NASA News – National Aeronautics and Space Administration News
NASA News from National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and all its agencies concerning space exploration. Current events and updates on National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) projects and missions. NASA news from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
Michael Phelps and Olympic Swimmers Shattering Records in NASA-Tested Suit
Michael Phelps of the United States has now won more Olympic gold medals than any athlete in the modern era. Thanks to a new fabric tested in NASA Langley's 7- by 11-Inch Low Speed Wind Tunnel, Michael Phelps, Natalie Coughlin, the US Swimming team and other swimmers from around the world are setting new world records. Discover the cecret of record setting Michael Phelps and Natalie Coughlin.
Michael Phelps of the United States has now won more Olympic gold medals than any athlete in the modern era. Thanks to a new fabric tested in NASA Langley's 7- by 11-Inch Low Speed Wind Tunnel, Michael Phelps, Natalie Coughlin, the US Swimming team and other swimmers from around the world are setting new world records. Discover the cecret of record setting Michael Phelps and Natalie Coughlin.
2003: A JPL Space Odyssey - Join the Journey with Free Lectures Through The Year
2003: A JPL Space Odyssey - Join the Journey with Free Lectures Through The Year. JPL {Jet Propulsion Laboratory} will provide a series of lectures free during the year of 2003.
2003: A JPL Space Odyssey - Join the Journey with Free Lectures Through The Year. JPL {Jet Propulsion Laboratory} will provide a series of lectures free during the year of 2003.
9/11 Terrorist Attacks on World Trade Center Twin Towers From ISS
The effects of terrorists crashing airplanes into the World Trade Center Twin Towers and the Pentagon on September 11, 2001 were devastating to most of us here in the United States. Many people around the world were also shocked and sympathetic. But, what kind of effect did the World Trade Center and Pentagon terrorist attacks of 9/11 have off the Earth, on the International Space Station?
The effects of terrorists crashing airplanes into the World Trade Center Twin Towers and the Pentagon on September 11, 2001 were devastating to most of us here in the United States. Many people around the world were also shocked and sympathetic. But, what kind of effect did the World Trade Center and Pentagon terrorist attacks of 9/11 have off the Earth, on the International Space Station?
A Gathering of Space Heroes
On May 1, 2004, when five Space Shuttle astronauts are inducted into the Astronaut Hall of Fame, an impressive array of America's space heroes will gather at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to honor their distinguished colleagues. The induction ceremony, which is scheduled for 2 p.m. EDT, will be broadcast live on NASA Television.
On May 1, 2004, when five Space Shuttle astronauts are inducted into the Astronaut Hall of Fame, an impressive array of America's space heroes will gather at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to honor their distinguished colleagues. The induction ceremony, which is scheduled for 2 p.m. EDT, will be broadcast live on NASA Television.
Astronauts Set New Standard For Earth Photography
Astronaut photography of the Earth from the International Space Station has achieved spatial resolutions of less than six meters, an analysis of more than 13,000 images has shown. This means scientists can use photographs taken from the space station to study changes that are occurring in very small features on the Earth's surface.
Astronaut photography of the Earth from the International Space Station has achieved spatial resolutions of less than six meters, an analysis of more than 13,000 images has shown. This means scientists can use photographs taken from the space station to study changes that are occurring in very small features on the Earth's surface.
Caution Urged on NASA's Mars Life Claim
News report said that 2 NASA scientists had announced at a private space event that they had found strong evidence that life may exist today on Mars. As much as I am interested in learning of life outside our own atmosphere, I have urged caution over too much enthusiasm. While methane may be a biproduct of life, it should be noted that life may not be the only possible explanation for the existence of methane.
News report said that 2 NASA scientists had announced at a private space event that they had found strong evidence that life may exist today on Mars. As much as I am interested in learning of life outside our own atmosphere, I have urged caution over too much enthusiasm. While methane may be a biproduct of life, it should be noted that life may not be the only possible explanation for the existence of methane.
Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) & Crew Launch Vehicle (CLV) - Constellation Systems
On June 13, 2005, NASA announced the selection of Lockheed Martin Corp. and the team of Northrop Grumman Corp. and The Boeing Co. that will lead to an award to build the agency's Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV). Named after the patterns that stars form in the night sky, Constellation Systems at NASA HQ Exploration Systems Mission Directorate (ESMD) is responsible for developing the Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) and related exploration architecture elements.
On June 13, 2005, NASA announced the selection of Lockheed Martin Corp. and the team of Northrop Grumman Corp. and The Boeing Co. that will lead to an award to build the agency's Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV). Named after the patterns that stars form in the night sky, Constellation Systems at NASA HQ Exploration Systems Mission Directorate (ESMD) is responsible for developing the Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) and related exploration architecture elements.
Deep Impact Launched And Flying Towards Date With Comet
NASA's Deep Impact spacecraft began its 431 million kilometer (268 million mile) journey to Comet Tempel on Wednesday January 13, 2005 at 1:47:08 p.m. EST. Data received from the spacecraft indicates it has deployed and locked its solar panels, is receiving power and achieved proper orientation in space. Data also indicates the spacecraft has placed itself in a safe mode and is awaiting further commands from Earth. Deep Impact mission managers are examining data returns from the mission.
NASA's Deep Impact spacecraft began its 431 million kilometer (268 million mile) journey to Comet Tempel on Wednesday January 13, 2005 at 1:47:08 p.m. EST. Data received from the spacecraft indicates it has deployed and locked its solar panels, is receiving power and achieved proper orientation in space. Data also indicates the spacecraft has placed itself in a safe mode and is awaiting further commands from Earth. Deep Impact mission managers are examining data returns from the mission.
Expedition 8 - International Space Station Crew Named
Veteran NASA astronaut Michael Foale and seasoned Russian cosmonaut Alexander Kaleri are set to be the eighth crew to live aboard the International Space Station. They're scheduled to begin their mission in October, when they launch into space aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft.
Veteran NASA astronaut Michael Foale and seasoned Russian cosmonaut Alexander Kaleri are set to be the eighth crew to live aboard the International Space Station. They're scheduled to begin their mission in October, when they launch into space aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft.
Expedition 9 On The Way To International Space Station
Expedition 9, the new crew of the International Space Station, was successfully launched April 18 at 11:18 p.m. EDT and reached orbit at approximately 11:28 p.m. EDT. Commander, Russian cosmonaut Gennady Padalka, and NASA International Space Station Science Officer Mike Fincke were successfully launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on a Russian Soyuz spacecraft.
Expedition 9, the new crew of the International Space Station, was successfully launched April 18 at 11:18 p.m. EDT and reached orbit at approximately 11:28 p.m. EDT. Commander, Russian cosmonaut Gennady Padalka, and NASA International Space Station Science Officer Mike Fincke were successfully launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on a Russian Soyuz spacecraft.
