13 - 17 June 2022
Sustainability is key for an innovative, inclusive & peaceful future in space
Reusable space vehicles are key to sustainability in space (image: NASA)
The UN COPUOS rounded-off their 65th session last Friday, committing to their ultimate goal of peaceful space. But whilst this is arguably the aim for most stakeholders, sustainability in the space sector has also been a pressing issue. Sustainability in design is what has made space more accessible, and is what spurs on the continued innovation of the private sector.
The public will be concerned about the impact of the increasing number of launches will have on our environment, and moving forwards, our plans to use space sustainably (or not), in relation to such issues as space debris. There is no doubt that the application a new space technology can have a resounding positive impact on humanity and Earth. However, if leaders in both the public and private sector don’t make a concerted effort to reassure the public about their dedication to sustainability and the environment, the industry may never garner the support it needs to create a successful, inclusive future in space.
We have seen signs of this week of the kind of sustainable tech we need, and even adversaries trying to find ways to work together in space, despite their differences. Hopefully these are the grassroots of a peaceful, sustainable future in space.
Innovation news
Whilst problems of the economy, supply chains and international conflict threaten many sectors, the space sector continued to provide proof of its innovation this week, and confidence and investment appear to still be present.
German startup Okapi raised $5.7 million in a seed funding. Okapi provides space traffic management software to help satellite operators with manoeuvres and save fuel. US company Sidus Space saw their stocks increase 180% on the back of the news that they will play a key role in developing the new spacesuits for the Artemis missions, whilst Sierra Space has announced their own private astronaut training program, with their Dream Chaser shuttle on course for a 2026 launch.
Also in the US, SpaceX has finally passed the environmental review necessary for it launch, and Elon Musk says that the ship is ready for launch in July (pending an FAA launch license). Similarly, the ESA’s medium lift Vega-C looking ready to launch in July. Should Artemis-1 go ahead as planned, this summer should be very exciting for maiden launches.
GM and Lockheed Martin have released details about their lunar rover, the Lunar Mobility Vehicle, taking aspects of the design from GM’s Hummer. Exciting news for new lunar vehicle design, and also for automotive industries looking to move into the space sector.
Japan have also weighed-in on options for retrieving resources from other celestial bodies, announcing plans to use a pneumatic vacuum to retrieve samples from a Martian moon, Phobos. Similar technology was hinted by new startup AstroFrorge. This could all be very exciting news, especially as Chinese scientists have just released the most detailed geological map our Moon to-date.
Each week these kinds of innovative tech bring us closer to what were once seen as unachievable ambitions.
NASA's SLS rocket making its way to the launchpad (image: NASA)
New tech isn’t always easy
Whilst we continue to hear stories of success in regards to new technological innovation, this week are some reminders that it’s not always easy. Astra suffered a second-stage failure of their launch of NASA cubesats, losing the payload, whilst the first orbital transfer vehicle from company Momentus continues to experience problems, preventing them from carrying out necessary tests.
South Korea continue their plans for to join the elite club of space launch nations, but have also suffered setbacks this week. Their Nuri rocket launch was put on hold after problems with the oxidiser tank. But (hopefully) in more positive news, NASA’s SLS rocket heads back to the launch pad this weekend for another attempt of their practice countdown. Artemis is now to launch no earlier than August.
Problems exist, but there’s still hope to mend relations
Cooperation in space is going to be essential if we are to achieve a successful space economy, but more importantly, peaceful uses of outer space. Sadly, events on Earth continue to threaten that cooperation, but this week there were some signs of hope.
Russia and the ESA have reopened talks in regards to the currently on-hold ExoMars missions, and Russia has agreed a seat exchange with NASA, where US astrinauts will ride on a Soyuz launch, in exchange for cosmonauts ride sharing on a SpaceX Crew Dragon. The UK have reaffirmed their cooperative ties with the ESA after visiting mission control in the Netherlands, this coming on the back the news that the UK could be leaving the European Horizon research programme.
