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Rediscovered After 25 Years: US Satellite Lost and Found in Space

By Jonathan Bala May 2, 2024

Rediscovered After 25 Years: US Satellite Lost and Found in Space

Key Takeaway

A small satellite called S73-7, launched in 1974 as part of a US Air Force mission, has been rediscovered after nearly 25 years of being untracked, thanks to the efforts of the 18th Space Defense Squadron.

Summary

S73-7, also known as the Infra-Red Calibration Balloon, was a 26-inch wide satellite launched in 1974 as a payload aboard the larger KH-9 Hexagon System satellite.
It was meant to inflate a balloon and continuously orbit the Earth at an altitude of 500 miles (805 km) to aid in the calibration of ground-based remote sensing equipment.
However, the satellite’s deployment failed, and it has periodically disappeared from radar tracking since the 1970s.
It went missing twice, first in the 1970s and then again in the 1990s, raising questions about how it could seemingly vanish from radar for so long.
Tracking satellites in low-Earth orbit can be challenging, especially if they do not transmit their identities and orbit near the equator, creating blind spots for radar systems.
After being untracked for nearly 25 years, S73-7 has been rediscovered and is currently being tracked again by the 18th Space Defense Squadron.
The rediscovery was announced on X (formerly Twitter) by astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell, who shared a graphic showing the satellite’s known locations since 1975.
The graphic reveals that S73-7 has been gradually losing altitude, dropping from its initial height of about 500 miles (805 km) to around 491 miles (790 km) today.
The satellite’s reappearance after such a long period highlights the challenges of tracking and monitoring the vast number of objects in Earth’s orbit, especially those that do not actively transmit their identities or locations.

The Rediscovery of a Lost Satellite

Launched in 1974 as part of a United States Air Force mission, the satellite known as S73-7, or the Infra-Red Calibration Balloon, was designed to inflate a balloon and continuously orbit the Earth at an altitude of approximately 500 miles (805 km). Its purpose was to aid in the calibration of ground-based remote sensing equipment, a crucial task for ensuring accurate data collection from space.

However, the satellite’s deployment did not go as planned, and it has periodically disappeared from radar tracking since the 1970s. This elusive behavior led to S73-7 being considered lost twice, first in the 1970s and then again in the 1990s, raising questions about how such an object could seemingly vanish from our tracking systems for extended periods.

After nearly 25 years of being untracked, S73-7 has now been rediscovered, thanks to the efforts of the 18th Space Defense Squadron. The rediscovery was announced on X (formerly Twitter) by astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell, who shared a graphic showing the satellite’s known locations since 1975.

The rediscovery of S73-7 highlights the significant challenges involved in tracking and monitoring the vast number of objects orbiting our planet. With over 20,000 cataloged pieces of debris, ranging from spent rocket stages to defunct satellites, the task of maintaining situational awareness in space is a daunting one.

One of the primary challenges is the fact that many of these objects do not actively transmit their identities or locations. This makes it difficult for ground-based radar systems to accurately track and identify them, especially when they orbit near the equator, creating blind spots for traditional tracking methods.

Additionally, the sheer number of objects in Earth’s orbit, coupled with their constant motion and potential for unexpected maneuvers, further complicates the tracking process. It’s akin to finding a needle in an intergalactic haystack, as Jonathan McDowell rightly described.

The rediscovery of S73-7 serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining robust space situational awareness. As our reliance on space-based assets continues to grow, from communication satellites to weather monitoring systems, the need to accurately track and catalog debris becomes increasingly crucial.

Untracked debris poses a significant threat to operational spacecraft, as even a small piece of debris traveling at high speeds can cause catastrophic damage. This risk underscores the need for improved tracking mechanisms and international cooperation to ensure the sustainable use of the space domain.

