naysayer, thinking there was no way I would be accepted. But Ron persisted, and I am grateful to him to this day and for all of the life and professional learning he shared with me in his too-short time before he was lost in the Space Shuttle Challenger tragedy. Ron was my "Sputnik moment."
Since America's "Sputnik moment," when the nation stood up and took notice, and made a decision to commit to exploration and the technology development and innovation that would be required, many African Americans have given their heart and soul to the space program. The list is long at NASA. Astronauts like Guion S. Bluford, Dr. Mae Jemison, Frederick D. Gregory, and Dr. Ronald McNair and Michael P. Anderson, to name just a few, pioneered a path in space. Similarly, scientists like astrochemist Dr. Emmett Chappelle, who was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, and Dr. George Carruthers, who helped our Apollo missions be more than just flags and footprints, and Dr. Harriett Jenkins, who helped diversify the agency as head of its Equal Employment Programs, made vital contributions to the space program. Without the historic contributions of these and many others, NASA would not be the agency it is today.
For my part, my parents were probably the biggest influences on my life. Not only growing up, but still, today, as I make decisions as a husband, grandfather, father, brother and leader. My father was a teacher, my mother a librarian. Learning was always at the forefront of our lives as well as a commitment to public service. That led me to the military and a chance to serve my country as my father and my uncles had done in World War II when blacks had to fight for the right to serve in our armed forces. I wanted to follow in the footsteps of so many African Americans who had already served this country with distinction, if not always with recognition.
For me, it was an uphill battle. Because of my race, no one in my South Carolina congressional delegation would provide an appointment nor nomination to the Academy as was required for admission. I wrote President Lyndon B. Johnson asking for help, and that's when Congressman William Dawson of Illinois provided me the appointment I needed to be accepted. Rep. Dawson was himself a veteran of World War I, and only the third African American elected to Congress in the 20th century. He was the only serving black member during his first term.
Since then, I graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy, flew more than 100 combat missions over Vietnam, earned a master's degree in systems management, flew on the space shuttle four times, and rose to the rank of major general in the U.S. Marine Corps.
It has been quite a ride, but I couldn’t have done it without all those who came before. That's why I tell today's young people that I hope they will take the gains that previous generations have made and make their own progress. Students ask me how to become an astronaut. I tell them to pursue any of the paths in science, technology, engineering and mathematics and their chances of a strong, secure career that makes contributions to our economy and improves life for people worldwide will be possible.
When I speak to young people, I tell them, don't waste your time trying to explain yourself or your identity to anyone or justify why you are where you are -- in the workplace or anywhere else. Do your job and do it very well. Live your life according to the golden rule and the strong principles taught by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Always remind yourself of "why" you are pursuing the things you do. Stay in touch with that answer, and don't let others define it for you.
A touchstone of my personal philosophy is these words from Rev. Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, Dr. King's mentor during his years of study at Morehouse College. It is Dr. Mays who perhaps influenced Dr. King most, and whose words and thoughts we frequently heard reflected in the words of Dr. King. This is from a sermon by Dr. Mays titled "What Man Lives By":
"Man must believe that however hard the road, however difficult today, tomorrow things will be better. Tomorrow may not be better, but we must believe that it will be. Wars may never cease, but we must continue to strive to eliminate them. We may not abolish poverty, but we must believe that we can provide bread enough to spare for every living creature and that we can find the means to distribute it. We may not exterminate racism, but we must believe that different racial groups can live together in peace, and we must never cease to try to build a society in which the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man become realities."
I never really left Columbia, S.C., behind. The family and teachers and friends that are still there remind me of who I am, where I come from, and what my ideals should be. It was a fortunate upbringing in many ways, despite the hardships. I wouldn't change a thing. And despite what some might say, the future is bright for the young people just entering the workforce today. I hope I have had some small part in the progress this nation has made. I look forward to the space program's continued success improving people's lives around the world through new technologies and discoveries and showing that with innovation, creativity and passion, you can knock down any barrier of race, ethnicity, creed, or gender.
In 2009, Charles Bolden became NASA's first black administrator. The former astronaut, a veteran of four space shuttle flights, is helming the space agency as it transitions through hard economic times and the looming retirement of the space shuttle program.
In honor of Black History Month, Bolden, a retired Marine Corps Major General, wrote of his journey from his home town of Columbia, S.C., to space and back. The following essay was published on the White House blog.
It's a long way from the segregated south to low Earth orbit. But I am fortunate to have made the journey and to have had many opportunities to serve my nation in a 34-year career with the U.S. Marine Corps and in many roles at NASA, currently as head of the nation's space program.
Ads by GoogleAfro American PublishingPartner with an Afro American Book Publisher. Receive a Free Guide!www.ChooseYourPublisher.comDanica Patrick Honda FilmWatch now to discover the upside of failure through Danica Patrick.www.honda.comWhat is Quantum Jumping?Discover Why Thousands of People are "Jumping" to Change Their Lifewww.QuantumJumping.com
When I was a young man, my service as NASA's first African American administrator under the nation's first black president would have been nearly unthinkable. But through the efforts of many people of all races, our nation has changed. And, thanks to the space shuttle program, and NASA's cross-disciplinary exploration missions, African Americans and many others have had access to space and also to science and technological careers. The shuttle was really instrumental in breaking the color barrier for African Americans in space, and it all happened without a single law being passed.
Today, African Americans are scientists, engineers and astronauts. They're developing instruments for spacecraft to peer beyond the edge of our solar system and opening solar arrays on the International Space Station with just a tether holding them to a vehicle moving nearly 17,000 miles per hour. NASA is reinvigorating its focus on research and development to develop technologies that don't exist today. We will send humans farther and faster into space. We'll visit places we've never been with people and robots, launch science missions to uncover unfathomable secrets of the universe and make air travel safer and cleaner here on the home front. African Americans have been, and will continue to be, key to all of these efforts.
I might never have had a chance in space were it not for the late great Ron McNair, another African American pioneer in exploration who encouraged me to apply to the astronaut corps. I was being a naysayer, thinking there was no way I would be accepted. But Ron persisted, and I am grateful to him to this day and for all of the life and professional learning he shared with me in his too-short time before he was lost in the Space Shuttle Challenger tragedy. Ron was my "Sputnik moment."
Since America's "Sputnik moment," when the nation stood up and took notice, and made a decision to commit to exploration and the technology development and innovation that would be required, many African Americans have given their heart and soul to the space program. The list is long at NASA. Astronauts like Guion S. Bluford, Dr. Mae Jemison, Frederick D. Gregory, and Dr. Ronald McNair and Michael P. Anderson, to name just a few, pioneered a path in space. Similarly, scientists like astrochemist Dr. Emmett Chappelle, who was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, and Dr. George Carruthers, who helped our Apollo missions be more than just flags and footprints, and Dr. Harriett Jenkins, who helped diversify the agency as head of its Equal Employment Programs, made vital contributions to the space program. Without the historic contributions of these and many others, NASA would not be the agency it is today.
For my part, my parents were probably the biggest influences on my life. Not only growing up, but still, today, as I make decisions as a husband, grandfather, father, brother and leader. My father was a teacher, my mother a librarian. Learning was always at the forefront of our lives as well as a commitment to public service. That led me to the military and a chance to serve my country as my father and my uncles had done in World War II when blacks had to fight for the right to serve in our armed forces. I wanted to follow in the footsteps of so many African Americans who had already served this country with distinction, if not always with recognition.
For me, it was an uphill battle. Because of my race, no one in my South Carolina congressional delegation would provide an appointment nor nomination to the Academy as was required for admission. I wrote President Lyndon B. Johnson asking for help, and that's when Congressman William Dawson of Illinois provided me the appointment I needed to be accepted. Rep. Dawson was himself a veteran of World War I, and only the third African American elected to Congress in the 20th century. He was the only serving black member during his first term.
Since then, I graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy, flew more than 100 combat missions over Vietnam, earned a master's degree in systems management, flew on the space shuttle four times, and rose to the rank of major general in the U.S. Marine Corps.
It has been quite a ride, but I couldn’t have done it without all those who came before. That's why I tell today's young people that I hope they will take the gains that previous generations have made and make their own progress. Students ask me how to become an astronaut. I tell them to pursue any of the paths in science, technology, engineering and mathematics and their chances of a strong, secure career that makes contributions to our economy and improves life for people worldwide will be possible.
When I speak to young people, I tell them, don't waste your time trying to explain yourself or your identity to anyone or justify why you are where you are -- in the workplace or anywhere else. Do your job and do it very well. Live your life according to the golden rule and the strong principles taught by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Always remind yourself of "why" you are pursuing the things you do. Stay in touch with that answer, and don't let others define it for you.
A touchstone of my personal philosophy is these words from Rev. Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, Dr. King's mentor during his years of study at Morehouse College. It is Dr. Mays who perhaps influenced Dr. King most, and whose words and thoughts we frequently heard reflected in the words of Dr. King. This is from a sermon by Dr. Mays titled "What Man Lives By":
"Man must believe that however hard the road, however difficult today, tomorrow things will be better. Tomorrow may not be better, but we must believe that it will be. Wars may never cease, but we must continue to strive to eliminate them. We may not abolish poverty, but we must believe that we can provide bread enough to spare for every living creature and that we can find the means to distribute it. We may not exterminate racism, but we must believe that different racial groups can live together in peace, and we must never cease to try to build a society in which the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man become realities."
I never really left Columbia, S.C., behind. The family and teachers and friends that are still there remind me of who I am, where I come from, and what my ideals should be. It was a fortunate upbringing in many ways, despite the hardships. I wouldn't change a thing. And despite what some might say, the future is bright for the young people just entering the workforce today. I hope I have had some small part in the progress this nation has made. I look forward to the space program's continued success improving people's lives around the world through new technologies and discoveries and showing that with innovation, creativity and passion, you can knock down any barrier of race, ethnicity, creed, or gender.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
NASA craft snaps pics of comet in Valentine fling
NASA craft snaps pics of comet in Valentine fling
PASADENA, Calif. – Nearly six years after an 800-pound copper bullet excavated a crater on a comet, a NASA spacecraft revisiting the site has seen evidence of the destruction in images snapped during a Valentine's Day flyby, scientists said Tuesday.
Instead of a well-defined pit, the Stardust craft saw what looked like a crater rim that was filled in the middle — a sign that the plume of debris from the 2005 high-speed crash that created the crater shot up and fell back down.
"The crater was more subdued than I think some of us thought," said mission scientist Pete Schultz of Brown University. "It partially buried itself."
Stardust zoomed past Tempel 1 Monday night, passing within 110 miles of the comet's surface. Along the way, it snapped six dozen pictures.
It was NASA's second visit to Tempel 1, but the first time a spacecraft had imaged the manmade crater.
In 2005, another NASA probe, Deep Impact, fired a projectile into Tempel 1 that carved a football-sized hole, but so much dust spewed out that it blocked Deep Impact's view.
Astronomer Michael A'Hearn of the University of Maryland, who led Deep Impact, was pleased to come full circle.