The UAE has declared that their push for cooperative space and aim for peaceful uses of outer space, where space can be the benefit of humankind. The UAE will chair the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) for two years, and could hopefully lead the way for new space nations in achieving a peaceful and inclusive future in space. This on the back of the news that the UAE is ready to send their Rashid lunar rover to the Moon in October this year.
However, Northrop Grumman persist to have problems due to the sourcing of their technology from both Russia and Ukraine. We have to question how these problems will be resolved, especially within an increasingly competitive launch market. But in the long-term, could space be the place where we can come to resolve such disputes?
At the COPUOS meeting last week it was suggested that there is a desire to build closer cooperation with the private sector in the future, the draft report noting that ”The view was expressed that the Committee should consider new and innovative ways to best engage relevant stakeholders, such as those from industry, academia and civil society, in its activities”. Hopefully we can learn more about this position soon.
Sustainability in new space
The subject of sustainability in the future of space was central theme this week, including sustainable design for space vehicles, the use of space to help in the battle against such issues as climate change, and the impact of launches on our environment. It’s key that sustainable and environmentally-friendly approaches are taken, especially if the sector is to reassure the public about the benefits space will hold.
As the sector grows, and demand for launch capabilities increases, many are seeing the potential new space has, especially at time where many other sectors are facing a slowdown. But as the number of launch capabilities grows, so does the concern of the impact of this tech on our environment. In an article from Aviation Pros, they say that documents from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service indicate that SpaceX’s activity had been harming sea turtles and other shorebirds. In a time when the public are more aware of our environmental impact, it seems more could be done by commercial leaders to prevent any impact on the environment. Aside from the protecting wildlife etc, it will also reassure a concerned public, who must be on-board if we are all to benefit from new space.
In a positive move, China’s Xidian University has completed “the world’s first full-link and full-system ground test system for space-based solar power.” The eventual idea would be to generate power in space and convert it into electricity, and then transmit the energy back to Earth via microwave transmitter or laser emitter. Solar-based power stations in space are not a new idea, but this could prove to be a genuine milestone in collecting energy in outer space, and taking the strain off Earth.
Businesses and startups are also considering the future of propulsion in space, especially taking into amount sustainable fuels. UK startup Magdrive is developing a purely electric propulsion engine, that can also perform at a much higher velocity than current designs, whilst US startup Atomos space sees nuclear reactors as the future for orbital transportation, for their “space tug” orbital services. Nuclear is seen as the best way for humankind to explore outer space, but there are of course ongoing concerns about safety and the repercussions of radioactive debris.
3D printing will almost certainly be the future of sustainable design, in being able to reduce time to development, efficient design and in-situ manufacture. Swiss company Scheurer Swiss have announced that they will be implementing 3D manufacture as part of the design of their “bouncing space robot”.
Space must lead by example in order to achieve our goals
Sustainability is one the main building blocks of a peaceful future in outer space. Firstly, sustainable design has already proven to bring down costs, increase efficiency and make space more inclusive. Furthermore, it’s the use of space, such as Earth observation and climate tracking, that we can truly understand the problems we face and how to overcome them. Our longer-term ambitions in space could also provide solutions to Earth’s problems, such as energy production and resource extraction in outer space, and with increasing efficient of design (such 3D printing technology), we look as if we could be well on course to achieve these goals.
But this may not be possible unless the private and public sector leads by example. When we asked our users what concerned them most about new space exploration, 59% said the ‘environmental impact’. Climate change, pollution and the impact we are having on our planet are some of the most widely discussed topics at the moment, and the public may not be convinced by a space sector that is (at the moment) controlled by the super-rich, and pumping clouds of pollutants into the air.
As governments and the private sector make rapid progress in technological development, they must also consider their footprint and be determined in their quest for sustainability, or the public may not be so forgiving. Without the backing of the public, space may not be for the success of all humanity, but remain in the hands of the few. Space should be for the benefit of everyone.
External Links
This Week
*News articles posted here are not property of ANASDA GmbH and belong to their respected owners. Postings here are external links only.