Expedition 9 Takes Command - Soyuz Lands
As the International Space Station orbits the Earth with its new resident crew in command, its old crew -- Expedition 8 Commander and NASA ISS Science Officer Michael Foale and Flight Engineer Alexander Kaleri -- are now on Earth.
As the International Space Station orbits the Earth with its new resident crew in command, its old crew -- Expedition 8 Commander and NASA ISS Science Officer Michael Foale and Flight Engineer Alexander Kaleri -- are now on Earth.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Crew Exploration Vehicle -CEV & Moon Return - Return to the Moon and Crew Exploration Vehicle -CEV
Frequently Asked Questions About the Crew Exploration Vehicle & Moon Return. What is the Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV)? The CEV is America’s new spacecraft for human space exploration. It will be able to ferry crews of three astronauts (plus additional cargo) to and from the International Space Station, but has the capability to carry as many as six crew members. Why are we going back to the moon? Returning to the moon is an important component of the President's Vision for Space Exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Crew Exploration Vehicle & Moon Return. What is the Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV)? The CEV is America’s new spacecraft for human space exploration. It will be able to ferry crews of three astronauts (plus additional cargo) to and from the International Space Station, but has the capability to carry as many as six crew members. Why are we going back to the moon? Returning to the moon is an important component of the President's Vision for Space Exploration.
Genesis Mission Status Report - September 09, 2004 Genesis Update
Genesis team specialists are beginning the process of conducting inventory of the contents of the craft's science canister. The canister is inside a clean room at the U.S. Army Dugway Proving Ground, Utah. Scientists are hopeful that the recovered Genesis samples will be sufficient to achieve the mission's science goals. The team is handling the canister and the sample return capsule in a methodical manner.
Genesis team specialists are beginning the process of conducting inventory of the contents of the craft's science canister. The canister is inside a clean room at the U.S. Army Dugway Proving Ground, Utah. Scientists are hopeful that the recovered Genesis samples will be sufficient to achieve the mission's science goals. The team is handling the canister and the sample return capsule in a methodical manner.
Genesis Recovery Update - Thursday September 9, 2004
The Genesis sample return capsule entered Earth's atmosphere at 9:52:47 MDT on September 8, 2004 and entered the preplanned entry ellipse in the Utah Test and Training Range as predicted. However, the Genesis capsule, as a result of its parachute not deploying, impacted the ground at a speed of 311 kilometers per hour (193 mph). The science canister from the Genesis ission was moved into the cleanroom at the U.S. Army Dugway Proving round in Utah early Wednesday evening.
The Genesis sample return capsule entered Earth's atmosphere at 9:52:47 MDT on September 8, 2004 and entered the preplanned entry ellipse in the Utah Test and Training Range as predicted. However, the Genesis capsule, as a result of its parachute not deploying, impacted the ground at a speed of 311 kilometers per hour (193 mph). The science canister from the Genesis ission was moved into the cleanroom at the U.S. Army Dugway Proving round in Utah early Wednesday evening.
Genesis Sample Return Capsule Hits the Ground - NASA Starts Looking For Answers
During a press briefing on the Genesis spacecraft crash, NASA officials provided some information while indicating that there is much yet to be learned. The only thing known for sure is that Genesis's parachute failed to open, allowing the Genesis spacecraft to streak to the Earth at approximately 193 miles per hour, burying itself to nearly half its own diameter.
During a press briefing on the Genesis spacecraft crash, NASA officials provided some information while indicating that there is much yet to be learned. The only thing known for sure is that Genesis's parachute failed to open, allowing the Genesis spacecraft to streak to the Earth at approximately 193 miles per hour, burying itself to nearly half its own diameter.
Genesis Scientists Bouncing Back From Hard Landing
Scientists who conducted the preliminary assessment of the Genesis canister are encouraged by what they see. They believe it may be possible to achieve the most important portions of their science objectives.
Scientists who conducted the preliminary assessment of the Genesis canister are encouraged by what they see. They believe it may be possible to achieve the most important portions of their science objectives.
Genesis Spacecraft on Final Lap Toward Home
NASA's Genesis spacecraft flew past Earth on Saturday in a loop that puts it on track for home - and a dramatic mid-air recovery Sept. 8. The Genesis mission was launched in August of 2001 to capture samples from the storehouse of 99-percent of all the material in our solar system - the Sun.
NASA's Genesis spacecraft flew past Earth on Saturday in a loop that puts it on track for home - and a dramatic mid-air recovery Sept. 8. The Genesis mission was launched in August of 2001 to capture samples from the storehouse of 99-percent of all the material in our solar system - the Sun.
Genesis Spacecraft On Its Way to Dramatic Finale - NASA A 'Go' For Midair Capture Of Samples From The Sun On Genesis Spacecraft
NASA's Genesis mission was launched in August 2001 on a journey to capture samples from the storehouse of 99 percent of all the material in our solar system - the Sun. The Genesis spacecraft crossed the orbit of the Moon early 9/6/04, on its way to the mission's dramatic finale over the skies of west-central Utah tomorrow. Genesis, bringing back samples of the solar wind, is NASA's first sample return mission since Apollo 17 returned the last of America's lunar samples to Earth in December 1972.
NASA's Genesis mission was launched in August 2001 on a journey to capture samples from the storehouse of 99 percent of all the material in our solar system - the Sun. The Genesis spacecraft crossed the orbit of the Moon early 9/6/04, on its way to the mission's dramatic finale over the skies of west-central Utah tomorrow. Genesis, bringing back samples of the solar wind, is NASA's first sample return mission since Apollo 17 returned the last of America's lunar samples to Earth in December 1972.
Gravity Probe B Achieves Science Mission Orbit
In its first week on orbit, Gravity Probe B has achieved many successes that will ensure a smooth transition into the science phase of the mission and the best possible experimental accuracy. The spacecraft has already achieved a science mission orbit, within the plane of the Guide Star, IM Pegasi, and its inclination error is six times better than expected.
In its first week on orbit, Gravity Probe B has achieved many successes that will ensure a smooth transition into the science phase of the mission and the best possible experimental accuracy. The spacecraft has already achieved a science mission orbit, within the plane of the Guide Star, IM Pegasi, and its inclination error is six times better than expected.
Hurricane Isabel - NASA Captures Some Incredible Images
If you happened to be in North Carolina, the sight of advancing Hurricane Isabel was surely unwelcome. From space, though, it was a thing of beauty.
If you happened to be in North Carolina, the sight of advancing Hurricane Isabel was surely unwelcome. From space, though, it was a thing of beauty.