"It's wonderful to go back and see the effects we had on the comet due to our impact," A'Hearn said.
Revisiting with Tempel 1 also allowed scientists to examine changes on the surface since Deep Impact.
Tempel 1 has since made a full loop around the sun. Every time comets orbit the sun, they lose material from the surface and become less bright.
Scientists found evidence of erosion in then-and-now images of the Deep Impact site, said principal investigator Joe Veverka of Cornell University.
Stardust continued beaming back images from the Valentine encounter Tuesday. Scientists planned to spend the next several weeks analyzing the data.
Stardust's trip to Tempel 1 was a bonus mission. Launched in 1999, Stardust's original target was comet Wild 2, where it collected dust samples that were later jettisoned to Earth.
The Tempel 1 flyby went off almost flawlessly. Stardust got knocked several times by dust grains, but its protective bumpers bore the brunt of the blast and it came out unharmed.
A slight problem occurred during download. Since Stardust's antenna was pointed away from Earth during the flyby, it stored all the images and data in its memory, waiting to be played back at a later time.
NASA's plan was to downlink close-up pictures to the ground first, followed by shots farther away. For reasons that engineers are still troubleshooting, the pictures came down in the order they were taken with the most distant views popping up first.
Normally, it wouldn't be a big deal. But since Stardust's camera is a spare from the Voyager program, it takes a long time for each image to be received.
The glacial download disappointed some space fans who stayed up on Valentine's night for a glimpse of the comet nucleus. After NASA announced that the closest approach images won't be ready until Tuesday, scores of people on Twitter, Facebook and other social networking sites signed off.
PASADENA, Calif. – Nearly six years after an 800-pound copper bullet excavated a crater on a comet, a NASA spacecraft revisiting the site has seen evidence of the destruction in images snapped during a Valentine's Day flyby, scientists said Tuesday.
Instead of a well-defined pit, the Stardust craft saw what looked like a crater rim that was filled in the middle — a sign that the plume of debris from the 2005 high-speed crash that created the crater shot up and fell back down.
"The crater was more subdued than I think some of us thought," said mission scientist Pete Schultz of Brown University. "It partially buried itself."
Stardust zoomed past Tempel 1 Monday night, passing within 110 miles of the comet's surface. Along the way, it snapped six dozen pictures.
It was NASA's second visit to Tempel 1, but the first time a spacecraft had imaged the manmade crater.
In 2005, another NASA probe, Deep Impact, fired a projectile into Tempel 1 that carved a football-sized hole, but so much dust spewed out that it blocked Deep Impact's view.
Astronomer Michael A'Hearn of the University of Maryland, who led Deep Impact, was pleased to come full circle.
"It's wonderful to go back and see the effects we had on the comet due to our impact," A'Hearn said.
Revisiting with Tempel 1 also allowed scientists to examine changes on the surface since Deep Impact.
Tempel 1 has since made a full loop around the sun. Every time comets orbit the sun, they lose material from the surface and become less bright.
Scientists found evidence of erosion in then-and-now images of the Deep Impact site, said principal investigator Joe Veverka of Cornell University.
Stardust continued beaming back images from the Valentine encounter Tuesday. Scientists planned to spend the next several weeks analyzing the data.
Stardust's trip to Tempel 1 was a bonus mission. Launched in 1999, Stardust's original target was comet Wild 2, where it collected dust samples that were later jettisoned to Earth.
The Tempel 1 flyby went off almost flawlessly. Stardust got knocked several times by dust grains, but its protective bumpers bore the brunt of the blast and it came out unharmed.
A slight problem occurred during download. Since Stardust's antenna was pointed away from Earth during the flyby, it stored all the images and data in its memory, waiting to be played back at a later time.
NASA's plan was to downlink close-up pictures to the ground first, followed by shots farther away. For reasons that engineers are still troubleshooting, the pictures came down in the order they were taken with the most distant views popping up first.
Normally, it wouldn't be a big deal. But since Stardust's camera is a spare from the Voyager program, it takes a long time for each image to be received.
The glacial download disappointed some space fans who stayed up on Valentine's night for a glimpse of the comet nucleus. After NASA announced that the closest approach images won't be ready until Tuesday, scores of people on Twitter, Facebook and other social networking sites signed off.
Astronauts Walk on "Mars," Start Experiments
National Geographic Daily News: Astronauts Walk on "Mars," Start Experiments
Today, after months of anticipation, three brave astronauts set foot on Mars—or rather, a darkened, sand-filled room designed to simulate Mars.
The explorers make up half the crew of the Mars500 mission, a project designed to study the psychological effects of a year-and-a-half long, deep-space voyage to the red planet.
(Related: "Astronauts Could Ride Asteroids to Mars, Study Says.")
Since June 2010 six men—three Russians, two Europeans, and one Chinese—have been living in isolation in a 19,423-cubic-foot (550-cubic-meter) "spaceship" outside Moscow, doing maintenance work, conducting experiments, and trying to stave off boredom by playing Rock Band and reading the complete works of Gabriel GarcÃa Márquez.
The crew is made up of volunteers, some with no real-life space experience but all with applicable skills, such as engineering and medicine.
(Related: "Why Did 400 People Volunteer for a One-Way Trip to Mars?")
Radio communications with project leaders are delayed to simulate the communications lag between Earth and Mars. Illnesses are handled by a crew member serving as the ship's doctor. The only food comes from packets of dehydrated meals.
Since the project started, scientists have been remotely studying everything that happens to the ersatz astronauts, from their internal bacteria to how they breathe at night. But now, after more than 250 days under the microscope, the astronauts are the ones performing the experiments.
The spaceship entered a mock orbit around Mars on February 1, and three of the astronauts entered a separate compartment meant to simulate a Mars lander. These crew members "landed" on Mars on Saturday.
Today the hatch opened for the first of three planned extravehicular activities, or EVAs, on the "Martian" surface.
Today, after months of anticipation, three brave astronauts set foot on Mars—or rather, a darkened, sand-filled room designed to simulate Mars.
The explorers make up half the crew of the Mars500 mission, a project designed to study the psychological effects of a year-and-a-half long, deep-space voyage to the red planet.
(Related: "Astronauts Could Ride Asteroids to Mars, Study Says.")
Since June 2010 six men—three Russians, two Europeans, and one Chinese—have been living in isolation in a 19,423-cubic-foot (550-cubic-meter) "spaceship" outside Moscow, doing maintenance work, conducting experiments, and trying to stave off boredom by playing Rock Band and reading the complete works of Gabriel GarcÃa Márquez.
The crew is made up of volunteers, some with no real-life space experience but all with applicable skills, such as engineering and medicine.
(Related: "Why Did 400 People Volunteer for a One-Way Trip to Mars?")
Radio communications with project leaders are delayed to simulate the communications lag between Earth and Mars. Illnesses are handled by a crew member serving as the ship's doctor. The only food comes from packets of dehydrated meals.
Since the project started, scientists have been remotely studying everything that happens to the ersatz astronauts, from their internal bacteria to how they breathe at night. But now, after more than 250 days under the microscope, the astronauts are the ones performing the experiments.
The spaceship entered a mock orbit around Mars on February 1, and three of the astronauts entered a separate compartment meant to simulate a Mars lander. These crew members "landed" on Mars on Saturday.
Today the hatch opened for the first of three planned extravehicular activities, or EVAs, on the "Martian" surface.
NASA's New Design for a Reusable Manned Deep-Space Craft, Nautilus-X
Fox News: NASA's New Design for a Reusable Manned Deep-Space Craft, Nautilus-X
This tubular spacecraft could serve as a reusable vehicle for lunar and deep-space missions, holding a crew of six and enough supplies for a two-year expedition.
Dubbed Nautilus-X, for "Non-Atmospheric Universal Transport Intended for Lengthy United States eXploration," this craft could be built in orbit and ready for space missions by 2020, according to a briefing by NASA's Future In Space Operations group.
It would be assembled from expandable structures, such as the inflatable habitats proposed by Bigelow Aerospace. It would also contain a ring centrifuge to provide partial gravity, and radiation-mitigation systems that could include tanks of water or liquid hydrogen slush, reports the website HobbySpace.com.
Nautilus is a multi-mission space exploration vehicle, so it could incorporate mission-specific propulsion units, according to Edward Henderson of NASA Johnson Space Center. Theoretically, you could swap out engines and fuel depending on where you wanted to go. Such an all-purpose system would be simpler than building heavy-lift rockets for specific missions to the moon or Mars.
Henderson described the system at a briefing on NASA's Technology Applications Assessment Team, which is studying (relatively) inexpensive, quick-turnaround technologies for space exploration. Check out the PowerPoint slides here.
HobbySpace has a nice roundup of the meeting, which also included a DARPA-funded geosynchronous satellite servicing project, in-situ water recovery on the Moon, a project that would demonstrate space-based solar power beams, a solar electric propulsion vehicle, and propellant depots floating in geosynchronous orbit.
Nautilus is by far the highlight, however, with pretty specific schematics and development estimates. Construction would take at least five years and require two or three rocket launches. It would cost about $3.7 billion.
The centrifuge, which could help keep crew members healthy during a long trip, includes inflatable structures and pieces that must be launched into orbit. It would be fairly simple to test on the International Space Station - it would launch to the station on board a rocket, and if it works out, it could become living quarters for the station's crew.
These are dreamy ideas, to be sure, especially in light of federal funding roadblocks. But the use of existing technologies like Bigelow's modules, as well as the adaptability of a multi-purpose crew carrier, means a system like Nautilus could play a role in NASA's future.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Echoes of Sputnik in Modern Rocket Race for Space
FoxNews.com: Echoes of Sputnik in Modern Rocket Race for Space
Fifty four years after the first Sputnik, is a new race for space brewing?
The fierce Cold War boiled over with the Russian launch of Sputnik in 1957. U.S. Defense Secretary Robert McNamara answered with the legendary Nike-Zeus program, a six-year project to develop the Army's first antiballistic missile. General Ivey O'Drewry Jr., the man who led the follow-on Nike-X program from 1962-1969, tells FoxNews.com that McNamara's demands were blunt and clear: Get the job done and beat those Russians.
"I was reviewing the development of the Sprint missile, which had gone through about 12 months of failure," the 90-year old retired general said from his home in Huntsville, Alabama. "I was reviewing the details with him, what we learned and how we'll improve. His answer to me was 'Shut up and sit down, I know you're gonna make it work!'"
"What he wanted hear was, what was the Russian reaction?" O'Drewry said.
The U.S. answer was clear: If Russia wanted a space race, America was all in.
The Nike-Zeus program hit technological limitations in the areas of missile design and communications integration, so the Kennedy Administration created the more robust Nike-X Program in 1963. The project offered a new terminal interceptor, high-speed computers and other technological advancements that enabled the country to battle Russia in the area of missile defense.
"We moved from the radar system used in World War II, where we rotated the lens, to a phased array, which is an electronic phase of small radar beams that could be rotated around electronically,” said the retired general.