Our future in space
Reusable space vehicles are key to sustainability in space (image: NASA)
13 - 17 June, 2022
Sustainability is key for an innovative, inclusive & peaceful future in space
The UN COPUOS rounded-off their 65th session last Friday, committing to their ultimate goal of peaceful space. But whilst this is arguably the aim for most stakeholders, sustainability in the space sector has also been a pressing issue. Sustainability in design is what has made space more accessible, and is what spurs on the continued innovation of the private sector.
The public will be concerned about the impact of the increasing number of launches will have on our environment, and moving forwards, our plans to use space sustainably (or not), in relation to such issues as space debris. There is no doubt that the application a new space technology can have a resounding positive impact on humanity and Earth. However, if leaders in both the public and private sector don’t make a concerted effort to reassure the public about their dedication to sustainability and the environment, the industry may never garner the support it needs to create a successful, inclusive future in space.
We have seen signs of this week of the kind of sustainable tech we need, and even adversaries trying to find ways to work together in space, despite their differences. Hopefully these are the grassroots of a peaceful, sustainable future in space.
Innovation news
Whilst problems of the economy, supply chains and international conflict threaten many sectors, the space sector continued to provide proof of its innovation this week, and confidence and investment appear to still be present.
German startup Okapi raised $5.7 million in a seed funding. Okapi provides space traffic management software to help satellite operators with manoeuvres and save fuel. US company Sidus Space saw their stocks increase 180% on the back of the news that they will play a key role in developing the new spacesuits for the Artemis missions, whilst Sierra Space has announced their own private astronaut training program, with their Dream Chaser shuttle on course for a 2026 launch.
Also in the US, SpaceX has finally passed the environmental review necessary for it launch, and Elon Musk says that the ship is ready for launch in July (pending an FAA launch license). Similarly, the ESA’s medium lift Vega-C looking ready to launch in July. Should Artemis-1 go ahead as planned, this summer should be very exciting for maiden launches.
GM and Lockheed Martin have released details about their lunar rover, the Lunar Mobility Vehicle, taking aspects of the design from GM’s Hummer. Exciting news for new lunar vehicle design, and also for automotive industries looking to move into the space sector.
Japan have also weighed-in on options for retrieving resources from other celestial bodies, announcing plans to use a pneumatic vacuum to retrieve samples from a Martian moon, Phobos. Similar technology was hinted by new startup AstroFrorge. This could all be very exciting news, especially as Chinese scientists have just released the most detailed geological map our Moon to-date.
Each week these kinds of innovative tech bring us closer to what were once seen as unachievable ambitions.
NASA's SLS rocket making its way to the launchpad (image: NASA)
New tech isn’t always easy
Whilst we continue to hear stories of success in regards to new technological innovation, this week are some reminders that it’s not always easy. Astra suffered a second-stage failure of their launch of NASA cubesats, losing the payload, whilst the first orbital transfer vehicle from company Momentus continues to experience problems, preventing them from carrying out necessary tests.
South Korea continue their plans for to join the elite club of space launch nations, but have also suffered setbacks this week. Their Nuri rocket launch was put on hold after problems with the oxidiser tank. But (hopefully) in more positive news, NASA’s SLS rocket heads back to the launch pad this weekend for another attempt of their practice countdown. Artemis is now to launch no earlier than August.
Problems exist, but there’s still hope to mend relations
Cooperation in space is going to be essential if we are to achieve a successful space economy, but more importantly, peaceful uses of outer space. Sadly, events on Earth continue to threaten that cooperation, but this week there were some signs of hope.
Russia and the ESA have reopened talks in regards to the currently on-hold ExoMars missions, and Russia has agreed a seat exchange with NASA, where US astrinauts will ride on a Soyuz launch, in exchange for cosmonauts ride sharing on a SpaceX Crew Dragon. The UK have reaffirmed their cooperative ties with the ESA after visiting mission control in the Netherlands, this coming on the back the news that the UK could be leaving the European Horizon research programme.
