Author: martianjoe

Title: ‘Purdue 1’: Virgin Galactic and Purdue University Join Forces for 2027 Human Spaceflight

In an exciting announcement bound to capture the imagination of space enthusiasts worldwide, Purdue University, often referred to as the ‘cradle of astronauts,’ has revealed its collaboration with Virgin Galactic. This partnership is set to send a six-person crew on a suborbital spaceflight in 2027. The mission, aptly named ‘Purdue 1,’ marks a significant milestone in the evolution of human space travel.

Purdue University, based in Indiana, has a rich history tied to American space exploration. With 25 graduates who have gone on to become astronauts, including the first and last men to walk on the moon, Neil Armstrong and Eugene Cernan, the institution has rightfully earned its nickname. Now, it is set to add another chapter to its stellar legacy with the ‘Purdue 1’ mission.

Virgin Galactic, the spaceflight company founded by Sir Richard Branson, has been making waves in the industry with its ambitious plans for commercial space travel. With the ‘Purdue 1’ mission, it continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, bringing us ever closer to the reality of regular human spaceflight.

This collaboration will see a crew of six individuals embark on a journey to suborbital space. A suborbital flight, while not reaching the altitudes necessary to orbit the Earth, will take the crew to the edge of space, offering a unique perspective of our planet and the cosmos that few have experienced.

While the six-person crew’s identities are yet to be revealed, the selection process will undoubtedly be rigorous. Each individual will need to undergo strict training to prepare for the physical and mental challenges that space travel presents.

The ‘Purdue 1’ is more than just a mission; it’s a symbol of the advancements in space exploration and a testament to the human spirit’s unending pursuit of knowledge and discovery. It also represents a crucial step forward in the democratization of space travel. By partnering with educational institutions like Purdue University, Virgin Galactic is helping to create opportunities for a more diverse range of individuals to experience the wonders of the cosmos.

As we countdown to 2027, space enthusiasts and aspiring astronauts will be watching with bated breath. With the ‘Purdue 1’ mission, the final frontier seems a little less distant, and the dream of space travel is a step closer to becoming a reality for more people than ever before.

The ‘Purdue 1’ mission, a historic collaboration between Purdue University and Virgin Galactic, is set to inspire a new generation of space explorers and further our understanding of the universe. As we look to the stars, the possibilities seem truly infinite.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/space-exploration/private-spaceflight/virgin-galactic-to-launch-purdue-1-human-spaceflight-in-2027](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/private-spaceflight/virgin-galactic-to-launch-purdue-1-human-spaceflight-in-2027).

Title: Rocket Lab Sets Sights on Mars and Venus: Aims to Retrieve Perseverance Samples

Rocket Lab, the renowned private space company, has revealed ambitious plans to expand its reach beyond Earth’s orbit. The company’s CEO, Peter Beck, has his sights set on pursuing missions to Mars and Venus, with a particular focus on returning NASA’s Perseverance rover samples from Mars.

The New Zealand-American company, known for its Electron launch vehicle, has carved out a niche in delivering small satellites into low Earth orbit. Now, it is looking to push the boundaries of what is achievable in space exploration.

Beck’s mantra, “If it’s possible, it must be done,” underlines the audacious nature of Rocket Lab’s plans. It reflects the company’s pioneering spirit and the broader ambition within the space industry to explore and understand our solar system in greater detail.

NASA’s Perseverance rover, which landed on Mars in February 2021, has been collecting invaluable samples from the Martian surface. These samples could potentially hold clues to the existence of past microbial life on Mars. However, returning these samples to Earth for further study poses a significant challenge.

Rocket Lab, with its reputation for innovation and problem-solving, believes it is up to the task. The company plans to develop a spacecraft capable of reaching Mars, retrieving the samples collected by Perseverance, and returning them safely to Earth.

“The prospect of bringing back samples from Mars is not just about achieving a remarkable feat in space exploration,” Beck said. “It’s about advancing our understanding of the universe, our place in it, and what other forms of life might exist out there.”

In addition to Mars, Rocket Lab has also expressed interest in Venus. Beck has previously spoken about his fascination with Venus, describing it as a “neglected planet” that deserves more attention due to its potential for scientific discovery.

