Lifeboat Foundation

Sending an object to another star is still the stuff of science fiction. But some concrete missions could get us at least part way there. These “interstellar precursor missions” include a trip to the solar gravitational lens point at 550 AU from the sun—farther than any artificial object has ever been, including Voyager.

To get there, we’ll need plenty of new technologies, and a recent paper presented at the 75th International Astronautical Congress in Milan this month looks at one of those potential technologies—electric propulsion systems, otherwise known as ion drives.

The paper aimed to assess when any existing ion drive technology could port a large payload on one of several trajectories, including a trip around Jupiter, one visiting Pluto, and even one reaching that fabled solar gravitational lens. To do so, they specified an “ideal” ion drive with characteristics that enabled optimal values for some of the system’s physical characteristics.

Gwynne Shotwell discusses the transformative potential of SpaceX’s Starship program for space exploration and colonization, emphasizing its upcoming Flight 6, the importance of Starlink for revenue, and the integration of Tesla technologies for sustainable human habitats on Mars Questions to inspire discussion Launch.

Texas A&M University made a giant leap toward bolstering its contributions to space exploration on Friday, when university officials marked a groundbreaking ceremony for its $200 million space center in Houston. Work will begin in January on the Texas A&M University Space Institute, which is designed to support efforts in aeronauts, robotics and space engineering.

“As space exploration expands, there will be a growing demand for highly skilled engineers, scientists, and professionals. Texas A&M is ready,” said Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp in a statement. “With this new facility, A&M will create workforce development opportunities in space-related fields.”

SpaceX reschedules the Starship Flight 6 launch and landing test (IFT-6) date. Shares new photos of the fully stacked Flight 6 Starship from Starbase, Boca Chica, Texas. Info on the launch goals.

Discover how a revolutionary lunar spaceline could slash space travel costs and unlock new frontiers in exploration.

Space enthusiasts are heading south for SpaceX’s Starship launch on November 18. Before setting up near the site, remember these road closures.

SpaceX, Elon Musk’s company, is aiming for a radical future in which Starship rockets link major cities in a matter of minutes. Soon, you’ll be able to travel from London to New York in just 30 minutes. But how exactly will this game-changing technology work, and what obstacles remain?

Astronomers have mapped the Local Hot Bubble, revealing its complex shape and a mysterious tunnel that could connect to other galactic structures.