Discover NASA's Latest Moon Lander Technology

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. SpaceX's FCC Filing for Starship Launch
3. Potential Launch Dates
4. Flight Termination System Investigation
5. Redesigning the Flight Termination System
6. Construction Updates at Starbase
7. SpaceX's Water Cooled Plate and Deluge System
8. Testing of the Raptor V3 Engine
9. Kathy Lootens: Ex-NASA Manager Hired by SpaceX
10. NASA's Selection of Blue Origin's Lander for Artemis 5
11. Flexibility of the Lunar Gateway Station
12. Features of Blue Origin's Blue Moon Lander
13. Benefits of NASA's Redundancy Approach
14. New View: Mapping the Earth with Spaceborne Lidar

Introduction

In this article, we will Delve into the latest space news, focusing on SpaceX's preparations for their upcoming Starship launch. We will explore the details of SpaceX's FCC filing for the launch, the potential launch dates, and the challenges they face with the flight termination system investigation. Additionally, we will discuss the construction updates at Starbase, including the implementation of a water cooled plate and deluge system. Furthermore, we will highlight the testing of the Raptor V3 engine and the hiring of ex-NASA manager Kathy Lootens by SpaceX. Lastly, we will examine NASA's selection of Blue Origin's Lander for the Artemis 5 mission and the groundbreaking mapping technology developed by New View using spaceborne lidar.

SpaceX's FCC Filing for Starship Launch

SpaceX recently made an FCC filing on May 17th, applying for a permit to use certain communication frequencies for the upcoming Starship test flight. While such filings are routine for aerospace companies, this particular filing caught Attention due to SpaceX's choice to mark the reason for the request as "Starship test flight." This suggests that SpaceX is planning a test launch in the near future.

Potential Launch Dates

The FCC filing indicates that SpaceX is looking at a launch window from June 15th to December 15th. While this timeframe is broad, the start date of June suggests that SpaceX is optimistic about a potential launch as early as next month. However, the timing will depend on factors such as FCC approval and the completion of the flight termination system investigation.

Flight Termination System Investigation

Following the explosion of Starship on April 20th, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) initiated an investigation into the incident. The FAA has a standard procedure of investigating any mishap involving airborne vehicles. SpaceX must fulfill specific conditions addressed in the investigation before being granted approval for a Second launch. One crucial aspect of this investigation is the flight termination system, which must be functional to ensure the safe destruction of the rocket if needed.

Redesigning the Flight Termination System

SpaceX recognized the need to address the flight termination system issue highlighted during the last launch. CEO Elon Musk acknowledged the importance of having a reliable system to destroy Starship when necessary. Recent sightings of SpaceX testing flight termination system charges on an older booster indicate that the team is actively working on redesigning and improving the system. This proactive approach demonstrates SpaceX's commitment to addressing the FAA's concerns and ensuring a safe launch in the future.

Construction Updates at Starbase

At the Starbase launch site, construction crews have been busy making necessary repairs and upgrades. They have been installing new concrete pilings, which act as deep foundation structures, to disperse the load forces on buildings. This innovative method directs the immense energy generated during liftoff toward the bedrock, preventing similar ground compression issues seen in previous launches. These repairs also include the installation of a new water-cooled plate system.

SpaceX's Water Cooled Plate and Deluge System

SpaceX has been working on a water-cooled plate and deluge system to divert engine power and reduce noise levels during liftoff. This system involves fitting water-cooled steel plates beneath the orbital launch mount to shoot water at angles that cool the steel pad without affecting the engines. By breaking up pressure waves and cooling the pad, this system mitigates noise and prevents the steel from melting under the intense heat generated during liftoff.

Testing of the Raptor V3 Engine

SpaceX has also been testing its new Raptor V3 engine for Starship. The testing, referred to as Starship 25, began on the spare test stand. The Raptor V3 engine represents a significant advancement in rocket engine technology and demonstrates SpaceX's continuous efforts to improve efficiency and performance.

Kathy Lootens: Ex-NASA Manager Hired by SpaceX

In a strategic move, SpaceX has hired Kathy Lootens, an ex-NASA manager, to aid in running Starbase operations. Lootens has 30 years of experience with NASA, primarily focused on building the administration's commercial programs. Her role in establishing NASA's commercial partnerships makes her a valuable addition to SpaceX's human space flight program. This hiring further highlights SpaceX's commitment to collaboration and expertise within the industry.

NASA's Selection of Blue Origin's Lander for Artemis 5

Recently, NASA awarded Blue Origin's Blue Moon Lander the contract for putting astronauts on the lunar surface during the Artemis 5 mission in 2029. Blue Moon is the second certified Lander for NASA's human Landing system, complementing SpaceX's Starship Lander. The selection of Blue Moon allows NASA to ensure redundancy in their mission plans, providing an alternate vehicle if Starship encounters any delays or challenges.

