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By NASA
Credit: NASA Two proposals for missions to observe X-ray and far-infrared wavelengths of light from space were selected by NASA for additional review, the agency announced Thursday. Each proposal team will receive $5 million to conduct a 12-month mission concept study. After detailed evaluation of those studies, NASA expects to select one concept in 2026 to proceed with construction, for a launch in 2032.
The resulting mission will become the first in a new class of NASA astrophysics missions within the agency’s longstanding Explorers Program. The new mission class, Probe Explorers, will fill a gap between flagship and smaller-scale missions in NASA’s exploration of the secrets of the universe.
“NASA’s Explorers Program brings out some of the most creative ideas for missions that help us reveal the unknown about our universe. Establishing this new line of missions – the largest our Astrophysics program has ever competed – has taken that creativity to new heights,” said Nicola Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “Both of the selected concepts could enable ground-breaking science responsive to the top astrophysics priorities of the decade, develop key technologies for future flagship missions, and offer opportunities for the entire community to use the new observatory, for the benefit of all.”
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s 2020 Decadal Survey, Pathways to Discovery in Astronomy and Astrophysics for the 2020s, recommended NASA establish this new mission class, with the first mission observing either X-ray or far-infrared wavelengths of light. Mission costs for the new Probe Explorers are capped at $1 billion each, not including the cost of the rocket, launch services, or any contributions.
NASA evaluated Probe Explorers proposals based on their scientific merit in alignment with the Decadal Survey’s recommendations, feasibility of development plans, and use of technologies that could support the development of future large missions.
The selected proposals are:
Advanced X-ray Imaging Satellite
This mission would be an X-ray imaging observatory with a large, flat field-of-view and high spatial resolution. It would study the seeds of supermassive black holes; investigate the process of stellar feedback, which influences how galaxies evolve; and help determine the power sources of a variety of explosive phenomena in the cosmos. The observatory would build on the successes of previous X-ray observatories, capturing new capabilities for X-ray imaging and imaging spectroscopy. Principal investigator: Christopher Reynolds, University of Maryland, College Park Project management: NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland Probe far-Infrared Mission for Astrophysics
This observatory would be a 5.9-foot (1.8-meter) telescope studying far-infrared wavelengths, helping bridge the gap between existing infrared observatories, such as NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, and radio telescopes. By studying radiant energy that only emerges in the far-infrared, the mission would address questions about the origins and growth of planets, supermassive black holes, stars, and cosmic dust. Principal investigator: Jason Glenn, NASA Goddard Project management: NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California The Explorers Program is the oldest continuous NASA program designed to provide frequent, low-cost access to space using principal investigator-led space science investigations relevant to the Science Mission Directorate’s astrophysics and heliophysics programs. Since the Explorer 1 launch in 1958, which discovered Earth’s radiation belts, the Explorers Program has launched more than 90 missions, including the Uhuru and Cosmic Background Explorer missions that led to Nobel prizes for their investigators.
The Explorers Program is managed by NASA Goddard for the Science Mission Directorate, which conducts a wide variety of research and scientific exploration programs for Earth studies, space weather, the solar system and universe.
For more information about the Explorers Program, visit:
https://explorers.gsfc.nasa.gov
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Alise Fisher
Headquarters, Washington
202-617-4977
alise.m.fisher@nasa.gov
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Last Updated Oct 03, 2024 EditorJessica TaveauLocationNASA Headquarters Related Terms
Science Mission Directorate Astrophysics Division Astrophysics Explorers Program View the full article
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By NASA
During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we celebrate the thousands of employees living with disabilities who contribute to NASA’s mission. By sharing their stories, we highlight the impact people with disabilities have on our organization and the vital role they play in fostering an inclusive workforce at NASA.
Meghan Daley sits in the Orbiter Processing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida during the final days of the Space Shuttle Program. Meghan Daley has spent nearly two decades blazing new trails in robotics. As a project manager in NASA’s Engineering, Software Robotics, and Simulation Division at Johnson Space Center in Houston, she is building simulations that will shape the future of space exploration.
From training astronauts with advanced robotic tools to collaborating with the Department of Defense on research simulations, Daley’s work is transforming how humans interact with space, ensuring that every mission is set up for success.
Daley oversees key programs at Johnson, including the Generic On-Orbit Robotic Trainer (GROOT), the Robotic OnBoard Trainer, and Dynamics Skills Trainers. These tools are vital to NASA’s mission and are used in both ground-based simulations and real-time space operations.
One of Daley’s proudest achievements is launching GROOT, a simulation system that trains astronauts in a variety of robotic operations. From handling the Canadarm2 for spacecraft docking to servicing satellites, GROOT prepares astronauts for tasks like performing maintenance, assembling structures in space, managing cargo, and even coordinating multiple robotic systems.