The UAE has declared that their push for cooperative space and aim for peaceful uses of outer space, where space can be the benefit of humankind. The UAE will chair the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) for two years, and could hopefully lead the way for new space nations in achieving a peaceful and inclusive future in space. This on the back of the news that the UAE is ready to send their Rashid lunar rover to the Moon in October this year.
However, Northrop Grumman persist to have problems due to the sourcing of their technology from both Russia and Ukraine. We have to question how these problems will be resolved, especially within an increasingly competitive launch market. But in the long-term, could space be the place where we can come to resolve such disputes?
At the COPUOS meeting last week it was suggested that there is a desire to build closer cooperation with the private sector in the future, the draft report noting that ”The view was expressed that the Committee should consider new and innovative ways to best engage relevant stakeholders, such as those from industry, academia and civil society, in its activities”. Hopefully we can learn more about this position soon.
Sustainability in new space
The subject of sustainability in the future of space was central theme this week, including sustainable design for space vehicles, the use of space to help in the battle against such issues as climate change, and the impact of launches on our environment. It’s key that sustainable and environmentally-friendly approaches are taken, especially if the sector is to reassure the public about the benefits space will hold.
As the sector grows, and demand for launch capabilities increases, many are seeing the potential new space has, especially at time where many other sectors are facing a slowdown. But as the number of launch capabilities grows, so does the concern of the impact of this tech on our environment. In an article from Aviation Pros, they say that documents from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service indicate that SpaceX’s activity had been harming sea turtles and other shorebirds. In a time when the public are more aware of our environmental impact, it seems more could be done by commercial leaders to prevent any impact on the environment. Aside from the protecting wildlife etc, it will also reassure a concerned public, who must be on-board if we are all to benefit from new space.
In a positive move, China’s Xidian University has completed “the world’s first full-link and full-system ground test system for space-based solar power.” The eventual idea would be to generate power in space and convert it into electricity, and then transmit the energy back to Earth via microwave transmitter or laser emitter. Solar-based power stations in space are not a new idea, but this could prove to be a genuine milestone in collecting energy in outer space, and taking the strain off Earth.
Businesses and startups are also considering the future of propulsion in space, especially taking into amount sustainable fuels. UK startup Magdrive is developing a purely electric propulsion engine, that can also perform at a much higher velocity than current designs, whilst US startup Atomos space sees nuclear reactors as the future for orbital transportation, for their “space tug” orbital services. Nuclear is seen as the best way for humankind to explore outer space, but there are of course ongoing concerns about safety and the repercussions of radioactive debris.
3D printing will almost certainly be the future of sustainable design, in being able to reduce time to development, efficient design and in-situ manufacture. Swiss company Scheurer Swiss have announced that they will be implementing 3D manufacture as part of the design of their “bouncing space robot”.
Space must lead by example in order to achieve our goals
Sustainability is one the main building blocks of a peaceful future in outer space. Firstly, sustainable design has already proven to bring down costs, increase efficiency and make space more inclusive. Furthermore, it’s the use of space, such as Earth observation and climate tracking, that we can truly understand the problems we face and how to overcome them. Our longer-term ambitions in space could also provide solutions to Earth’s problems, such as energy production and resource extraction in outer space, and with increasing efficient of design (such 3D printing technology), we look as if we could be well on course to achieve these goals.
But this may not be possible unless the private and public sector leads by example. When we asked our users what concerned them most about new space exploration, 59% said the ‘environmental impact’. Climate change, pollution and the impact we are having on our planet are some of the most widely discussed topics at the moment, and the public may not be convinced by a space sector that is (at the moment) controlled by the super-rich, and pumping clouds of pollutants into the air.
As governments and the private sector make rapid progress in technological development, they must also consider their footprint and be determined in their quest for sustainability, or the public may not be so forgiving. Without the backing of the public, space may not be for the success of all humanity, but remain in the hands of the few. Space should be for the benefit of everyone.
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This Week
*News articles posted here are not property of ANASDA GmbH and belong to their respected owners. Postings here are external links only.