Stay tuned to learn more about the flexibility of the Lunar Gateway Station, the features of Blue Moon Lander, and the groundbreaking lidar mapping technology developed by New View.

Flexibility of the Lunar Gateway Station

The Artemis 5 mission will utilize the Lunar Gateway Station, a crucial component of NASA's lunar exploration plans. The space station allows for flexibility in mission design, making it easier for astronauts to rendezvous with different landers. In comparison to the Artemis 3 mission, where Orion is planned to dock with SpaceX's Starship Lander directly in lunar orbit, the Artemis 5 mission will involve separate launches of Orion and Blue Moon, which will then rendezvous at the Gateway station.

Features of Blue Origin's Blue Moon Lander

Blue Origin's Blue Moon Lander offers unique features that distinguish it from SpaceX's Starship Lander. The crew cabin of Blue Moon is positioned at the bottom of the vehicle under the fuel tanks, allowing for easier access during lunar missions. It was designed collaboratively by a team of companies, leveraging their collective expertise. Blue Moon also incorporates universal fittings, enabling docking with other crew-rated spacecraft in space. This design choice ensures compatibility and enhances NASA's mission flexibility.

Benefits of NASA's Redundancy Approach

NASA's selection of both SpaceX's Starship Lander and Blue Origin's Blue Moon Lander underscores the agency's commitment to redundancy and risk mitigation in its lunar exploration program. By having multiple options, NASA ensures the availability of capable landers even if one experiences delays or technical challenges. This redundancy approach enables uninterrupted progress toward returning astronauts to the moon and establishing a sustainable human presence.

New View: Mapping the Earth with Spaceborne Lidar

Geo mapping startup New View has developed an extraordinary technology that utilizes spaceborne lidar to map the Earth's surface. Lidar, which employs lasers to measure distances and Create detailed maps, has typically been used with flying vehicles like drones and planes. However, New View aims to go beyond conventional methods by employing a constellation of low-flying satellites armed with lidar technology.

By using lidar at greater distances, New View can cover large areas of land more efficiently. The precision of lidar maps is remarkable, as they can capture details ranging from individual power lines to large-Scale buildings. This mapping technology presents opportunities in various fields, from geosurveying to urban planning and traffic design.

With robust funding and partnerships, New View aims to launch a initial batch of 20 satellites in the next 24 to 36 months. These satellites will be deployed in groups of five, paving the way for extensive global mapping in 3D. The data collected will provide invaluable insights for numerous industries and contribute to a better understanding of our planet.

Stay tuned for more updates on the exciting developments in the aerospace industry and interstellar exploration. Make sure to visit the Tesla Space and Space Race Store for space-themed merchandise. Subscribe to The Space Race for weekly long-form articles and news updates.

Highlights

• SpaceX files FCC permit for upcoming Starship launch.
• Potential launch dates indicate a possible launch as early as next month.
• Flight termination system investigation underway by FAA.
• SpaceX actively working on redesigning the flight termination system.
• Construction updates at Starbase include concrete pilings and water cooled plate system.
• Testing of the Raptor V3 engine for Starship.
• Ex-NASA manager Kathy Lootens joins SpaceX's Starbase operations.
• NASA selects Blue Origin's Blue Moon Lander for Artemis 5 mission.
• Lunar Gateway Station offers mission flexibility for NASA.
• Features of Blue Moon Lander and its compatibility with other spacecraft.
• NASA's approach of redundancy ensures mission progress.
• New View's spaceborne lidar technology for mapping the Earth's surface.

FAQ

Q: How does lidar technology work?

A: Lidar technology uses lasers to measure distances and creates detailed maps. By emitting light pulses and recording their reflections, lidar sensors can accurately map objects, terrain, and structures.

Q: What is the purpose of the flight termination system?

A: The flight termination system is a crucial safety mechanism that allows the destruction of rockets in case of emergencies or abnormal behavior. It ensures the protection of human lives and property on the ground.

Q: Why is NASA selecting multiple landers for its lunar missions?

A: NASA's selection of multiple landers, such as SpaceX's Starship Lander and Blue Origin's Blue Moon Lander, offers redundancy and risk mitigation. It allows for continued mission progress even if one lander encounters delays or technical difficulties.

Q: How will New View's lidar mapping technology benefit various industries?

A: New View's lidar mapping technology can provide invaluable data for industries such as geosurveying, urban planning, and traffic design. The detailed 3D maps generated can aid in decision-making and offer insights into the Earth's landscape.