While Mars missions are becoming increasingly common, Venus remains largely unexplored, despite being similar in size, mass, and composition to Earth. Sending a mission to Venus could provide scientists with valuable insights into the conditions that lead to the development of life, as well as those that could potentially inhibit it.

Rocket Lab’s bold plans signify a new phase in the private space race. As companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin are capturing headlines with their own missions, Rocket Lab is quietly and confidently carving out its unique path in the cosmos.

With the company’s ethos of pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, the prospect of Mars and Venus missions demonstrates not just the ambition of Rocket Lab, but its commitment to advancing space exploration and our understanding of the universe.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/space-exploration/if-its-possible-it-must-be-done-rocket-lab-ceo-peter-beck-has-his-eyes-on-missions-to-mars-and-venus](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/if-its-possible-it-must-be-done-rocket-lab-ceo-peter-beck-has-his-eyes-on-missions-to-mars-and-venus).

Title: SpaceX Commands the Sky with 28 More Starlink Satellite Launch

In a stunning display of technological prowess, SpaceX has successfully launched its 119th Falcon 9 mission of the year today, September 21. The mission, which saw 28 of its Starlink internet satellites sent into orbit, originated from Florida’s renowned Space Coast.

The Falcon 9 rocket, a two-stage spacecraft powered by liquid oxygen and rocket-grade kerosene, has been the workhorse of SpaceX’s satellite delivery system. Today’s launch marks yet another milestone for the ambitious private spaceflight company, drawing them closer to their goal of creating a network of internet-providing satellites aimed at enhancing global connectivity.

Spectators watched in awe as the rocket roared into the clear blue sky, leaving behind a trail of smoke before the first stage of the rocket separated and returned back to Earth. The landing of the first stage on the ‘Just Read the Instructions’ droneship stationed in the Atlantic Ocean marked another successful recovery, further demonstrating SpaceX’s commitment to reusability and cost-effectiveness.

Meanwhile, the second stage carrying the cluster of Starlink satellites continued its journey into space. Approximately an hour after the launch, the 28 satellites were deployed into a low Earth orbit, joining the existing constellation of over 1,700 Starlink satellites that are already providing broadband internet service to customers across the globe.

Starlink, the satellite internet constellation being constructed by SpaceX, aims to provide satellite internet connectivity to underserved areas of the planet, as well as provide competitively priced service to urban areas. The company has already started beta testing for customers in North America, and it plans to expand its services globally.

Today’s mission is just one of many in a series of launches planned by SpaceX, as it aims to deploy thousands of such small, low-Earth orbit satellites. The ultimate goal? To establish a mega constellation that will significantly improve internet speed and accessibility worldwide.

The launch of these 28 satellites is an important step forward in SpaceX’s Starlink project. Not only does this mission demonstrate the reliability of the Falcon 9 rocket, but it also validates the company’s ambitious approach to space-based internet service. As more satellites join the Starlink constellation, the potential for global broadband internet coverage becomes increasingly within reach.

SpaceX’s efforts in space exploration and satellite deployment have not gone unnoticed. The company’s commitment to advancing technology and increasing global connectivity is not just a promising venture for investors, but also a beacon of hope for those in remote or underserved areas who may soon receive reliable, high-speed internet.

Today’s successful mission further cements SpaceX’s status as a game-changer in the world of space exploration and satellite internet services. As we marvel at the sight of yet another Falcon 9 rocket painting its path across the sky, we can only anticipate what future launches will bring in SpaceX’s grand vision for global connectivity.

Read more from the original source here: [SpaceX Starlink Satellite Launch](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacex-satellite-starlink-launch-group-10-27).

Title: “Final Orbit”: Astronaut Chris Hadfield’s Thrilling Space Odyssey Continues

In the realm of space exploration, Chris Hadfield is a name that’s no stranger to many. He’s not just a respected astronaut but also an accomplished author with a knack for enthralling storytelling. This time, Hadfield takes his readers on another gripping space journey in his new Cold War space thriller, “Final Orbit.” The book is the latest entry in his best-selling series, “The Apollo Murders,” and it’s sure to leave readers on the edge of their seats.