If You Thought That Was a Close View of Mars, Just Wait
As Earth pulls away from Mars after last month's close approach, NASA is developing a spacecraft that will take advantage of the next close encounter with Mars in 2005.
As Earth pulls away from Mars after last month's close approach, NASA is developing a spacecraft that will take advantage of the next close encounter with Mars in 2005.
International Space Station Marks Five Years In Orbit
The International Space Station reaches the historic five years in space milestone on November 20, 2003. The unique orbiting laboratory complex has grown from a lone, uninhabited module into a permanently staffed, house-sized research facility.
The International Space Station reaches the historic five years in space milestone on November 20, 2003. The unique orbiting laboratory complex has grown from a lone, uninhabited module into a permanently staffed, house-sized research facility.
International Space Station Science - One of NASA's Rising Stars
Orbiting some 240 miles above the Earth, it's one of the brightest objects in the night sky - the International Space Station. In just over five years in space, the unique orbiting laboratory has grown from a lone, uninhabited module into a permanently staffed, house-sized research facility.
Orbiting some 240 miles above the Earth, it's one of the brightest objects in the night sky - the International Space Station. In just over five years in space, the unique orbiting laboratory has grown from a lone, uninhabited module into a permanently staffed, house-sized research facility.
John Kerry and John Edwards on Space and Aeronautics for the 21st Century
John Kerry and John Edwards on Space and Aeronautics for the 21st Century: John Kerry and John Edwards believe that maintaining and increasing America's leadership in aerospace is more important now than ever. NASA research has led to breakthroughs in a number of fields, far beyond space flight, aeronautics, or the other NASA missions. The Kerry-Edwards administration will focus NASA on those areas of aeronautics and space research where the greatest public benefit can be realized.
John Kerry and John Edwards on Space and Aeronautics for the 21st Century: John Kerry and John Edwards believe that maintaining and increasing America's leadership in aerospace is more important now than ever. NASA research has led to breakthroughs in a number of fields, far beyond space flight, aeronautics, or the other NASA missions. The Kerry-Edwards administration will focus NASA on those areas of aeronautics and space research where the greatest public benefit can be realized.
Johnson Space Center Closes as NASA Watches Rita - NASA Transfers International Space Station Control to Russia
After the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina (including damage to Stennis Space Center in Mississippi and Michoud Assembly Facility near New Orleans) and with the extremely powerful Hurricane Rita approcching, NASA is taking no chances. As of 2 p.m. EDT Wednesday September 21, 2005, NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston closed. A small, emergency rideout crew will remain on site. The center will not reopen until the storm threat has passed.
After the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina (including damage to Stennis Space Center in Mississippi and Michoud Assembly Facility near New Orleans) and with the extremely powerful Hurricane Rita approcching, NASA is taking no chances. As of 2 p.m. EDT Wednesday September 21, 2005, NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston closed. A small, emergency rideout crew will remain on site. The center will not reopen until the storm threat has passed.
Leading Air And Space Historians To Present Symposium
Daredevil pilots of the barnstorming era, bold entrepreneurs and military strategists of the 30s and 40s, and the visionaries and down-to-earth managers of the Space Age are a few of the aerospace leaders to be profiled at a day-long public symposium, "Realizing the Dream of Flight."
Daredevil pilots of the barnstorming era, bold entrepreneurs and military strategists of the 30s and 40s, and the visionaries and down-to-earth managers of the Space Age are a few of the aerospace leaders to be profiled at a day-long public symposium, "Realizing the Dream of Flight."
Mars Odyssey Mission Status 11/28/03
The martian radiation environment experiment on NASA's 2001 Mars Odyssey orbiter has collected data continuously from the start of the Odyssey mapping mission in March 2002 until late last year. On Oct. 28, 2003, during a period of intense solar activity, the instrument stopped working properly.
The martian radiation environment experiment on NASA's 2001 Mars Odyssey orbiter has collected data continuously from the start of the Odyssey mapping mission in March 2002 until late last year. On Oct. 28, 2003, during a period of intense solar activity, the instrument stopped working properly.
Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter Continues in Good Health - Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter Mission Status
NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, launched on Aug. 12, has completed one of the first tasks of its seven-month cruise to Mars, a calibration activity for the spacecraft's Mars Color Imager instrument. "We have transitioned from launch mode to cruise mode, and the spacecraft continues to perform extremely well," said Dan Johnston, Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter deputy mission manager at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.
NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, launched on Aug. 12, has completed one of the first tasks of its seven-month cruise to Mars, a calibration activity for the spacecraft's Mars Color Imager instrument. "We have transitioned from launch mode to cruise mode, and the spacecraft continues to perform extremely well," said Dan Johnston, Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter deputy mission manager at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.
Milestone Marked In Space - 1,000 Days Of Human Presence On ISS
A milestone was marked in space Tuesday July 29, 2003, the 1,000th consecutive day of people living and working aboard the International Space Station. Seven crews have lived on the Space Station, as it has dramatically grown in size and capabilities.
A milestone was marked in space Tuesday July 29, 2003, the 1,000th consecutive day of people living and working aboard the International Space Station. Seven crews have lived on the Space Station, as it has dramatically grown in size and capabilities.
Milestone Marked In Space - 1,000 Days Of ISS Human Presence
A milestone was marked in space Tuesday July 29, 2003, the 1,000th consecutive day of people living and working aboard the International Space Station. Seven crews have lived on the Space Station, as it has dramatically grown in size and capabilities.
A milestone was marked in space Tuesday July 29, 2003, the 1,000th consecutive day of people living and working aboard the International Space Station. Seven crews have lived on the Space Station, as it has dramatically grown in size and capabilities.
NASA Adapts Miniature Biological Lab For Use In Space
NASA is adapting tiny laboratories embedded in compact discs (CDs) to conduct biological tests aboard the International Space Station and to eventually look for life on other planets
NASA is adapting tiny laboratories embedded in compact discs (CDs) to conduct biological tests aboard the International Space Station and to eventually look for life on other planets
NASA Adapts Miniature Biological Lab For Use In Space
NASA is adapting tiny laboratories embedded in compact discs (CDs) to conduct biological tests aboard the International Space Station and to eventually look for life on other planets.
NASA is adapting tiny laboratories embedded in compact discs (CDs) to conduct biological tests aboard the International Space Station and to eventually look for life on other planets.
NASA Administrator Offers Support For Kennedy Space Center - Concerning Hurricane Frances Damage
A statement from NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe regarding the damage left behind at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida in the wake of Hurricane Frances. "The Kennedy Space Center suffered significant damage as Hurricane Frances swept across Florida. However, our primary concern is for the safety and well being of the entire NASA family along the Space Coast."