Even the small details of the unrelenting and demanding space race of the 60s are still fresh O'Drewry's memory.
Today, the stable of competitors has dramatically increased to include China and India -- and the pressure is back on. China had a record-breaking 2010, launching 15 satellites from its Xi Chiang Satellite Launch Center. India's Chandrayaan-1 revealed the presence of large amounts of water on the moon during the country's first lunar mission in 2008.
And if you take into account President Obama's recent decision to end NASA's Constellation program and shift attention to more commercial launch operations, experts wonder, is the United States even participating in the current space race?
“I was opposed to the decision to end the Constellation program, as it was not replaced with a clear way forward for human space exploration,” Scott Pace, director of the Space Policy Institute at George Washington University, told FoxNews.com. “It also created more uncertainties for industry, in an already difficult environment, in adapting to the end of the Space Shuttle program."
The uncertainty is something Pace feels the U.S. should address sooner rather than later.
“The United States, and NASA in particular, needs to have a clear, mission-driven focus on human space exploration.,” said Pace. “This should start with utilization of the International Space Station, followed by returning humans to the moon, and laying the technical and organizational foundations for eventual missions to Mars and other objects in the solar system. Space technology can not be effectively developed without a defined and sustainable commitment to a logical process of exploration.”
As far as O'Drewry. is concerned, the very idea of a new space race is non-existent. He feels something is missing from the current competition between the United States and its fellow space technology competitors, China, India and Russia: combat.
“We're not involved in war today, we're not trying to beat anybody,” said O'Drewry. “Our objective was to develop technology and the Department of Defense's objective was to fight a Cold War."
With that said, he's optimistic that the United States will still be the front-runner when it comes to space technology in the future.
I'm sure improvements are being made," O'Drewry said. "Because as you know, technology never really ends.”
Challenger Space Center Goes Solar
EVLiving.com: Challenger Space Center Goes Solar
Peoria, Ariz. — Workers this week began installation of 78 solar panels comprising an 18 kW photovoltaic system on the roof of Challenger Space Center Arizona. The solar array is the result of a $50,000 grant, the maximum allotted per applicant, from the Arizona Department of Commerce through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act under the Renewable Energy Program for Non-Profit Organizations.
The $87,000 systems is also being funded by a $25,000 Renewable Energy grant from APS and will be eligible for approximately $12,000 in APS rebates.
The system is being installed by PWI Solar Construction of Mesa and Wang Electric of Phoenix, and will be an integral part of the public museum and educational programming at Challenger. PWI Solar Construction has also donated one of the panels for use in an educational exhibit.
Kennedy Partners, a Phoenix-based company specializing in capital improvement planning and alternative energy consultation, has donated the interactive kiosk and software for Challenger’s new solar exhibit. The exhibit will track the solar array’s energy savings in real-time.
“We are thrilled to not only with the energy savings of $4,000 to $5,000 per year, but this also gives us an opportunity to offer a new interactive exhibit on renewable energy,” said Kari Sliva, the Center’s Executive Director. “Heightening awareness of our solar system and earth science is precisely what we do here, not only for students but for the members of public who enjoy our museum. So in many ways, this grant was a perfect match for us and for all of our partners.”
Work on the solar system installation is expected to be complete within the next two weeks.
About the Museum
Built in 2000, more than 50,000 people visit the center annually, 30,000 of which are students.
The Center’s museum, showcasing space memorabilia and interactive exhibits like My Solar System where visitors catch a virtual planet, is open to the public Monday thru Friday (9 a.m. – 4 p.m.) and Saturday (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) Admission is $8 for Adults, $7 for Military & Seniors, and $5 for Students 4-18. Ages 3 & under and members are free.
Guided tours are included with admission and are given by volunteers, many of whom are retired from the aerospace industry and enjoy sharing their love of space exploration. Saturdays offer visitors a variety of family activities such as stargazing, planetarium shows, and birthday parties. Missions to “fly” in Challenger’s simulator are available to the public for an additional fee at 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. each Saturday.
Currently the museum is featuring a Smithsonian Institution Exhibit called An Astronaut’s Life: Articles Flown In Space, which is on loan until Sept. 2012. Augmenting the Smithsonian exhibit are items from local astronaut Bill Gregory, pilot of STS-67 Endeavour, who placed on loan his personal effects that flew with him and his NASA test pilot gear. Also on display until May 15 is a NASA-NASCAR exhibit “Rockets to Racecars.” Three tires – a space shuttle tire, NASCAR tire and lunar rover replica tire depict technology spinoffs between the two organizations. These exhibits are included with a general admission ticket.
For an interesting corporate teambuilding exercise, the Center re-creates the Apollo 13 crisis and requires teams to use only materials at their disposal to fashion a workable, life-saving solution. Another team-builder re-creates a natural disaster from the island of Montserrat which faced an erupting volcano and approaching hurricane. Teams must safely evacuate the island using communication and the transportation methods available to them. Programs are facilitated by a Challenger Space Center Flight Director.
The Knight Center for Space Science Education, the educational arm of Challenger Space Center Arizona, uses specialized applied science curriculum which takes what teachers teach in the class and turns it into a hand-on mission to outer space in Challenger’s unique simulator. Students become mission controllers and fly a spacecraft on a two-hour simulation to land a probe on the tail of a comet, return to the moon, or take a voyage to Mars. Arizona State Standards in science, technology, engineering, math and language arts are incorporated into each mission and educational workshops.
Published on behalf of Challenger Space Center
For more information, visit the center’s web site at http://www.azchallenger.org/.
Peoria, Ariz. — Workers this week began installation of 78 solar panels comprising an 18 kW photovoltaic system on the roof of Challenger Space Center Arizona. The solar array is the result of a $50,000 grant, the maximum allotted per applicant, from the Arizona Department of Commerce through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act under the Renewable Energy Program for Non-Profit Organizations.
The $87,000 systems is also being funded by a $25,000 Renewable Energy grant from APS and will be eligible for approximately $12,000 in APS rebates.
The system is being installed by PWI Solar Construction of Mesa and Wang Electric of Phoenix, and will be an integral part of the public museum and educational programming at Challenger. PWI Solar Construction has also donated one of the panels for use in an educational exhibit.
Kennedy Partners, a Phoenix-based company specializing in capital improvement planning and alternative energy consultation, has donated the interactive kiosk and software for Challenger’s new solar exhibit. The exhibit will track the solar array’s energy savings in real-time.
“We are thrilled to not only with the energy savings of $4,000 to $5,000 per year, but this also gives us an opportunity to offer a new interactive exhibit on renewable energy,” said Kari Sliva, the Center’s Executive Director. “Heightening awareness of our solar system and earth science is precisely what we do here, not only for students but for the members of public who enjoy our museum. So in many ways, this grant was a perfect match for us and for all of our partners.”
Work on the solar system installation is expected to be complete within the next two weeks.
About the Museum
Built in 2000, more than 50,000 people visit the center annually, 30,000 of which are students.
The Center’s museum, showcasing space memorabilia and interactive exhibits like My Solar System where visitors catch a virtual planet, is open to the public Monday thru Friday (9 a.m. – 4 p.m.) and Saturday (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) Admission is $8 for Adults, $7 for Military & Seniors, and $5 for Students 4-18. Ages 3 & under and members are free.
Guided tours are included with admission and are given by volunteers, many of whom are retired from the aerospace industry and enjoy sharing their love of space exploration. Saturdays offer visitors a variety of family activities such as stargazing, planetarium shows, and birthday parties. Missions to “fly” in Challenger’s simulator are available to the public for an additional fee at 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. each Saturday.
Currently the museum is featuring a Smithsonian Institution Exhibit called An Astronaut’s Life: Articles Flown In Space, which is on loan until Sept. 2012. Augmenting the Smithsonian exhibit are items from local astronaut Bill Gregory, pilot of STS-67 Endeavour, who placed on loan his personal effects that flew with him and his NASA test pilot gear. Also on display until May 15 is a NASA-NASCAR exhibit “Rockets to Racecars.” Three tires – a space shuttle tire, NASCAR tire and lunar rover replica tire depict technology spinoffs between the two organizations. These exhibits are included with a general admission ticket.
For an interesting corporate teambuilding exercise, the Center re-creates the Apollo 13 crisis and requires teams to use only materials at their disposal to fashion a workable, life-saving solution. Another team-builder re-creates a natural disaster from the island of Montserrat which faced an erupting volcano and approaching hurricane. Teams must safely evacuate the island using communication and the transportation methods available to them. Programs are facilitated by a Challenger Space Center Flight Director.
The Knight Center for Space Science Education, the educational arm of Challenger Space Center Arizona, uses specialized applied science curriculum which takes what teachers teach in the class and turns it into a hand-on mission to outer space in Challenger’s unique simulator. Students become mission controllers and fly a spacecraft on a two-hour simulation to land a probe on the tail of a comet, return to the moon, or take a voyage to Mars. Arizona State Standards in science, technology, engineering, math and language arts are incorporated into each mission and educational workshops.
Published on behalf of Challenger Space Center
For more information, visit the center’s web site at http://www.azchallenger.org/.
NASA Wants More For Commercial Crew, Technology
Aviation Week: NASA Wants More For Commercial Crew, Technology
By Frank Morring, Jr. morring@aviationweek.com
WASHINGTON
The Obama administration’s $18.7 billion NASA budget request for fiscal 2012 continues the new policies started in last year’s request, with a stronger push into commercial space travel to low Earth orbit (LEO) and modifications to accommodate the three-year NASA authorization enacted in December.
In a bid to follow President Barack Obama’s overall science and technology policy, the new budget aims to create “a sustainable program of exploration and innovation,” according to Administrator Charles Bolden’s introduction to the strategic plan that accompanies the budget request.
“This new direction extends the life of the International Space Station, supports the growing commercial space industry, and addresses important scientific challenges while continuing our commitment to robust human space exploration, science and aeronautics programs,” Bolden states. “The strong bipartisan support for the NASA Authorization Act of 2010 confirms our essential role in addressing the nation’s priorities.”
The government’s effort to seed private development of commercial crew and cargo transportation to the ISS and other LEO destinations would be boosted to $850 million in the fiscal year that begins Oct. 1 — up from the $612 million authorized but not appropriated in the current fiscal year.
But the James Webb Space Telescope, which an outside panel has found faces a cost overrun of at least $1.5 billion, would get only $375 million to continue fabrication and testing while NASA conducts its own calculations. The budget request carries no launch date for the telescope, and says there won’t be one until the fiscal 2013 request a year from now.
The independent review ordered by Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), who chairs the appropriations panel that funds NASA, estimated that launch of the deep-space infrared telescope will have to slip more than a year from its old September 2014 target.
If the new budget is adopted by Congress, which has yet to fund NASA for the current fiscal year, commercial vehicles could start delivering crews to the ISS by 2016, with commercial cargo deliveries by Orbital Sciences Corp. and Space Exploration Technologies Inc. (SpaceX) starting in 2013.