In “Final Orbit,” the intrepid ‘Kaz’ Zemeckis returns for another thrilling adventure. If you’ve followed the series, you’ll know that Kaz isn’t just an ordinary spaceship commander. He’s a man of courage and intellect, often finding himself in situations that test the very limits of human survival.

The narrative of “Final Orbit” unfolds amidst the backdrop of the Cold War, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the plot. The story explores the chilling prospect of murder in space, a concept that is as thrilling as it is terrifying. As the tension between superpowers escalates, so does the danger faced by Kaz and his crew, making the book a page-turner in every sense.

Hadfield’s unique experience as an astronaut lends authenticity to the narrative. His insights into the practicalities and perils of space travel make “Final Orbit” more than just a thriller. It’s a window into the realities of space exploration, painted with the vivid imagination of a masterful storyteller.

With the release of “Final Orbit,” Hadfield continues to bridge the gap between science and fiction, making space exploration accessible and exciting to a broader audience. His books are not just about the adventures of a fictional astronaut but also about the human spirit’s resilience in the face of incomprehensible challenges.

Fans of the series have eagerly awaited the return of ‘Kaz’ Zemeckis, and “Final Orbit” promises not to disappoint. It’s an enthralling blend of history, science, and suspense, all wrapped up in a narrative that’s as vast and unpredictable as the cosmos itself.

For those who have yet to delve into Hadfield’s “The Apollo Murders” series, “Final Orbit” is a compelling reason to start. And for those already hooked, it’s a continuation of a journey that’s as thrilling as a rocket’s ride into the unknown.

“Final Orbit” serves as another testament to Hadfield’s storytelling prowess and is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the mysteries and perils of space exploration.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-books/astronaut-chris-hadfield-explores-murder-in-space-in-new-cold-war-space-thriller-final-orbit-exclusive](https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-books/astronaut-chris-hadfield-explores-murder-in-space-in-new-cold-war-space-thriller-final-orbit-exclusive).

Title: ‘We must replace this capability now’: NOAA’s New Satellite Set to Launch on September 23

After years of dependence on older space weather sentinels, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) gears up to launch a brand-new, purpose-built satellite on September 23rd to keep a vigilant eye on the sun.

The announcement marks a significant development in the field of space weather monitoring. NOAA’s existing fleet of space weather satellites has served for decades, providing critical data about solar storms and their potential impact on Earth. However, these aging sentinels are nearing the end of their operational lives, sparking an urgent need for replacements.

“Replacing this capability now is crucial,” said an NOAA representative. “Our current satellites have exceeded their expected lifespans, and while they continue to function, we can’t risk losing our ability to monitor severe space weather conditions.”

Space weather refers to the environmental conditions in Earth’s magnetosphere, ionosphere, and thermosphere due to the sun’s activity. Solar flares or coronal mass ejections can cause geomagnetic storms that disrupt satellite operations, power grids, and communication networks on Earth. Without the proper monitoring and early warning, these events could potentially cause widespread damage and disruption.

The new NOAA satellite is designed to provide comprehensive, real-time solar data. It will monitor the sun’s radiation, detect solar wind changes, and provide early warnings of potentially harmful space weather events.

The launch of this new satellite is a substantial step forward in our ability to predict and mitigate the effects of space weather. It will not only enhance our understanding of the sun and its influence on Earth but also ensure the continuity of crucial space weather monitoring, which is vital for protecting our technology-dependent society.

The new satellite’s launch on September 23rd is eagerly anticipated by scientists and space enthusiasts alike. As it takes its place among the stars, it will symbolize the dawn of a new era in space weather monitoring, promising enhanced protection for our planet from potential solar threats.

The move to replace the aging sentinels comes at a time when our reliance on satellite-based technology is at an all-time high. With increased dependence on GPS, telecommunications, and other technologies that can be affected by space weather, the launch of this new satellite couldn’t come at a more critical time.

“Our society has never been more dependent on technology,” said the NOAA representative. “This new satellite will ensure we have the necessary data to protect our systems and prepare for any space weather event.”

