Satellites | Observations in Astronomy

The Haughton-Mars Project: An Earth-Bound Link to Mars Exploration

The Haughton-Mars Project (HMP) studies the terrain of Devon Island, High Arctic, and the subsequent technologies that make travel to Mars possible. The Devon Island location mimics Mars in many aspects, which makes the location an ideal setting for study, research and tests.
HMP works collaboratively with NASA, however, the project is operated and managed by the Mars Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to the scientific study of Mars. HMP findings are shared with scientists around the world, making their two focuses, scientific and exploratory studies, extremely important to NASA and the world.
Scientific Study
Scientific study in this extreme environment includes geological, biological and historical studies. These studies allow scientists to better determine the evolution of the rocky, polar and desert setting — which may offer insights into the possibility of former life on Mars.
The studies also actively seek life in the environment, studying Devon Island for signs of current life forms. As scientists research this phenomenon, they hope to link signs of life to the possibilities of former or present Martian life forms.
Historically, the Devon Island facility can offer insights into the history of water in the High Arctic. This can then be linked to the possibility of water’s existence on Mars, either in the past or currently.
Exploration Study
Since the Devon Island location is so similar to Mars, researchers are also making headway into the developments that will make human exploration of Mars possible. These research parameters include: developing and testing new technologies, strategizing exploration possibilities and testing the human power to withstand extremes.
The scientists develop and test new technologies, which include robotics, space suits and rovers. Exploration possibilities strategized and human power testing include the most recent HMP test, the Northwest Passage Drive Expedition, which drove over 490 km of sea-ice in the Moon-1 and Mars-1 Humvee Rovers to test the dual-pressurization in a long-range usage.
As HMP moves forward, NASA, the Mars Institute, and scientists worldwide will learn more about Mars, technologies and human capabilities, making our future civilian treks to Mars possible.

Filed Under: Planets, Satellites Tagged With: Mars, Mars Institute, NASA

Russian Spacewalk Planned as Part of NASA Experiment

Image via Wikipedia

A spacewalk, schedule for February 16, at 7:15 a.m. CST, is planned for Russian cosmonauts Dmitry Kondratyev and Oleg Skripochka. The flight engineers have been on the International Space Station for over a month as part of Expedition 26.
The spacewalk will be televised on NASA-TV, beginning at 6:45 a.m. CST, and will take place from the Russian Pirs Docking Compartment of the International Space Station.
This newest installment of the expedition — the second spacewalk in four weeks (the first completed on January 21, 2011 — will last almost six hours. In that time period, the cosmonauts will complete numerous tasks during their extravehicular activity (EVA), including installing two experiments, retrieving part of one experiment, and deploying a radio satellite transmitter, each which are examined in more detail below.
Installing Two Experiments
First, the cosmonauts will install two experiments. One experiment will be used to collect information, which can then be used in predicting earthquakes and forecasting seismic activity. The other experiment will examine lightning and thunderstorms in space, and will give scientists invaluable information about gamma splashes and optical radiation.
Retrieving an Experiment
Next, the Russian astronauts will retrieve an experiment: the pair of panels placed on the space station to test materials to be used in future spacecrafts. The panels should identify the best long-duration spacecraft building materials.
Deploying the Radio
Finally, the cosmonauts will deploy a ham radio transmitter. The nanosatellite will be used to transmit educational and congratulatory messages about the first human space launch. This educational satellite will mark the anniversary of Yuri Gagarin’s launch 50 years ago and is being presented by RAC-Energia, the Amatuer Radio on the International Space Station working group, Radio Amateur Satellite Corp. and the NASA Office of Educational International Space Station National Lab Project
The satellite will transmit the educational messages for three to six months, enabling ham radio operators a chance to connect with space and time.

Filed Under: Observatory, Satellites Tagged With: Extra-vehicular activity, International Space Station, Oleg Skripochka

Endeavour’s Last Mission to be Lead by Commander Mark Kelly

NASA’s last mission for Space Shuttle Endeavour, will take place on April 19, 2011. The mission, STS-134, will last for 14 days, and the crew will deliver the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer 02 (AMS-02) to the International Space Station during the flight. The mission is newsworthy for a few reasons: Mark Kelly is leading the crew and Endeavour will be retired after the mission, as detailed below.