13 - 17 June 2022
Sustainability is key for an innovative, inclusive & peaceful future in space
Reusable space vehicles are key to sustainability in space (image: NASA)
The UN COPUOS rounded-off their 65th session last Friday, committing to their ultimate goal of peaceful space. But whilst this is arguably the aim for most stakeholders, sustainability in the space sector has also been a pressing issue. Sustainability in design is what has made space more accessible, and is what spurs on the continued innovation of the private sector.
The public will be concerned about the impact of the increasing number of launches will have on our environment, and moving forwards, our plans to use space sustainably (or not), in relation to such issues as space debris. There is no doubt that the application a new space technology can have a resounding positive impact on humanity and Earth. However, if leaders in both the public and private sector don’t make a concerted effort to reassure the public about their dedication to sustainability and the environment, the industry may never garner the support it needs to create a successful, inclusive future in space.
We have seen signs of this week of the kind of sustainable tech we need, and even adversaries trying to find ways to work together in space, despite their differences. Hopefully these are the grassroots of a peaceful, sustainable future in space.
Innovation news
Whilst problems of the economy, supply chains and international conflict threaten many sectors, the space sector continued to provide proof of its innovation this week, and confidence and investment appear to still be present.
German startup Okapi raised $5.7 million in a seed funding. Okapi provides space traffic management software to help satellite operators with manoeuvres and save fuel. US company Sidus Space saw their stocks increase 180% on the back of the news that they will play a key role in developing the new spacesuits for the Artemis missions, whilst Sierra Space has announced their own private astronaut training program, with their Dream Chaser shuttle on course for a 2026 launch.
Also in the US, SpaceX has finally passed the environmental review necessary for it launch, and Elon Musk says that the ship is ready for launch in July (pending an FAA launch license). Similarly, the ESA’s medium lift Vega-C looking ready to launch in July. Should Artemis-1 go ahead as planned, this summer should be very exciting for maiden launches.
GM and Lockheed Martin have released details about their lunar rover, the Lunar Mobility Vehicle, taking aspects of the design from GM’s Hummer. Exciting news for new lunar vehicle design, and also for automotive industries looking to move into the space sector.
Japan have also weighed-in on options for retrieving resources from other celestial bodies, announcing plans to use a pneumatic vacuum to retrieve samples from a Martian moon, Phobos. Similar technology was hinted by new startup AstroFrorge. This could all be very exciting news, especially as Chinese scientists have just released the most detailed geological map our Moon to-date.
Each week these kinds of innovative tech bring us closer to what were once seen as unachievable ambitions.
New tech isn’t always easy
Whilst we continue to hear stories of success in regards to new technological innovation, this week are some reminders that it’s not always easy. Astra suffered a second-stage failure of their launch of NASA cubesats, losing the payload, whilst the first orbital transfer vehicle from company Momentus continues to experience problems, preventing them from carrying out necessary tests.
NASA's SLS rocket making its way to the launchpad (image: NASA)
South Korea continue their plans for to join the elite club of space launch nations, but have also suffered setbacks this week. Their Nuri rocket launch was put on hold after problems with the oxidiser tank. But (hopefully) in more positive news, NASA’s SLS rocket heads back to the launch pad this weekend for another attempt of their practice countdown. Artemis is now to launch no earlier than August.
Problems exist, but there’s still hope to mend relations
Cooperation in space is going to be essential if we are to achieve a successful space economy, but more importantly, peaceful uses of outer space. Sadly, events on Earth continue to threaten that cooperation, but this week there were some signs of hope.
Russia and the ESA have reopened talks in regards to the currently on-hold ExoMars missions, and Russia has agreed a seat exchange with NASA, where US astrinauts will ride on a Soyuz launch, in exchange for cosmonauts ride sharing on a SpaceX Crew Dragon. The UK have reaffirmed their cooperative ties with the ESA after visiting mission control in the Netherlands, this coming on the back the news that the UK could be leaving the European Horizon research programme.
