Important Innovations

Launches Next-G Spacecraft Source:  Long March 5-B Launch Exploring Space for Signs of Life China just launched its largest rocket, carrying a next generation spacecraft onboard.  The Long March-5B rocket carrier took off this morning from the Wenchang Space Center in the southern island province of Hainan.  The rocket is massive:  54 meters long and has a takeoff weight of 849 tons. Life in Outer Space China has big space ambitions and plans. It wants to equal the US and Russia as a space power by 2030.  The experimental spacecraft is part of China's efforts to shuttle astronauts to its future space station for manned space exploration.  A big component of the exploration is searching for life in outer space.  Chinese space officials have explicitly stated that they are deploying massive technologies to find what they call "new civilizations with superior technology" in space.  China expects to have a multi-module space station for astronaut...

Very Original Origami for Spacecraft Landings Source:  University of  Washington Softens the Blow and Enables Rocket Reuse A team at the University of Washington has invented an origami inspired metamaterial.  It's designed to soften the force generated when a spacecraft lands and enable its reuse.  The researchers also say it can be used in cars to soften the blow of an accident.  For a news blog with details, go to Important Innovations Collection: Origami Invention for Spacecraft : Designed to Soften Impact of Landings Source:  University of Washington Origami Inspired Metamaterial This is unique innovation deve...

SpaceX, NASA, and Boeing Important Spaceship Launches Source:  SpaceX - Elon Musk and his Dragon 2 Orbiting Vehicle SpaceX Dragon 2 Kicks Off Latest Spacecraft Innovation 2019 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years for space exploration, tech innovation and discovery.  In January, SpaceX's Dragon 2 spacecraft will be rocketed to its first flight.  SpaceX will also do a test flight on its Starship that's intended to ferry passengers to Mars and Boeing will test its Starliner for low Earth orbit trips for passengers, crew and cargo.  For more details on the exciting developments in innovation in space exploration go to Important Innovations Collection: Important Spacecraft Innovation Flights : Innovation Spacecrafts   Source:  SpaceX Dragon 2 NASA, Boeing and SpaceX Vehicle Tests and Crewed Flights 2019 is shaping up to be...