Mark Kelly as Commander

After the tragedy of the Tucson, AZ, shooting, Mark Kelly has been featured in many news stories. As the husband of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.), Kelly has stood by his wife’s side following the shooting, seeing her through ICU and a transfer to a care facility.

Although Kelly’s flight has been planned for years, the tragic events of the January 8, 2011, attack made Kelly’s attendance uncertain. Giffords’ critical condition challenged the commander’s desire to lead the mission — until Giffords’ recovery took a turn for the better.

Now, Kelly will be leading the mission, joined by a crew of Pilot Gregory H. Johnson and Mission Specialists Michael Fincke, Greg Chamitoff, Andrew Feustel and Roberto Vittori.

Endeavour to Retire

Additionally, the Endeavour is scheduled to retire after this mission. The shuttle has served the country well: Since its first flight in 1992, the Endeavour has flown in the first three-person spacewalk satellite rescue/repair, has been part in an unprecedented lengthy spacewalk (eight hours), and housed the Protein Crystal Growth experiment.

The space shuttle was also the first of many to incorporate new hardware designs, including the installation of an external airlock that made docking to the space station possible. Improvements also included a 40-foot-diameter drag chute, better Auxiliary Power Units, and a reduced payload.

The Endeavour’s last mission will prove to be intriguing, since the AMS Experiment scheduled to unfold will allow researchers insight and information into the workings of the universe. When Mark Kelly leads his team and the Endeavour into space, scientists may even discover the origin of the universe.

Filed Under: Satellites, Science Tagged With: International Space Station, Space Shuttle Endeavour, STS-134

Celestial Events

One of the big hobbies that the novice Astronomer can engage in is star gazing. Many star gazers, though, really have no idea what they are looking at or looking for. For instance, there is going to be a fantastic lunar eclipse, not to be confused with a solar eclipse, and while that might seem like basic knowledge, what about other things, like meteor showers, a passing comet, shooting stars, or even the color of the stars so that they can be identified in the sky. There are even questions about what it means when something is twinkling or not twinkling. Here is a brief how-to guide on identifying certain phenomena in the skies.
The first discussion is about lunar eclipse and solar eclipse, and what is actually happening during these events. A lunar eclipse is a phenomenon when the earth blocks the suns rays from reaching the moon, thus blocking out the moon. This is a brief event. A solar eclipse is when the moon blocks the suns rays from reaching the earth, thus making is appear like the sun is disappearing.
What are some other events that can take place? Meteor showers are a very interesting and literal incident in that pieces of a comet appear to enter the earth’s atmosphere and it appears to look like a light shower in the sky. What about the different colors in the sky? The color of a star is based on the temperature of a star, and unlike what we assume; blue tends to be a star that is very hot, while red is a star that is cool. Finally, what about twinkling stars? There is a myth that stars twinkle when they are dying, but really, it is refracted light. When we look at a star that twinkles, just know that it is because we have to look through many layers of environment in order to see the star; they don’t actually twinkle.

Filed Under: Satellites, Universe Beyond Tagged With: Lunar eclipse, Meteor shower, Solar eclipse

The Milky Way

The Milky Way is not a phenomenon that is part of a random event seen from many galaxies far away. Rather the Milky Way is the galaxy that we live in. Earth is but one small planet in the galaxy Milky Way, and amazingly enough, the Milky Way is one of many galaxies in what we call Space. So, how did our galaxy get the name? It is comes from the Latin term for milky, galaxias, because our galaxy resembles a milk spill, or it has the resemblance of pooling milk. The Hubbell satellite has captured phenomenal pictures of our galaxy, and the Greeks had it right, it does look, well, milky.
So what is contained inside our galaxy, the Milky Way? Tens of billions of stars, dust particles, planets, moons, suns, and gas are contained within. They are held together by the circling motions that create what we know as gravity. Essentially, what holds us down on earth is also holding our entire galaxy together so we do not go flying off into outer space. Picture the Milky Way being a water pale, and the contents of the galaxy is the water. When swung around and around very fast, the water in the pale will not move; that is the effect of creating gravity. Our little planet is a little droplet of water in the bucket of the Milky Way.
So, how did the Milky Way form? That is a question that could have many answers, some might be right, or none of them are right, scientists are not completely sure. The theory that is being used now is that there was a catastrophic explosion, and the results from that explosion are what we know as our galaxy. It is like knocking over a building, and sections pile up together as a result. We are one piled up section, and our section is called the Milky Way.