As we prepare for the launch, we are reminded of the importance of space weather monitoring and its significance in our daily lives. The new NOAA satellite represents an essential investment in our future, safeguarding our planet, and ensuring the continuity of essential services that depend on the health of our space environment.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/space-exploration/satellites/we-must-replace-this-capability-now-new-noaa-satellite-to-replace-aging-space-weather-sentinels-launches-sept-23](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/satellites/we-must-replace-this-capability-now-new-noaa-satellite-to-replace-aging-space-weather-sentinels-launches-sept-23).

Title: Skywatchers, Get Ready: Crescent Moon to Dance with Venus and Regulus This September

On September 19, the pre-dawn sky will play host to a celestial ballet, as the crescent moon, Venus, and the bright star Regulus come together in a beautiful constellation. This celestial spectacle will be hard to miss and offers a visual treat for early risers and astronomy enthusiasts alike.

As the world slumbers in the early morning of September 19, our closest celestial neighbor, the moon, will take on the form of a delicate sickle. Hanging in the eastern sky, this silver crescent will be seen to share the stage with Venus, the second closest planet to the sun, known for its dazzling brilliance. Together, they will create a mesmerizing display that will captivate observers.

Adding to this cosmic trio is Regulus, the brightest star in the constellation of Leo and one of the most luminous objects in our night sky. It will twinkle alongside Venus and the crescent moon, creating a stunning tableau against the dark canvas of the universe.

This spectacular alignment, known as a conjunction, is not a rare occurrence in the universe, but it is certainly a sight to behold. Conjunctions happen when celestial bodies come close to each other in our sky, creating unique formations. This particular conjunction promises to be a visual delight due to the brightness of the participating celestial objects and their close proximity to each other.

Skywatchers should plan to rise early to make the most of this spectacle. The best viewing time will be just before dawn, when the sky is dark enough for the celestial bodies to stand out, yet light enough to make them visible. No special equipment is needed to enjoy the view. However, binoculars or a small telescope can help to make the experience even more memorable, offering a closer look at the moon’s craters, Venus’ dazzling brightness, and the blue-white glow of Regulus.

This celestial event serves as a reminder of the ever-changing nature of the cosmos. As we go about our daily lives, the universe continues its celestial dance, offering us a chance to take a step back and marvel at the beauty of the cosmos. So, set your alarms early for September 19, find a spot free from light pollution, and let the early morning sky take your breath away.

Remember, while the celestial ballet of the moon, Venus, and Regulus is fleeting, the memories of witnessing such a spectacle will last a lifetime. So make sure not to miss this outstanding celestial event.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/stargazing/crescent-moon-with-venus-regulus-predawn-sept-19-2025](https://www.space.com/stargazing/crescent-moon-with-venus-regulus-predawn-sept-19-2025).

Title: 5 Ways Early Climate Models Predicted Today’s Reality – Evidence That’s Impossible to Ignore

Climate models, much like the world they aim to represent, are incredibly complex. These detailed scientific constructs strive to simulate the interactions between Earth’s atmosphere, oceans, land surface, and ice – all of which are influenced by the sun’s energy. Despite their complexity, early climate models have proven to be strikingly accurate in many ways. Here are 5 forecasts these models got right, with the evidence all around us.

1. Rising Temperatures: One of the most basic predictions made by early climate models was an increase in global temperatures, a trend directly linked to escalating levels of greenhouse gases. This prediction has come to pass, with the past five years being the hottest on record.

2. Polar Ice Melt: Early climate models also anticipated the melting of polar ice caps due to rising temperatures. Today, this is an undeniable reality. The National Snow and Ice Data Center reports that Arctic sea ice has been shrinking at a rate of 13.1% per decade since 1979.

3. Rising Sea Levels: As a consequence of melting polar ice, climate models predicted a rise in sea levels. This too has proven to be true. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), global sea levels have risen by about 8 inches since 1880 and are projected to continue rising.

4. Increased Weather Extremes: Early climate models forecasted more extreme weather events. From record-breaking heatwaves to devastating hurricanes, we are witnessing an increase in the frequency and intensity of these events.