Furthermore, the ability to track and monitor space debris is not just about mitigating immediate risks; it also plays a vital role in enabling future space exploration and utilization. As we look towards ambitious goals such as establishing a sustained human presence on the Moon and eventually exploring Mars, a comprehensive understanding of the space environment and the ability to navigate through it safely will be paramount.

Addressing the challenges of space debris tracking and maintaining situational awareness in space will require a multifaceted approach involving technological advancements, international collaboration, and a commitment to responsible space stewardship.

One potential solution lies in the development of advanced tracking systems that can more accurately detect and identify objects, even those that do not actively transmit signals. This could involve the use of advanced radar systems, optical telescopes, and even space-based sensors to provide a more comprehensive picture of the space environment.

Additionally, international cooperation and data sharing among space agencies and private entities will be crucial in creating a unified, global space situational awareness network. By pooling resources and sharing information, we can improve our collective understanding of the space domain and better coordinate efforts to mitigate risks.

Finally, a renewed emphasis on responsible space stewardship is essential. This includes implementing measures to minimize the creation of new debris, such as designing spacecraft with end-of-life disposal plans and adhering to best practices for mitigating the risk of collisions.

The rediscovery of S73-7 serves as a touching reminder of the challenges we face in maintaining situational awareness in the increasingly congested space domain. While the satellite’s reappearance is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of those involved in space debris tracking, it also highlights the pressing need for enhanced tracking mechanisms and a concerted effort to address the growing issue of space debris.

As we continue to explore and utilize the vast expanse of space, it is imperative that we prioritize the development of robust tracking systems, foster international collaboration, and promote responsible space stewardship. Only by addressing these challenges head-on can we ensure the sustainable and safe use of the space domain for generations to come.

HASHTAGS:

#SpaceDebris, #SpaceSituationalAwareness, #SatelliteTracking, #S73-7, #SpaceExploration, #SpaceSustainability, #SpaceSafety, #SpaceTechnology, #InternationalCollaboration, #ResponsibleSpaceStewardship #US Satellite Lost and Found

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Satellite Technology

Russia Activates World’s First Satellite System for Arctic Monitoring

By Jonathan Bala April 29, 2024

Russia Activates World’s First Satellite System for Arctic Monitoring

Key Takeaway

Russia has launched the world’s first dedicated Arctic observation satellite system, aimed at providing round-the-clock monitoring of the Arctic region, supporting navigation and shipping along the Northern Sea Route, as well as facilitating hydrocarbon exploration.

Summary

Over the weekend, Russia activated the world’s first Arctic observation satellite system, drawing data from the two Arktika-M satellites launched in 2021 and 2022.
The new satellite constellation provides continuous meteorological and environmental monitoring of the Arctic surface and the Northern Sea Route.
Russia has created a hydro-meteorological space system that allows permanent observation of the Arctic regions and its adjacent territories, a first in the world.
The complete Arktika mission constellation is planned to eventually have 10 Earth-orbiting satellites, including communication, GPS, commercial, and remote sensing satellites.
The satellites will be placed in a Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO), ensuring full-time coverage of the high latitudes, which is not provided by existing international geostationary satellites.
The Arktika system will also be used for hydrocarbon exploration, aligning with Russia’s ambition to intensify exploitation of the Arctic’s oil and gas resources.
Importantly, the space system will provide telecommunications services in the Arctic, which Russia needs for air traffic and commercial shipping in the remote region.
Russia has heavily invested in the development of the Northern Sea Route, hoping it could become an alternative shipping route as sea ice in the Arctic recedes, shortening the distance between the Far East and the West compared to the Suez Canal route.

Russia Activates World’s First Satellite System for Arctic Monitoring

In a bold move to assert its dominance in the Arctic region, Russia has launched the world’s first dedicated Arctic observation satellite system. This groundbreaking initiative aims to provide round-the-clock monitoring of the vast and rapidly changing Arctic landscape, supporting navigation and shipping along the strategic Northern Sea Route, as well as facilitating hydrocarbon exploration.

