In an exciting but also uncertain week for aerospace enthusiasts, Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket, hailed as the largest ever constructed by the company, was set to launch after significant anticipation. However, plans changed dramatically when the company announced a delay due to unfavorable weather conditions over the Atlantic Ocean, where part of the rocket was expected to land.
The original launch was planned for early Friday morning but has now been rescheduled to Sunday, December 12, at 3 AM Brasília time, contingent on the weather improving. The rocket is expected to take off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. For those interested in further details about the mission, including previous delays and what to expect during this launch, comprehensive information is available online.
U.S. Space Force's X-37B: A Silent Orbital Journey
Aside from the New Glenn, other significant advancements in aerospace technology are occurring away from the public eye, particularly in the military sector. The United States Air Force’s X-37B orbital test vehicle has been quietly operating in Earth’s orbit for over a year. Launched on December 28, 2023, the space plane has been executing aerodynamics maneuvers and conducting various safety tests.
This orbital mission is noteworthy as the X-37B is flying at a higher altitude than any previous mission. Backed by the U.S. Space Force and Air Force, the vehicle is focused on advanced experiments, including orbital control alterations, safety discard exercises, and measuring radiation effects in space. Boeing, the manufacturer of the X-37B, emphasized the innovative approach behind aerodynamics maneuvers that capitalize on Earth's atmospheric drag to lower orbital altitude while conserving fuel.
There is an air of anticipation regarding the completion of these maneuvers. If the X-37B successfully accomplishes its mission parameters, it is expected to return to Earth, likely landing on the tarmac at NASA's Kennedy Space Center.
In addition to rocket launches and military space missions, the Earth welcomed a cosmic visitor this week. Asteroid 887 Alinda, one of the larger asteroids in our immediate celestial neighborhood, has approached Earth at its closest distance in a century.
Discovered by German astronomer Max Wolf in 1918, Alinda measures approximately 4 kilometers in diameter. During its recent close pass, the asteroid was calculated to have come within 12 million kilometers of Earth, about 32 times the average distance to the Moon. Despite the proximity, scientists reassure the public that Alinda poses no collision threat, as its orbit is deemed safe.
For enthusiasts and amateur astronomers, Alinda's presence is a rare treat, as it will be bright in the sky for the next eight days. Visible predominantly from the northern hemisphere within the constellations Orion and Gemini, interested observers can catch a glimpse of this cosmic body with just binoculars or small telescopes.
The Virtual Telescope Project took the opportunity to stream the asteroid's approach live on YouTube, with additional broadcasts planned. Alinda will not have another significant close approach until January 25, 2087, marking this event as a special occasion for both amateur and professional astronomers alike.
This week in aerospace showcased a mix of excitement and challenges, demonstrating the dynamic nature of space exploration and the importance of public engagement with cosmic phenomena. For those keenly watching these developments, there are plenty of opportunities to learn more and witness these incredible sights above our skies.
Part 1/7:
Blue Origin's New Glenn Launch Delayed Again
In an exciting but also uncertain week for aerospace enthusiasts, Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket, hailed as the largest ever constructed by the company, was set to launch after significant anticipation. However, plans changed dramatically when the company announced a delay due to unfavorable weather conditions over the Atlantic Ocean, where part of the rocket was expected to land.
Part 2/7:
The original launch was planned for early Friday morning but has now been rescheduled to Sunday, December 12, at 3 AM Brasília time, contingent on the weather improving. The rocket is expected to take off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. For those interested in further details about the mission, including previous delays and what to expect during this launch, comprehensive information is available online.
U.S. Space Force's X-37B: A Silent Orbital Journey
Part 3/7:
Aside from the New Glenn, other significant advancements in aerospace technology are occurring away from the public eye, particularly in the military sector. The United States Air Force’s X-37B orbital test vehicle has been quietly operating in Earth’s orbit for over a year. Launched on December 28, 2023, the space plane has been executing aerodynamics maneuvers and conducting various safety tests.
Part 4/7:
This orbital mission is noteworthy as the X-37B is flying at a higher altitude than any previous mission. Backed by the U.S. Space Force and Air Force, the vehicle is focused on advanced experiments, including orbital control alterations, safety discard exercises, and measuring radiation effects in space. Boeing, the manufacturer of the X-37B, emphasized the innovative approach behind aerodynamics maneuvers that capitalize on Earth's atmospheric drag to lower orbital altitude while conserving fuel.
There is an air of anticipation regarding the completion of these maneuvers. If the X-37B successfully accomplishes its mission parameters, it is expected to return to Earth, likely landing on the tarmac at NASA's Kennedy Space Center.
Asteroid 887 Alinda: A Rare Celestial Event
Part 5/7:
In addition to rocket launches and military space missions, the Earth welcomed a cosmic visitor this week. Asteroid 887 Alinda, one of the larger asteroids in our immediate celestial neighborhood, has approached Earth at its closest distance in a century.
Discovered by German astronomer Max Wolf in 1918, Alinda measures approximately 4 kilometers in diameter. During its recent close pass, the asteroid was calculated to have come within 12 million kilometers of Earth, about 32 times the average distance to the Moon. Despite the proximity, scientists reassure the public that Alinda poses no collision threat, as its orbit is deemed safe.
Part 6/7:
For enthusiasts and amateur astronomers, Alinda's presence is a rare treat, as it will be bright in the sky for the next eight days. Visible predominantly from the northern hemisphere within the constellations Orion and Gemini, interested observers can catch a glimpse of this cosmic body with just binoculars or small telescopes.
The Virtual Telescope Project took the opportunity to stream the asteroid's approach live on YouTube, with additional broadcasts planned. Alinda will not have another significant close approach until January 25, 2087, marking this event as a special occasion for both amateur and professional astronomers alike.
Part 7/7:
This week in aerospace showcased a mix of excitement and challenges, demonstrating the dynamic nature of space exploration and the importance of public engagement with cosmic phenomena. For those keenly watching these developments, there are plenty of opportunities to learn more and witness these incredible sights above our skies.