A statement from NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe regarding the damage left behind at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida in the wake of Hurricane Frances. "The Kennedy Space Center suffered significant damage as Hurricane Frances swept across Florida. However, our primary concern is for the safety and well being of the entire NASA family along the Space Coast."
NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe Statement About FY06 Budget - NASA'S Budget Enables New Age Of Exploration
Statement by NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe about the Administration's fiscal year 2006 budget proposal and the Vision for Space Exploration. "The fiscal 2006 NASA budget reaffirms the President's commitment to the Vision for Space Exploration and provides us the next step in implementing it. The exploration Vision provides a historic opportunity to focus NASA for the long term, and the process is well under way. We are transforming NASA and making great progress.
Statement by NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe about the Administration's fiscal year 2006 budget proposal and the Vision for Space Exploration. "The fiscal 2006 NASA budget reaffirms the President's commitment to the Vision for Space Exploration and provides us the next step in implementing it. The exploration Vision provides a historic opportunity to focus NASA for the long term, and the process is well under way. We are transforming NASA and making great progress.
NASA Announces 28 Space Radiation Research Grants
NASA has selected 28 researchers to conduct ground-based research in space radiation biology and space radiation shielding materials. Sponsored by NASA's Office of Biological and Physical Research (OBPR), this research will use the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory (SRL) and the Alternating Gradient Synchrotron at the Department of Energy's Brookhaven National Laboratory on Long Island, N.Y.
NASA has selected 28 researchers to conduct ground-based research in space radiation biology and space radiation shielding materials. Sponsored by NASA's Office of Biological and Physical Research (OBPR), this research will use the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory (SRL) and the Alternating Gradient Synchrotron at the Department of Energy's Brookhaven National Laboratory on Long Island, N.Y.
NASA Appoints Genesis Mishap Investigation Board Leader
NASA's Associate Administrator for Science Al Diaz announced today, Dr. Michael Ryschkewitsch, Director of the Applied Engineering and Technology Directorate at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), Greenbelt, Md., would lead the Genesis Mishap Investigation Board (MIB).
NASA's Associate Administrator for Science Al Diaz announced today, Dr. Michael Ryschkewitsch, Director of the Applied Engineering and Technology Directorate at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), Greenbelt, Md., would lead the Genesis Mishap Investigation Board (MIB).
NASA Asks Students To Help Design Orbital Space Colony
As children around the world begin the new school year, NASA scientists are seeking their help in designing an orbital space colony. NASA Ames Research Center, located in California's Silicon Valley, is holding its annual Space Settlement Contest and inviting students from around the world to develop and submit their designs for permanent space communities.
As children around the world begin the new school year, NASA scientists are seeking their help in designing an orbital space colony. NASA Ames Research Center, located in California's Silicon Valley, is holding its annual Space Settlement Contest and inviting students from around the world to develop and submit their designs for permanent space communities.
NASA Assesses Hurricane Frances Damage - Hurricane Francis Damaged Kennedy Space Center Buildings - Not Space Shuttle
NASA teams are surveying the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) for damage caused by Hurricane Frances. Initial assessments show Kennedy Space Center weathered Hurricane Frances fairly well. There are no reports of any injured KSC workers, and there does not appear to be damage to the Space Shuttles Discovery, Atlantis, and Endeavour from Hurricane Frances.
NASA teams are surveying the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) for damage caused by Hurricane Frances. Initial assessments show Kennedy Space Center weathered Hurricane Frances fairly well. There are no reports of any injured KSC workers, and there does not appear to be damage to the Space Shuttles Discovery, Atlantis, and Endeavour from Hurricane Frances.
NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations (NEEMO 5)
Four NASA astronauts are converting their titles to aquanauts, at least temporarily. They are taking part in the NEEMO 5 (NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations) Mission. The NEEMO missions are a cooperative project of NASA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the National Undersea Research Center (NURC) and the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW).
Four NASA astronauts are converting their titles to aquanauts, at least temporarily. They are taking part in the NEEMO 5 (NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations) Mission. The NEEMO missions are a cooperative project of NASA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the National Undersea Research Center (NURC) and the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW).
NASA Honors High Flying Space Pioneers - X-15 Space Pioneers Now Honored as Astronauts
In the 1960s, eight military & civilian test pilots flew the radical X-15 rocket plane out of the atmosphere & into the record books, earning astronaut status. Until today, 3 of those early astronaut test pilots never received official recognition of their lofty membership as astronauts because only the military had astronaut wings to confer on their pilots at that time. Civilian NASA pilots were never recognized for going beyond the atmosphere & into space flying the X-15 experimental aircraft.
In the 1960s, eight military & civilian test pilots flew the radical X-15 rocket plane out of the atmosphere & into the record books, earning astronaut status. Until today, 3 of those early astronaut test pilots never received official recognition of their lofty membership as astronauts because only the military had astronaut wings to confer on their pilots at that time. Civilian NASA pilots were never recognized for going beyond the atmosphere & into space flying the X-15 experimental aircraft.
NASA Inspires Student Ambitions - Tulsa Students To Connect With ISS
NASA will engage Tulsa, Okla. area high school and aviation technology students in an interactive discussion with the International Space Station crew on July 17. The in-flight educational program, with the Space Station Expedition 7 crew, is part of the week long Science and Engineering Careers Academy (SECA) at Tulsa Community College. The discussion is from 2:10 to 2:30 p.m. EDT.
NASA will engage Tulsa, Okla. area high school and aviation technology students in an interactive discussion with the International Space Station crew on July 17. The in-flight educational program, with the Space Station Expedition 7 crew, is part of the week long Science and Engineering Careers Academy (SECA) at Tulsa Community College. The discussion is from 2:10 to 2:30 p.m. EDT.
NASA Introduces The Next Generation Of Explorers
NASA's 2004 Astronaut Candidate Class - May 7 2004. NASA's 2004 astronaut candidate class was introduced during Space Day activities at the National Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va.
NASA's 2004 Astronaut Candidate Class - May 7 2004. NASA's 2004 astronaut candidate class was introduced during Space Day activities at the National Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va.
NASA Joins International Earth Observation Summit
On Thursday, July 31, 2003, senior administration officials and representatives from more than 30 nations meet in Washington to establish plans for an integrated international Earth observation system.
On Thursday, July 31, 2003, senior administration officials and representatives from more than 30 nations meet in Washington to establish plans for an integrated international Earth observation system.
NASA Keeps Watch Over Isabel - Captures Spectacular Images
NASA is keeping a close watch on Hurricane Isabel as it churns in the Atlantic with winds that top 150 miles per hour. Instruments aboard NASA's suite of Earth-observing satellites are monitoring the storm as it makes its way toward the East Coast of the United States. Meanwhile, astronauts aboard the International Space Station are capturing unique video of the storm.
