The hottest Space Exploration Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Technology Topics

Europe’s mission to the Moon

Europe in Space • 137 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🔬 Science Space Exploration Logistics Services
  1. European Space Agency is developing a sustainable human presence on the Moon with innovative concepts and technology.
  2. European startups like Spartan Space and ASI are contributing to the development of lunar habitats and outposts.
  3. Efforts by ESA and European companies in developing lunar landers, OTVs, training centers, and communication services are crucial for establishing a sustained presence on the Moon.

Time To Get Serious About Gravity

Planetocracy • 255 implied HN points • 22 Jul 23
🔬 Science Space Exploration Future prospects
  1. Understanding the effects of partial gravity on humans in space is crucial for future space settlements.
  2. Creating artificial gravity through rotation is a viable solution, but requires specific conditions like radius and spin rate.
  3. Past experiments with rotational gravity in space show promise but more studies are needed, especially in preparation for Mars missions.

Orbital stations: the past and the future

Space Ambition • 639 implied HN points • 24 Nov 22
🔬 Science Space Exploration Astronomy Technology development Research
  1. The International Space Station (ISS) has been in operation for around 25 years, but it will eventually become too costly to maintain. New space stations will be needed in the future.
  2. China has successfully built its own orbital station, Tiangong-3, which is currently inhabited. This adds to the growing presence of international space stations.
  3. Private companies are starting to develop their own space stations. NASA is supporting this trend with partnerships and funding, aiming to make space research more accessible.

Current Status and Purpose of Exoplanet Exploration

Space Ambition • 119 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🔬 Science Astronomy Space Exploration Exoplanets Astrobiology Cosmology
  1. Over 5,500 exoplanets have been discovered, and some even have known atmospheric compositions. This exploration is about more than science; it's about understanding our universe.
  2. Different methods are used to find exoplanets, including the transit method and radial velocity method. Each has its own strengths and helps us learn more about these distant worlds.
  3. The research into exoplanets can inspire people and improve technology, benefiting various industries. It also boosts public interest in science, making people more aware of issues like climate change.

Utilizing Cosmic Expansion: Innovative Solutions to Earth's Challenges

Space Ambition • 239 implied HN points • 28 Jul 23
🔬 Science Space Exploration Ecology Technology Innovation Economics International cooperation
  1. Space exploration could help solve major problems on Earth, including politics, economics, and ecology. By looking to colonize other planets, we can innovate and create better technologies.
  2. Trade between Earth and colonies on Mars could lead to peaceful relationships. Instead of fighting over resources, countries might cooperate to improve their economies.
  3. Moving some industries to space can benefit the Earth's environment. This shift could create new jobs and help us manage resources better, supporting sustainability goals.
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Some True Innovation

startupdreams • 211 implied HN points • 16 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Space Exploration
  1. SpaceX's successful launch of Superheavy/Starship for the third time has proven its capability to carry 120 tons and burn stages for orbit insertion.
  2. SpaceX's use of Starlink for communication with spacecraft moving at orbital speeds is a groundbreaking feat, providing reliable high-speed communication in space.
  3. The ability of Starlink to communicate with moving objects at incredible speeds, like orbital spacecraft, showcases a major advancement in digital radio communication technology.

The Ill-Defined Space Global Orbital Launch Summary: 2024

Ill-Defined Space • 9 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Rocket launches Aerospace Industry Global trends Engineering
  1. In 2024, there were 254 orbital launches, showing a 20% increase from 2023. SpaceX was a big player, responsible for most of these launches.
  2. The U.S. dominated the launch industry with 154 launches, which was 61% of global activity. SpaceX alone conducted 87% of those U.S. launches.
  3. Other countries also participated, like China with 66 launches, but they didn't match the U.S. numbers. Japan and India each managed 5 launches, showing varying levels of activity.

The Red Frontier: Mars Rovers' Legacy, Opportunities, and Expert Predictions from the Pioneers of Martian Ventures

Space Ambition • 219 implied HN points • 11 Aug 23
🔬 Science Space Exploration Robotics Astrobiology Planetary Science Technology development
  1. Mars rovers are our main way to explore the planet since humans can't go there yet. These robots gather important information that helps us understand Mars better.
  2. There have been several successful Mars missions, but only a few rovers are still active today. Each rover has contributed to discovering water signs and preparing for future human visits.
  3. The future of Mars exploration involves collaboration between robots and humans. Robots will help pave the way for future missions, while humans will bring creativity and problem-solving skills to the table.

Why Do the Brightest Minds of Our Generation Invest in the Search for Extraterrestrial Life?

