Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, Critical For GPS, Seen In Distant Stars
Gravitational redshift is an effect from Albert Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity, where light is shifted to redder colors because of gravity. Using NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory, astronomers have discovered the phenomenon in two stars orbiting each other 29,000 light-years from Earth. While these stars are very distant, gravitational redshifts have tangible impacts on modern life, as scientists and engineers must take them into account to enable accurate positions for GPS.
NASA’s Refueling Mission Completes Second Set of Robotic Tool Operations in Space
NASA’s Robotic Refueling Mission 3 has successfully completed its second set of robotic tool operations on the International Space Station, demonstrating key techniques for transferring cryogenic fluids, used as coolants, propellants, or for life support systems in orbit. These technologies have applications for extending spacecraft life and facilitating exploration to the Moon and Mars.
NASA, Human Lunar Lander Companies Complete Key Artemis Milestone
NASA’s Human Landing System Program recently checked off a key milestone in its progress toward landing the first woman and the next man on the Moon by 2024. The HLS Program conducted Certification Baseline Reviews with the three U.S. companies competing to provide landers that will deliver Artemis astronauts to the Moon. These virtual meetings were the culmination of critical work by NASA and the companies since NASA announced the base period selections in April.
20 Breakthroughs from 20 Years of Science aboard the International Space Station
For 20 years, astronauts aboard the International Space Station have conducted science in a way that cannot be done anywhere else. Orbiting about 250 miles above our planet, the space station is the only laboratory available for long-duration microgravity research. This research not only helps NASA explore farther into space, it also benefits those back on Earth.
Marshall Oversees Signing of Mentor-Protégé Agreement Between NASA Prime Contractor Jacobs, JBS Solutions Inc.
Business leaders from NASA prime contractor Jacobs Engineering of Tullahoma, Tennessee, and JBS Solutions Inc., a small business based in Huntsville, Alabama, officially signed a NASA Mentor-Protégé Agreement Oct. 27 – pairing business acumen and cutting-edge technical capabilities to deliver NASA mission solutions and advance the growth of the spaceflight industry. The signing event was overseen by small business leaders and procurement managers from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville.
For more information or to learn about other happenings at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, visit NASA Marshall. For past issues of the ICYMI newsletter, click here.