NASA is keeping a close watch on Hurricane Isabel as it churns in the Atlantic with winds that top 150 miles per hour. Instruments aboard NASA's suite of Earth-observing satellites are monitoring the storm as it makes its way toward the East Coast of the United States. Meanwhile, astronauts aboard the International Space Station are capturing unique video of the storm.
NASA Looking For Volunteers - Public to look for dust grains in Stardust detectors
Astronomy buffs who jumped at the chance to use their home computers in the SETI@home search for intelligent life in the universe will soon be able to join an Internet-based search for dust grains originating from stars millions of light years away. In a new project called Stardust@home, University of California, Berkeley, researchers will invite Internet users to help them search for a few dozen submicroscopic grains of interstellar dust captured by NASA's Stardust spacecraft.
Astronomy buffs who jumped at the chance to use their home computers in the SETI@home search for intelligent life in the universe will soon be able to join an Internet-based search for dust grains originating from stars millions of light years away. In a new project called Stardust@home, University of California, Berkeley, researchers will invite Internet users to help them search for a few dozen submicroscopic grains of interstellar dust captured by NASA's Stardust spacecraft.
NASA Makes Magic: Harry Potter Goes to Space - Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" Makes Its Space Premier - Harry Potter Goes to Space
It seems that a certain boy wizard has a high flying fan. NASA astronaut & International Space Station Commander Bill McArthur was unhappy at the prospect of missing "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," the newest movie in the Harry Potter series. As part of NASA's regular assistance to crew members on long-duration space flights, NASA contacted the maker of the Harry Potter movies, Warner Bros. Pictures, in the hopes that they might work some magic & help McArthur see the film while in space.
It seems that a certain boy wizard has a high flying fan. NASA astronaut & International Space Station Commander Bill McArthur was unhappy at the prospect of missing "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," the newest movie in the Harry Potter series. As part of NASA's regular assistance to crew members on long-duration space flights, NASA contacted the maker of the Harry Potter movies, Warner Bros. Pictures, in the hopes that they might work some magic & help McArthur see the film while in space.
NASA Names New 2004 Astronaut Class On Space Day
The next generation of explorers is here. NASA will announce a new class of astronaut candidates, including three educator astronauts, May 6, 2004. The announcement is part of the Space Day celebration at the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va. The program begins at 9:30 a.m. EDT and will be broadcast live on NASA Television.
The next generation of explorers is here. NASA will announce a new class of astronaut candidates, including three educator astronauts, May 6, 2004. The announcement is part of the Space Day celebration at the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va. The program begins at 9:30 a.m. EDT and will be broadcast live on NASA Television.
NASA Names New Safety Advisory Panel
NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe announced the new NASA Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel (ASAP), which includes nine distinguished members and a new charter. The initial meeting of the new panel is expected soon.
NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe announced the new NASA Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel (ASAP), which includes nine distinguished members and a new charter. The initial meeting of the new panel is expected soon.
NASA Opens Mars Center At Ames On December 29
To support NASA's Mars exploration program and to coincide with the January landings of the Mars Exploration Rover mission, NASA Ames Research Center will unveil its new Mars Center on December 29.
To support NASA's Mars exploration program and to coincide with the January landings of the Mars Exploration Rover mission, NASA Ames Research Center will unveil its new Mars Center on December 29.
NASA Plans Return to Moon by 2018 - NASA Unveils New Crew Exploration Vehicle
Finally, it appears we are returning to the moon. Not as soon as many of us would have liked, but the wheels of NASA often turn slowly. NASA now says it hopes to put humans on the Lunar surface again by the year 2018, and this time, we're going to stay, building outposts and paving the way for eventual journeys to Mars and beyond. NASA says, "it won't be your grandfather's moon shot." NASA's new spaceship is the centerpiece to making the Vision for Space Exploration a reality.
Finally, it appears we are returning to the moon. Not as soon as many of us would have liked, but the wheels of NASA often turn slowly. NASA now says it hopes to put humans on the Lunar surface again by the year 2018, and this time, we're going to stay, building outposts and paving the way for eventual journeys to Mars and beyond. NASA says, "it won't be your grandfather's moon shot." NASA's new spaceship is the centerpiece to making the Vision for Space Exploration a reality.
NASA Plans to Put an Aura Around the Earth
On June 19, 2004, NASA will launch Aura, a next generation Earth- observing satellite. Aura will supply the best information yet about the health of Earth's atmosphere. Aura will help scientists understand how atmospheric composition affects and responds to Earth's changing climate. It will also track the extent to which Earth's protective ozone layer is recovering.
On June 19, 2004, NASA will launch Aura, a next generation Earth- observing satellite. Aura will supply the best information yet about the health of Earth's atmosphere. Aura will help scientists understand how atmospheric composition affects and responds to Earth's changing climate. It will also track the extent to which Earth's protective ozone layer is recovering.
NASA Presentations At IGARSS Symposium
NASA scientists will present a variety of Earth science topics at the International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium (IGARSS) at the Centre de Congres Pierre Baudis, Toulouse, France, July 21-25, 2003.
NASA scientists will present a variety of Earth science topics at the International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium (IGARSS) at the Centre de Congres Pierre Baudis, Toulouse, France, July 21-25, 2003.
NASA Reaches Milestone With An Autonomous Flight Safety System
NASA has recently completed the design phase of a flight safety system to potentially lower range operations cost for the launch of expendable launch vehicles. The Autonomous Flight Safety System (AFSS) is being developed in three phases by a NASA team of flight systems, operations and range safety personnel.
NASA has recently completed the design phase of a flight safety system to potentially lower range operations cost for the launch of expendable launch vehicles. The Autonomous Flight Safety System (AFSS) is being developed in three phases by a NASA team of flight systems, operations and range safety personnel.
NASA Selects "Sharp" Students To Launch Academic Excellence
NASA launched the 2003 Summer High School Apprenticeship Research Program (SHARP) after competitively selecting 340 students representing nearly every state, Puerto Rico, and St. Croix.
NASA launched the 2003 Summer High School Apprenticeship Research Program (SHARP) after competitively selecting 340 students representing nearly every state, Puerto Rico, and St. Croix.
NASA Song Soars To Grammy Nomination
Singer Patti LaBelle has been nominated for a Grammy for her rendition of "Way Up There." (Video) LaBelle was one of five nominees in the Traditional Rhythm & Blues category for the 46th Annual Grammy Awards.
Singer Patti LaBelle has been nominated for a Grammy for her rendition of "Way Up There." (Video) LaBelle was one of five nominees in the Traditional Rhythm & Blues category for the 46th Annual Grammy Awards.