Space Ambition • 179 implied HN points • 03 Nov 23
🔬 Science Astrobiology Space Exploration Extraterrestrial Life Planetary Science
  1. Many famous scientists and billionaires are interested in finding extraterrestrial life because it could change how we see our place in the universe. Projects like SETI are dedicated to this search, using advanced technology to listen for signals from space.
  2. There are lots of places in our solar system that scientists believe could support life, such as Mars, Venus, and the moons of Jupiter and Saturn. Each of these locations has unique features that make them interesting for searching for signs of life.
  3. Different methods are used to try to make contact with possible alien civilizations, like sending messages into space or looking for signals. The challenges include knowing what to look for and how to interpret any responses we might get.

What will we discover by 2050?

Europe in Space • 98 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🔬 Science Space Exploration Astrophysics Technology Research
  1. ESA's Voyage 2050 missions will focus on exploring habitability potential, understanding exoplanets, and probing the early universe.
  2. The process of selecting missions involves public submissions, evaluation meetings, and expert committees.
  3. New missions like ARRAKIHS, CALICO, and THESEUS are pushing boundaries in deep imaging and studying high-energy events.

Venus Exploration: The Rationale for Investment and Missions, and the Objectives of the Search

Space Ambition • 159 implied HN points • 24 Nov 23
🔬 Science Planetary Science Astrobiology Space Exploration Atmospheric science Environmental Science
  1. Studying Venus helps us understand climate change on Earth. Venus and Earth started out similarly, so learning what happened to Venus can give us clues about our own planet's future.
  2. Exploring Venus could lead to new technologies that help us deal with extreme conditions, both in space and here on Earth. These technologies could improve things like batteries and electronics.
  3. New missions to Venus are coming soon, which will gather fresh data and improve our knowledge about the planet. These missions are key to understanding whether Venus could have supported life in the past.

Alchemy on the Moon

Planetocracy • 196 implied HN points • 19 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Rocket Technology Space Economy Space Industry
  1. Blue Origin's Blue Alchemist project aims to develop methods to manufacture goods from lunar materials, starting with producing silicon for solar panels.
  2. Blue Origin's focus on efficiency in their method of Molten Regolith Electrolysis could impact the future space economy by reducing the need for frequent vessel swaps and minimizing the weight of supplies sent to the moon.
  3. Blue Origin faces competition from SpaceX in the race to establish lunar industry, with SpaceX currently holding an advantage in cost-effectiveness and launch capabilities.

Europe should develop crewed launch capabilities

Europe in Space • 196 implied HN points • 27 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Aerospace Industry Space Economy
  1. A recommendation for Europe to develop crewed launch capabilities for ambitious space missions like a Moon landing.
  2. The need to adopt a commercially-oriented procurement policy to engage the private sector in space exploration.
  3. Europe faces challenges in achieving a Moon landing within 10 years, requiring increased funding and structural changes.

Jet Propulsion: Evolution of Technology & the Future of Interplanetary Travel. Part 1.

Space Ambition • 319 implied HN points • 14 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Engineering Aerospace Innovation
  1. Jet propulsion is a key technology for space travel. It works by pushing gas out one way to move in the opposite direction, based on Newton's third law.
  2. There are two main types of engines: high-thrust engines for fast launches and low-thrust engines for long, efficient journeys in space. Each type has its own use depending on the mission.
  3. The market for propulsion systems is growing rapidly, with innovations like 3D printing helping to make production cheaper and more efficient. This growth is driven by increasing satellite launches and the need for better space technology.

Pixxel: Earth's Honest Mirror

Tigerfeathers! • 24 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Satellite Technology Aerospace Engineering Data Analysis
  1. Pixxel is developing a fleet of satellites with special cameras that can see details beyond what regular cameras can, helping monitor Earth's health and detect issues like pollution and crop problems.
  2. The founders of Pixxel, Awais and Kshitij, began their journey in college and faced many challenges, including launch failures and funding issues, but they remained determined and adapted their business strategy.
  3. Pixxel aims not just to serve Earth, but eventually wants to use their technology for exploring resources in space, showing how their ambitions go far beyond just satellite imaging.

Space Debris: Don’t make the same mistake twice

Space Ambition • 539 implied HN points • 07 Oct 22
🔬 Science Space Exploration Astronomy Environmental Science Technology development
  1. There is a growing problem of space debris around Earth. With thousands of pieces of debris already up there, the risk of collision is increasing, which can endanger astronauts and future missions.
  2. To combat space debris, innovations like better spacecraft designs and more proactive measures are being proposed. Governments and organizations are working on new regulations to minimize debris creation and improve safety.
  3. A new industry is emerging focused on cleaning up space junk. Companies are developing technologies to capture and remove debris, which is becoming a significant market with potential for high revenues in the coming years.