The Arctic has long been a region of intense interest and competition among nations, driven by its vast untapped natural resources and the potential for new shipping routes as sea ice melts due to climate change. Russia, with its extensive Arctic coastline, has consistently sought to strengthen its presence and control in this strategic area.

Over the weekend, Russia activated its Arctic observation satellite system, drawing data from the two Arktika-M satellites launched in 2021 and 2022. This new constellation provides continuous meteorological and environmental monitoring of the Arctic surface and the Northern Sea Route, a crucial shipping lane that Russia hopes will become a viable alternative to the Suez Canal route.

The complete Arktika mission constellation is planned to eventually have 10 Earth-orbiting satellites, including communication, GPS, commercial, and remote sensing satellites. These satellites will be placed in a Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO), ensuring full-time coverage of the high latitudes, which is not provided by existing international geostationary satellites.

One of the key objectives of the Arktika system is to facilitate hydrocarbon exploration in the Arctic, aligning with Russia’s ambition to intensify the exploitation of the region’s oil and gas resources. Additionally, the space system will provide crucial telecommunications services in the Arctic, essential for air traffic and commercial shipping in this remote and challenging environment.

Russia has heavily invested in the development of the Northern Sea Route, a shipping lane that runs along the Siberian coastline. As sea ice in the Arctic continues to recede due to climate change, Russia hopes that this route could become a viable alternative to the Suez Canal, significantly shortening the distance between the Far East and the West.

While Russia’s Arctic ambitions are undoubtedly bold, they also raise concerns about the potential environmental impact of increased economic activity in the fragile Arctic ecosystem. Additionally, the militarization of the region and the potential for conflicts over territorial claims and resource extraction rights remain ongoing issues.

Despite these challenges, Russia’s commitment to advancing its Arctic capabilities is clear. The launch of the world’s first dedicated Arctic observation satellite system represents a significant technological and strategic milestone, positioning Russia as a leader in this rapidly evolving frontier.

HASHTAGS:

#Arctic, #Russia, #Satellites, #NorthernSeaRoute, #Exploration, #ClimateChange, #Shipping, #RemoteSensing, #Telecommunication, #SpaceTechnology

Source: teleSUR English Link: Read more

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Space-Based Navigation

NASA Successfully Launches and Activates New Solar Sail

By Jonathan Bala April 26, 2024

NASA Successfully Launches and Activates New Solar Sail

Key Takeaway

NASA’s Advanced Composite Solar Sail System, a CubeSat designed to test a new lightweight and stiff composite sail support structure, has successfully launched and deployed its 9-meter solar sail in low-Earth orbit, marking a significant milestone in the development of efficient solar sail propulsion technology.

Summary

NASA’s Advanced Composite Solar Sail System was launched aboard a RocketLab Electron rocket on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.
The CubeSat aims to test the deployment of large solar sails in low-Earth orbit, using a new composite boom support structure made from flexible polymer and carbon fiber materials.
On Wednesday, April 24, 2024, NASA confirmed the successful deployment of a 9-meter (80 square meters) solar sail from the CubeSat in low-Earth orbit.
Solar sails harness the pressure of sunlight to propel spacecraft, offering an efficient propulsion system without the need for heavy engines or fuel tanks.
The concept of solar sails dates back to the 17th century, when Johannes Kepler suggested using sunlight to push spacecraft, but the first practical solar sail vehicle was IKAROS, launched in 2010.
The new composite boom support structure developed by NASA is designed to be stiffer and lighter than existing support structure designs, enabling larger sail sizes.
The deployment process took about 25 minutes, and if conditions are favorable, the deployed sail may be visible from Earth, potentially rivaling the brightness of Sirius.
This successful deployment is a significant milestone in the development of efficient solar sail propulsion technology for future space exploration missions.

NASA Successfully Launches and Activates New Solar Sail — A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched from its Florida pad. It carried Intuitive Machines’ Odysseus moon lander into space. This event was shown by NASA on YouTube.

