The Planetary Society battled hard for New Horizons mission’s successful launch to Pluto. When its flyby of this classic solar system planet and its four tiny moons Styx, Nix, Hydra and Kerberos took place in July 2015 it revolutionized our understanding of this classic world. Scientists are still processing the wealth of data New Horizons…
Voyager 1 and 2 spacecraft, originally intended to explore the outer planets of our solar system, have now entered interstellar space. There, they will remain for thousands of years before returning home. NASA prepared two Golden Records that contain music and greetings in 55 languages to reassure any alien civilization they might come across. The…
Spacecraft images over five decades have revealed our planet’s history, climate and geology to us while inspiring artists. By the close of the 19th century, astronomers had amassed a vast library of written and painted depictions of Mars. These works could be considered works of astronomical realism. Paint by Numbers Paint by Numbers (PBN) is…
Space exploration and tourism is currently undergoing an incredible revolution: globalizing, shifting to become a service industry and welcoming in newcomers into its fold. During the Gulf War, allied forces used satellites to accurately pinpoint enemy troops and target their rocket attacks with pinpoint precision – demonstrating the value of space presence even during warfare….
Mercury and Venus, unlike most rocky planets in our Solar System, are typically not considered suitable places for life to exist; their harsh conditions make them unsuitable as candidates for life support systems. Yet engineers have created spacecraft capable of withstanding these inhospitable worlds’ harsh environment. Scientists have recently discovered that Venus’ atmosphere contains phosphine,…
Prior to Apollo 11, Armstrong established himself as a test pilot at Edwards Air Force Base in California’s desert. There he flew over 200 aircraft – such as the needle-nosed X-15. He made headlines and won respect from colleagues for pushing their limits and testing each to their limits. On July 20, 1969, Armstrong successfully…
Orion is the spacecraft designed to transport astronauts between Earth, the International Space Station, lunar orbit and Mars. It was specifically developed with safety, durability and affordability in mind. Orion will launch on top of a Space Launch System rocket and feature an escape tower to protect astronauts during reentry. When Orion returns to Earth,…
Architecture now plays an increasingly vital role in outer space. From inflatable 3D-printed structures to entire space habitats, architecture’s presence is growing. But its challenges can be considerable: keeping residents comfortable while accommodating change while remaining functional at scale are just two major ones. Aerospace is developing strategies and processes to accelerate rapid development, quick…
Rats have always been a source of fear for humans. Yet, despite being considered vermin, rats are truly fascinating creatures with fascinating behaviors and characteristics. Here are a few shocking facts about rats that will surely surprise you! Please be warned, some of these facts can be disturbing. 1. They can walk on water Rats…