The Bear Case for Mars

Planetocracy • 176 implied HN points • 20 Apr 23
🔬 Science Space Exploration
  1. Space colonization, particularly on Mars, may face insurmountable barriers and challenges.
  2. Alternative solutions like creating gravity trains on Mars or colonizing its moons, Phobos and Deimos, could be considered.
  3. Exploring cislunar space and developing free-floating habitats might be a viable alternative or backup plan to Mars colonization.

Space Robotics: The Pivotal Role in Lunar and Martian Colonization, Current Innovations, and Future Trends

Space Ambition • 219 implied HN points • 16 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Robotics Space Exploration Artificial Intelligence Research & Development Commercialization
  1. Robots are super important for exploring and building on the Moon and Mars. They can do tough jobs in space where humans can't easily go.
  2. Using robots in space is way cheaper than sending people. Robots can do tasks like repairing satellites and cleaning up space junk, making them great helpers for astronauts.
  3. The private space industry is growing and creating new robots for space. This can lead to cheaper and easier ways to send things to the Moon and beyond.

IAC 2023: Unique Highlights by Space Ambition

Space Ambition • 159 implied HN points • 13 Oct 23
🔬 Science Space Exploration Technology Trends Investment Analysis
  1. The 74th International Astronautical Congress was diverse, with attendees from 132 countries and over 5,400 delegates. This made it one of the most inclusive space events ever.
  2. New trends were noted, especially the rising interest from young professionals and startups in the space sector. This highlights that younger generations are becoming increasingly engaged in space discussions and technology.
  3. Sustainability and security in space were major topics this year. Participants emphasized the importance of regulations against space debris and managing geopolitical risks as more countries invest in space technology.

Bringing Food Deliveries to Mars One Step at a Time

Space Ambition • 439 implied HN points • 11 Nov 22
🔬 Science Space Exploration Food technology Agriculture Sustainability Nutrition
  1. Space missions currently rely on packed food supplies, which run out and can be hard to replenish. Scientists believe that producing food in space could solve this problem, but it needs a lot of research and funding.
  2. Astronauts will need new tools to create food that works in space, like vertical farming systems and 3D printing technologies. Different projects are being funded to develop these systems for growing essential food resources in space.
  3. Government space agencies like NASA and ESA are focusing on developing technologies for sustainable food production in space, which could also help with food issues on Earth. Innovating in food production is a long-term goal that requires collaboration and investment.

Mass Value Report for April 2023

Planetocracy • 157 implied HN points • 30 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Rocket Technology
  1. Starship's growth curve must pick up Falcon 9's momentum to support SpaceX's Mars colonization goal.
  2. Elon Musk sets ambitious goals for Starship flights, aiming for 100 flights by 2025 and 1 megatonne to Mars.
  3. Maintaining a growth rate to meet mass demands for Mars colonization likely to challenge the pace of Artemis missions.

Is Mars Colonization an Inevitable Step Encoded in Our DNA?

Space Ambition • 219 implied HN points • 19 May 23
🔬 Science Space Exploration Human Evolution Technological Innovation Environmental Impact
  1. Human migration is a fundamental part of our history, and colonizing Mars is seen as the next step in this ongoing process. Just like our ancestors traveled for better opportunities, we may look to Mars for our future.
  2. Innovations often arise when humans move into new environments. Establishing a colony on Mars could lead to new technologies and advancements that benefit life on Earth.
  3. Creating a self-sufficient colony on Mars could serve as a backup plan for humanity. It would ensure that civilization can continue even if disasters happen on Earth.

Spotlight: Alon Tenzer – An Analog Astronaut on a Simulated Mars Mission

Space Ambition • 199 implied HN points • 02 Jun 23
🔬 Science Space Exploration Robotics Human factors
  1. Analog astronauts participate in simulated Mars missions to test technologies and procedures that will be used in real space missions. These missions help prepare for future human exploration of Mars.
  2. The Aouda Spacesuit Simulator is crucial for testing how astronauts will operate on Mars. It mimics real spacesuits and checks if new technologies can be used effectively in harsh conditions.
  3. Training to become an analog astronaut requires a strong background in science and engineering. Participants undergo rigorous training to handle technical challenges and the psychological stress of being isolated from Earth.

The Man-Made Miracle of SpaceX

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 125 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Entrepreneurship Innovation Economics Telecommunications
  1. SpaceX follows a strategy of learning from failures to achieve success, as seen from their history with Falcon rockets.
  2. SpaceX's Starship program has promising advancements like successful stage separation, in-orbit fuel transfers, and potential for deep space missions.
  3. SpaceX's success and profitability are driven by innovations like reusable rockets and the Starlink satellite constellation, reshaping the space industry.