Filed Under: Astronomy, Planets, Satellites Tagged With: Galaxy, Greeks, Milky Way, Planet

Russell Porter’s Famous Observatories

: Image via Wikipedia

Russell W. Porter is known as a founding father of telescope making, but he is also aided in the creation of some of the most renowned observatories in the United States.

In 1920, Porter organized and taught a telescope making class in Springfield, Vermont. After a few years, Porter and the members of the class eventually formed the Springfield Telescope Makers club. They built a pink clubhouse that they named Stellafane, which translates to “shrine to the stars.”

Stellfane became the location for the the world’s longest-running astronomy convention. Since 1926, the Stellafane Convention has welcomed amateur telescope makers who come to discuss techniques , share ideas and participate in sanctioned competitions. The attendance at these conventions often reaches into the thousands.

The Stellfane 3140 asteroid, discovered in 1983, was named for the Stellfane Observatory. In 1989, the observatory was named a National Historic Landmark.

While Stellafane is the observatory for which Porter is most well-know, it is not the most celebrated observatory he helped design. The famous Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, California, earns this distinction. It was built using drawings sketched by Porter.

The Griffith Observatory was opened in 1935. Despite the many astronomy exhibits and equipment, astronomy is not what Griffith is known for. It’s location on Mount Hollywood has made it a common place for movie and television scenes. Most notorious is the legendary movie “Rebel Without a Cause,” starring James Dean. The observatory played such a prominent role in this film that a bust of Dean was placed on the grounds as a tribute to the actor after his death at the age of 24.

Other movies filmed at the Griffith Observatory include “Terminator,” “Bowfinger,” and “The Rocketeer.” Television shows like “24,” “Beverly Hills, 90120,” “Quantum Leap,” and the pilot episode of “MacGyver” taped scenes at Griffith.

Filed Under: Observatory, Satellites Tagged With: Astronomy, Los Angeles, United States

Astronomy: Origins

tars and time–empires have been carved in search of these elements. Civilizations have risen, fallen and been reborn. Fables have been created, passed through generations, defying disbelief. Philosophy, religion and wonder have all been formed. And the world has forever been seeking ways to define what waits beyond. Astronomy was the favored science before it even had a name.

But such a science was not always so precise (not like it is now). Novas confused; planets were mistaken as myths; and there was the certainty that Earth truly was the great center of everything. The desire for answers was limited by misconceptions.

That all changed, however, with the much needed invention of the telescope.

In 1608 Hans Lippershey was a lens-crafter, working tirelessly within the German city of Middleburg. His days were devoted to glass and careful magnification, studying the abilities of the eye, deciphering how an iris could be manipulated (and subsequently improved). And it was through these improvements that he discovered an all too vital truth: the stars could not be seen by determination alone. Their subtleties were all too blurred. But his lenses, when coupled correctly, could increase sight and perception; which would allow all secrets to then be learned.

So the telescope was created.

And it began a small revolution. Lippershey quickly requested a patent for his idea, offering it to the world as an invention without equal. News of this spread across countries, drawing interest (and envy) from others. And soon the telescope was being reimagined, its design pulled apart and then bolted back together. It was improved; it was changed; it was made into a more modern machine.

And the sky seemed suddenly not so far away.

Astronomy has existed since humans could marvel at the moon; but it was simply a science defined to awe and riddles. It was a question without understanding. Through Lippershey and his peers, however, it became an obtainable answer. The telescope made it real.

Filed Under: Astronomy, Satellites Tagged With: Astronomy, Earth, Telescope

The Vital Difference: Astronomy and Astrology

It’s an easy assumption. You chart the sky, noting constellations and their subtle changes, following miles too far to ever reach. You watch the patterns formed in solar shimmers. You find comfort in the bright burns of nebulae. And then… you wonder how they will influence your tomorrow.

The notions of Astronomy and Astrology have been irrevocably tangled since the beginning of civilization itself. Science and religion were once considered the same. All origins were explained through the stars and all answers were formed through their movements. Destiny was both logical and guessed.

But time has offered a distinction. The study of the galaxy is no longer laced human. The philosophies have been separated, divided by their ideals, and are no longer forced to blur together. There remain many still, however, who mistake Astronomy and Astrology. They think them to be interchangeable names. They’re not. And their differences must be known.