But the NASA request doesn’t commit to a date for the first flight of the heavy-lift Space Launch System (SLS) ordered in the authorization act. Instead, it calls for $2.81 billion in Fiscal 2012 to begin work on the vehicle and the Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) that would ride atop it on deep-space missions and — as a backup to the hoped-for commercial crew vehicles — to the ISS. Congress had ordered a first flight of the heavy lifter in six years.
In keeping with the approach started with last year’s request, NASA would embark on an open-ended program of technology development needed to enable human exploration beyond LEO. The new request also merges the enabling technology development and demonstration program that has been run under the defunct Constellation Program to the agency’s new technology office, which would get a total budget of $1.024 billion.
The technology office was set up last year, but has accomplished little actual research and development because Congress hasn’t appropriated funds for it. The new request comes as budget hawks in the new Republican-controlled House make their voices heard in debate on a continuing resolution to fund the government for the rest of Fiscal 2011. As a result, NASA acknowledges that out-year figures after 2012 are only “notional.”
In the constrained spending environment, the agency has maintained a flat funding line that falls below last year’s out-year projections in many instances. For example, Earth science missions in development that had been accelerated are slowed, while the Landsat Data Continuity Mission, Global Precipitation Mission and the replacement Orbiting Carbon Observatory are kept on schedule under an overall $1.797 billion request.
Plans to launch the big Mars Science Laboratory lander remain on track for this fall under the $1.54 billion planetary science budget, while the agency’s aeronautics program refocuses its hypersonics work on “foundational research” under a $569 million top line for the fiscal year.
Top-line figures in the Fiscal 2012 request for NASA are:
Science — $5.017 billion; aeronautics — $569 million; space technology — $1.024 billion; exploration systems — $3.949 billion; space operations — $4.347 billion; education — $138 million; cross-agency support — $3.192 billion, and inspector general — $38 million.
Bolden plans to merge the exploration systems and space operations mission directorates later this year, but the budget accounts will be kept separate. The new request assumes a third space shuttle flight this year —– STS-135 — before the fleet is retired. Sustaining and utilizing the ISS until at least 2020 will become the primary near-term focus of the merged mission directorate.
By Frank Morring, Jr. morring@aviationweek.com
WASHINGTON
The Obama administration’s $18.7 billion NASA budget request for fiscal 2012 continues the new policies started in last year’s request, with a stronger push into commercial space travel to low Earth orbit (LEO) and modifications to accommodate the three-year NASA authorization enacted in December.
In a bid to follow President Barack Obama’s overall science and technology policy, the new budget aims to create “a sustainable program of exploration and innovation,” according to Administrator Charles Bolden’s introduction to the strategic plan that accompanies the budget request.
“This new direction extends the life of the International Space Station, supports the growing commercial space industry, and addresses important scientific challenges while continuing our commitment to robust human space exploration, science and aeronautics programs,” Bolden states. “The strong bipartisan support for the NASA Authorization Act of 2010 confirms our essential role in addressing the nation’s priorities.”
The government’s effort to seed private development of commercial crew and cargo transportation to the ISS and other LEO destinations would be boosted to $850 million in the fiscal year that begins Oct. 1 — up from the $612 million authorized but not appropriated in the current fiscal year.
But the James Webb Space Telescope, which an outside panel has found faces a cost overrun of at least $1.5 billion, would get only $375 million to continue fabrication and testing while NASA conducts its own calculations. The budget request carries no launch date for the telescope, and says there won’t be one until the fiscal 2013 request a year from now.
The independent review ordered by Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), who chairs the appropriations panel that funds NASA, estimated that launch of the deep-space infrared telescope will have to slip more than a year from its old September 2014 target.
If the new budget is adopted by Congress, which has yet to fund NASA for the current fiscal year, commercial vehicles could start delivering crews to the ISS by 2016, with commercial cargo deliveries by Orbital Sciences Corp. and Space Exploration Technologies Inc. (SpaceX) starting in 2013.
But the NASA request doesn’t commit to a date for the first flight of the heavy-lift Space Launch System (SLS) ordered in the authorization act. Instead, it calls for $2.81 billion in Fiscal 2012 to begin work on the vehicle and the Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) that would ride atop it on deep-space missions and — as a backup to the hoped-for commercial crew vehicles — to the ISS. Congress had ordered a first flight of the heavy lifter in six years.
In keeping with the approach started with last year’s request, NASA would embark on an open-ended program of technology development needed to enable human exploration beyond LEO. The new request also merges the enabling technology development and demonstration program that has been run under the defunct Constellation Program to the agency’s new technology office, which would get a total budget of $1.024 billion.
The technology office was set up last year, but has accomplished little actual research and development because Congress hasn’t appropriated funds for it. The new request comes as budget hawks in the new Republican-controlled House make their voices heard in debate on a continuing resolution to fund the government for the rest of Fiscal 2011. As a result, NASA acknowledges that out-year figures after 2012 are only “notional.”
In the constrained spending environment, the agency has maintained a flat funding line that falls below last year’s out-year projections in many instances. For example, Earth science missions in development that had been accelerated are slowed, while the Landsat Data Continuity Mission, Global Precipitation Mission and the replacement Orbiting Carbon Observatory are kept on schedule under an overall $1.797 billion request.
Plans to launch the big Mars Science Laboratory lander remain on track for this fall under the $1.54 billion planetary science budget, while the agency’s aeronautics program refocuses its hypersonics work on “foundational research” under a $569 million top line for the fiscal year.
Top-line figures in the Fiscal 2012 request for NASA are:
Science — $5.017 billion; aeronautics — $569 million; space technology — $1.024 billion; exploration systems — $3.949 billion; space operations — $4.347 billion; education — $138 million; cross-agency support — $3.192 billion, and inspector general — $38 million.
Bolden plans to merge the exploration systems and space operations mission directorates later this year, but the budget accounts will be kept separate. The new request assumes a third space shuttle flight this year —– STS-135 — before the fleet is retired. Sustaining and utilizing the ISS until at least 2020 will become the primary near-term focus of the merged mission directorate.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Short lines: NASA Railroad's future in question
Progressive Railroading.com: Short lines: NASA Railroad's future in question
Later this year, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is scheduled to launch the final space shuttle mission, bringing to a close the agency's 30-year space shuttle program.
What that program's end will mean for NASA's short-line railroad at Kennedy Space Center has yet to be determined.
"That's the $64 million question," says George Diller, a NASA spokesman.
As the shuttle program winds down to its final launch this summer, the space center's basic infrastructure, which includes the NASA Railroad, is under review, Diller says.
For the past 30 years, the short line has been an important component of the shuttle program, providing a system for transporting the solid rocket boosters from ATK Aerospace Systems' Utah manufacturing plant to the space center on Florida's east coast.
Private Railroads Play a PartThe solid rocket boosters are transported in eight-piece segments during a seven-day journey over track owned by Union Pacific Railroad, Kansas City Southern, Norfolk Southern Railway, CSX Transportation and Florida East Coast Railway (FEC), says Dave Hoffman, who managed the NASA Railroad for 13 years until he retired in 1996.
NASA owns three SW-1500 locomotives, but the rocket booster segment cars are owned by UP, CSXT, KSC and FEC, says Diller. Most of the rolling stock is standard operating equipment for freight rail, but some of the rocket-booster structure cars were designed and customized by NASA with Hoffman's input.
The railroad dates to the U.S. space program's early days, and FEC has a long history with the short line, Hoffman says. In 1963, FEC built a 7.5-mile connection from its mainline north of Titusville, Fla., across the Indian River to the Kennedy Space Center, which was under construction at the time.
The FEC connection joined 28 miles of NASA-built track at the Wilson Corners junction, just north of the space center. FEC also built two seven-track yards: Jay Jay Yard at the mainline interchange, and Wilson Yard. At Wilson Corners on the space center's northern end, the railroad splits into two, nine-mile stretches of track. One segment leads to the space center's vehicle assembly building and launch pad areas; the other, to the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
By the time the shuttle program took off in the 1980s, NASA Railroad's mainline between the FEC interchange north of Titusville and the space center's vehicle assembly building required upgrading, Hoffman says. As originally built, the track wasn't equipped to accommodate the weight of the 12-foot-wide, 150-ton rocket-booster segments.
So, NASA contracted FEC to rebuild the mainline with heavy welded rail, concrete ties and granite ballast to meet safety and weight requirements. The reconstruction helped ensure the track would survive the area's salty air and humid climate, Hoffman says.
"Some of that track has been out there since the late 1980s and all we've had done [to maintain it] is spray for weeds," he says.
The railroad has been used to haul other hazardous cargo, such as chemicals used in making rocket propellant, Air Force Titan rockets, Navy Trident missiles and shuttle booster segments for the Ares I-X flight test.
Although President Barack Obama has said he's committed to NASA's future and its space-exploration mission, he's also called for expanding commercial companies' involvement in space transportation, including transporting astronauts to the International Space Station.
In December 2010, Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) used Cape Canaveral Air Force Base to launch an unmanned rocket for testing in orbit — a first for a privately owned company. The rocket successfully parachuted back to Earth three hours later.
How the NASA Railroad might be used to serve commercial businesses like SpaceX is part of NASA's ongoing study.
"We are reviewing what the long-term requirements are for NASA, what requirements the Department of Defense will have, and what the needs of the commercial launch industry may be," Diller says. "We don't expect we'll have all the answers to that until late in 2011 or sometime in 2012."
Later this year, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is scheduled to launch the final space shuttle mission, bringing to a close the agency's 30-year space shuttle program.
What that program's end will mean for NASA's short-line railroad at Kennedy Space Center has yet to be determined.
"That's the $64 million question," says George Diller, a NASA spokesman.
As the shuttle program winds down to its final launch this summer, the space center's basic infrastructure, which includes the NASA Railroad, is under review, Diller says.
For the past 30 years, the short line has been an important component of the shuttle program, providing a system for transporting the solid rocket boosters from ATK Aerospace Systems' Utah manufacturing plant to the space center on Florida's east coast.
Private Railroads Play a PartThe solid rocket boosters are transported in eight-piece segments during a seven-day journey over track owned by Union Pacific Railroad, Kansas City Southern, Norfolk Southern Railway, CSX Transportation and Florida East Coast Railway (FEC), says Dave Hoffman, who managed the NASA Railroad for 13 years until he retired in 1996.
NASA owns three SW-1500 locomotives, but the rocket booster segment cars are owned by UP, CSXT, KSC and FEC, says Diller. Most of the rolling stock is standard operating equipment for freight rail, but some of the rocket-booster structure cars were designed and customized by NASA with Hoffman's input.
The railroad dates to the U.S. space program's early days, and FEC has a long history with the short line, Hoffman says. In 1963, FEC built a 7.5-mile connection from its mainline north of Titusville, Fla., across the Indian River to the Kennedy Space Center, which was under construction at the time.