Everything you need to know about Themis

Europe in Space • 137 implied HN points • 26 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Rocket Technology Innovation
  1. The Themis project is a reusable rocket initiative developed by ArianeGroup and CNES, featuring the Prometheus engine for cost-efficient rocket production.
  2. Themis has gone through various stages of development, including engine tests, hop tests, and Prometheus engine hot-fire testing.
  3. The project has future implications for upgrades to the Ariane 6 rocket, development of the Ariane Next launcher family, and the creation of MaiaSpace's microlauncher.

Reusability efforts of European launch startups

Europe in Space • 137 implied HN points • 19 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Rocket Technology Innovation Aerospace Engineering
  1. European launch startups are developing innovative methods for recovering and reusing launch vehicle components.
  2. Different startups are exploring varied approaches like using parachutes, grid fins, and deployable blimps for recovery.
  3. Challenges exist in balancing reusability efforts with maintaining payload capacity, especially for microlaunchers.

Mass Value Report for May 2023

Planetocracy • 137 implied HN points • 31 May 23
🔬 Science Space Exploration Astronomy Technology Research Innovation
  1. SpaceX has won the race to send mass to low Earth orbit, but the race to send mass to the lunar surface continues.
  2. Blue Origin's 'National Team' has been chosen by NASA to build a human landing system for the Artemis program, showing promise for future lunar missions.
  3. Analyzing mass value helps compare space development progress, like evaluating efficiency between Blue Origin's lunar lander and SpaceX's Starship system.

The Space Energy Industry: will it give us an emissions-free future?

Space Ambition • 399 implied HN points • 30 Sep 22
🔬 Science Space Exploration Renewable Energy Nuclear power Astrobiology
  1. The space energy industry is growing rapidly and could help provide clean energy to Earth, reducing carbon emissions.
  2. Solar and nuclear power are the main options for providing energy in space, with solar being more effective for missions near Earth and Mars, while nuclear is better for farther distances.
  3. China is leading in developing space-based solar power, which could deliver a large amount of energy back to Earth, making it a feasible option for our future energy needs.

Space tourism: when will we go on vacation to Mars?

Space Ambition • 359 implied HN points • 04 Nov 22
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Aerospace Industry Innovation Commercialization Tourism
  1. Space tourism has grown rapidly, with many more people traveling to space than ever before. Companies like Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin have made this possible.
  2. The cost of space tourism is very high, with prices for certain flights reaching hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. This makes it mostly accessible to wealthy individuals for now.
  3. There is a lot of potential for future space travel, including flights to Mars and even private space hotels. If technology improves, it might become more affordable for everyone in the coming decades.

What will it take to build a Mars habitat?

Space Ambition • 259 implied HN points • 10 Feb 23
🔬 Science Space Exploration Astrobiology Engineering Robotics Environmental Science
  1. Building a habitat on Mars involves solving problems like radiation protection. Solutions include using Martian soil for shielding or growing special fungi that can handle radiation.
  2. We can use new technologies like 3D printing to create living spaces on Mars. This approach helps make building easier and can also be applied to sustainable construction on Earth.
  3. Producing oxygen on Mars is crucial because its atmosphere is mainly carbon dioxide. NASA has developed a device that can extract oxygen from the Martian air, which is an important step for future colonization.

Weekly Dose of Optimism #85

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 106 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Artificial Intelligence Renewable Energy Blockchain Biotechnology
  1. SpaceX successfully launched Starship into orbit, showcasing the power of moonshots to make people feel part of something bigger and optimistic about the future.
  2. Cognition AI, built by gold-medalist coders, can code based on requests, marking a significant advancement in AI technology.
  3. Extropic AI's thermodynamic chips could revolutionize computing by leveraging nature's randomness for energy efficiency, potentially accelerating the next era of computing.

The Wild Wild West: Space Law

Space Ambition • 259 implied HN points • 27 Jan 23
🔬 Science Space Exploration Technology Policy
  1. Space law is still developing and is based on treaties and agreements, which are often unclear about ownership and use of space. This makes it hard for businesses to understand the rules they need to follow.
  2. Countries struggle with issues like remote sensing, space debris, and the use of weapons in space. It's important for governments to create clear, binding laws to ensure space can be used safely and peacefully.
  3. There's a race for resources in space, like minerals from asteroids. Different countries are making their own laws, but a consistent international agreement is needed to avoid conflicts and ensure fair sharing of benefits.

Is ESA getting screwed on Artemis deal?

Europe in Space • 117 implied HN points • 27 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics Space Exploration International Agreements
  1. Europe's contributions to the Artemis program are crucial for NASA's return to the Moon
  2. ESA has made significant financial and technological contributions to Artemis through contracts for service modules and Gateway modules
  3. The relationship between ESA and NASA in the Artemis program involves complex negotiations and strategic considerations