Astronomy: a natural science that examines the universe, Astronomy is the study of celestial elements. It relies on mathematical principles to determine both the creation of galaxies and their ultimate fate. It is no longer a religiously guided experience. It is instead a meet of chemistry and astrophysics. It compares light, sound and ultraviolet wavelengths and determines their effects on Earth. It is an established process that can be proven.

Astrology: a belief without defined origin, Astrology decrees that all elements of humanity are shaped by the stars. Predictions of an individual’s personality and future can be made by understanding the sky. Astrological planets (such as the Sun, Moon and Venus) are linked to life and death. Understanding the location of such planets during a person’s birth will explain who they are and what they may accomplish. While widely referenced, this process is still not considered a science. It lacks the necessary analysis.

And therein lies the true difference between these two: Astronomy can be verified while Astrology may only be presumed. While both have their supporters, only one has the reliability of fact.

Filed Under: Astronomy, Satellites, Telescopes Tagged With: Astrology, Astronomy, Earth, Sun

Between Theories and Truths: Astronomy

Astronomy is the exploration (and eventual discovery) of the universe. This is a truth well known among even the most casual of hobbyists. The purpose of science is progress; and the purpose of galaxies is to be understood.

But what may not be understood, however, is that Astronomy is not a singular process. Its rules are not kept to just one idea, one study. It is instead divided into countless fields–each a mastery of their own tiny corner of the stars. There is simply too much beyond this world to gather as one piece. The elements must instead be broken apart and examined individually.

And the two most prevalent examinations are Theoretical and Observational Astronomy.

Theoretical: as the name implies, Theoretical Astronomy is a collection of possibilities. Unlike most sciences–which offer constant proof and consistent answers–this is a realm composed of few facts and more assumptions. Due to the limitations of man (unable yet to reach the far recesses of planets and constellations), Theoretical Astronomy relies of simulations, calculations and good sense. The sky is studied and then predicated through software and computer programs; which comprise the majority of this work. The intention is the future.

Observational: acting as a perfect counter to theories is Observational Astronomy. Through this current patterns and celestial systems are tracked. All data is collected and used to understand the universe as it is at that moment (rather than what it will be). Utilizing telescopes and radio waves, scientists can learn of any irregularities and their effects on Earth, as well as seeking out new possibilities. Unlike the more imaginative Theoretical, this is a field devoted to what is known; not what may be one day be seen. It strives to prove, not simply postulate.

It must be noted, however, that both of these fields play a vital role in understanding the universe. They rely on each other to create progress and discover truth. Neither is more important and both must be used.

Filed Under: Astronomy, Satellites, Universe Beyond Tagged With: Astronomy, Earth, Universe

The Mysteries of the Universe Continue to Unfold

: Image via Wikipedia

Since the beginning of time astronomy and space have intrigued mankind. The number of almanacs, books and guides published is an indication of the popularity of this field of study. There are even giant observatories all over the globe dedicated to star watching. Observatories can be equipped with a high powered telescope or smaller, less advanced equipment depending on location. One high tech observatory if NASA Kepler space telescope.

This vast reaches of space still continue to surprise us with their unfolding mysteries. Each year some new discovery is revealed as satellites find never before known bodies.

The discovery early in 2010 of five exoplanets was a major breakthrough in space exploration. These exoplanets are the first finds from NASA’s program to locate planets outside the Earth’s solar system. They were discovered using NASA’s Kepler space telescope which was designed for that very purpose.

In March 2009, the Kepler space telescope, a spacecraft was launched to identify other planets similar to earth that were orbiting around suns in other galaxies. The planets that have been discovered to date by the Kepler’s space telescope have been classified as giant planets. This means that they are bigger than or equal in size to Jupiter. Jupiter is 141700 km or 88,000 miles at its diameter. This makes its diameter 11 times bigger than that of the Earth. In fact, Jupiter’s mass is over 300 times more than the earth.

It is expected that over time smaller planets further away will be discovered. The major differences between the Kepler and Hubble space telescope are:

•Kepler focuses on one starfield for extended periods unlike the Hubble. In fact, 150,000 stars were selected to be the focus of Kepler. These stars are monitored continuously and simultaneously.
•Kepler’s space telescope field of view is much larger than the Hubble ever was.

It is expected that astronomy lovers will find much to amaze them in the coming years.

Filed Under: Astronomy, Planets, Satellites, Universe Beyond Tagged With: Astronomy, Jupiter, NASA, Solar System