The FEC connection joined 28 miles of NASA-built track at the Wilson Corners junction, just north of the space center. FEC also built two seven-track yards: Jay Jay Yard at the mainline interchange, and Wilson Yard. At Wilson Corners on the space center's northern end, the railroad splits into two, nine-mile stretches of track. One segment leads to the space center's vehicle assembly building and launch pad areas; the other, to the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
By the time the shuttle program took off in the 1980s, NASA Railroad's mainline between the FEC interchange north of Titusville and the space center's vehicle assembly building required upgrading, Hoffman says. As originally built, the track wasn't equipped to accommodate the weight of the 12-foot-wide, 150-ton rocket-booster segments.
So, NASA contracted FEC to rebuild the mainline with heavy welded rail, concrete ties and granite ballast to meet safety and weight requirements. The reconstruction helped ensure the track would survive the area's salty air and humid climate, Hoffman says.
"Some of that track has been out there since the late 1980s and all we've had done [to maintain it] is spray for weeds," he says.
The railroad has been used to haul other hazardous cargo, such as chemicals used in making rocket propellant, Air Force Titan rockets, Navy Trident missiles and shuttle booster segments for the Ares I-X flight test.
Although President Barack Obama has said he's committed to NASA's future and its space-exploration mission, he's also called for expanding commercial companies' involvement in space transportation, including transporting astronauts to the International Space Station.
In December 2010, Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) used Cape Canaveral Air Force Base to launch an unmanned rocket for testing in orbit — a first for a privately owned company. The rocket successfully parachuted back to Earth three hours later.
How the NASA Railroad might be used to serve commercial businesses like SpaceX is part of NASA's ongoing study.
"We are reviewing what the long-term requirements are for NASA, what requirements the Department of Defense will have, and what the needs of the commercial launch industry may be," Diller says. "We don't expect we'll have all the answers to that until late in 2011 or sometime in 2012."
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Renewed Call For Competitive US Spaceflight Marketplace
SpaceTravel.com: Renewed Call For Competitive US Spaceflight Marketplace
Two articles juxtaposed:
The Competitive Space Task Force, a coalition of fiscal conservatives and free-market leaders, has unveiled its strategy for creating a free and competitive market for spaceflight and space services enabling the country to recapture the imagination and innovation of America's space program and foster a new entrepreneurial spirit in the emerging Space Economy. The Task Force unveiled its core strategy and principles today at a press conference in the hearing room of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
Retired Congressman and former Chairman of the House Science Committee Robert S. Walker remarked, "The Space Economy is emerging as the next great frontier for economic expansion and U.S. leadership. If we really want to 'win the future,' we cannot abandon our commitment to space exploration and human spaceflight. The fastest path to space is not through Moscow, but through the American entrepreneur."
In recent years, between the long-planned retirement of the Space Shuttle and the cancellation of Constellation and NASA's troubled Ares rocket program, the U.S. has grown increasingly reliant on the Russian Soyuz for transportation to and from the International Space Station costing taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars over just the next few years.
Rather than funding the Russian space program, the U.S. could be creating jobs at home by relying instead on America's private space industry. America's dependence on the Russian program is complicated by our foreign policy as we seek to discourage the Russians from aiding U.S. adversaries in the development of nuclear weaponry and missile technology.
Said Rand Simberg, Chairman of the Competitive Space Task Force, "America cannot simply sit in the passenger seat and expect to lead. We need to pilot the ship. We need to lead the way."
According to the Task Force, an open and free market for both space transportation and services would fuel innovation, lower costs and create jobs. Recommendations to Congress include:
+ Accelerating efforts to stimulate new American industrial competitive crew transportation systems to low Earth orbit; + Opening up the U.S. segment of the International Space Station to the fullest possible economic utilization by the U.S. private sector; + Utilizing fixed-price, pay-for-performance contracts to reward private investment and innovation in human exploration and spaceflight projects; + And dramatically reducing the costs of NASA programs while opening up new commercial opportunities for private business in space.
The flawed assumption in the management of America's space program, according to Task Force leaders, is that centralized five and ten-year plans through cost-plus contracts to selected contractors is the most efficient way to innovate and compete with the global space community. While the Task Force acknowledges this approach worked for the Apollo program, they point to recent successes and innovation in commercial space transportation, increased international competition and the limitations on government funding as catalysts for a new decentralized and entrepreneurial approach.
Said Simberg, "Government can and should create a framework for American industry and individuals to pursue their ideals and dreams, and space should be no exception. By opening space up to the American people and their enterprises, NASA can ignite an economic, technological, and innovation renaissance, and the United States will regain its rightful place as the world leader in space."
Competitive Space Task Force ("CSTF") is a coalition of leading conservative and free-market thinkers from organizations committed to creating a free and competitive market for U.S. spaceflight and space services, reducing government waste at NASA, and reclaiming America's proud legacy of achievement in human spaceflight and technology innovation. Members of the Task Force include the Honorable Robert Walker; Competitive Enterprise Institute; Citizens Against Government Waste; TechFreedom; Andrew Langer, Institute for Liberty; Robert Poole, Reason Foundation; Ed Hudgins, The Atlas Society; and James Muncy, Space Frontier Foundation. Rand Simberg of the Competitive Enterprise Institute serves as Chairman of the Task Force.
Two articles juxtaposed:
The Competitive Space Task Force, a coalition of fiscal conservatives and free-market leaders, has unveiled its strategy for creating a free and competitive market for spaceflight and space services enabling the country to recapture the imagination and innovation of America's space program and foster a new entrepreneurial spirit in the emerging Space Economy. The Task Force unveiled its core strategy and principles today at a press conference in the hearing room of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
Retired Congressman and former Chairman of the House Science Committee Robert S. Walker remarked, "The Space Economy is emerging as the next great frontier for economic expansion and U.S. leadership. If we really want to 'win the future,' we cannot abandon our commitment to space exploration and human spaceflight. The fastest path to space is not through Moscow, but through the American entrepreneur."
In recent years, between the long-planned retirement of the Space Shuttle and the cancellation of Constellation and NASA's troubled Ares rocket program, the U.S. has grown increasingly reliant on the Russian Soyuz for transportation to and from the International Space Station costing taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars over just the next few years.
Rather than funding the Russian space program, the U.S. could be creating jobs at home by relying instead on America's private space industry. America's dependence on the Russian program is complicated by our foreign policy as we seek to discourage the Russians from aiding U.S. adversaries in the development of nuclear weaponry and missile technology.
Said Rand Simberg, Chairman of the Competitive Space Task Force, "America cannot simply sit in the passenger seat and expect to lead. We need to pilot the ship. We need to lead the way."
According to the Task Force, an open and free market for both space transportation and services would fuel innovation, lower costs and create jobs. Recommendations to Congress include:
+ Accelerating efforts to stimulate new American industrial competitive crew transportation systems to low Earth orbit; + Opening up the U.S. segment of the International Space Station to the fullest possible economic utilization by the U.S. private sector; + Utilizing fixed-price, pay-for-performance contracts to reward private investment and innovation in human exploration and spaceflight projects; + And dramatically reducing the costs of NASA programs while opening up new commercial opportunities for private business in space.
The flawed assumption in the management of America's space program, according to Task Force leaders, is that centralized five and ten-year plans through cost-plus contracts to selected contractors is the most efficient way to innovate and compete with the global space community. While the Task Force acknowledges this approach worked for the Apollo program, they point to recent successes and innovation in commercial space transportation, increased international competition and the limitations on government funding as catalysts for a new decentralized and entrepreneurial approach.
Said Simberg, "Government can and should create a framework for American industry and individuals to pursue their ideals and dreams, and space should be no exception. By opening space up to the American people and their enterprises, NASA can ignite an economic, technological, and innovation renaissance, and the United States will regain its rightful place as the world leader in space."
Competitive Space Task Force ("CSTF") is a coalition of leading conservative and free-market thinkers from organizations committed to creating a free and competitive market for U.S. spaceflight and space services, reducing government waste at NASA, and reclaiming America's proud legacy of achievement in human spaceflight and technology innovation. Members of the Task Force include the Honorable Robert Walker; Competitive Enterprise Institute; Citizens Against Government Waste; TechFreedom; Andrew Langer, Institute for Liberty; Robert Poole, Reason Foundation; Ed Hudgins, The Atlas Society; and James Muncy, Space Frontier Foundation. Rand Simberg of the Competitive Enterprise Institute serves as Chairman of the Task Force.
CAGW President Speaks At Press Conference On Competitive Spaceflight
Washington - Citizens Against Government Waste (CAGW) President Tom Schatz will speak on Capitol Hill this morning about the importance of increasing private sector participation in space exploration while reducing the government's role. Schatz will deliver his remarks at a press conference featuring members of the Competitive Space Task Force, a coalition of organizations seeking a free and competitive market for spaceflight and space services, including the Competitive Enterprise Institute, TechFreedom, Institute for Liberty, Reason Foundation, The Atlas Society, and the Space Frontier Foundation.
CAGW, America's premier taxpayer watchdog group, has supported the elimination of wasteful space programs in favor of increased reliance on the private sector since its inception in 1984. Its annual Prime Cuts database, which has been published annually since 1993, features 763 recommendations that would save taxpayers $350 billion in one year and $2.2 trillion over five years.
Among the space-related proposals are the cancellation of NASA's Chandra X-Ray Observatory, abandoning the Moon/Mars Initiative, ending U.S. involvement with the International Space Station, and hiring private firms for communications with government spacecraft.
"NASA has been more willing to pay $55.8 million per passenger for the Russians to ferry American astronauts back and forth to space than it has been to rely on an American private sector that is willing, able, and eager to provide the same service at a fraction of the cost," said Schatz.
"As the nation marks President Reagan's 100th birthday this week, it is relevant to note that the Grace Commission, which was established by President Reagan and led directly to the founding of CAGW, called for privatization of the Space Shuttle in its final 1984 report. With the nation facing a record budget deficit of $1.5 trillion and a fast-growing $14.3 trillion national debt, it is critical to adopt all cost-saving recommendations for space exploration."
In May 2010, CAGW called for NASA to cut its losses and terminate the wasteful and ineffective Constellation human spaceflight program, predicted by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to cost taxpayers $230 billion upon completion. That same month, CAGW released an issue brief highlighting the many performance shortcomings and budgetary overages of Constellation.
"At CAGW we believe taxpayers spend money more effectively than government bureaucrats. As a result, getting the government out of space exploration is one of our top priorities. It is gratifying to have a chance to work toward that goal alongside such an impressive alliance of like-minded groups," Schatz concluded.
Citizens Against Government Waste is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement in government.
House Republicans Want to Force NASA to Drop Its Global Warming Research and Focus on Space Exploration
From something called Weasel Zippers: House Republicans Want to Force NASA to Drop Its Global Warming Research and Focus on Space Exploration
Washington, Feb 8 — As House leaders examine ways to cut spending and address the ever growing budget deficits that have plagued Washington for years, U.S. Representatives Bill Posey (R-FL), Sandy Adams (R-FL) and Rob Bishop (R-UT) were joined by several other of their colleagues in calling for a reprioritization of NASA so human space flight remains the primary focus of the nation’s space agency as budget cuts are considered.