NASA Students Make West Nile Virus Risk Map For Monterey County
map showing the potential risk of West Nile virus being carried by mosquitoes in Monterey County, Calif. is the product of four students who worked this summer at NASA Ames Research Center in Moffett Field, Calif.
map showing the potential risk of West Nile virus being carried by mosquitoes in Monterey County, Calif. is the product of four students who worked this summer at NASA Ames Research Center in Moffett Field, Calif.
NASA Technology Helpful During Pregnancy - NASA Helps Fetal Hearts Beat Loud and Clear - Pregnancy Help From NASA
By keeping track of some very small American hearts with a new, portable fetal heart monitor, NASA technology is relieving some of the worry of a high-risk pregnancy. NASA technology comes to the aid of women during pregnancy. Researchers from NASA's Langley Research Center, Hampton, Va., worked with Baby Beats Inc., & Washington State University's Small Business Development Center to transfer and develop aerospace technology to assist with pregnancy.
By keeping track of some very small American hearts with a new, portable fetal heart monitor, NASA technology is relieving some of the worry of a high-risk pregnancy. NASA technology comes to the aid of women during pregnancy. Researchers from NASA's Langley Research Center, Hampton, Va., worked with Baby Beats Inc., & Washington State University's Small Business Development Center to transfer and develop aerospace technology to assist with pregnancy.
NASA's Deep Impact Generates its own Spectacular Photo Flash
The hyper-speed demise of NASA's Deep Impact probe generated an immense flash of light, which provided an excellent light source for the two cameras on the Deep Impact mothership. Deep Impact scientists theorize the 820-pound impactor vaporized deep below the comet's surface when the two collided at 1:52 am July 4, at a speed of about 10 kilometers per second (6.3 miles per second or 23,000 miles per hour).
The hyper-speed demise of NASA's Deep Impact probe generated an immense flash of light, which provided an excellent light source for the two cameras on the Deep Impact mothership. Deep Impact scientists theorize the 820-pound impactor vaporized deep below the comet's surface when the two collided at 1:52 am July 4, at a speed of about 10 kilometers per second (6.3 miles per second or 23,000 miles per hour).
NASA's Deep Space Network: Calling Home Is About to Get Easier
This winter an unprecedented number of spacecraft will need to call home. Playing a critical role in these planetary missions is NASA's Deep Space Network, which provides the primary means of communicating between distant spacecraft and Earth. Nov 17 2003.
This winter an unprecedented number of spacecraft will need to call home. Playing a critical role in these planetary missions is NASA's Deep Space Network, which provides the primary means of communicating between distant spacecraft and Earth. Nov 17 2003.
NASA'S First Scout Mission Selected For 2007 Mars Launch
NASA selected Phoenix, an innovative and relatively low cost mission, to study the red planet, as the first Mars Scout mission. The Phoenix lander mission is scheduled for launch in 2007. July 8, 2003.
NASA selected Phoenix, an innovative and relatively low cost mission, to study the red planet, as the first Mars Scout mission. The Phoenix lander mission is scheduled for launch in 2007. July 8, 2003.
NASA's Great Observatories Provide a Detailed View of Kepler's Supernova Remnant
NASA's three Great Observatories — the Hubble Space Telescope, the Spitzer Space Telescope, and the Chandra X-ray Observatory - joined forces to probe the expanding remains of a supernova, called Kepler's supernova remnant, first seen 400 years ago by sky watchers, including famous astronomer Johannes Kepler. NASA's Great Observatories Provide a Detailed View of Kepler's Supernova Remnant.
NASA's three Great Observatories — the Hubble Space Telescope, the Spitzer Space Telescope, and the Chandra X-ray Observatory - joined forces to probe the expanding remains of a supernova, called Kepler's supernova remnant, first seen 400 years ago by sky watchers, including famous astronomer Johannes Kepler. NASA's Great Observatories Provide a Detailed View of Kepler's Supernova Remnant.
NESC To Examine All NASA Programs And Projects
NASA today announced plans to create an independent Engineering and Safety Center (NESC) at the agency's Langley Research Center in Hampton, Va., to provide comprehensive examination of all NASA programs and projects. The center will provide a central location to coordinate and conduct robust engineering and safety assessment across the entire agency.
NASA today announced plans to create an independent Engineering and Safety Center (NESC) at the agency's Langley Research Center in Hampton, Va., to provide comprehensive examination of all NASA programs and projects. The center will provide a central location to coordinate and conduct robust engineering and safety assessment across the entire agency.
New Crew Arrives at International Space Station - Expedition 10 to Replace Expedition 9 Aboard the Internationa Space Station
The Soyuz spacecraft with the 10th International Space Station crew, Astronaut Leroy Chiao and Cosmonaut Salizhan Sharipov, docked to the orbiting laboratory at 12:16 a.m. EDT Saturday October 16, 2004.
The Soyuz spacecraft with the 10th International Space Station crew, Astronaut Leroy Chiao and Cosmonaut Salizhan Sharipov, docked to the orbiting laboratory at 12:16 a.m. EDT Saturday October 16, 2004.
New Horizons Overview
With the New Horizons mission, now in development and planning for liftoff January 2006 from Launch Complex 41 at the Kennedy Space Center, NASA looks to unlock one of the solar system's last, great planetary secrets.
With the New Horizons mission, now in development and planning for liftoff January 2006 from Launch Complex 41 at the Kennedy Space Center, NASA looks to unlock one of the solar system's last, great planetary secrets.
New Horizons Pictures
New Horizons Pictures. The first spacecraft to visit Pluto & its moon Charon, New Horizons looks to unlock one of the solar system's last, great planetary secrets. After launch on an Atlas V, the New Horizons spacecraft will cross the entire span of the solar system & conduct flyby studies of Pluto & its moon, Charon, in 2015. These pictures show the seven science instruments on the piano-sized probe which will shed light on the bodies' surface properties, geology, interior makeup & atmospheres.
New Horizons Pictures. The first spacecraft to visit Pluto & its moon Charon, New Horizons looks to unlock one of the solar system's last, great planetary secrets. After launch on an Atlas V, the New Horizons spacecraft will cross the entire span of the solar system & conduct flyby studies of Pluto & its moon, Charon, in 2015. These pictures show the seven science instruments on the piano-sized probe which will shed light on the bodies' surface properties, geology, interior makeup & atmospheres.
Next International Space Station Crew Launches from Baikonur - Expedition 10 to Replace Expedition 9 Aboard the International Space Station
Astronaut Leroy Chiao & Cosmonaut Salizhan Sharipov launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan at 11:06 p.m. EDT Wednesday October 13, 2004. Their Soyuz TMA capsule reached orbit a little less than 9 minutes after liftoff. With this 10th crew of the International Space Station is Russian Space Forces Test Cosmonaut Yuri Shargin. Their Soyuz is scheduled to dock with the Space Station at 12:25 a.m. EDT Oct. 16, 2004.