The UAE has declared that their push for cooperative space and aim for peaceful uses of outer space, where space can be the benefit of humankind. The UAE will chair the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) for two years, and could hopefully lead the way for new space nations in achieving a peaceful and inclusive future in space. This on the back of the news that the UAE is ready to send their Rashid lunar rover to the Moon in October this year.
However, Northrop Grumman persist to have problems due to the sourcing of their technology from both Russia and Ukraine. We have to question how these problems will be resolved, especially within an increasingly competitive launch market. But in the long-term, could space be the place where we can come to resolve such disputes?
At the COPUOS meeting last week it was suggested that there is a desire to build closer cooperation with the private sector in the future, the draft report noting that ”The view was expressed that the Committee should consider new and innovative ways to best engage relevant stakeholders, such as those from industry, academia and civil society, in its activities”. Hopefully we can learn more about this position soon.
Sustainability in new space
The subject of sustainability in the future of space was central theme this week, including sustainable design for space vehicles, the use of space to help in the battle against such issues as climate change, and the impact of launches on our environment. It’s key that sustainable and environmentally-friendly approaches are taken, especially if the sector is to reassure the public about the benefits space will hold.
As the sector grows, and demand for launch capabilities increases, many are seeing the potential new space has, especially at time where many other sectors are facing a slowdown. But as the number of launch capabilities grows, so does the concern of the impact of this tech on our environment. In an article from Aviation Pros, they say that documents from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service indicate that SpaceX’s activity had been harming sea turtles and other shorebirds. In a time when the public are more aware of our environmental impact, it seems more could be done by commercial leaders to prevent any impact on the environment. Aside from the protecting wildlife etc, it will also reassure a concerned public, who must be on-board if we are all to benefit from new space.
In a positive move, China’s Xidian University has completed “the world’s first full-link and full-system ground test system for space-based solar power.” The eventual idea would be to generate power in space and convert it into electricity, and then transmit the energy back to Earth via microwave transmitter or laser emitter. Solar-based power stations in space are not a new idea, but this could prove to be a genuine milestone in collecting energy in outer space, and taking the strain off Earth.
Businesses and startups are also considering the future of propulsion in space, especially taking into amount sustainable fuels. UK startup Magdrive is developing a purely electric propulsion engine, that can also perform at a much higher velocity than current designs, whilst US startup Atomos space sees nuclear reactors as the future for orbital transportation, for their “space tug” orbital services. Nuclear is seen as the best way for humankind to explore outer space, but there are of course ongoing concerns about safety and the repercussions of radioactive debris.
3D printing will almost certainly be the future of sustainable design, in being able to reduce time to development, efficient design and in-situ manufacture. Swiss company Scheurer Swiss have announced that they will be implementing 3D manufacture as part of the design of their “bouncing space robot”.
Space must lead by example in order to achieve our goals
Sustainability is one the main building blocks of a peaceful future in outer space. Firstly, sustainable design has already proven to bring down costs, increase efficiency and make space more inclusive. Furthermore, it’s the use of space, such as Earth observation and climate tracking, that we can truly understand the problems we face and how to overcome them. Our longer-term ambitions in space could also provide solutions to Earth’s problems, such as energy production and resource extraction in outer space, and with increasing efficient of design (such 3D printing technology), we look as if we could be well on course to achieve these goals.
But this may not be possible unless the private and public sector leads by example. When we asked our users what concerned them most about new space exploration, 59% said the ‘environmental impact’. Climate change, pollution and the impact we are having on our planet are some of the most widely discussed topics at the moment, and the public may not be convinced by a space sector that is (at the moment) controlled by the super-rich, and pumping clouds of pollutants into the air.
As governments and the private sector make rapid progress in technological development, they must also consider their footprint and be determined in their quest for sustainability, or the public may not be so forgiving. Without the backing of the public, space may not be for the success of all humanity, but remain in the hands of the few. Space should be for the benefit of everyone.
Share this article
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This Week
*News articles posted here are not property of ANASDA GmbH and belong to their respected owners. Postings here are external links only.