In their recent letter to House Appropriations Committee Chairman Harold Rogers (R-KY) and Commerce, Justice, and Science Subcommittee Chairman Frank Wolf (R-VA), Posey, Adams and Bishop state that while “moving forward under a constrained budget, it will be critical for the Appropriations Committee to produce legislation that is precise in its budget cuts. For years, Presidents and Congress have charged NASA with completing tasks that fall outside the scope of NASA’s primary mission.
“Limited resources force us to make important decisions with regard to the objectives of all federal departments and agencies, including NASA,” said Representative Bill Posey (R-FL). “NASA’s primary purpose is human space exploration and directing NASA funds to study global warming undermines our ability to maintain our competitive edge in human space flight.”
“It is counterintuitive to direct millions of dollars to NASA for duplicative climate change programs and at the same time cancel its manned space flight program — the purpose for which the agency was originally created. Far too many forget that at one time in our nation’s history we were losing the space race. With the creation of NASA, we emerged as leaders and have remained so ever since. If NASA’s manned space program disappears, our nation will once again experience a ‘Sputnik Moment.’ Our country will again watch from the sidelines as countries like Russia, China and India charge ahead as leaders in space exploration and missile defense,” said Representative Rob Bishop (R-UT).
In Fiscal Year 2010, NASA spent over 7.5% — over a billion dollars — of its budget on studying global warming/climate change. The bulk of the funds NASA received in the stimulus went toward climate change studies. Excessive growth of climate change research has not been limited to NASA. Overall, the government spent over $8.7 billion across 16 Agencies and Departments throughout the federal government on these efforts in FY 2010 alone. Global warming funding presents an opportunity to reduce spending without unduly impacting NASA’s core human spaceflight mission.
Washington, Feb 8 — As House leaders examine ways to cut spending and address the ever growing budget deficits that have plagued Washington for years, U.S. Representatives Bill Posey (R-FL), Sandy Adams (R-FL) and Rob Bishop (R-UT) were joined by several other of their colleagues in calling for a reprioritization of NASA so human space flight remains the primary focus of the nation’s space agency as budget cuts are considered.
In their recent letter to House Appropriations Committee Chairman Harold Rogers (R-KY) and Commerce, Justice, and Science Subcommittee Chairman Frank Wolf (R-VA), Posey, Adams and Bishop state that while “moving forward under a constrained budget, it will be critical for the Appropriations Committee to produce legislation that is precise in its budget cuts. For years, Presidents and Congress have charged NASA with completing tasks that fall outside the scope of NASA’s primary mission.
“Limited resources force us to make important decisions with regard to the objectives of all federal departments and agencies, including NASA,” said Representative Bill Posey (R-FL). “NASA’s primary purpose is human space exploration and directing NASA funds to study global warming undermines our ability to maintain our competitive edge in human space flight.”
“It is counterintuitive to direct millions of dollars to NASA for duplicative climate change programs and at the same time cancel its manned space flight program — the purpose for which the agency was originally created. Far too many forget that at one time in our nation’s history we were losing the space race. With the creation of NASA, we emerged as leaders and have remained so ever since. If NASA’s manned space program disappears, our nation will once again experience a ‘Sputnik Moment.’ Our country will again watch from the sidelines as countries like Russia, China and India charge ahead as leaders in space exploration and missile defense,” said Representative Rob Bishop (R-UT).
In Fiscal Year 2010, NASA spent over 7.5% — over a billion dollars — of its budget on studying global warming/climate change. The bulk of the funds NASA received in the stimulus went toward climate change studies. Excessive growth of climate change research has not been limited to NASA. Overall, the government spent over $8.7 billion across 16 Agencies and Departments throughout the federal government on these efforts in FY 2010 alone. Global warming funding presents an opportunity to reduce spending without unduly impacting NASA’s core human spaceflight mission.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Russia should have its own deep space program - Medvedev
Itar Tass: Russia should have its own deep space program - Medvedev
MOSCOW, February 8 (Itar-Tass) -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev believes that Russia should develop its own program for the exploration of deep space in general and the Moon in particular. "I think this is a very important topic, even in terms of our scientific ambitions. If we fail to address it at all, we shall degrade and will be pushed to the sidelines," the president said at a meeting with young scientists on Tuesday.
Medvedev admitted that he could not promise such a program would be ready in one year’s time, “which would let us catch up with the Americans.”
The president added that the topic was a subject matter for research by experts in Europe and China. “Everybody is willing to get in space, it is necessary to understand just where our place in space and on the Moon is," the head of state said.
The lack of a Russian deep space exploration program was raised by the winner of the presidential award in science for young scientists, Maxim Mokrousov, from the Institute for Space Studies. "It's no secret that all countries have set eyes on the Moon, the exploration of the Moon will begin for certain," he said. Medvedev agreed with the scientist: "No doubt." However, Mokrousov is concerned that for Russia there may be not enough space on the Moon, because there are "just four or five normal landing sites."
The president of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Yuri Osipov, echoed the young scientist’s opinion to recall that there was such a program back in the Soviet era, but then it gradually shrank. "Space research is in danger, while 20 years ago we were the absolute leaders," Osipov said.
Medvedev asked who was responsible for developing such programs. "Roscosmos," Osipov replied. After hearing his response, the president made a note in his records.
At the same time, speaking in Washington last autumn at a meeting of the heads of space agencies from 30 countries, the head of federal space agency Anatoly Perminov, said that in the coming decade, Russia was planning to implement a number of major new space projects, study planets and smaller solar system bodies. He said that work was in progress on the project Phobos-Grunt, preliminary studies had been carried out for a complex project Mars-NET for the deployment on Mars of a network of small meteorological and seismological stations.
As the head of the Russian federal space agency said, “the recently obtained data from the Moon indicated the presence of large amounts of water and gave a strong impetus to our lunar program."
In addition, there are projects to explore Mercury, Jupiter and asteroids. The "Russian innovative project to create a transport-and-energy module based on a megawatt-class nuclear power plant has no counterparts in the world."
"The project focuses on the implementation of large-scale programs for the study and exploration of outer space (flights to distant planets, missions to Mars, Moon bases, and others), as well as for missions to asteroids in order to change the asteroids’ orbits and prevent the possibility of collision with the Earth," Perminov said.
The Russian Space Agency is also discussing with NASA future missions to deep space. According to the head of Roscosmos, research is underway into "preparations for leaving low-Earth orbits - and there are various ways of doing that – and for reaching certain points around the Moon and on the lunar surface and asteroids."
"All these moves are part of preparations for a flight to Mars," said Perminov.
MOSCOW, February 8 (Itar-Tass) -- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev believes that Russia should develop its own program for the exploration of deep space in general and the Moon in particular. "I think this is a very important topic, even in terms of our scientific ambitions. If we fail to address it at all, we shall degrade and will be pushed to the sidelines," the president said at a meeting with young scientists on Tuesday.
Medvedev admitted that he could not promise such a program would be ready in one year’s time, “which would let us catch up with the Americans.”
The president added that the topic was a subject matter for research by experts in Europe and China. “Everybody is willing to get in space, it is necessary to understand just where our place in space and on the Moon is," the head of state said.
The lack of a Russian deep space exploration program was raised by the winner of the presidential award in science for young scientists, Maxim Mokrousov, from the Institute for Space Studies. "It's no secret that all countries have set eyes on the Moon, the exploration of the Moon will begin for certain," he said. Medvedev agreed with the scientist: "No doubt." However, Mokrousov is concerned that for Russia there may be not enough space on the Moon, because there are "just four or five normal landing sites."
The president of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Yuri Osipov, echoed the young scientist’s opinion to recall that there was such a program back in the Soviet era, but then it gradually shrank. "Space research is in danger, while 20 years ago we were the absolute leaders," Osipov said.
Medvedev asked who was responsible for developing such programs. "Roscosmos," Osipov replied. After hearing his response, the president made a note in his records.
At the same time, speaking in Washington last autumn at a meeting of the heads of space agencies from 30 countries, the head of federal space agency Anatoly Perminov, said that in the coming decade, Russia was planning to implement a number of major new space projects, study planets and smaller solar system bodies. He said that work was in progress on the project Phobos-Grunt, preliminary studies had been carried out for a complex project Mars-NET for the deployment on Mars of a network of small meteorological and seismological stations.
As the head of the Russian federal space agency said, “the recently obtained data from the Moon indicated the presence of large amounts of water and gave a strong impetus to our lunar program."
In addition, there are projects to explore Mercury, Jupiter and asteroids. The "Russian innovative project to create a transport-and-energy module based on a megawatt-class nuclear power plant has no counterparts in the world."
"The project focuses on the implementation of large-scale programs for the study and exploration of outer space (flights to distant planets, missions to Mars, Moon bases, and others), as well as for missions to asteroids in order to change the asteroids’ orbits and prevent the possibility of collision with the Earth," Perminov said.
The Russian Space Agency is also discussing with NASA future missions to deep space. According to the head of Roscosmos, research is underway into "preparations for leaving low-Earth orbits - and there are various ways of doing that – and for reaching certain points around the Moon and on the lunar surface and asteroids."
"All these moves are part of preparations for a flight to Mars," said Perminov.
US Isn't Pushing Private Space Effort Hard Enough, Group Says
Space.com: US Isn't Pushing Private Space Effort Hard Enough, Group Says
The United States needs to ramp up commercial space exploration and scale down NASA's role in flying humans to low-Earth orbit, a conservative organization says.
Members of the group called the Competitive Space Task Force argued at a press conference in Washington yesterday (Feb. 8) that the country must be far more aggressive in stimulating commercial opportunities and competitiveness in space, while government-led space exploration should focus on more-advanced goals such as nuclear-powered rocket engines.
"I think the philosophy that the only way to space is through NASA's front door is simply outdated," said group member Robert S. Walker, a retired congressman (R-Pa.) who chaired the House science committee. "As long as NASA sticks to the idea that their primary goal is to get from Earth to low-Earth orbit, we will have a problem."
Instead NASA should leave that job to the commercial sector, where companies like Space Exploration Technologies — the Hawthorne, Calif., company commonly known as SpaceX — are already starting to pick up the slack with their own private spaceships and rockets, Walker said.
Focus on private spaceflight
The group, which describes itself as a coalition of fiscal conservatives and free-market leaders, said renewed focus on the commercial space sector could not only save costs for NASA but reduce dependence on Russia and its Soyuz spacecraft to carry U.S. astronauts to space after the space shuttles are retired this year.
"America cannot simply sit in the passenger seat and expect to lead. We need to pilot the ship. We need to lead the way," said group chairman Rand Simberg in a statement.
The Competitive Space Task Force plans to make a series of recommendations to Congress, including the advice that NASA use fixed-price, pay-for-performance contracts with private businesses to reduce the costs of its programs while opening up new commercial opportunities. It also advocates making the U.S. segment of the International Space Station more accessible to commercial companies for scientific research.
"One has to look back at the history of exploration worldwide," said task force member Andrew Langer of the Institute for Liberty, an organization that promotes small government. "State-sponsored exploration always gives way to private-sponsored exploration. It's the entrepreneurs that always carry it to the next level. And we are at that point now."