Astronaut Leroy Chiao & Cosmonaut Salizhan Sharipov launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan at 11:06 p.m. EDT Wednesday October 13, 2004. Their Soyuz TMA capsule reached orbit a little less than 9 minutes after liftoff. With this 10th crew of the International Space Station is Russian Space Forces Test Cosmonaut Yuri Shargin. Their Soyuz is scheduled to dock with the Space Station at 12:25 a.m. EDT Oct. 16, 2004.
Odyssey Studies Changing Weather and Climate on Mars
Mars may be going through a period of climate change, new findings from NASA's Mars Odyssey orbiter suggest.
Mars may be going through a period of climate change, new findings from NASA's Mars Odyssey orbiter suggest.
Potty Training - How To Go To The Bathroom In Space
There are many things we take for granted here on Earth that take on a whole new aspect when you're orbiting the Earth in microgravity in the space shuttle or International Space Station. One of the most asked questions that NASA receives involves bathroom rituals. Let%u2019s see what a trip to the bathroom in the space shuttle entails.
There are many things we take for granted here on Earth that take on a whole new aspect when you're orbiting the Earth in microgravity in the space shuttle or International Space Station. One of the most asked questions that NASA receives involves bathroom rituals. Let%u2019s see what a trip to the bathroom in the space shuttle entails.
Practical Application For Space - NASA Helps Fight Deadly Fires
NASA satellite data is providing scientists and fire managers with unparalleled insight into how deadly fires behave, and how to fight them. NASA's contribution to fire management is the topic of the next Earth Science Update (ESU). July 20, 2003.
NASA satellite data is providing scientists and fire managers with unparalleled insight into how deadly fires behave, and how to fight them. NASA's contribution to fire management is the topic of the next Earth Science Update (ESU). July 20, 2003.
President Ronald Reagan Honored From Space - ISS Crew Honors 40th President - Ronald Reagan
Astronaut Mike Fincke and cosmonaut Gennady Padalka paid tribute to President Ronald Reagan during a video downlink message from the International Space Station. President Ronald Reagan Honored From Space - ISS Crew Honors 40th President - Ronald Reagan.
Astronaut Mike Fincke and cosmonaut Gennady Padalka paid tribute to President Ronald Reagan during a video downlink message from the International Space Station. President Ronald Reagan Honored From Space - ISS Crew Honors 40th President - Ronald Reagan.
Progress Cargo Craft Docks to International Space Station
It was propelled by a rocket instead of reindeer, but the Progress cargo craft made things aboard the International Space Station look a lot more like Christmas. The unpiloted Russian cargo carrier docked to the International Space Station Saturday evening with a Christmas delivery of 2.5 tons of food, fuel, oxygen, water, supplies and gifts for Commander Leroy Chiao and Cosmonaut Salizhan Sharipov.
It was propelled by a rocket instead of reindeer, but the Progress cargo craft made things aboard the International Space Station look a lot more like Christmas. The unpiloted Russian cargo carrier docked to the International Space Station Saturday evening with a Christmas delivery of 2.5 tons of food, fuel, oxygen, water, supplies and gifts for Commander Leroy Chiao and Cosmonaut Salizhan Sharipov.
Purdue University Team To Help Develop Life-Supporting Ecosystems
One obstacle which has kept us close to home has been the problem of sustaining life for the long time required for a journey another planet. NASA has taken a step towards solving this by selecting a Purdue University team to lead in developing technologies to "enable long-duration space exploration and planetary missions and sustain human space colonies."
One obstacle which has kept us close to home has been the problem of sustaining life for the long time required for a journey another planet. NASA has taken a step towards solving this by selecting a Purdue University team to lead in developing technologies to "enable long-duration space exploration and planetary missions and sustain human space colonies."
Seeding The Solar System - NASA May Have Put Life on Other Planets
According to The Sunday Times, Far from discovering life on Mars, NASA may have put it there. A new book titled Out of Eden, by Alan Burdick, says microbes may be living in the electronic circuits of the twin Mars robotic landers, Spirit and Opportunity. According to Burdick, Kasthuri Venkateswaran, a microbiologist at NASA's spacecraft assembly plant says tests have shown that the microbes could have survived the vacuum of space as well as the extremes of the Martian climate.
According to The Sunday Times, Far from discovering life on Mars, NASA may have put it there. A new book titled Out of Eden, by Alan Burdick, says microbes may be living in the electronic circuits of the twin Mars robotic landers, Spirit and Opportunity. According to Burdick, Kasthuri Venkateswaran, a microbiologist at NASA's spacecraft assembly plant says tests have shown that the microbes could have survived the vacuum of space as well as the extremes of the Martian climate.
Son of Space Veteran Guilty of Possession of Child Pornography - Son of Mercury 7 Astronaut Walter "Wally" Schirra
The son of one of the original Mercury 7 astronauts is currently awaiting sentencing on child pornaography charges. On August 31, 2005, Schirra's son, 55 year old Walter M. Schirra III, pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography in a federal sex tourism case. He had been arrested November 6, 2004 trying to board a Thailand-bound plane. While none of the items discovered were illegal, they led to a search of Schirrs's home, which revealed child pornography on his computer.
The son of one of the original Mercury 7 astronauts is currently awaiting sentencing on child pornaography charges. On August 31, 2005, Schirra's son, 55 year old Walter M. Schirra III, pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography in a federal sex tourism case. He had been arrested November 6, 2004 trying to board a Thailand-bound plane. While none of the items discovered were illegal, they led to a search of Schirrs's home, which revealed child pornography on his computer.
Space Shuttle 'Go for Launch' on July 13 - Space Shuttle Discovery Set for Return to Flight Launch of STS-114
It has been nearly two and a half years since the disintegration of the space shuttle Columbia caused the grounding of the entire space shuttle fleet. For the last 29 months, the crew of the International Space Station has been down to two people and has been relying on Russian Soyuz rockets for supplies. Finally, after a two-day Flight Readiness Review meeting at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, senior managers approved a July 13 launch date for Discovery.
It has been nearly two and a half years since the disintegration of the space shuttle Columbia caused the grounding of the entire space shuttle fleet. For the last 29 months, the crew of the International Space Station has been down to two people and has been relying on Russian Soyuz rockets for supplies. Finally, after a two-day Flight Readiness Review meeting at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, senior managers approved a July 13 launch date for Discovery.