The tool also supports astronauts in mastering robotic inspections, autonomous operations, and emergency procedures, making it indispensable for missions to the Moon and Mars.
During a visit by Gen. John W. Raymond to the Systems Engineering Simulator, the general requested an outdated rendezvous and proximity operations simulation for the United States Space Force.
Recognizing the limitations of the old system and knowing her team’s capabilities, Daley proposed building a new simulation from scratch to meet their needs. In 2019, GROOT was born and continues to be a critical asset in NASA’s training toolkit.
United States Space Force Vice Chief of Space Operations Gen. David D. Thompson observes a demonstration of the Generic On-Orbit Robotic Trainer alongside NASA astronauts and crew members. For Daley, celebrating her identity and culture in the workplace is about advocacy and education. She is passionate about using her voice to promote awareness and understanding, not just for her own experience, but for the benefit of all.
“Being a woman in engineering is extremely difficult. However, being a woman with a disability in engineering is even harder,” Daley said. “I have learned how important it is to communicate your ideas, questions, and concerns.”
When reflecting on her career, Daley says she cannot pick a favorite project. Each one—from Orion to Gateway to the International Space Station and space shuttle—has deepened her understanding of NASA’s vision.
The Robotic OnBoard Trainer onboard the International Space Station in the U.S. Destiny Laboratory. As Daley looks to the future of robotics and human spaceflight, she remains optimistic and passionate about inspiring the next generation of explorers.
“Keep your hope and don’t be afraid to ask questions because that is how you learn and become a leader!” she said.
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By NASA
NASA/Aubrey Gemignani NASA astronauts Frank Rubio, center, and Marcos Berrios, right, share a laugh with staff during a White House Hispanic Heritage Month event on Sept. 30, 2024. Rubio broke the record of longest single duration spaceflight for a U.S. astronaut with a mission duration of 371 days; Berrios graduated in the most recent class of astronaut candidates.
Hispanic Heritage Month commemorates and honors the rich history of the shared culture and tradition of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Read some of their stories.
Image Credit: NASA/Aubrey Gemignani
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By NASA
5 min read
Preparations for Next Moonwalk Simulations Underway (and Underwater)
Two NASA employees, Howard Chang and Bradley Williams, were named as two of the “20 under 35 of 2024” by the Space and Satellite Professionals International. The award recognizes outstanding young professionals in the space industry.
Photos courtesy of Bradley Williams and Howard Chang The annual list of “20 Under 35” features 20 employees and entrepreneurs to keep your eye on in coming years. They were selected from nominations submitted by the membership and evaluated by the same panel of judges who name winners of the Promise Awards.
Howard Chang is an Assistant Chief Counsel at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. Bradley (Brad) Williams is the Acting Associate Director for Flight, Heliophysics Division, NASA Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters, Washington.
“I’m honored to be named in this year’s cohort,” Chang said. “I saw how SSPI connects people across the space and satellite industry—across generations, countries, and even disciplines—to build up the space economy of the future. And I can’t express enough thanks to all my NASA colleagues for their support and kindness—especially Deputy Chief Counsel Amber Hufft for her time and mentorship this year.”
“It is an absolute honor to be recognized by SSPI on the 20 under 35 list of 2024,” said Williams. “I feel privileged to have benefitted from the opportunities I’ve had so far in my career. I want to thank the numerous mentors through the years who have provided me guidance and lessons learned and especially my colleagues and the leaders at NASA who have recognized my contributions and supported my growth potential as a leader.”
About Howard Chang
Howard Chang serves as the lead attorney for NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility’s commercial, nonprofit, and interagency partnerships in Wallops Island, Virginia. He also focuses on legal issues involving Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), small UAS, real property transactions, government contracts litigation and administration supporting NASA Goddard, and partnerships involving the Goddard Institute for Space Studies located at Columbia University, New York, NASA commended Chang with an individual merit award in recognition of his superior support to the Goddard Space Flight Center during his first six months.
In addition to his legal work, Chang contributes substantially to thought leadership in space law and policy. He has authored articles for The Federalist and the International Institute of Space Law on topics from the Apollo 8 mission to the travaux preparatoires of the Principles Declaration of 1963—the precursor to the Outer Space Treaty. He is a frequent speaker on matters of space law. He will be presenting at the 2024 International Astronautical Congress in Milan, Italy on the Wolf Amendment and the future of the International Space Station. In Milan, he will present in his capacity as an Advisor for the Georgetown University Space Initiative. He continues to serve as a guest lecturer on space policy for law schools and undergraduate space courses as well.
Chang previously worked at an international firm in its aerospace finance and space law practices, engaging in litigation, transactional, regulatory, and policy work for aerospace and space companies. In addition, he worked on white-collar criminal defense, internal corporate investigations, congressional investigations, trial litigation, appellate litigation, and national security matters.