5. Changing Ocean Currents: Climate models predicted changes in ocean currents as a response to increased temperatures. Such changes have been observed, impacting marine life and influencing weather patterns worldwide.

These accurate predictions don’t just validate the efficacy of early climate models. They serve as a stark reminder of the realities of climate change – a global crisis that influences every aspect of our lives, from the food we eat, the air we breathe, to the very land we live on.

Indeed, the importance of understanding climate change isn’t confined to our home planet. NASA’s Mars Rover mission, for instance, seeks to understand the Martian climate and its history. Lessons learnt from Earth’s climate models could provide critical insights for such extraplanetary explorations.

In conclusion, the accuracy of these early climate models serves as a testament to the scientific community’s understanding of our complex world. Yet, it also underscores the urgency of addressing the challenges posed by climate change. The evidence is all around us – we just need to pay attention.

Read more from the original source here: https://www.space.com/science/climate-change/5-forecasts-early-climate-models-got-right-the-evidence-is-all-around-you.

In a celestial event that is sure to grip the world in awe, the ‘God of Chaos’ asteroid, Apophis, will make an exceptionally close approach to Earth in April 2029. The 1,115-foot-wide (340 meters) asteroid will pass so close to our planet that it will be visible to the naked eye, offering an unparalleled opportunity for scientists and amateur astronomers alike.

Named after the Ancient Egyptian god of chaos and destruction, Apophis is expected to be seen by nearly two billion people worldwide as it sails past Earth at a distance closer than that of many operational satellites. This once-in-a-lifetime event will provide an extraordinary spectacle for humanity while offering invaluable insights to scientists studying these celestial bodies.

Apophis, discovered in 2004, has been the subject of significant attention due to its size and its close encounters with Earth. Initial calculations indicated a small probability of the asteroid colliding with Earth in 2029, a scenario that has since been ruled out by further observations. However, the 2029 event will still mark the closest approach by an asteroid of such considerable size.

As the God of Chaos approaches, it will first become visible to the naked eye in the night sky over the southern hemisphere, streaking across the expanse from the east coast of Australia to the west coast of Africa in just an hour. As it travels, the asteroid will shine with the brightness of the stars in the Little Dipper, making it easily spotable without the need for telescopic equipment.

For scientists, this close encounter is more than just a spectacular show. It presents a unique opportunity to study the composition, structure, and properties of asteroids in unprecedented detail. Observations made during the event could potentially inform future asteroid impact mitigation strategies, a key area of research as we continue to explore and understand our place in the cosmos.

“While Apophis is almost certainly not a threat to Earth, understanding the characteristics of this asteroid can help us prepare for other potential asteroid encounters in the future,” said Dr. Marina Brozović, a radar scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Moreover, the event will allow scientists to test our global asteroid tracking network, ensuring its readiness in the face of any future asteroid threats.

While the God of Chaos’ visit in 2029 is assured to be a safe one, it serves as a reminder of the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of our universe. As we look up at the night sky in awe and anticipation, we are not just spectators but active participants in understanding and safeguarding our shared cosmic home.

Mark your calendars, stargazers. The God of Chaos is coming, and it promises to be a show you won’t want to miss.

Read more from the original source here: https://www.space.com/astronomy/asteroids/2-billion-people-will-be-able-to-see-god-of-chaos-asteroid-apophis-when-it-buzzes-earth-in-april-2029.

Title: Celestial Spectacle: The Moon and Venus Converge in ‘Heart of the Lion’

This week, the night sky will stage a celestial spectacle that is not to be missed. The moon and Venus, two of the brightest objects in our night sky, will rendezvous in the ‘Heart of the Lion’. This striking spectacle is visible to the naked eye, but becomes even more breathtaking when viewed through binoculars.

The ‘Heart of the Lion’ refers to the constellation Leo, specifically the bright star Regulus, which is also known as ‘The Little King’. This constellation is one of the oldest recognized groupings of stars, with its depiction dating back to ancient Mesopotamia. This week, our moon and the planet Venus will make a close approach to this regal star, creating a stellar spectacle for observers on Earth.

