http://www.thespacereview.com/ Articles, essays, and commentary about all facets of space exploration en-us Copyright 2003-2011 Jeff Foust Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:00:00 GMT http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss jeff@thespacereview.com jeff@thespacereview.com http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2020/1 Several recent satellite reentries have put a spotlight on the issue of orbital debris. Jeff Foust reports on a recent panel session that discussed how complex the problem is and how difficult it will be, technically and otherwise, to solve it. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2019/1 Last month a little-known pioneer of satellite reconnaissance passed away. Dwayne Day describes the unique insights Frank Buzard offered on the early history of American spy satellite efforts. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2018/1 Although the Obama Administration has now proposed the development of an international "Code of Conduct" for outer space activities versus adopting a European version, some in Congress remain concerned. Michael Listner discusses their potential opposition to an international code and what they could do to block it. info@thespacereview.com (Michael Listner) Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2017/1 Those living in cities can see only a pale imitation of the real wonders of the night sky because of light pollution. Jeff Foust reviews a documentary that examines the impact of the loss of the night sky on nature and society. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2016/1 The failure of Russia's Phobos-Grunt spacecraft remains a mystery even as some Russian officials suggest a foreign power like America may have had a hand in the spacecraft's demise. James Oberg argues that some rational engineering analysis -- aka "rocket science" -- can shed light on the spacecraft's loss and dispel conspiracies. info@thespacereview.com (James Oberg) Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2015/1 Space, typically an issue that gets very little attention in presidential campaigns, burst into public prominence last week thanks to a series of debate questions and speeches. Jeff Foust reports on how Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney, and other Republican candidates outlined their views on space, and what they also left out. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2014/1 The press and public do not seem to be accepting Newt Gingrich's position on space policy. Sam Dinkin discusses the implication for the transition to low-cost space access. sam@dinkin.com (Sam Dinkin) Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2013/1 The National Reconnaissance Office recently released a selection of images taken from the newly-declassified GAMBIT and HEXAGON reconnaissance satellite programs. Dwayne Day examines the relevance of those images to American space and defense efforts from the 1960s to the 1980s. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2012/1 Can the vastness and majesty of the universe be condensed into 140-character snippets? Jeff Foust reviews a book that offers a Twitter-inspired examination of various questions in astronomy. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2011/1 Six months after the Space Shuttle completed its final mission, many are still uneasy about the future of America's human spaceflight efforts. Jeff Foust reports that many in the field see cause for optimism for the future, mixed with a dose of caution about the obstacles in the path ahead. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2010/1 Supporters of spaceflight have struggled to find rationales to back continued expenditures on relevant projects. Robert D. Lancaster argues that future spaceflight efforts should be based on planetary defense, access to resources, and settlement. info@thespacereview.com (Robert D. Lancaster) Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2009/1 Fifty years ago this week NASA launched the first in a series of Ranger spacecraft to the Moon, with poor results. Drew LePage examines the development of those spacecraft and the unfortunate outcomes of those early missions. info@thespacereview.com (Drew LePage) Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2008/1 One of the biggest space advocacy victories of the last decade was the grassroots push to restore a shuttle servicing mission to the Hubble Space Telescope. Jeff Foust reviews a documentary that recalls those efforts that attracted support from a broad swath of the general public. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2007/1 Advances in astronomy are dependent in part on the development of new large -- and expensive -- observatories on the ground and in space. Jeff Foust reports on the concerns raised by astronomers and other scientists that constrained budgets could threaten to put advances in astronomy on hold. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 16 Jan 2012 17:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2006/1 Last week a top State Department official announced that the US had decided not sign on the European Union's proposed space Code of Conduct. Michael Listner examines the reasons for that move and if the administration has an alternative approach in the works. info@thespacereview.com (Michael Listner) Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2005/1 Images, of space and of the Earth from space, are among the most powerful tools for communicating the wonders of space. Andre Bormanis examines some recently-released historical images and illustrations of and about space. info@thespacereview.com (Andre Bormanis) Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2004/1 We are living in something of a golden age of planetary exploration today, with spacecraft exploring the far reaches of our solar system. Jeff Foust reviews a book that provides a wide-ranging history of the various past and present missions that have provided new insights on our celestial neighborhood. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2003/1 While scientists ultimately hope to launch large, dedicated space telescopes to directly image Earth-like extrasolar planets, such missions are expensive and likely far in the future. Jeff Foust reports on some efforts to fly less expensive space missions in the coming years to expand the horizons of exoplanet science and lay the groundwork for more ambitious missions. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 09 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2002/1 There are few mechanisms today for arbitrating disputes on space-related issues, particularly those where non-governmental organizations are involved. Michael Listner describes a newly-adopted approach that could make it easier to resolve issues without the need for diplomatic maneuvering. info@thespacereview.com (Michael Listner) Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2001/1 Last month NASA scientists announced the discovery of the first planets similar in size to the Earth orbiting a Sun-like star, a finding that got considerable media attention. John Hickman examines what the media got right and wrong in their reporting of the discovery. info@thespacereview.com (John Hickman) Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/2000/1 The outer solar system has been the subject of a number of major discoveries, and some controversy regarding nomenclature, in the last decade. Jeff Foust reviews a book that, unfortunately, misses out on those developments but does provide some interesting older insights. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1999/1 The 2012 presidential campaign kicks into high gear on Tuesday with the Iowa caucuses, as seven major candidates vie for the Republican nomination. Jeff Foust reports on what those candidates have said -- and, more commonly, have not said -- about space policy in the campaign to date. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Tue, 03 Jan 2012 17:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1998/1 In the final installment of her series on a value proposition for human spaceflight, Mary Lynne Dittmar makes the case for re-establishing something like the National Space Council to better coordinate and communicate the national security value of human spaceflight in an increasingly competitive global landscape. info@thespacereview.com (Mary Lynne Dittmar) Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1997/1 Even as the Space Shuttles were being retired, there was a final behind-the-scenes bid to try and keep flying them commercially. Mary Lynne Dittmar discusses some of the lessons learned from that effort. info@thespacereview.com (Mary Lynne Dittmar) Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1996/1 The recent movie "Apollo 18" polarized audiences: some found the film too slow and boring, while others appreciated its verisimilitude. Dwayne Day reexamines the film and the new insights into its production provided by its release on DVD. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1995/1 A Chinese government white paper released last week discussed that country's plans in space for the next several years, raising concerns about competition with the United States. Jeff Foust reviews a new book that argues the greater competition is among China's neighbors in the Asia-Pacific region, whose space ambitions could lead to conflict. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1994/1 Last week Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen announced he was teaming up with Burt Rutan, Mike Griffin, and others to create Stratolaunch Systems, a new company developing an air launch system. Jeff Foust describes the company's launch concept and the issues that have generated skepticism in some quarters. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 19 Dec 2011 17:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1993/1 Missing from the debate about the future of NASA's human spaceflight efforts is one long-term question: what comes after the ISS? Roger Handberg argues that the failure to contemplate that question now could eventually mean ceding leadership in space station efforts to the Chinese. info@thespacereview.com (Roger Handberg) Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1992/1 NASA appeared set to press ahead with more conventional contracts for the next phase of its commercial crew program, but last week the agency abruptly changed course and said it would go back to Space Act Agreements instead. Jeff Foust reports on the reasons for the change and the reactions from industry and government. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1991/1 While women are commonplace in NASA's astronaut corps today, commanding missions and holding management positions, it took considerable effort for women to become astronauts. Jeff Foust reviews a book that discusses the political, cultural, and technical issues associated with that integration. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1990/1 The US government is grappling with both the growing costs of existing launch vehicles and the emergence of new, if relatively untested, competitors. Stewart Money argues that the future of reliable, cost-effective space access depends on enhanced competition among launch providers. info@thespacereview.com (Stewart Money) Mon, 12 Dec 2011 17:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1989/1 Many NewSpace ventures today have benefited from the stable financial support provided by a wealthy founder. Jeff Foust examines how two very different such companies have each found ways to maintain a long-term vision independent of near-term issues. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1988/1 The Austrian parliament recent passed a new law governing outer space activities by its citizens. Michael Listner provides an overview of the law and how it matches up with international agreements and treaties. info@thespacereview.com (Michael Listner) Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1987/1 In the 1970s TV series "The Six Million Dollar Man", Steve Austin was an astronaut who became a bionically-enhanced special agent. Dwayne Day looks back at the series, now available for rental, and finds it has not improved with age. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1986/1 Countless images have been taken of the Earth from space, most commonly in daylight. Jeff Foust reviews a book that offers a very different perspective of the Earth from space, when the lights of cities shine brightly in the night. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1985/1 Is it possible to accelerate human missions beyond Earth orbit within constrained budgets? Harley Thronson, Dan Lester, and Skip Hatfield describe how to leverage the experience and technologies of the ISS to support cislunar missions. info@thespacereview.com (Harley Thronson, Dan Lester, and Skip Hatfield) Mon, 05 Dec 2011 14:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1984/1 In the wake of the apparent failure of its Phobos-Grunt mission, Russian officials are suggesting they'll try to refly the same mission in the coming years. Lou Friedman argues that Russia instead needs to review its overall Mars exploration plans and consider closer cooperation with the US and Europe. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1983/1 One of the challenges facing the burgeoning field of extrasolar planet research is finding new ways of discovering more, and more Earth-like, planets within constrained budgets. Jeff Foust reports on a couple of innovative approaches that leverage advances in smallsats and suborbital vehicles. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1982/1 What do changes in little details in a satellite's design mean? Dwayne Day examines a changing antenna design of a classic communications satellite and wonders what story it might tell. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1981/1 Last week the BBC released a long-lost recording of a 1963 TV show featuring Arthur C. Clarke talking about his visions for the future of human spaceflight. Jeff Foust compares those predictions to what actually happened in the 1960s and beyond. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1980/1 With Russia's Phobos-Grunt spacecraft all but dead, Russian scientists are making plans for future missions even as the president of Russia threatens prosecution for those involved with the failure. Dwayne Day examines what Russia should, and should not, do to reinvigorate its planetary exploration program. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 28 Nov 2011 17:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1979/1 The Space Launch System, NASA's new heavy-lift vehicle, has not met with universal acceptance since the design was formally announced in September. John Strickland argues that the SLS, as currently conceived, will be too expensive to support the exploration missions and other applications envisioned for it. info@thespacereview.com (John Strickland) Mon, 28 Nov 2011 16:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1978/1 Space-based solar power is a concept that has strong support from a small number of space advocates, but little attention or funding from broader audiences. Jeff Foust reports on a new study that offers optimism for the future of space solar power even as the political landscape for supporting it becomes even more challenging. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 28 Nov 2011 16:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1977/1 A European Union proposal for a "Code of Conduct" for space activities has run into opposition from some countries, including India. Michael Listner discusses what Indian officials find objectionable in the code and the options for handing those concerns. info@thespacereview.com (Michael Listner) Mon, 28 Nov 2011 16:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1976/1 The search for extrasolar planets has become one of the fastest-paced areas of astronomy, with over 700 such worlds now discovered. Jeff Foust reviews an iPad app that provides a multimedia look at some of those worlds and the science behind the search. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 28 Nov 2011 16:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1975/1 Congress last week passed a final 2012 budget for a number of federal agencies, including NASA, supporting some programs but cutting back funding for others. Jeff Foust reports on the details of that appropriations bill and why, despite its passage, NASA's future funding remains highly uncertain. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 21 Nov 2011 17:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1974/1 The future of America's human spaceflight efforts is uncertain given budgetary pressures and worries that the nation doesn't have the commitment needed to support a long-term program. Roger Handberg warns that if the US waits too long, it could be shut out of future international cooperative ventures by a rising Chinese space program. info@thespacereview.com (Roger Handberg) Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1973/1 What does shifting an orbit of an asteroid have in common with interstellar spaceflight? Lou Friedman describes how both out-of-the-box concepts may be key to expanding our thinking about humanity's future in space. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1972/1 Tragedy thrust NASA astronaut Mark Kelly and his wife, Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, into the global spotlight earlier this year. Jeff Foust reviews a new book by the couple, including details about the sometimes contentious interactions Kelly had with his management at the space agency. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1971/1 Tight budgets and other factors are putting pressure on NASA's planetary exploration programs. Jeff Foust reports on what that means for long-term plans for missions to Mars and elsewhere in the solar system. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 14 Nov 2011 12:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1970/1 China is building up its space-based reconnaissance systems in a bid to match American military capabilities. Dwayne Day describes what is driving Chinese plans, and what vulnerabilities that effort introduces. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 14 Nov 2011 11:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1969/1 Visions of overwhelming US military space superiority have long appeared dubious to many, something that is especially the case today given new fiscal realities. Nader Elhefnawy revisits those visions of the US as an "astrocop". info@thespacereview.com (Nader Elhefnawy) Mon, 14 Nov 2011 11:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1968/1 Russia launched its Phobos-Grunt Mars mission last week, but the spacecraft remains stranded in a decaying Earth orbit that could cause it to reenter within weeks. Michael Listner examines some of the legal implications and remedies for yet another uncontrolled satellite reentry. info@thespacereview.com (Michael Listner) Mon, 14 Nov 2011 11:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1967/1 Fast-moving, multidisciplinary fields like astrobiology quickly outdate books written about them. Jeff Foust reviews a second edition of a book first published five years ago on astrobiology that benefits from some substantial updates. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 14 Nov 2011 11:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1966/1 This week Russia will launch Phobos-Grunt, a mission to travel to Mars and return a sample of the Martian moon Phobos. Lou Friedman describes the mission and an unusual experiment from The Planetary Society that is onboard the spacecraft. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 07 Nov 2011 17:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1965/1 Phobos-Grunt is a very ambitious mission for any space power, let alone for a country that hasn't launched a Mars mission in 15 years. Dwayne Day writes that it may be too ambitious a mission, but if successful could have a major payoff for planetary exploration. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 07 Nov 2011 16:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1964/1 Probos-Grunt is the latest in a long line of Russian/Soviet Mars missions, most of which failed. Doug Messier examines the history of that program and whether this mission can break from that history. info@thespacereview.com (Doug Messier) Mon, 07 Nov 2011 16:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1963/1 In the next few weeks Congress is expected to wrap up work on NASA's 2012 budget, including deciding how much money to allocate to the agency's commercial crew program. Alan Stern and Frank DiBello argue that NASA, Congress, and the White House should work together to get that program moving as fast as possible. info@thespacereview.com (Alan Stern and Frank DiBello) Mon, 07 Nov 2011 16:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1962/1 Members of Congress introduced a bill last week to provide some potential export control relief for the satellite industry, while the administration continues work on its own reform efforts. Jeff Foust reports on the progress being made on both fronts, and the prospects in this latest round of the long-running struggle for export control reform. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 07 Nov 2011 16:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1961/1 NASA has proposed guidelines to prevent future lunar vehicles from damaging or contaminating artifacts left behind by the Apollo missions. Matthew Kleiman describes how those voluntary guidelines can be supported by international law. info@thespacereview.com (Matthew Kleiman) Mon, 07 Nov 2011 16:55:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1960/1 In the 1970s, the Air Force looked at the Space Shuttle as more than just a vehicle for launching military satellites. Dwayne Day discusses studies that examined the feasibility of using the shuttle to service or return to Earth reconnaissance satellites. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 31 Oct 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1959/1 In a speech earlier this month, space entrepreneur robert Bigelow suggested that China was on a path to effectively claim the Moon as Chinese territory within 15 years. Jeff Foust reports on Bigelow's comments and a critical analysis of them by Chinese space experts. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1958/1 Western space experts have struggled to apply policy formulations intended to describe American space programs to China's space efforts. Danny Houpt describes an alternative set of policy typologies that may better fit China's space policy. info@thespacereview.com (Danny Houpt) Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/gallery/29 A set of images from the dedication of the new terminal building at Spaceport America in New Mexico earlier this month. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1957/1 Last Month Virgin Galactic formally dedicated its "Gateway to Space", the new terminal building and hangar at Spaceport America in New Mexico. Jeff Foust reports on the event as well as the work still in progress for both Virgin's spacecraft and the spaceport itself. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 24 Oct 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1956/1 November is shaping up to be a critical month for Mars exploration, with the planned launches of Russian and American missions to the Red Planet. Lou Friedman notes that ongoing debates within the administration could also spell doom for long-term Mars exploration plans. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 24 Oct 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1955/1 While NASA begins development of the heavy-lift Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, some have proposed propellant depots as an alternative architecture. Andrew Gasser argues that depots, despite the criticisms of some, offer a feasible and less expensive approach to human space exploration. info@thespacereview.com (Andrew Gasser) Mon, 24 Oct 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1954/1 The Moon Treaty is widely regarded as a failed treaty since the biggest spacefaring nations, including the United States, have not signed on to it. Michael Listner warns, though, that elements of the treaty could make their way into international law even if the US doesn't sign or ratify the treaty. info@thespacereview.com (Michael Listner) Mon, 24 Oct 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1953/1 With the shuttle now retired, books recounting the history of the program are making their way onto bookstore shelves. Jeff Foust reviews one such book that includes stunning imagery from various shuttle missions, but has one surprising omission. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 24 Oct 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1952/1 This week's dedication of Spaceport America in New Mexico is the latest milestone in an emerging commercial space industry. Alan Stern sees these developments as signs of a new era in innovation in spaceflight analogous to the early aviation industry. info@thespacereview.com (Alan Stern) Mon, 17 Oct 2011 09:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1951/1 Cost overruns with the James Webb Space Telescope will require NASA to take money from other programs, perhaps including human spaceflight, to cover its costs. Michael Kaplan explains how the two programs can instead be synergistic. info@thespacereview.com (Michael Kaplan) Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1950/1 While most of the recent attention on new launch systems has focused on NASA's Space Launch System and SpaceX's plans for a reusable Falcon 9, other vehicles are reshaping the industry landscape as well. Jeff Foust reports on some recent developments by several vehicles, and renewed concerns about overcapacity in the market. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1949/1 NASA's announced design of the Space Launch System rocket enables the space agency to pursue the goal set by the president of a human mission to an asteroid by 2025. Anthony Young wonders, though, if such a mission is compelling enough to hold interest over the years leading up to it. info@thespacereview.com (Anthony Young) Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1948/1 Another month, another falling satellite; in this case ROSAT, forecast to reenter later this month. Michael Listner discusses some of the legal issues specific to ROSAT's reentry as well as broader liability concerns about satellite collisions. info@thespacereview.com (Michael Listner) Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1947/1 Fiscal pressures and policy debates between the White House and Congress could be putting the future of planetary exploration in the US in jeopardy. Lou Friedman worries that history may be repeating itself as the OMB threatens to put key planetary missions on hold indefinitely. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 10 Oct 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1946/1 Recently several hundred people gathered in Orlando for a symposium on an unusual topic: what will it take to be able to send a mission to another star? Jeff Foust reports on some of the issues raised regarding a long-term plan for developing a starship. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1945/1 Last month saw two major announcements about launch vehicles: the release of the design for the Space Launch System, and SpaceX's plans to develop a fully reusable version of its Falcon 9. Stewart Money explains why the latter announcement may be more important in the long run. info@thespacereview.com (Stewart Money) Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1944/1 In the second part of his report on a historical symposium about the Gemini program, Dwayne Day describes the achievements made by the program in areas from radar to EVAs that have had lasting effects on human spaceflight. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1943/1 Once largely overlooked by NASA in favor of hard science and engineering, behavioral science is getting renewed attention as human missions feature more diverse crews for longer stays in space. Jeff Foust reviews a book that offers a look at the current state of research in this field. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1942/1 Is there a way to speed up the development of human exploration systems while also performing good science? Jack Burns and Scott D. Norris describe how Orion can be used, in conjunction with robotic spacecraft and future crewed landers, to unravel the secrets of the Moon. info@thespacereview.com (Jack Burns and Scott D. Norris) Mon, 03 Oct 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1941/1 NASA's efforts to develop commercial cargo and crew transportation systems for accessing the ISS, among other potential applications, have become critical programs for the agency. Jeff Foust reports on the progress companies involved in those programs are making as well as concerns about the future of commercial crew in particular. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 03 Oct 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1940/1 Under NASA's current plans, the first human exploration mission won't take place until at least 2021. Alan Stern and Gerry Griffin argue that's too long to wait, and offer a pragmatic alternative to accelerate human space exploration. info@thespacereview.com (Alan Stern and Gerry Griffin) Mon, 03 Oct 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1939/1 The achievements of Project Gemini have often been overlooked in space history in favor of the firsts accomplished by Mercury and Gemini. Dwayne Day offers some insights into Gemini's history from a recent symposium. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 03 Oct 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1938/1 Is United States space policy insufficiently farsighted? Christopher Stone argues that it is, based on evidence China sees the need for, and is willing to support the development of, space-based solar power. info@thespacereview.com (Christopher Stone) Mon, 03 Oct 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1937/1 NASA's exploration of the outer solar system has been enabled by the use of plutonium-powered RTGs that generate electricity where solar panels would be ineffective. Jeff Foust reports how declining stocks of a plutonium isotope, and policy battles regarding how to fund its production, jeopardize future planetary missions. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 26 Sep 2011 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1936/1 The recent movie "Apollo 18" has been panned by many critics, including in the pages of this publication. Dwayne Day argues that this movie does has some redeeming qualities, though, that should not be overlooked. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 26 Sep 2011 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1935/1 Last week Michael Drake, the director of the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory at the University of Arizona, passed away. Andre Bormanis recalls how Drake played a role in shaping his career when he was an undergraduate at Arizona. info@thespacereview.com (Andre Bormanis) Mon, 26 Sep 2011 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1934/1 Dwayne Day interviews author Michael Cassutt about his new book, a science fiction novel about human expeditions to a near Earth object that turns out to be something quite different. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 26 Sep 2011 14:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1933/1 During the 1970s the Soviet Union carried out an impressive series of robotic planetary missions, but those achievements are largely forgotten today, even in Russia. Lou Friedman reviews a new book that explains in detail what those Soviet missions to the Moon, Mars, and Venus accomplished. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 26 Sep 2011 14:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1932/1 Last Wednesday, with only a few hours' notice, NASA unveiled its design for the Space Launch System heavy-lift rocket. Jeff Foust reports on the technical and political issues associated with the SLS design and the concerns some have about the program's future. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 19 Sep 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1931/1 Last Saturday the NRO held a celebration marking its 50th anniversary and, as part of it, declassified two Cold War-era reconnaissance satellite programs. Dwayne Day describes the NRO's big party and what it had to show off. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 19 Sep 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1930/1 Later this week a 20-year-old NASA satellite will reenter the Earth's atmosphere, posing a very small risk to the public from falling debris. Michael Listner argues that the US can use this reentry as an opportunity to shore up elements of international space law. info@thespacereview.com (Michael Listner) Mon, 19 Sep 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1929/1 Space agencies and companies often come up with interesting euphemisms for describing launch failures. Dwayne Day wonders if it's time to come with an entirely new word to describe when a rocket has a bad day. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 19 Sep 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1928/1 Many spacecraft missions today take advantage of Lagrange points and complex trajectories, but it took considerable effort to get missions to make use of them. Jeff Foust reviews a memoir by one of the pioneers of those techniques who played a key role in a number of NASA missions. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 19 Sep 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1927/1 Later this week the National Reconnaissance Office may declassify details about two of its early Cold War satellite reconnaissance systems as part of ceremonies marking the office's 50th anniversary. Dwayne Day offers a preview of what we may learn about the KH-7 and KH-9. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 12 Sep 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1926/1 Cost overruns have put the future of the James Webb Space Telescope in jeopardy. Jeff Foust reports on the mission's growing cost and the concerns some scientists have that funds for Webb will come at the expense of other programs. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1925/1 Last week NASA chief technologist Bobby Braun announced plans to leave the agency and return to academia, the latest in a series of officials to leave NASA in recent weeks. Lou Friedman expresses concern this is a sign that the agency's commitment to science and technology development is unraveling. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1924/1 Does China really have long-term ambitions to send people to the Moon, as some have argued? Dwayne Day discusses how a lack of information hampers our assessments of Chinese human spaceflight plans. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1923/1 NASA launched over the weekend its latest mission, a pair of lunar orbiters known by the acronym GRAIL. Jeff Brooks argues that NASA could win more support for its missions if it came up with names for its missions that resonated better with the public. info@thespacereview.com (Jeff Brooks) Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1922/1 In the fourth part of her ongoing analysis of a value proposition for NASA's human spaceflight program, Mary Lynne Dittmar examines the role Congress plays, or should play, in shaping that value proposition. info@thespacereview.com (Mary Lynne Dittmar) Tue, 06 Sep 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1921/1 The last 25 years has seen a resurgence of interest in small satellites, which had been all but neglected after the early years of the Space Age. Jeff Foust reports on the developments that have triggered renewed interest in smallsats and the challenges they face to greater adoption. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Tue, 06 Sep 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1920/1 There are various, and often conflicting, arguments for why humans should go into space. Greg Anderson explains why he things the arguments should be based on how it is critical to the future development and survival of humanity. info@thespacereview.com (Greg Anderson) Tue, 06 Sep 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1919/1 In space, claimed the tagline of a famous science fiction film, no one can hear you scream. After seeing the new and somewhat controversial film "Apollo 11", Jeff Foust finds, you'll wonder if anyone can hear you yawn. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Tue, 06 Sep 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1918/1 US military space programs are facing a vicious cycle of cost, complexity, and requirements that is no longer sustainable. Thomas Taverney proposes that large, exquisite systems should be replaced by constellations that mix big spacecraft with smaller, less expensive ones. info@thespacereview.com (Thomas Taverney) Mon, 29 Aug 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1917/1 The International Space Station program suffered a setback last week when a Progress cargo spacecraft failed to each orbit. Jeff Foust reports on the effect the failure will have on access to the station for cargo and crews as well as its role in the ongoing political debate about NASA's future. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 29 Aug 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1916/1 Prospects for human space exploration seem uncertain at best, given limited direction and funding concerns. Lou Friedman sees some hope, though, in the form on new initiatives from the private sector. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 29 Aug 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1915/1 The USS Hornet earned a place in history by serving as the recovery ship for Apollo 11. Dwayne Day describes how the carrier, now a museum, is quietly sitting in an abandoned port in the San Francisco Bay area, rusting away. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 29 Aug 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1914/1 How can governments win public support for funding human expeditions to Mars? Frank Stratford argues they may have to be pushed to do so by private initiatives. info@thespacereview.com (Frank Stratford) Mon, 29 Aug 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1913/1 Small satellites show increasing potential to do more in space at lower costs than big satellites, but an ongoing challenge has been finding cost-effective ways to launch them. Jeff Foust reports on new opportunities involving existing large rockets and proposed small rockets to serve the smallsat market. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 22 Aug 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1912/1 In the latest installment of her assessment of the value of NASA's human spaceflight program, Mary Lynne Dittmar examines the national security implications of human spaceflight, particularly from the perspective of soft power. info@thespacereview.com (Mary Lynne Dittmar) Mon, 22 Aug 2011 09:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1911/1 Fifty years ago this month the first spacecraft in the Ranger program launched into Earth orbit. Drew LePage examines the early history of this program and how it set the foundation for more than just missions to the Moon. info@thespacereview.com (Drew LePage) Mon, 22 Aug 2011 09:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1910/1 Last month recently-retired aerospace pioneer Burt Rutan was a featured guest at the EAA AirVenture show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Eric Hedman recounts what Rutan had to say about his career and work, including development of suborbital vehicles, at the event. info@thespacereview.com (Eric Hedman) Mon, 22 Aug 2011 09:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1909/1 This is a turbulent time for the space workforce, as some workers lose their jobs while other companies wonder how they'll attract a new generation of engineers. Jeff Foust reviews a book that provides practical career guidance for aerospace and other engineers. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 22 Aug 2011 09:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1908/1 Why has the retirement of the shuttle resonated with the general public so much? Stewart Money discusses how the shuttle, unlike spacecraft before or after it, captured the essence of being a ship. info@thespacereview.com (Stewart Money) Mon, 15 Aug 2011 13:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1907/1 What value does NASA provide to the nation? In the second part of her analysis, Mary Lynne Dittmar argues that value, not widely recognized, is more fundamental than human space exploration. info@thespacereview.com (Mary Lynne Dittmar) Mon, 15 Aug 2011 12:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1906/1 When most people think of NewSpace, visions of space tourism and low-cost launchers come to mind. Jeff Foust examines several entrepreneurial space companies that are instead working on technologies that could enable or be enabled by improved access to space. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 15 Aug 2011 12:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1905/1 Space advocates find themselves having to fight the perception that the end of the shuttle program means "the end" of NASA itself. Lou Friedman says that today is a vibrant time for space exploration, even if those accomplishments aren't often recognized. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 15 Aug 2011 12:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1904/1 Brazil is making a major push to turn its equatorial spaceport into a major hub of launch activity. Doug Messier reports on the various initiatives underway and the challenges the country faces to join the ranks of the world's space powers. info@thespacereview.com (Doug Messier) Mon, 15 Aug 2011 12:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1903/1 The end of the shuttle program has created uncertainty about NASA's long-term future. In the first part of her analysis of the situation, Mary Lynne Dittmar says the lack of a compelling and enduring value proposition for human spaceflight is at the root of this problem. info@thespacereview.com (Mary Lynne Dittmar) Mon, 08 Aug 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1902/1 It's been nearly four years since the Google Lunar X PRIZE was unveiled, and no team had won it, or even appears reasonably close to winning it. Jeff Foust reports on some recent developments among the various teams, and discussions about what Google itself gets out of the prize competition. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 08 Aug 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1901/1 In the last several weeks many have claimed that the retirement of the shuttle is tantamount to the end of NASA human spaceflight, or even NASA itself. Justin Kugler argues while that isn't the case, we're in danger of repeating the same mistakes of the past. info@thespacereview.com (Justin Kugler) Mon, 08 Aug 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1900/1 Michael Listner provides a brief update on the US government's consideration of a proposed European "code of conduct" for space activities. info@thespacereview.com (Michael Listner) Mon, 08 Aug 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1899/1 Among the Apollo astronauts least remembered are those who flew to the Moon but remained in the command module while their crewmates walked on the Moon. Jeff Foust reviews a memoir by one of those astronauts, who experienced highs and lows after his flight. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 08 Aug 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1898/1 A proposed change in how NASA will contract for the next round of its commercial crew development program has generated considerable opposition from industry. Jeff Foust reports on the planned change and concerns it could be the first step to more significant changes in the program. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 01 Aug 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1897/1 Many aspects of space exploration, from the language of the Outer Space Treaty to concepts for space colonies, implied a future where space was free of national interests and sovereignty. John Hickman argues that such approaches are as doomed as the utopian visions of the New World centuries ago. info@thespacereview.com (John Hickman) Mon, 01 Aug 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1896/1 The utility, or lack thereof, of a proposed electric propulsion system to enable Mars missions has been a major point of contention for some Mars exploration enthusiasts and will be discussed again at the Mars Society conference this week. Chuck Black finds a historical analogue to this debate. info@thespacereview.com (Chuck Black) Mon, 01 Aug 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1895/1 Lou Friedman offers his perspective on the book "Falling Back to Earth" about the space policy of the George H. W. Bush Administration and its lessons for today. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 01 Aug 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1894/1 A long-term vision for many aerospace engineers and others in the space community has been the development of a reusable launch vehicle that use atmospheric oxygen for some phases of its flight. John K. Strickland examines the current state of research and the potential future directions in this area. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 01 Aug 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1893/1 Dwayne Day discovers an unusual consequence of, and financial opportunity associated with, the retirement of the Space Shuttle. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 01 Aug 2011 15:55:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1892/1 When the shuttle Atlantis landed Thursday morning, it was more than just the end of the Space Shuttle program. Jeff Foust discusses how it represents an end of a much longer era in human spaceflight, as the momentum built up from the original race to the Moon is finally exhausted. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 25 Jul 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1891/1 The Space Shuttle's legacy has been widely debated as the program reaches its end: despite all its accomplishments, it failed to achieve its original goals of cost reduction. Andre Bormanis argues that the shuttle should best be remembered for taking a step on the path towards better and less expensive space access. info@thespacereview.com (Andre Bormanis) Mon, 25 Jul 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1890/1 The end of the Space Shuttle program marks a profound change for NASA, in more ways than one. Roger Handberg warns that in the post-shuttle era the political environment for NASA may become more difficult and partisan. info@thespacereview.com (Roger Handberg) Mon, 25 Jul 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1889/1 A magazine planning to chronicle the emerging NewSpace industry has run into financial problems. Dwayne Day examines the intersection between the uncertainties of the space and publishing industries. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 25 Jul 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1888/1 This week the EAA AirVenture convention in Oshkosh will honor Burt Rutan for his lifetime of achievement in aerospace design. Jeff Foust reviews a book that explores that history of design, from Rutan's earliest homebuilt airplanes to SpaceShipOne and SpaceShipTwo. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 25 Jul 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1887/1 When the shuttle Atlantis lands later this week, it will mark the end of the Space Shuttle program, an ending tinged with regret and controversy. Dwayne Day looks back at how the decision to retire the shuttle was reached in the aftermath of the Columbia accident. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 18 Jul 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1886/1 Congress has mandated that NASA develop a heavy-lift launch vehicle, but in the eyes of some the agency has made little progress on the Space Launch System (SLS). Jeff Foust reports on when a design for the SLS might finally be ready, and possible funding and schedule issues for the program. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 18 Jul 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1885/1 Space exploration has ushered in a number of major technological advancements, including microelectronics that led to today's information-saturated age. Bob Mahoney worries that this space-enabled advance, ironically, may undermine the future of humans in space. info@thespacereview.com (Bob Mahoney) Mon, 18 Jul 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1884/1 The uncertainty many people feel about the future of human spaceflight with the imminent retirement of the Space Shuttle leave many wondering how to sustain a long-term human future in space. Donald C. Barker says that future ventures much be sold and sustained on the survival of humanity. info@thespacereview.com (Donald C. Barker) Mon, 18 Jul 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1883/1 In 2002 several co-op students at NASA's Johnson Space Center stole a vault containing rocks returned from the Moon by the Apollo missions, only to be quickly apprehended. Jeff Foust reviews a book that offers a dramatic, if not sensationalized, recounting of that theft. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 18 Jul 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1882/1 On Friday the shuttle Atlantis lifted off from the Kennedy Space Center, beginning the final mission of the Space Shuttle program. Jeff Foust reports on the weather and technical issues that nearly delayed the launch and the outpouring of emotions about the end of such a storied program. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 11 Jul 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1881/1 As the Space Shuttle program winds down, what lessons from it can we carry forward to future programs? Dana Andrews argues that although it failed to achieve it, NASA was right to pursue a vehicle with high flight rates that can ultimately lower the cost of space access. info@thespacereview.com (Dana Andrews) Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1880/1 The Space Shuttle's design, including its delta wings, has become iconic, but it's not the only way a spaceplane can be built. James McLane describes his cameo role in the development of an alternative design 40 years ago. info@thespacereview.com (James McLane) Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1879/1 The origins of the Space Shuttle program date back four decades, and at the beginning were a source of inspiration for many young people wondering what was next after Apollo. Drew LePage recalls those memories after finding a vintage newspaper article about the shuttle. info@thespacereview.com (Drew LePage) Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1878/1 Yet another television show with an inaccurate portrayal of NASA and space operations? Dwayne Day reviews a recent episode of a USA Network drama that offers another example of how NASA and the CIA are portrayed in popular culture. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1877/1 When is it appropriate to send humans to other worlds versus sending robotic probes? Dan Lester argues a key factor in future human spaceflight may be the degree of latency needed to successfully perform telerobotics. info@thespacereview.com (Dan Lester) Tue, 05 Jul 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1876/1 Attention is focused on the Kennedy Space Center this week for the launch of Atlantis on the final mission of the Space Shuttle program. Jeff Foust reports on one largely overlooked factor in this surge of attention: the mission itself. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Tue, 05 Jul 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1875/1 A little-known pioneer of reconnaissance satellites passed way in May. Dwayne Day examines the life of Robert Salter and the contributions he made in the early history of American reconnaissance satellite efforts. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Tue, 05 Jul 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1874/1 Advocates of human exploration of Mars and the Moon find themselves having to continually state and restate their arguments. Jeff Foust reviews a new edition of a classic book advocating Mars exploration and a new book reprinting blog posts from a leading lunar advocate. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Tue, 05 Jul 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1873/1 One year ago this week the White House released its new national space policy. Jeff Foust reports on the progress government agencies have made in implementing the policy and the policy's long-term relevance. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 27 Jun 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1872/1 More than 30 years ago one writer penned a major critique of the shuttle program before even the first shuttle launch. Dwayne Day examines what Gregg Easterbrook got right and wrong in his assessment. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 27 Jun 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1871/1 The end of the shuttle program has caused plenty of angst in Florida, where people fear the loss of jobs that will result after the shuttle is retired. Alan Stern notes that commercial space efforts can help the local economy rebound, provided there's sufficient political support for them. info@thespacereview.com (S. Alan Stern) Mon, 27 Jun 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1870/1 One of the first appearances of the shuttle on the big screen was in the 1979 James Bond movie "Moonraker". Dwayne Day looks back at the movie and its portrayal of the shuttle. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 27 Jun 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1869/1 A 100-year project to develop the technology needed for a crewed interstellar spacecraft is a sure way to attract attention, especially when it's backed with even a small amount of funding from DARPA and NASA. Jeff Foust reports on how this long-term effort may really be just a nontraditional way to promote short-term research and development. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1868/1 As the Space Shuttle program winds down, we're reminded that the shuttles failed to meet the cost and flight rate predictions made during the program's development in the 1970s. Dwayne Day notes that even during the '70s some were skeptical of those claims. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1867/1 The concept of alien invasions of Earth has reappeared on television recently in the form of a National Geographic special and a TNT drama. Andre Bormanis examines those shows and why the alien invasion theme may be in vogue today. info@thespacereview.com (Andre Bormanis) Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1866/1 While the future of NASA's human spaceflight programs may be uncertain today, it's not the first time the agency's exploration plans have been subject to heated debate in Washington. Jeff Foust reviews a book by an insider who provides his account of the battles surrounding the Space Exploration Initiative, and his pessimistic view of the future. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1865/1 Is Russia developing an airborne laser anti-satellite weapon? Dwayne Day examines the history of a curious Russian aircraft that may be fitted with a laser, and its implications for a potential ASAT arms race. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 13 Jun 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1864/1 The British Skylon RLV concept has received some recent attention after an ESA study found no showstoppers with its design. Jeff Foust explores the work on Skylon performed to date and identifies some challenges, both engineering and business, that it has yet to overcome. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 13 Jun 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1863/1 After next month's launch of Atlantis, the Space Shuttle program will come to an end. Taylor Dinerman looks back on what the shuttle did and did not achieve. info@thespacereview.com (Taylor Dinerman) Mon, 13 Jun 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1862/1 Dwayne Day follows up on a critique of a new book about Area 51 with an analysis of the research that went into that book, and the flaws associated with it. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 13 Jun 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1861/1 As NASA, Congress, and industry debate what the new Space Launch System heavy-lift rocket should be, some argue that such a rocket isn't necessary at all. Grant Bonin makes the case for exploration architectures that use larger numbers of smaller, less expensive rockets. grant.bonin@utoronto.ca (Grant Bonin) Mon, 06 Jun 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1860/1 For many space advocates, space settlement has long been the ultimate goal of spaceflight, but one that has seen little progress in the last few decades. Jeff Foust reports on two recent speeches that offer similar, if slightly differing, takes on new approaches that could make settlement a reality. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 06 Jun 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1859/1 A Mars sample return mission remains a high priority for scientists, but one that is technically and financially difficult to carry out. Lou Friedman discusses the importance of sample return and the role that international cooperation can play to further it. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 06 Jun 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1858/1 Draft rules for a new NASA prize competition involving sample return technology were quietly released last month. Ben Brockert reviews the rules and discusses some potential issues with the planned competition. info@thespacereview.com (Ben Brockert) Mon, 06 Jun 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1857/1 Next month the final shuttle mission will lift off with a four-person crew. Anthony Young reflects on this final crew and the future of human spaceflight. info@thespacereview.com (Anthony Young) Mon, 06 Jun 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1856/1 Last week, on the 50th anniversary of John F. Kennedy's speech calling for a human mission to the Moon by the end of the decade, his presidential library released a new recording of space deliberations by Kennedy. John Logsdon examines the new tape and what it says about Kennedy's interest in spaceflight and support of NASA. info@thespacereview.com (John Logsdon) Tue, 31 May 2011 13:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1855/1 As NASA struggles to develop a new heavy-lift launch vehicle, commercial entities are cobbling together existing systems for new applications, like Space Adventures's plans for a lunar flyby mission. Stewart Money argues that the latter approach might offer a more expedient approach to near-term exploration than developing a big booster. info@thespacereview.com (Stewart Money) Tue, 31 May 2011 12:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1854/1 A traveling exhibition of artwork created under NASA's art program has made its way to the National Air and Space Museum. Jeff Foust explores the collection and the origins of the agency's art efforts. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Tue, 31 May 2011 12:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1853/1 Special operations forces justifiably got the credit for the raid a month ago that killed Osama bin Laden. However, Taylor Dinerman notes that the mission would not have been possible with a variety of space assets, from reconnaissance to communications. info@thespacereview.com (Taylor Dinerman) Tue, 31 May 2011 12:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1852/1 A recent book about Ares 51 makes some bizarre claims about Nazi flying saucer, the Soviet Union, and Roswell. Dwayne Day suggests that the outlandish tale may have its roots in a science fiction short story over a half-century ago. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Tue, 31 May 2011 12:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1851/1 A major issue of contention for NASA's near-term plans has been how much reliance it should place on commercial providers for crew transportation to low Earth orbit. Mary Lynne Dittmar presents a paper she prepared last year with the late Mike Lounge on one approach to handle that transition. info@thespacereview.com (Mike Lounge and Mary Lynne Dittmar) Mon, 23 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1850/1 Many space enthusiasts have been seeking solutions to lower the cost of space access, while others have promoted human exploration of Mars. Jeff Foust reports on linked proposals from one leading space advocate that address both issues. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 23 May 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1849/1 The debate about the future development of a NASA heavy-lift launch vehicle drags on in Congress and industry. Lou Friedman warns this process could lead to no NASA human spaceflight program at all. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 23 May 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1848/1 Last Monday the shuttle Endeavour lifted off on its final mission, but observers were somewhat disappointed when the orbiter soon disappeared through a cloud bank. Jeff Foust describes the launch and how, soon enough, the shuttle program itself will fade from view. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 23 May 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1847/1 Last week Huntsville hosted the International Space Development Conference (ISDC), the annual conference of the National Space Society. Dwayne Day recalls an earlier ISDC that featured a presentation with a cautionary take on cooperation with military space efforts. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 23 May 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1846/1 Much of the attention SpaceX's proposed Falcon Heavy rocket has received has focused on its use in exploration or national security applications. Alan Stern notes that the rocket also has the potential to revolutionize science missions. info@thespacereview.com (S. Alan Stern) Mon, 16 May 2011 10:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1845/1 More details are gradually emerging about the development of early satellite reconnaissance programs in the US. Dwayne Day provides some new insights into one of those programs, the KH-7 GAMBIT. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 16 May 2011 09:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1844/1 The key payload on the shuttle Endeavour, scheduled to launch Monday morning, is a physics experiment called the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS). Jeff Foust reports on what the AMS is supposed to do and how it had to fight for its ride to the ISS. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 16 May 2011 09:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1843/1 Earlier this year the European Union issued a document outlining its planned space strategy. Christopher Stone compares that document with American policies and finds some interesting distinctions. info@thespacereview.com (Christopher Stone) Mon, 16 May 2011 09:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1842/1 Last month marked the tenth anniversary of Dennis Tito's trip to the ISS, a milestone in commercial human spaceflight. Jeff Foust reviews a book that recalls the long history of efforts to enable more than just professional astronauts fly in space. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 16 May 2011 09:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1841/1 Commercial space ventures appear to be moving forward on all fronts, with developments ranging from commercial crew funding to the testing of suborbital vehicles. However, Jeff Foust notes that some both in industry and Congress are skeptical of the long-term success of these efforts, in part because of past experience. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 09 May 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1840/1 What is the future for space exploration in an era of fiscal constraints and competing priorities? Lou Friedman argues that there is an increasing role for public-private partnerships to advance space exploration initiatives more cost effectively. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 09 May 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1839/1 In addition to trying to develop a launch vehicle, Iraq also worked on an its own satellite during the regime of Saddam Hussein. Dwayne Day describes that satellite effort and the country's future satellite plans. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 09 May 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1838/1 In recent years India's space program has evolved from one almost solely dedicated to serving national needs to one with a more nationalistic, even militarized bent. Victoria Samson summarizes the takeaways from a recent conference that examined India's shifting attitudes towards space and their impact on space security. info@thespacereview.com (Victoria Samson) Mon, 09 May 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1837/1 The search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) suffered a recent funding setback, but work continues to try and find evidence of other civilizations in the universe. Jeff Foust reviews a book that looks at the current state of SETI and the potential to not just listen but also transmit. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 09 May 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1836/1 TThis week marks the 50th anniversary of the flight of Alan Shepard, the first American to travel in space. Drew LePage examines the history of the Redstone rocket that made Shepard's flight possible. info@thespacereview.com (Andrew LePage) Mon, 02 May 2011 17:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1835/1 The space shuttle Endeavour was set to launch Friday on its final mission, but was scrubbed hours before liftoff because of a technical issue. Jeff Foust notes the near-term uncertainty about when Endeavour will launch parallels the long-term uncertainty about the future of the Space Coast after the shuttle program ends. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 02 May 2011 16:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1834/1 Friday's attempted launch of the space shuttle Endeavour was scheduled for the same day as the big royal wedding in England. Dwayne Day compares and contrasts the symbolism and significance of each. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 02 May 2011 16:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1833/1 What's it like to spend a summer operating a spacecraft on Mars looking for water ice? Jeff Foust reviews a book that provides a unique, quirky look at how a team of scientists and engineers worked on the Phoenix Mars Lander mission. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 02 May 2011 16:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1832/1 The final NASA fiscal year 2011 funding bill provided no explicit funding for space technology activities, a key element of the agency's future plans. Lou Friedman says that without such investment, it will become increasingly difficult to make new advances in robotic or human space exploration. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 25 Apr 2011 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1831/1 Last week NASA announced that four companies would share nearly $270 million in commercial crew development awards, the next step in efforts to develop commercial vehicles to carry astronauts to orbit. Jeff Foust reports on the outcome of the competition and whether there's room for other companies to compete later in the program. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 25 Apr 2011 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1830/1 It's clear to many that, half a century after the era of human spaceflight began, we have fallen fall short of our early dreams for the exploration and settlement of space. Claude Lafleur take a look at what went wrong. info@thespacereview.com (Claude Lafleur) Mon, 25 Apr 2011 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1829/1 While best known for co-founding Microsoft, Paul Allen is known in the space community for funding development of SpaceShipOne. Jeff Foust discusses some insights about that effort Allen reveals in a new book, and his potential to return to the commercial space field. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 25 Apr 2011 14:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1828/1 China continues to press for a treaty banning the placement of weapons in outer space, even while developing its own ASAT capability. Michael Listner examines what may be at the root of Chinese strategy regarding space weaponization. info@thespacereview.com (Michael Listner) Mon, 25 Apr 2011 14:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1827/1 Debates about human space exploration often focus on destinations and technologies. Charles A. Gardner argues that a more important requirement is finding an economically sustainable path for human exploration into and settlement of the solar system. info@thespacereview.com (Charles A. Gardner) Mon, 18 Apr 2011 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1826/1 Earlier this month SpaceX announced plans to develop a more powerful version of its Falcon 9 rocket, called the Falcon Heavy. Stewart Money examines what the implications are of a vehicle with the performance and cost goals of the Falcon Heavy. info@thespacereview.com (Stewart Money) Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1825/1 NASA used the 30th anniversary of the first shuttle launch last week to announce where the orbiters will go once the fleet is retired. Jeff Foust reports this set off a new debate about one aspect of the agency's past when attention should be focused on its future. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1824/1 More than six months after the fiscal year started, NASA finally got its final 2011 budget last week. Taylor Dinerman notes, though, that the agency still faces a host of problems in its human spaceflight, science, and other programs. info@thespacereview.com (Taylor Dinerman) Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1823/1 While one of the most famous individuals of the Space Age, surprisingly little is known about Yuri Gagarin. Jeff Foust reviews a controversial reprinted book about the life of the first person to fly in space. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1822/1 Tuesday marks the 50th anniversary of the first human spaceflight, and it comes at a time of uncertainty about NASA's future human spaceflight plans. Jeff Foust discusses some of the root causes of that uncertainty and what it means for the long-term future of human spaceflight and space exploration. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 11 Apr 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1821/1 The legacy of Vostok goes far beyond Yuri Gagarin's flight 50 years ago. Drew LePage examines how the Vostok design evolved over the decades into applications far beyond human spaceflight. info@thespacereview.com (Andrew LePage) Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1820/1 For decades there have been conspiracy theories claiming that Yuri Gagarin was not the first Soviet cosmonaut. James Oberg critically reviews a documentary claiming to have new evidence about those allegations, but finds it lacking. info@thespacereview.com (James Oberg) Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1819/1 Yuri Gagarin's flight 50 years ago was one of the major milestones in not just space exploration, but the Cold War. Taylor Dinerman explores the lasting impact that event had on Russia and its competition with America. info@thespacereview.com (Taylor Dinerman) Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1818/1 This year will mark the end of many aspects of the shuttle era, including the various cultures associated with it. Dwayne Day describes one of those little-appreciated mini-cultures: those who photograph the shuttle launches. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1817/1 On Tuesday, the 30th anniversary of the first shuttle launch, NASA will announce where the orbiters will go after the final launch later this year. Ben Brockert discusses the results of an online experiment to predict where the shuttles may go. jeff@thespacereview.com (Ben Brockert) Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:55:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1816/1 On Monday NASA administrator Charles Bolden will appear before a Senate appropriations subcommittee to discuss the agency's FY12 budget proposal. Lou Friedman offers an open letter to the chairperson of that subcommittee, asking her to make a critical examination of the agency's future. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:54:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1815/1 Last month the planetary science community rolled out a study identifying its priorities for missions in the next decade. Jeff Foust reports on how the difficult choices included in that report are further complicated by NASA's latest budget proposal. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 04 Apr 2011 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1814/1 Last month NASA's MESSENGER spacecraft slipped into orbit around Mercury, becoming the first spacecraft to orbit the innermost planet. Lou Friedman describes his "personal, not scientific" connection to that rocky world. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1813/1 While all the KH-9 reconnaissance satellites were launched on Titan rockets, would it have been possible to launch one on a space shuttle? Dwayne Day examines that question as the KH-9 program approaches declassification and the shuttle its own retirement. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1812/1 As commercial spaceflight, including both suborbital and orbital human flights, become more common, these applications will raise new legal issues. Christopher J. Newman and Ben Middleton discuss some of the issues that space law experts will have to grapple with in the near future. info@thespacereview.com (Christopher J. Newman and Ben Middleton) Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1811/1 The field of astrobiology has increasingly entered the mainstream of scientific research as scientists make new discoveries on Earth and beyond. Jeff Foust reviews a book that provides an overview of the field and assesses the prospects for life elsewhere in the universe. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1810/1 As the 2011 fiscal year reaches the halfway mark this week, NASA still lacks a final budget for the fiscal year as well as a firm plan for its future human spaceflight plans. Jeff Foust reports on how the continued debate and lack of action has some in industry increasingly concerned. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 28 Mar 2011 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1809/1 Dwayne Day concludes his history of the KH-9 HEXAGON reconnaissance satellite program with a look at its ill-fated final flight and its overall contribution to the nation's security. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 28 Mar 2011 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1808/1 Many space exploration architectures have identified the two Lagrange points near the moon, L1 and L2, as promising stepping stones for future human missions, but which one is better? Dan Lester examines the tradeoffs of going to one point versus the other, and the benefits of either. info@thespacereview.com (Dan Lester) Mon, 28 Mar 2011 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1807/1 Earlier this month India tested an ABM that officials claimed could also provide the country with an anti-satellite capability. Michael Listner explores how serious India may be in developing its own ASAT. info@thespacereview.com (Michael Listner) Mon, 28 Mar 2011 14:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1806/1 While essential to human spaceflight, the spacesuit hasn't gotten the attention that people, rockets, and spacecraft have received over the decades. Jeff Foust reviews a new book that puts the development of the spacesuit, in particular the one used for the Apollo missions, into a technical and cultural perspective. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 28 Mar 2011 14:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1805/1 If achieving affordability in future launch vehicles requires at least partial reusability, what is the best way to achieve it? Stewart Money examines the various approaches studied over the years, from recovering rocket engines to flying back complete stages. info@thespacereview.com (Stewart Money) Mon, 21 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1804/1 When the day comes when humans settle space, what legal structures will they use? Jeffrey G. Liss uncovers some insights from an unlikely but authoritative source: a former member of the Supreme Court. info@thespacereview.com (Jeffrey G. Liss) Mon, 21 Mar 2011 12:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1803/1 SpaceX achieved a major milestone last week when it won a launch contract from a major commercial satellite operator. Jeff Foust reports that SpaceX's entry into this market, and other developments, come at a time when other launch companies are worried about a potential shakeout in the market. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 21 Mar 2011 12:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1802/1 Most would agree that satellites play a key role in studying and perhaps even predicting natural disasters, like the recent earthquake in Japan. Lou Friedman wonders why their isn't similar support for using satellites for understanding climate change. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 21 Mar 2011 12:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1801/1 Throughout the history of NASA, a handful of astronauts have won widespread recognition for their achievements. Anthony Young notes that, during the shuttle program, many more carried out their missions in something more closely resembling obscurity. info@thespacereview.com (Anthony Young) Mon, 21 Mar 2011 12:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1800/1 Interest is using the new generation of commercial suborbital vehicles for scientific research has surged in the last couple of years. Jeff Foust reports that, at a recent conference, the focus of the discussion had shifted to more practical matters like training and payload interfaces. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 14 Mar 2011 11:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1799/1 Later this week a new variant of the Soyuz spacecraft will undock from the ISS and return to Earth. James Oberg notes that concerns about technical glitches with the Soyuz have also raised concerns about the openness of the ISS partners. info@thespacereview.com (James Oberg) Mon, 14 Mar 2011 10:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1798/1 Twenty-five years ago today the Giotto spacecraft flew past the nucleus of Comet Halley, part of an international armada of spacecraft sent to study the comet. Andrew LePage examines the Soviet, Japanese, and European spacecraft sent on a one-in-a-lifetime mission. info@thespacereview.com (Andrew LePage) Mon, 14 Mar 2011 10:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1797/1 What does it mean for the United States to be a leader in space? Christopher Stone argues that such leadership must come from maintaining the country's edge in spaceflight capabilities instead of relying on others. info@thespacereview.com (Christopher Stone) Mon, 14 Mar 2011 10:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1796/1 Development of commercial crew transportation systems has been one of the biggest hot-button topics in spaceflight today. Owen Garriott and Alan Stern make the case for why such systems are vital to America's future in space. info@thespacereview.com (Owen Garriott and Alan Stern) Mon, 14 Mar 2011 10:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1795/1 The Planetary Sciences Decadal Survey is due out Monday, identifying the highest priority planetary science missions for the next decade. Lou Friedman warns, though, that tight budgets could jeopardize both those missions and future exploration in general. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1794/1 The new national security space policy does not directly endorse a proposed EU code of conduct for outer space activities, but it does support some of its underlying concepts. Jeff Foust reports on what some observers see as particular issues with the EU code, and the path ahead. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1793/1 Last month nearly 40 US senators signed a letter to the secretary of state, asking questions about US interest in a code of conduct for outer space activities. Yousaf Butt adresses the issues raised by the senators in their letter. info@thespacereview.com (Yousaf Butt) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1792/1 A joint DARPA/NASA study is examining what technologies it would take to send a spacecraft to another star in a hundred years. Stephen Ashworth argues that ultimate human exploration beyond our solar system will first require a firm grounding in living and working within it. info@thespacereview.com (Stephen Ashworth) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 14:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1791/1 The universe started with the Big Bang, but what, if anything, came before that? Jeff Foust reviews a book by a cosmologist that offers a model that suggests this universe was not the first. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 07 Mar 2011 14:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1790/1 In the last couple years commercial suborbital spaceflight has been overshadowed by growing interest in, and debate about, commercial orbital human spaceflight. Jeff Foust reports that vehicle developments and growing customer interest could soon thrust suborbital back into the spotlight. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 28 Feb 2011 12:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1789/1 The grand human expeditions into the solar system predicted decades ago have failed to come to pass, like any number of other predictions about life in the 21st century. Andre Bormanis wonders if the future of space exploration will, in fact, be more virtual as those technologies become increasingly capable. info@thespacereview.com (Andre Bormanis) Mon, 28 Feb 2011 11:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1788/1 The concept of using rovers to explore the surface of Mars has been successfully demonstrated by NASA, but it wasn't that long ago that the agency had no plans for such missions. Lou Friedman recalls how it was Russian interest, carried on even as the Soviet Union collapsed, that influenced present-day Martian exploration. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 28 Feb 2011 11:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1787/1 Communications satellites, inelegant boxy contraptions today, were once spinning drum-shaped spacecraft. Dwayne Day describes one such spinner that lives on ot this day, owned by an obscure satellite operator. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 28 Feb 2011 11:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1786/1 Among the major 50th anniversaries in spaceflight being celebrated this year is John F. Kennedy's speech calling for a human mission to the Moon by the end of the 1960s. Jeff Foust reviews a book by that reexamines Kennedy's influence on the early space program. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 28 Feb 2011 11:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1785/1 Dwayne Day continues his history of the KH-9 HEXAGON reconnaissance satellite program with an examination of spacecraft operations, including the deep sea recovery of one of the first film capsules returned by a KH-9. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 21 Feb 2011 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1784/1 While there's been a recent surge in interest in reusable spacecraft, including both capsules and winged vehicles, work on reusable launch vehicles has languished. Stewart Money argues that it's time to revisit making launch vehicles at least partially reusable. info@thespacereview.com (Stewart Money) Mon, 21 Feb 2011 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1783/1 Last week the Sun produced the most powerful solar flare in four years, a reminder that the Sun is approaching another peak in activity that could pose hazards to modern-day civilization. Jeff Foust reports on the steps scientists and government agencies are taking to predict and prepare for solar storms. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 21 Feb 2011 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1782/1 ESA is currently weighing which major space science mission it should pursue in the coming decade, a decision that will rest in part on the role of international cooperation on this missions. Lou Friedman suggests that this could be a model for broader cooperation in space exploration. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 21 Feb 2011 14:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1781/1 Later this week the space shuttle Discovery is scheduled to launch on what will almost certainly be its final mission. Jeff Foust reviews a book that provides a history of Discovery and the over three dozen missions it's flown. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 21 Feb 2011 14:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1780/1 The release this week of a new budget proposal will again stoke debate about NASA policy, including its commercial crew development plans. Jeff Foust reports that agency officials and company officials alike are seeing commercial crew as both increasingly likely and critical to NASA's future. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 14 Feb 2011 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1779/1 Fifty years ago this month the Soviet Union launched its first missions to Venus, although neither spacecraft reached its destination. Andrew LePage examines the rushed Soviet effort to send a spacecraft to Venus. info@thespacereview.com (Andrew LePage) Mon, 14 Feb 2011 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1778/1 In debates about space policy, the term "American leadership" is often used without discussion about what it actually means. Lou Friedman argues that such leadership involves not going it along in space but leading cooperative space ventures with other countries. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 14 Feb 2011 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1777/1 Fans of "The Simpsons" may remember the "inanimate carbon rod" as a highlight of a particular space-themed episode. Michael A. Shoemaker notes that similar rods played a minor role in space history as well. info@thespacereview.com (Michael A. Shoemaker) Mon, 14 Feb 2011 14:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1776/1 Space has long been perceived as a frontier, but in terms of human spaceflight there's been little progress in pushing back that frontier for decades. Jeff Foust reviews a book that examines why that's been the case and what can be done to reopen that frontier. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 14 Feb 2011 14:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1775/1 Space science and human spaceflight, long foes in the battle for funding, are going in opposite directions at NASA. Lou Friedman argues it's time to unite the two under a common mission of exploration. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 07 Feb 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1774/1 Dwayne Day continues his examination of the history of the KH-9 HEXAGON reconnaissance satellite program by looking at its development, including budget battles that threatened the program with cancellation. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 07 Feb 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1773/1 Recent events have demonstrated the importance, but also the fragility, of Internet access. Jeff Foust reports on one group making a long-shot bid to buy a satellite to improve Internet access in underserved parts of the world. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 07 Feb 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1772/1 The effective commercialization of space requires a legal regime that, among other things, protects the intellectual property rights of companies doing work there. Matthew J. Kleiman describes a potential loophole in international space law that could undermine that legal protection. info@thespacereview.com (Matthew J. Kleiman) Mon, 07 Feb 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1771/1 Building a satellite to perform a mission never before attempted can be a challenging, uncertain project. Jeff Foust reviews a book that chronicles the work by one company with an unlikely heritage to build a unique planetary science mission for NASA. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 07 Feb 2011 15:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1770/1 This time of year is traditionally a somber one at NASA, as the agency recognizes those who lost their lives on missions. Jeff Foust examines a deeper angst that is evident today as well, given the continued uncertainty about NASA's future human spaceflight plans and budgets. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 31 Jan 2011 16:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1769/1 In the new Congress, as in previous ones, the leadership of key space-related committees is dominated by people from states with major NASA facilities. Lou Friedman discusses the importance of broadening NASA's appeal to win more support, and funding, in the future. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 31 Jan 2011 15:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1768/1 Launch vehicles are complex machines that sometimes can be felled by simple failures. Wayne Eleazer describes several such failures of rockets, and how a simple "oops", compounded by other problems, caused them. info@thespacereview.com (Wayne Eleazer) Mon, 31 Jan 2011 15:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1767/1 Had the damage to the shuttle Columbia had been understood early enough in its fateful final mission eight years ago, it would have been possible, if just barely, to mount a rescue mission. Jeff Foust reviews a novel that explores that alternate history. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 31 Jan 2011 15:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1766/1 Twenty-five years ago today Voyager 2 made its closest approach to Uranus, becoming the first, and so far only, spacecraft to visit the seventh planet. Andrew LePage recounts the challenges of getting a spacecraft designed primarily for Jupiter and Saturn to continue the exploration of the outer solar system. info@thespacereview.com (Andrew LePage) Mon, 24 Jan 2011 17:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1765/1 Given the near-term challenges of just getting beyond Earth orbit, does it make sense to think about how to travel to other stars? Lou Friedman explains the benefits of long-term planning for interstellar missions, as DARPA and NASA are currently exploring. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 24 Jan 2011 16:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1764/1 One potential destination for human spaceflight beyond Earth orbit is the Earth-Moon L-1 point. Ken Murphy discusses the various roles a human presence there could play in supporting space exploration and development. info@thespacereview.com (Ken Murphy) Mon, 24 Jan 2011 16:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1763/1 During the race to the Moon in the 1960s, the CIA built models of the Soviet N-1 launch pad to help them better understand the launch site infrastructure. Dwayne Day describes the discovery of one of those vintage models in an unexpected location. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 24 Jan 2011 16:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1762/1 Discoveries in recent years have revolutionized the field of cosmology, indicating that ordinary matter makes up on a small fraction of the universe. Jeff Foust reviews a book that examines the search for dark matter and dark energy. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 24 Jan 2011 16:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1761/1 Development of the KH-9 spy satellite, often referred to in the media as "Big Bird", has been shrouded in secrecy for decades, but new details are emerging. Dwayne Day examines the early history of the KH-9, including tensions between the NRO and CIA, in the first of a two-part article. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 17 Jan 2011 17:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1760/1 Last week the debate on how NASA should develop a heavy-lift rocket restarted after NASA submitted a report indicating its preferred design would not fit into the budget and schedule of its authorization act. Jeff Foust reports on the issues regarding the technology, budget, and even utility of a heavy-lifter raised in that debate. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 17 Jan 2011 16:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1759/1 Past efforts to develop big human spaceflight programs patterned after Apollo have failed, most recently NASA's implementation of the Vision for Space Exploration. Roger Handberg uses a sports analogy to explain why it's time to turn to a more sustainable approach to human space exploration. info@thespacereview.com (Roger Handberg) Mon, 17 Jan 2011 16:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1758/1 Advances in astrobiology have expanded the range of potential sites in the solar system that could support life. Lou Friedman discusses how to make it possible to afford exploring all those sites. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 17 Jan 2011 16:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1757/1 One of the lesser-known payloads launched by the space shuttle was an experimental communications satellite. Dwayne Day describes how ACTS was part of a larger but now dated debate about industrial policy. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 17 Jan 2011 16:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1756/1 Where should humans go next beyond Earth orbit, and how quickly? Harley Thronson, Dan Lester, and Ted Talay make the case for quickly and affordably establishing an outpost at the Earth-Moon Lagrange points. info@thespacereview.com (Harley Thronson, Dan Lester, and Ted Talay) Mon, 10 Jan 2011 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1755/1 The general public remains fascinated with many aspects of space exploration, from the Hubble Space Telescope's observations of the cosmos to the activities of the Mars rovers. Lou Friedman notes that this interest must be taken into account when dealing with troubled current programs and planning future ones. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 10 Jan 2011 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1754/1 While best known for his Narnia books, C.S. Lewis also wrote a "Space Trilogy". Taylor Dinerman examines those novels and their underlying message about space exploration before the beginning of the Space Age. info@thespacereview.com (Taylor Dinerman) Mon, 10 Jan 2011 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1753/1 Astrobiology has gained traction in recent years as an interdisciplinary field seeking to answer one of the most fundamental questions: is there life elsewhere in the universe? Jeff Foust reviews a book where scientists and others talk about their work in this field. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 10 Jan 2011 14:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1752/1 A new year brings new hopes for the future, but plenty of challenges as well. Jeff Foust outlines some of the key issues facing civil and commercial spaceflight in the coming year, from budget battles to the end of the shuttle program. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 03 Jan 2011 17:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1751/1 International cooperation in space can pay dividends on Earth as well as in space. Lou Friedman argues that it's time to properly recognize the role that civil space cooperation can play in enhancing national security. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 03 Jan 2011 16:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1750/1 For decades the US Air Force used a series of program numbers to identify classified programs. Dwayne Day recaps the effort to link those numbers with specific programs. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 03 Jan 2011 16:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1749/1 It's an ongoing challenge for astronomers and writers to properly convey the scale and nature of the universe. Jeff Foust reviews two new publications, one a conventional book and the other an iPad app, that try different ways of describing the solar system and beyond. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 03 Jan 2011 16:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1748/1 The new NASA authorization act directs the space agency to develop a massive heavy-lift launch vehicle in the next six years. Lou Friedman warns that without a specific mission and corresponding requirements for the vehicle, the project is destined to fail. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 20 Dec 2010 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1747/1 Last month NASA announced that the James Webb Space Telescope will require more money and more time before it will be ready to launch. Todd Neff notes that cost and schedule overruns are as old as the Space Age itself, a consequence of working on cutting-edge projects. info@thespacereview.com (Todd Neff) Mon, 20 Dec 2010 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1746/1 Orbital debris, satellite collisions, and ASAT tests have increased the awareness of the need of measures to preserve the safety of operations in Earth orbit. Jeff Foust reports on some potential and proposed measures the US and other countries can take in the near term to enhance space security. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 20 Dec 2010 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1745/1 The TV series "Defying Gravity" went off the air after less than a season, leaving interested viewers wondering what would have happened next on this near future space exploration show. Dwayne Day discusses what the series creator had in store if the show had lived on. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 20 Dec 2010 14:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1744/1 The controversy over the "demotion" of Pluto from planet to dwarf planet is now over four years old, but new viewpoints on the subject continue to emerge. Jeff Foust reviews a new book by the astronomer whose discoveries of icy worlds in the outer solar system triggered the eventual reclassification of the former ninth planet. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 20 Dec 2010 14:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1743/1 A year ago commercial crew transportation was treated skeptically, at best, in the space community; now it's a part of national policy with the support of companies large and small. Jeff Foust reports on how last week's successful flight of SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft may help secure the long-term future for commercial human spaceflight. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 13 Dec 2010 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1742/1 Some still question the utility of mounting human missions to near Earth asteroids. Lou Friedman discusses not only why such missions are important, but also why the timetable for them should be accelerated. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 13 Dec 2010 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1741/1 Fifty years ago this week NASA wrapped up a largely unsuccessful series of missions to send a spacecraft in orbit around the Moon. Andrew LePage recalls the origins and unlucky fates of the Pioneer lunar orbiters. info@thespacereview.com (Andrew LePage) Mon, 13 Dec 2010 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1740/1 Last week's successful Falcon 9/Dragon launch was certainly a major milestone for the space industry, but it got little attention in some sectors of the mainstream media. Anthony Young examines this state of affairs. info@thespacereview.com (Anthony Young) Mon, 13 Dec 2010 14:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1739/1 Some people read astronaut memoirs to learn more about life as an astronaut, while others may read them to provide insights to motivate them to achieve their own goals. Jeff Foust reviews one such book that is a better fit for those in the latter category. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 13 Dec 2010 14:56:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1738/1 For decades after the Apollo program, many have argued for similar approaches for returning humans to the Moon. Travis Senor makes the case for a very different, long-term approach to human exploration of the solar system. tlsenor@gmail.com (Travis Senor) Mon, 06 Dec 2010 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1737/1 Just how would a spy satellite been incorporated into an Apollo mission to take high-resolution images of the lunar surface? Dwayne Day follows up last week's piece on the Lunar Mapping and Survey System with additional insights and illustrations. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 06 Dec 2010 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1736/1 Last week's announcement of the discovery of a microbe that can incorporate arsenic, instead of phosphorus, into its DNA widens the prospects for life on other worlds. Lou Friedman argues that the search for extraterrestrial life, in particular intelligent life, would benefit from having a firmer strategy. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 06 Dec 2010 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1735/1 Everyone agrees that orbital debris is a major problem, but how big of a problem does it have to become before we take more action to resolve it? Jeff Foust reviews a new study that compares orbital debris with a wide range of other problems that have gone through similar cycles of action. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 06 Dec 2010 14:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1734/1 As part of preparations for the Apollo landings, NASA needed to get detailed imagery of potential landing sites. Dwayne Day reveals a partnership between NASA and NRO that proposed using Apollo spacecraft equipped with reconnaissance satellite cameras to provide those images. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 29 Nov 2010 14:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1733/1 While most of the recent attention NASA has received has been on its human spaceflight programs, its robotic missions also are noteworthy. Lou Friedman contrasts the impending milestones for the agency's missions with the fiscal issues some of those programs face. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 29 Nov 2010 13:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1732/1 Space settlement has long been a core tenet of space advocates, who have offered a range of scenarios about how it would work. John Hickman examines these proposals and highlights the flaws in their historical analogies. info@thespacereview.com (John Hickman) Mon, 29 Nov 2010 13:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1731/1 Last month the president signed into law a NASA authorization bill that reoriented the agency's human spaceflight efforts. However, as Jeff Foust reports, budget delays and implementation questions keep NASA's future plans uncertain. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 29 Nov 2010 13:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1730/1 As we complete the International Space Station and debate future plans for human space exploration, a key question remains: how can we maintain support for this endeavor? In the first in a new series, Lou Friedman examines the issue and the consequences for not answering that question. info@thespacereview.com (Lou Friedman) Mon, 22 Nov 2010 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1729/1 Much of the debate over the last year regarding human spaceflight has been where humans should go next: the Moon, near Earth objects, or some place else. Jeff Foust reports on a recent panel session that looked at the question of where to go first from the point of view of accessing space resources. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 22 Nov 2010 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1728/1 Asteroid impact threats have become a staple of both major motion pictures and made-for-TV sci-fi movies in recent years. Dwayne Day discovers that the theme also was the subject of an obscure Italian movie from the late 1950s. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 22 Nov 2010 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1727/1 For fifty years astronomers have been searching for signals from alien civilizations, without success; is it time to give up? Andre Bormanis reviews a book by a leading SETI researcher that could convince the skeptical that the search is worth the effort. info@thespacereview.com (Andre Bormanis) Mon, 22 Nov 2010 14:57:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1726/1 There's been a growing number of efforts by amateurs to fly balloons high into the atmosphere and take "pictures of space", or even claim to have flown in space. Jeff Foust examines how how this phenomenon, and especially the media coverage of it, could have a detrimental effect on actual spaceflight. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1725/1 Future long-duration human spaceflight will require technologies that can sustain life while reusing and recycling as much as possible. Kit Martin argues that the same technologies can also be essential to sustaining life on Earth. info@thespacereview.com (Kit Martin) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1724/1 How can we take advantage of the virtually boundless energy and material resources in the solar system? Jeff Foust reviews a book that offers a series of proposals to accelerate humanity's expansion into and utilization of space. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 15 Nov 2010 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1723/1 The same day that commercial spaceflight supporters were celebrating the development of Spaceport America, a new study concluded that suborbital flights that facility will host could alter the planet's climate. Jeff Foust examines the latest research and some of the issues associated with the study. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 08 Nov 2010 15:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1722/1 Thirty years ago this week Voyager 1 made the first close flyby of Titan, Saturn's largest moon and one of the most intriguing worlds in the solar system. Andrew LePage recounts the research into Titan and the planning that led up to that encounter. info@thespacereview.com (Andrew LePage) Mon, 08 Nov 2010 14:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1721/1 As the United States and India seek closer ties, should space-based solar power be on the agenda? Jeff Foust reports on developments in that field, including a new joint initiative supported by a former Indian president. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 08 Nov 2010 14:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1720/1 On the first KH-9 reconnaissance satellite mission, one of its reentry capsules missed its midair capture and plummeted to the bottom of the Pacific. Dwayne Day recounts the effort by the US Navy to recover that capsule. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 01 Nov 2010 14:00:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1719/1 For over a decade Bigelow Aerospace has been quietly working on inflatable habitat modules for use on commercial space stations. Jeff Foust reports on how, as the company's profile grows, so do its ambitions. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:59:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1718/1 The movie "Capricorn One" hardly put NASA in a good light, yet the movie uses props like a lunar lander replica. Dwayne Day examines how the movie producers got access to that hardware. zirconic1@cox.net (Dwayne A. Day) Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:58:00 GMT http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1717/1 Mars is now written into law as the the long-term objective for NASA's human spaceflight plans, but how will the agency manage to get there? Jeff Foust reviews a book that studies the issues of sending humans to the Red Planet. jeff@thespacereview.com (Jeff Foust) Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:57:00 GMT