Busy time for commercial space industry
The task force's briefing occurred during a busy time for the private spaceflight industry. On the same day, long-time NASA contractor Alliant Techsystems announced a partnership with the European firm Astrium to convert part of NASA's Ares I rocket — whose role in space was canceled by President Obama last year — into a commercial launch vehicle.
The press conference also occurred the day before the Federal Aviation Administration began a two-day conference in Washington on the opportunities and challenges for private space vehicles.
NASA is already in a state of transition after Obama scrapped the space agency's moon-bound Constellation program and instituted a plan to target an asteroid and Mars.
Obama has spoken about spurring commercial spaceflight, but members of the task force say he should do more.
In October 2010 the president signed into law a NASA authorization bill passed by Congress that represented somewhat of a compromise between NASA's old path and the administration's plan.
Since that bill has not passed through congressional appropriations, members of the Competitive Space Task Force said they have hope it can still be altered.
"Much of what ended up in the authorization bill last year was the work of relatively few people," Walker, who represented the western outskirts of Philadelphia for 20 years, told SPACE.com. "If we can make more people a part of that discussion, we think that changing the direction of the policy is very possible going forward."
The United States needs to ramp up commercial space exploration and scale down NASA's role in flying humans to low-Earth orbit, a conservative organization says.
Members of the group called the Competitive Space Task Force argued at a press conference in Washington yesterday (Feb. 8) that the country must be far more aggressive in stimulating commercial opportunities and competitiveness in space, while government-led space exploration should focus on more-advanced goals such as nuclear-powered rocket engines.
"I think the philosophy that the only way to space is through NASA's front door is simply outdated," said group member Robert S. Walker, a retired congressman (R-Pa.) who chaired the House science committee. "As long as NASA sticks to the idea that their primary goal is to get from Earth to low-Earth orbit, we will have a problem."
Instead NASA should leave that job to the commercial sector, where companies like Space Exploration Technologies — the Hawthorne, Calif., company commonly known as SpaceX — are already starting to pick up the slack with their own private spaceships and rockets, Walker said.
Focus on private spaceflight
The group, which describes itself as a coalition of fiscal conservatives and free-market leaders, said renewed focus on the commercial space sector could not only save costs for NASA but reduce dependence on Russia and its Soyuz spacecraft to carry U.S. astronauts to space after the space shuttles are retired this year.
"America cannot simply sit in the passenger seat and expect to lead. We need to pilot the ship. We need to lead the way," said group chairman Rand Simberg in a statement.
The Competitive Space Task Force plans to make a series of recommendations to Congress, including the advice that NASA use fixed-price, pay-for-performance contracts with private businesses to reduce the costs of its programs while opening up new commercial opportunities. It also advocates making the U.S. segment of the International Space Station more accessible to commercial companies for scientific research.
"One has to look back at the history of exploration worldwide," said task force member Andrew Langer of the Institute for Liberty, an organization that promotes small government. "State-sponsored exploration always gives way to private-sponsored exploration. It's the entrepreneurs that always carry it to the next level. And we are at that point now."
Busy time for commercial space industry
The task force's briefing occurred during a busy time for the private spaceflight industry. On the same day, long-time NASA contractor Alliant Techsystems announced a partnership with the European firm Astrium to convert part of NASA's Ares I rocket — whose role in space was canceled by President Obama last year — into a commercial launch vehicle.
The press conference also occurred the day before the Federal Aviation Administration began a two-day conference in Washington on the opportunities and challenges for private space vehicles.
NASA is already in a state of transition after Obama scrapped the space agency's moon-bound Constellation program and instituted a plan to target an asteroid and Mars.
Obama has spoken about spurring commercial spaceflight, but members of the task force say he should do more.
In October 2010 the president signed into law a NASA authorization bill passed by Congress that represented somewhat of a compromise between NASA's old path and the administration's plan.
Since that bill has not passed through congressional appropriations, members of the Competitive Space Task Force said they have hope it can still be altered.
"Much of what ended up in the authorization bill last year was the work of relatively few people," Walker, who represented the western outskirts of Philadelphia for 20 years, told SPACE.com. "If we can make more people a part of that discussion, we think that changing the direction of the policy is very possible going forward."
Monday, February 7, 2011
Up for grabs? Private companies eye KSC facilities
Florida Today: Up for grabs? Private companies eye KSC facilities
The Kennedy Space Center site where some of the greatest shuttle payloads were prepared for launch, including the Hubble Space Telescope and interplanetary probes, is now a patch of grass.
The Vertical Processing Facility was mothballed after the Columbia disaster when the shuttles began flying only International Space Station components. Last year, with no prospective tenants and high costs to bring it up to code, the facility built in 1964 was razed without ceremony.
"It was just not on anybody's radar screen as being a viable facility for reuse," said Jim Ball, deputy manager of Kennedy's Center Planning and Development Office. "At the end of the day, it made more sense to knock it down."
As the shuttle program nears retirement, KSC officials are evaluating whether other facilities that supported three decades of shuttle flights will transition to serve new vehicles or be discarded. The center is offering use of its launch pads, runway, Vehicle Assembly Building high bays, hangars and firing rooms to private companies expected to play a bigger role in NASA missions and a growing commercial space market.
The hope is that KSC will become a hub where many rockets and spacecraft fly government and commercial missions, spurring job growth on the Space Coast and offsetting losses from the shuttles' retirement.
But matching infrastructure with the new mission isn't as simple as turning over the keys. Several challenges include:
KSC won't be sure which facilities will become fully or partially "underutilzied" after the shuttle until NASA designs the heavy-lift rocket lawmakers asked it to build by 2016 for deep space exploration missions.
Buildings where solid rocket boosters and main engines have been processed, for example, may or may not be needed depending on how much the giant rocket uses shuttle-derived components.
Congressional budget gridlock and a clamor for federal spending cuts have left companies uncertain if plans to develop commercial systems will be funded enough to make flying astronauts a good business.
The Kennedy Space Center site where some of the greatest shuttle payloads were prepared for launch, including the Hubble Space Telescope and interplanetary probes, is now a patch of grass.
The Vertical Processing Facility was mothballed after the Columbia disaster when the shuttles began flying only International Space Station components. Last year, with no prospective tenants and high costs to bring it up to code, the facility built in 1964 was razed without ceremony.
"It was just not on anybody's radar screen as being a viable facility for reuse," said Jim Ball, deputy manager of Kennedy's Center Planning and Development Office. "At the end of the day, it made more sense to knock it down."
As the shuttle program nears retirement, KSC officials are evaluating whether other facilities that supported three decades of shuttle flights will transition to serve new vehicles or be discarded. The center is offering use of its launch pads, runway, Vehicle Assembly Building high bays, hangars and firing rooms to private companies expected to play a bigger role in NASA missions and a growing commercial space market.
The hope is that KSC will become a hub where many rockets and spacecraft fly government and commercial missions, spurring job growth on the Space Coast and offsetting losses from the shuttles' retirement.
But matching infrastructure with the new mission isn't as simple as turning over the keys. Several challenges include:
KSC won't be sure which facilities will become fully or partially "underutilzied" after the shuttle until NASA designs the heavy-lift rocket lawmakers asked it to build by 2016 for deep space exploration missions.
Buildings where solid rocket boosters and main engines have been processed, for example, may or may not be needed depending on how much the giant rocket uses shuttle-derived components.
Congressional budget gridlock and a clamor for federal spending cuts have left companies uncertain if plans to develop commercial systems will be funded enough to make flying astronauts a good business.
Is there a NASA contracting story in your orbit?
Business Journalim.org: Is there a NASA contracting story in your orbit?
The big news Friday that astronaut Mark Kelly will command space shuttle Endeavor in April got me to thinking about the plight of contractors to the waning NASA program.
Photo credit: Aerospace Blog
The April flight may be the last for the shuttle, following the planned February 24 launch of the shuttle Discovery, which was just moved to its launch pad in anticipation of its final chance to soar. (A possible final flight in June for shuttle Atlantis hasn’t received its funding appropriation yet.)
Discovery’s launch a few weeks from now might be a good peg for checking on any jobs or revenue toll in your area related to the winding down of the NASA shuttle program. While shuttle activities are clustered in Florida, at the Kennedy Space Center, and in Houston’s mission control operations, contractors and suppliers to NASA exist nationwide and may well be in your market.
While Wikipedia isn’t my source of choice, the site does publish a handy list of Top 100 NASA contractors; clicking on the hyperlinks finds company operations ranging from California to Connecticut; check the list for local ties. If your state has a defense contracting trade group, check with them, and ask your state’s commerce department about any space-contracting ties they’re aware of.
Also, branching beyond the shuttle program, check out this NASA procurement site; among a lot of interesting information you’ll find annual reports which list prime contracting awards by state; here’s a link to the 2009 report. And who knew that the space agency operated a small business outreach program? According the annual report, above, billions of dollars in contracts are awarded to small companies; the vendor database on the small business channel is restricted from public view but try contacting NASA PR for help in finding suppliers near you.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Labor has awarded retraining grants in Florida and Texas, where shuttle-related layoffs have been under way for some time. A quick Google search finds more layoffs and notices since the first of the year, as last week’s Florida Today story about 548 more job cuts illustrates. Check with your state’s labor department about any effects locally, and whether your region may be getting any retraining funds or other grants related to the space program.
It’s not a bad peg for a careers story, if that’s your beat — especially with all of the attention paid lately to Capt. Kelly following the wounding of his wife, Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, in the Tuscon shooting . Space exploration still inspires a lot of awe and still carries quite a bit of glamour and mystique; how does one become an astronaut these days, or a mission control specialist, or a rocket scientist? I bet a lot of readers would love an occupational outlook piece related to space.
Other ideas: Any ties to commercial space use in your region? The U.S. Department of Commerce and NOAA operate the Office of Space Commercialization (another who knew?) – maybe they can hook you up with bidders or groups proposing projects. And the FAA’s Office of Commercial Space Transportation regulates rockets and launch sites; see their permits page for more leads.
And this sounds interesting: Environmental Tectonics Corporation just announced the new space program line-up at its NASTAR training center outside Philadelphia, including space pilot workshops and more. It says it’s the only approved provider of space programs to the general public.
One last thought: The value of space shuttle memorabilia ought to go – forgive me – sky high this year as the program comes to an end. I still remember the excitement of the first flights 30 years ago, and the popularity of space shuttle knickknacks, ‘operations manuals’ and other related kitsch. Check with collectibles dealers, local eBayers, space enthusiast groups, science museums and any other retailer that might be seeing a bump in sales of space goods.
The big news Friday that astronaut Mark Kelly will command space shuttle Endeavor in April got me to thinking about the plight of contractors to the waning NASA program.
Photo credit: Aerospace Blog
The April flight may be the last for the shuttle, following the planned February 24 launch of the shuttle Discovery, which was just moved to its launch pad in anticipation of its final chance to soar. (A possible final flight in June for shuttle Atlantis hasn’t received its funding appropriation yet.)