The celestial event will commence in the early evening hours just after sunset. The first object to become visible will be Venus, which will appear as a bright point of light in the western sky. Soon after, the moon will rise, and as the evening progresses, these two celestial bodies will gradually converge, culminating in their closest approach.

Although Venus and the moon will appear to be close together, in reality, they will be millions of miles apart. This apparent closeness is a visual illusion known as a conjunction, which occurs when two celestial bodies appear close together when viewed from Earth. Despite the vast distances involved, the visual spectacle is a sight to behold, especially when the moon and Venus are involved.

For the best viewing experience, find a location that has a clear view of the horizon to the west. If possible, choose a spot that is away from city lights, as light pollution can interfere with the visibility of celestial objects. The spectacle will be visible to the naked eye, but binoculars or a telescope can enhance the experience, providing a closer look at the moon’s craters and Venus’ cloud-covered surface.

As the night progresses, the moon and Venus will move higher in the sky, eventually setting in the west. The celestial dance will conclude in the early morning hours before dawn, as the moon and Venus disappear below the horizon.

This celestial event is not just a beautiful spectacle, but also a wonderful opportunity to familiarize oneself with the night sky. It is a reminder of the vastness of our universe and our place within it. So this week, take a moment to step outside, look up, and enjoy the celestial show.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/stargazing/the-moon-and-venus-visit-the-heart-of-the-lion-this-week-heres-how-to-see-it](https://www.space.com/stargazing/the-moon-and-venus-visit-the-heart-of-the-lion-this-week-heres-how-to-see-it).

NASA’s eagle-eyed satellites have unveiled the birth of a brand-new island in Alaska, an intriguing consequence of retreating glaciers reshaping the landscape. Nestled in the heart of Alsek Lake, this newborn landmass is a tangible testament to the transformative power of climate change.

A collection of images captured by NASA’s Landsat satellites through the years reveal the gradual emergence of the island. The images, dating back to the 1980s, clearly illustrate the dramatic shrinkage of the Alsek Glacier and the consequent rise of the new island. This compelling metamorphosis of the Alaskan landscape is an eye-opening illustration of the effects of global warming.

The Alsek Glacier, like many of its icy brethren, has been in steady retreat for decades due to Earth’s warming climate. This retreat has been driving drastic changes in the geology and ecology of the region. As the glacier melts, the runoff fills the lake, unearthing previously submerged landmasses and giving birth to new islands. The latest island to be revealed amidst the icy waters of Alsek Lake is a remarkable testament to this process.

Satellite imagery, a vital tool in monitoring these changes, offers an unparalleled perspective. The images from NASA’s Landsat satellites provide a chronological visual narrative of the Alsek Glacier’s retreat and the consequent rise of the island. They show the glacier’s dwindling footprint and the corresponding increase in the lake’s size, culminating in the final unveiling of the new island.

The birth of this island is not just a geographical event. It has significant implications for the local ecosystem. The emerging land provides a new habitat that can be colonized by various plant and animal species, altering the biodiversity of the region. At the same time, it serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change.

NASA’s satellite imagery of the Alaskan landscape stands as a poignant portrait of our changing planet. The unveiling of this new island signifies not only the dynamic nature of Earth’s landscapes but also the profound impact of human-induced climate change. It’s a powerful reminder that the effects of global warming are real, tangible, and happening right now.

While the birth of an island might seem a distant event to many, it reminds us that we are all inhabitants of a shared planet. The changes that occur in remote corners of our world today can have far-reaching effects tomorrow. These vivid images from space underline the interconnectedness of Earth’s ecosystems and the ripple effects of climate change.

As we marvel at the birth of this new island, it is crucial to remember what it represents. This dramatic reshaping of Alaska’s landscape is a clear call to action. It highlights the urgent need for comprehensive measures to combat climate change and safeguard our planet for future generations.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/science/climate-change/nasa-satellites-spot-brand-new-island-in-alaska-formed-by-melting-glacier-photos](https://www.space.com/science/climate-change/nasa-satellites-spot-brand-new-island-in-alaska-formed-by-melting-glacier-photos).