NASA’s Groundbreaking Solar Sail Deployment

In the vastness of space, where conventional propulsion systems face limitations, solar sails offer a promising alternative for propelling spacecraft across the cosmic expanse. NASA’s recent achievement in deploying a 9-meter solar sail from its Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3) has ignited excitement among space enthusiasts and researchers alike.

Solar sails, much like the maritime sails of old, harness the power of light to navigate through the celestial seas. These enigmatic structures rely on the momentum transfer from photons striking their reflective surfaces, generating a gentle yet continuous thrust. This propulsion method eliminates the need for heavy engines and fuel tanks, making solar sails an incredibly efficient and sustainable solution for space travel.

While the concept of solar sails dates back to the 17th century, when Johannes Kepler first envisioned using sunlight to propel spacecraft, it wasn’t until the 20th century that scientists like Konstantin Tsiolkovsky and Carl Sagan brought this idea closer to reality. However, it took until 2010 for the first practical solar sail vehicle, IKAROS, to be launched by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

On April 23, 2024, NASA’s ACS3 CubeSat hitched a ride aboard a RocketLab Electron rocket, embarking on a mission to test the deployment of large solar sails in low-Earth orbit. Developed in collaboration with NanoAvionics, the ACS3 features a revolutionary composite boom support structure made from flexible polymer and carbon fiber materials.

This innovative design aims to address one of the biggest challenges in solar sail technology: creating a support structure that is both lightweight and stiff enough to support larger sail sizes. By successfully deploying a 9-meter (80 square meters) sail on April 24, 2024, NASA has demonstrated the potential of this new composite boom technology to enable larger and more efficient solar sails.

The deployment process itself was a marvel of engineering precision. Over the course of 25 minutes, the ACS3 CubeSat meticulously unfurled its solar sail, stretching it to its full 9-meter span. NASA’s confirmation of the successful deployment marked a momentous occasion, as the sail’s vast expanse now reflects the sun’s rays, generating the propulsive force that could propel future spacecraft across the cosmic frontier.

If conditions are favorable, the deployed sail may even become visible from Earth, potentially rivaling the brightness of Sirius, the brightest star in our night sky. This celestial spectacle serves as a reminder of humanity’s ongoing quest to explore the unknown and push the boundaries of space exploration.

The successful deployment of NASA’s ACS3 solar sail is more than just a technological achievement; it represents a significant step towards unlocking the full potential of solar sail propulsion. With larger and more efficient sails, future space missions could venture deeper into the solar system and beyond, reaching destinations previously deemed impractical or impossible with conventional propulsion systems.

Moreover, solar sails could play a crucial role in facilitating sustainable space exploration by reducing our reliance on finite resources and minimizing the environmental impact of space missions. As we continue to explore the cosmos, the development of innovative propulsion technologies like solar sails will be instrumental in shaping our journey among the stars.

As NASA and other space agencies continue to refine and expand solar sail technology, we can expect to witness even more remarkable feats in the years to come. Each deployment, each successful mission, brings us closer to a future where solar sails become an integral part of our endeavors in space exploration, propelling humanity towards new frontiers and unlocking the secrets of the universe.

HASHTAGS:

#NASAsolarsail, #spacetechnology, #solarsailpropulsion, #spaceexploration, #sustainablespaceflight, #cubesatmission, #lowEarthorbit, #compositebooms, #photonpropulsion, #futuristicpropulsion #New Solar Sail

Source:

NASA Blogs: Solar Sail CubeSat Has Deployed: Read about the deployment of a solar sail CubeSat, highlighting advancements in small satellite technology and solar sail propulsion.

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Satellite Technology

NASA Working to Address Nutrient Loss in Astronaut Food for Long Missions

By Jonathan Bala April 22, 2024

NASA Working to Address Nutrient Loss in Astronaut Food for Long Missions

Key Takeaway

NASA is developing genetically engineered microbes that can produce essential nutrients and compounds for astronauts on long-duration space missions, addressing the issue of nutrient loss in prepackaged foods over time.