Discovery’s launch a few weeks from now might be a good peg for checking on any jobs or revenue toll in your area related to the winding down of the NASA shuttle program. While shuttle activities are clustered in Florida, at the Kennedy Space Center, and in Houston’s mission control operations, contractors and suppliers to NASA exist nationwide and may well be in your market.
While Wikipedia isn’t my source of choice, the site does publish a handy list of Top 100 NASA contractors; clicking on the hyperlinks finds company operations ranging from California to Connecticut; check the list for local ties. If your state has a defense contracting trade group, check with them, and ask your state’s commerce department about any space-contracting ties they’re aware of.
Also, branching beyond the shuttle program, check out this NASA procurement site; among a lot of interesting information you’ll find annual reports which list prime contracting awards by state; here’s a link to the 2009 report. And who knew that the space agency operated a small business outreach program? According the annual report, above, billions of dollars in contracts are awarded to small companies; the vendor database on the small business channel is restricted from public view but try contacting NASA PR for help in finding suppliers near you.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Labor has awarded retraining grants in Florida and Texas, where shuttle-related layoffs have been under way for some time. A quick Google search finds more layoffs and notices since the first of the year, as last week’s Florida Today story about 548 more job cuts illustrates. Check with your state’s labor department about any effects locally, and whether your region may be getting any retraining funds or other grants related to the space program.
It’s not a bad peg for a careers story, if that’s your beat — especially with all of the attention paid lately to Capt. Kelly following the wounding of his wife, Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, in the Tuscon shooting . Space exploration still inspires a lot of awe and still carries quite a bit of glamour and mystique; how does one become an astronaut these days, or a mission control specialist, or a rocket scientist? I bet a lot of readers would love an occupational outlook piece related to space.
Other ideas: Any ties to commercial space use in your region? The U.S. Department of Commerce and NOAA operate the Office of Space Commercialization (another who knew?) – maybe they can hook you up with bidders or groups proposing projects. And the FAA’s Office of Commercial Space Transportation regulates rockets and launch sites; see their permits page for more leads.
And this sounds interesting: Environmental Tectonics Corporation just announced the new space program line-up at its NASTAR training center outside Philadelphia, including space pilot workshops and more. It says it’s the only approved provider of space programs to the general public.
One last thought: The value of space shuttle memorabilia ought to go – forgive me – sky high this year as the program comes to an end. I still remember the excitement of the first flights 30 years ago, and the popularity of space shuttle knickknacks, ‘operations manuals’ and other related kitsch. Check with collectibles dealers, local eBayers, space enthusiast groups, science museums and any other retailer that might be seeing a bump in sales of space goods.
Friday, February 4, 2011
All Systems Go for Space Adventurers in Dry Run to Red Planet
TechNewsWorld: All Systems Go for Space Adventurers in Dry Run to Red Planet
Despite the many successes achieved with robotic exploration, humans still have a hankering to visit Mars, and five cosmonauts and astronauts are partially fulfilling that dream. Their virtual adventure puts them through all the paces of a trip to the Red Planet without actually leaving the ground. The crew just entered Mars orbit and is preparing to step onto the Martian surface on Feb. 12.
An international crew of cosmonauts and astronauts reached orbit around Mars Thursday, marking a major milestone on a 520-day simulated journey to the fourth planet from the Sun.
Mars500 crewmembers testing the Russian Orlan suits before their mission started in early June 2010. (Photo: IBMP/Oleg Voloshin)
Now 245 days away from Earth, Mars500 crew members from Russia, France, China, Italy and Colombia are scheduled to land Feb. 12 with simulated trips to the Martian surface.
A European Space Agency (ESA)-sponsored venture, "Mars500 is the most realistic space flight simulation possible without leaving the ground," explained ESA human space flight directorate communications officer Rosita Suenson.
Simulated missions, or dry-runs "are always very important, even in early stages when we do not know specific details about what space vehicle or propulsion system will bring humans to Mars," said University of Southern California astronautics and aerospace engineering professor Michael Gruntman. "Such experiments can uncover important problems and challenges which -- if not addressed -- may ruin the real mission many years later."
Virtual Cosmology
Though the flight to Mars is real in every way possible on Earth, the six-man crew is actually parked in a simulator at the Institute for Medical and Biological Problems in Moscow, Russia. At an orbit-dependent 36 million to more than 250 million miles (58-402 million km) from Earth, Mars is far enough distant that simulated missions are necessary to address concerns about stress, claustrophobia and fatigue.
"Long duration flights without a possibility of abort have never been tried," USC's Gruntman told TechNewsWorld. "In addition, designing the mission and space hardware right in the beginning is a very effective and cost-efficient way for space missions. Making changes in design later is always very expensive and causes delays."
The Earth-bound voyagers will leave their simulated craft for an eight-day rendezvous with the planet surface, flying home Feb. 28.
"The program's emphasis on realism extends to the mission's first Mars walk -- stepping from a mock lander into a simulated Martian environment, overseen from Russia's real-life Mission Control Center," Suenson explained. "Further adding to the realism, space-suited crewmen and controllers alike will be working around a 20-minute communications delay -- the time it takes radio signals to travel between Mars and Earth."
Martian Chronicle
From The War of the Worlds to The Martian Chronicles, Mars has fascinated humans for eons, even promising intelligent Martian life as the 19th century became the 20th. But the idea of sending humans to the Red Planet is getting dated, especially as robots have proved they can cost-effectively explore Mars with far less potential peril.
"I remain surprised by the emphasis on sending humans to Mars," said University of Missouri Vice Chancellor for Research Robert Duncan, a physics professor.
"Generally, I think it makes more sense both economically and ethically to send robots," Duncan told TechNewsWorld. "Simulations with humans can duplicate many important factors such a journey might encounter, but even the best simulation cannot duplicate the huge dose of radiation humans would receive on the voyage. Robots aren't subject to such perils."
Other worlds, too, beckon first, including the moons of Mars, Phobos and Deimos, said Simon Fraser University PolyLAB director Stephen Braham, who cofounded the Mars Institute and is a senior researcher for the Canadian Space Agency-funded MarsCanada project.
"We are all looking at new and exciting destinations in the solar system for short-term exploration, and are not planning on landing humans on the moon or Mars for awhile," Braham told TechNewsWorld. "These new deep space mission opportunities include EML-1 -- a point between Earth and moon where gravity balances out -- and near-Earth asteroids. From these locations, we can easily operate robots to explore planets efficiently, without having to risk humans or spend a lot of money."
At a potential cost MU's Duncan estimated at roughly US$1 trillion, a lot of money is what it will take to land humans on Mars. "Compare that to the $150 million total cost of the Martian rovers," he said.
High costs don't mean human space exploration is over, however, and Braham emphasized that "eventually, we will get a lot more bang for the buck by landing humans." Meanwhile, the Mars500 simulation will provide "psychological and other lessons that may well help us understand issues for other deep space missions as well."
Despite the many successes achieved with robotic exploration, humans still have a hankering to visit Mars, and five cosmonauts and astronauts are partially fulfilling that dream. Their virtual adventure puts them through all the paces of a trip to the Red Planet without actually leaving the ground. The crew just entered Mars orbit and is preparing to step onto the Martian surface on Feb. 12.
An international crew of cosmonauts and astronauts reached orbit around Mars Thursday, marking a major milestone on a 520-day simulated journey to the fourth planet from the Sun.
Mars500 crewmembers testing the Russian Orlan suits before their mission started in early June 2010. (Photo: IBMP/Oleg Voloshin)
Now 245 days away from Earth, Mars500 crew members from Russia, France, China, Italy and Colombia are scheduled to land Feb. 12 with simulated trips to the Martian surface.
A European Space Agency (ESA)-sponsored venture, "Mars500 is the most realistic space flight simulation possible without leaving the ground," explained ESA human space flight directorate communications officer Rosita Suenson.
Simulated missions, or dry-runs "are always very important, even in early stages when we do not know specific details about what space vehicle or propulsion system will bring humans to Mars," said University of Southern California astronautics and aerospace engineering professor Michael Gruntman. "Such experiments can uncover important problems and challenges which -- if not addressed -- may ruin the real mission many years later."
Virtual Cosmology
Though the flight to Mars is real in every way possible on Earth, the six-man crew is actually parked in a simulator at the Institute for Medical and Biological Problems in Moscow, Russia. At an orbit-dependent 36 million to more than 250 million miles (58-402 million km) from Earth, Mars is far enough distant that simulated missions are necessary to address concerns about stress, claustrophobia and fatigue.
"Long duration flights without a possibility of abort have never been tried," USC's Gruntman told TechNewsWorld. "In addition, designing the mission and space hardware right in the beginning is a very effective and cost-efficient way for space missions. Making changes in design later is always very expensive and causes delays."
The Earth-bound voyagers will leave their simulated craft for an eight-day rendezvous with the planet surface, flying home Feb. 28.
"The program's emphasis on realism extends to the mission's first Mars walk -- stepping from a mock lander into a simulated Martian environment, overseen from Russia's real-life Mission Control Center," Suenson explained. "Further adding to the realism, space-suited crewmen and controllers alike will be working around a 20-minute communications delay -- the time it takes radio signals to travel between Mars and Earth."
Martian Chronicle
From The War of the Worlds to The Martian Chronicles, Mars has fascinated humans for eons, even promising intelligent Martian life as the 19th century became the 20th. But the idea of sending humans to the Red Planet is getting dated, especially as robots have proved they can cost-effectively explore Mars with far less potential peril.
"I remain surprised by the emphasis on sending humans to Mars," said University of Missouri Vice Chancellor for Research Robert Duncan, a physics professor.
"Generally, I think it makes more sense both economically and ethically to send robots," Duncan told TechNewsWorld. "Simulations with humans can duplicate many important factors such a journey might encounter, but even the best simulation cannot duplicate the huge dose of radiation humans would receive on the voyage. Robots aren't subject to such perils."
Other worlds, too, beckon first, including the moons of Mars, Phobos and Deimos, said Simon Fraser University PolyLAB director Stephen Braham, who cofounded the Mars Institute and is a senior researcher for the Canadian Space Agency-funded MarsCanada project.
"We are all looking at new and exciting destinations in the solar system for short-term exploration, and are not planning on landing humans on the moon or Mars for awhile," Braham told TechNewsWorld. "These new deep space mission opportunities include EML-1 -- a point between Earth and moon where gravity balances out -- and near-Earth asteroids. From these locations, we can easily operate robots to explore planets efficiently, without having to risk humans or spend a lot of money."
At a potential cost MU's Duncan estimated at roughly US$1 trillion, a lot of money is what it will take to land humans on Mars. "Compare that to the $150 million total cost of the Martian rovers," he said.
High costs don't mean human space exploration is over, however, and Braham emphasized that "eventually, we will get a lot more bang for the buck by landing humans." Meanwhile, the Mars500 simulation will provide "psychological and other lessons that may well help us understand issues for other deep space missions as well."
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