About Bradley Williams
Bradley Williams is the acting Associate Director for Flight Programs in the Heliophysics Division of the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters, Washington where he oversees more than a dozen missions in operations and approximately another dozen missions in different stages of development.
Previously, Williams was a Program Executive in the Heliophysics Division where his assignments included IMAP, TRACERS, HelioSwarm, the Solar Cruiser solar sail technology project, and Senior Program Executive of the NASA Space Weather Program.
Before joining NASA, he was the Director of Civil Space Programs at Terran Orbital Corporation, where he led the spacecraft development for both commercial and NASA technology demonstration missions and assisted with the growth of the science mission portfolio.
Previously at the University of Arizona, he worked with faculty and research teams to identify proposal opportunities and develop spaceflight proposals. Williams was a vital member of the OSIRIS-REx Camera Suite (OCAMS) team. He also served as the Deputy Payload Manager on GUSTO, the first of its kind, balloon-borne observatory.
He has been recognized for his achievements being named a Via Satellite Rising Star in 2024 and has been awarded the Robert H. Goddard Engineering Team Award, NASA Group Achievement Award, and asteroid (129969) Bradwilliams named in his honor.
The “20 Under 35“ are honored each year at SSPI’s Future Leaders Dinner. At the Dinner, SSPI presents the three top-ranked members of the 20 Under 35 with a Promise Award, recognizing them as leaders of their year’s cohort, and honors the Mentor of the Year for fostering young talent, both within his or her organization and throughout the industry. The 2024 “20 Under 35” will be honored at the Future Leaders Celebration on October 21, 2024 during Silicon Valley Space Week.
Rob Gutro
NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center
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Last Updated Oct 03, 2024 EditorJamie AdkinsContactRob Garnerrob.garner@nasa.gov Related Terms
General Goddard Space Flight Center People of Goddard People of NASA
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By NASA
The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft approaching the International Space StationCredits: NASA Media accreditation is open for the next launch to deliver NASA science investigations, supplies, and equipment to the International Space Station. This launch is the 31st SpaceX commercial resupply services mission to the orbital laboratory for the agency and will lift off on the company’s Falcon 9 rocket.
NASA and SpaceX are targeting no earlier than Wednesday, Oct. 30, to launch the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
Credentialing to cover prelaunch and launch activities is open to U.S. media. The application deadline for U.S. citizens is 11:59 p.m. EDT, Tuesday, Oct. 15. All accreditation requests must be submitted online at:
https://media.ksc.nasa.gov
Credentialed media will receive a confirmation email upon approval. NASA’s media accreditation policy is available online. For questions about accreditation, or to request special logistical support, email: ksc-media-accreditat@mail.nasa.gov. For other questions, please contact NASA’s Kennedy Space Center newsroom at: 321-867-2468.
Para obtener información sobre cobertura en español en el Centro Espacial Kennedy o si desea solicitor entrevistas en español, comuníquese con Antonia Jaramillo o Messod Bendayan a: antonia.jaramillobotero@nasa.gov o messod.c.bendayan@nasa.gov.
Each resupply mission to the station delivers scientific investigations in the areas of biology and biotechnology, Earth and space science, physical sciences, and technology development and demonstrations. Cargo resupply from U.S. companies ensures a national capability to deliver scientific research to the space station, significantly increasing NASA’s ability to conduct new investigations aboard humanity’s laboratory in space.
In addition to food, supplies, and equipment for the crew, Dragon will deliver several new experiments, including the Coronal Diagnostic Experiment, to examine solar wind and how it forms. Dragon also delivers Antarctic moss to observe the combined effects of cosmic radiation and microgravity on plants. Other investigations aboard include a device to test cold welding of metals in microgravity, and an investigation that studies how space impacts different materials.
Crews have occupied the space station continuously since November 2000. In that time, 280 people from 23 countries have visited the orbital outpost. The space station is a springboard to NASA’s next great leap in exploration, including future missions to the Moon under Artemis, and ultimately, human exploration of Mars.
Learn more about NASA’s commercial resupply missions at:
https://www.nasa.gov/station
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Claire O’Shea / Josh Finch
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-1100
claire.a.o’shea@nasa.gov / joshua.a.finch@nasa.gov
Stephanie Plucinsky / Steven Siceloff / Danielle Sempsrott
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-876-2468
stephanie.n.plucinsky@nasa.gov / steven.p.siceloff@nasa.gov / danielle.c.sempsrott@nasa.gov
Sandra Jones
Johnson Space Center, Houston
281-483-5111
sandra.p.jones@nasa.gov
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Last Updated Oct 03, 2024 LocationNASA Headquarters Related Terms
International Space Station (ISS) Commercial Resupply ISS Research Johnson Space Center Kennedy Space Center SpaceX Commercial Resupply View the full article
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