Summary

Prepackaged foods used by NASA lose nutritional value over time, posing a challenge for long-duration space missions where resupplying from Earth is impractical.
NASA’s Ames Research Center’s Space Biosciences Division has launched the BioNutrients project to enable future space travelers to grow their own supplements.
The approach involves storing dried microbes and food-grade bioreactors, which can rehydrate and culture the microbes to produce essential nutrients and compounds years after departure.
The team has successfully produced carotenoids (antioxidants), follistatin (for muscle loss prevention), and yogurt and kefir (for gut health) using genetically engineered microbes.
The real challenge lies in making the produced food palatable and appealing for astronauts to consume.
Bioreactors are containers that maintain a biologically active environment suitable for growing cells, tissues, or organisms through aerobic or anaerobic processes.
Growing food during long-duration missions addresses logistical challenges and launch overhead associated with carrying prepackaged food for extended periods.

Complete Story

As humanity ventures deeper into the cosmos, the challenge of sustaining astronauts on long-duration space missions becomes increasingly complicated. One of the fundamental concerns is ensuring adequate nutrient intake for their well being and performance. Recognizing the limitations of prepackaged foods, which lose nutritional value over time, NASA’s Ames Research Center’s Space Biosciences Division has embarked on an innovative project called BioNutrients, aimed at enabling future space travelers to grow their own supplements.

Conventional prepackaged foods, while convenient for short-term missions, pose a significant challenge for extended space travel. Over time, these foods experience a gradual decline in nutrient content, potentially leading to deficiencies that could jeopardize astronauts’ health and mission success. Moreover, carrying vast quantities of prepackaged food for years-long journeys is impractical, adding excessive weight and logistical burdens to already complex missions.

To overcome these hurdles, NASA’s BioNutrients project has devised an ingenious solution – genetically engineered microbes that can produce essential nutrients and compounds on demand, with minimal resource consumption.

The BioNutrients Approach

The BioNutrients approach involves storing dried, genetically modified microbes and food-grade bioreactors aboard spacecraft. These bioreactors, designed to maintain a biologically active environment, can rehydrate and culture the microbes years after departure, enabling the production of vital nutrients and compounds.

Bioreactor Technology

Bioreactors are specialized containers that facilitate the growth and cultivation of cells, tissues, or organisms through aerobic or anaerobic processes. By providing a controlled environment, bioreactors enable the efficient production of desired biomolecules or organisms.

Through their innovative research, the BioNutrients team has already achieved remarkable success in producing various essential nutrients and compounds using genetically engineered microbes, including:

Carotenoids: These natural pigments possess potent antioxidant properties, helping to counteract the effects of radiation exposure and oxidative stress encountered in space environments.
Follistatin: This protein plays a crucial role in preventing muscle loss, a common concern for astronauts subjected to prolonged periods of microgravity.
Yogurt and Kefir: Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is essential for overall wellbeing, and these fermented dairy products can help support astronauts’ digestive health during extended missions.

While the BioNutrients project has made significant strides in nutrient production, the real challenge lies in transforming these compounds into palatable and appealing food options for astronauts. NASA recognizes the importance of providing not only nutritious but also enjoyable meals to maintain crew morale and psychological well-being during long-duration missions.

Ongoing research efforts are focused on developing innovative techniques to incorporate the produced nutrients into tasty and visually appealing food items, ensuring that astronauts can look forward to their meals while fulfilling their nutritional needs.

HASHTAGS:

#SpaceFood, #NASAInnovation, #BioNutrients, #SpaceExploration, #LongDurationMissions, #GeneticEngineering, #Microbes, #Bioreactors, #NutrientProduction, #AstronautHealth, #SpaceTechnology

Source : NASA Ames Space Biosciences – Bionutrients Flight Experiments

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