Space Station Crew Looks For Special Christmas Delivery - Russian Cargo Ship, Progress, To Dock December 23, 2005
The International Space Station crew will get a special Christmas delivery when the next Russian cargo ship docks to the orbiting laboratory Dec. 23. NASA Television will provide live coverage of the 2:55 p.m. EST docking beginning at 2 p.m. The Progress spacecraft will launch Dec. 21 at 1:38 p.m. EST from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. The craft will spend two days closing in on the station before docking to the Pirs Docking Compartment.
The International Space Station crew will get a special Christmas delivery when the next Russian cargo ship docks to the orbiting laboratory Dec. 23. NASA Television will provide live coverage of the 2:55 p.m. EST docking beginning at 2 p.m. The Progress spacecraft will launch Dec. 21 at 1:38 p.m. EST from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. The craft will spend two days closing in on the station before docking to the Pirs Docking Compartment.
Stardust Coming Home - NASA's Comet Hunter on Final Approach for Sunday Landing
NASA's Stardust mission return capsule will land Sunday January 15, 2006 at approximately 5:12 a.m. EST (3:12 a.m. MST) on the Utah Test and Training Range. Stardust is completing a 2.88 billion mile round-trip odyssey to capture and return cometary and interstellar dust particles to Earth. The spacecraft performs its last maneuver to put it on the correct path to enter the atmosphere tomorrow at 11:53 p.m. EST (9:53 p.m. MST).
NASA's Stardust mission return capsule will land Sunday January 15, 2006 at approximately 5:12 a.m. EST (3:12 a.m. MST) on the Utah Test and Training Range. Stardust is completing a 2.88 billion mile round-trip odyssey to capture and return cometary and interstellar dust particles to Earth. The spacecraft performs its last maneuver to put it on the correct path to enter the atmosphere tomorrow at 11:53 p.m. EST (9:53 p.m. MST).
Stardust Mission Cool Facts
Stardust is the first U.S. mission launched to robotically obtain samples in deep space & return them to Earth. Stardust is the first NASA mission dedicated to exploring a comet. Comets are leftover materials that formed of the planets & the Sun more than 4.5 billion years ago & contain many of the organic materials thought to be essential for the origin of life. Comet Wild 2, the destination of Stardust, almost collided with Jupiter in 1974, causing its orbit to be deflected closer to the Sun.
Stardust is the first U.S. mission launched to robotically obtain samples in deep space & return them to Earth. Stardust is the first NASA mission dedicated to exploring a comet. Comets are leftover materials that formed of the planets & the Sun more than 4.5 billion years ago & contain many of the organic materials thought to be essential for the origin of life. Comet Wild 2, the destination of Stardust, almost collided with Jupiter in 1974, causing its orbit to be deflected closer to the Sun.
Stardust Return Pictures
NASA's Stardust sample return mission returned safely to Earth when the capsule carrying cometary and interstellar particles successfully touched down at 2:10 a.m. Pacific time (3:10 a.m. Mountain time) on January 15, 2006 in the desert salt flats of the U.S. Air Force Utah Test and Training Range. These pictures tell the story of the successful Stardust return.
NASA's Stardust sample return mission returned safely to Earth when the capsule carrying cometary and interstellar particles successfully touched down at 2:10 a.m. Pacific time (3:10 a.m. Mountain time) on January 15, 2006 in the desert salt flats of the U.S. Air Force Utah Test and Training Range. These pictures tell the story of the successful Stardust return.
Stardust Returns - NASA's Comet Tale Draws to a Successful Close in Utah Desert
Date: January 15, 2006 - NASA's Stardust sample return mission returned safely to Earth when the capsule carrying cometary and interstellar particles successfully touched down at 2:10 a.m. Pacific time (3:10 a.m. Mountain time) in the desert salt flats of the U.S. Air Force Utah Test and Training Range.
Date: January 15, 2006 - NASA's Stardust sample return mission returned safely to Earth when the capsule carrying cometary and interstellar particles successfully touched down at 2:10 a.m. Pacific time (3:10 a.m. Mountain time) in the desert salt flats of the U.S. Air Force Utah Test and Training Range.
STS-114 Launch Scrubbed
Today's Return to Flight launch of Space Shuttle Discovery has been postponed due to an issue with a low-level fuel cutoff sensor located inside the External Tank. The sensor protects an orbiter's main engines by triggering them to shut down in the event fuel runs unexpectedly low. NASA managers are currently meeting to evaluate the sensor issue. More information will be released at a press conference scheduled for no earlier than 4:30 p.m. EDT this afternoon from Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
Today's Return to Flight launch of Space Shuttle Discovery has been postponed due to an issue with a low-level fuel cutoff sensor located inside the External Tank. The sensor protects an orbiter's main engines by triggering them to shut down in the event fuel runs unexpectedly low. NASA managers are currently meeting to evaluate the sensor issue. More information will be released at a press conference scheduled for no earlier than 4:30 p.m. EDT this afternoon from Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
Take Me Out To The ... International Space Station?
Now, this is something the major league baseball coaches may want to look into, a 17,500 mile and hour fastball. At the start of the first game of the World Series in Anaheim, the 92 year old tradition of throwing out the first pitch will be accomplished "virtually" more than 240 miles away.
Now, this is something the major league baseball coaches may want to look into, a 17,500 mile and hour fastball. At the start of the first game of the World Series in Anaheim, the 92 year old tradition of throwing out the first pitch will be accomplished "virtually" more than 240 miles away.
Two Architectures Chosen for Terrestrial Planet Finder
Included in the nation's vision for space in 2004 and beyond is a plan for NASA to "conduct advanced telescope searches for Earth-like planets and habitable environments around other stars." To meet this challenge, NASA has chosen to fly two separate missions with distinct and complementary architectures to achieve the goal of the Terrestrial Planet Finder.
Included in the nation's vision for space in 2004 and beyond is a plan for NASA to "conduct advanced telescope searches for Earth-like planets and habitable environments around other stars." To meet this challenge, NASA has chosen to fly two separate missions with distinct and complementary architectures to achieve the goal of the Terrestrial Planet Finder.
What Neil & Buzz Left on the Moon
Ringed by footprints, sitting in the moondust, lies a 2-foot wide panel studded with 100 mirrors pointing at Earth: the "lunar laser ranging retroreflector array." Apollo 11 astronauts Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong put it there on July 21, 1969, about an hour before the end of their final moonwalk. Thirty-five years later, it's the only Apollo science experiment still running.
Ringed by footprints, sitting in the moondust, lies a 2-foot wide panel studded with 100 mirrors pointing at Earth: the "lunar laser ranging retroreflector array." Apollo 11 astronauts Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong put it there on July 21, 1969, about an hour before the end of their final moonwalk. Thirty-five years later, it's the only Apollo science experiment still running.