Space & Technology 

India AstroSat space telescope has reached a remarkable milestone, detecting over 600 Gamma-Ray Bursts (GRBs), each signifying the demise of a massive star or the fusion of neutron stars. Dipankar Bhattacharya, the principal investigator for the Cadmium Zinc Telluride Imager (CZTI), expressed satisfaction at the sustained high performance of CZTI, even eight years post-launch and well beyond its expected lifespan.Referred to as "mini big-bangs," GRBs stand out as the most energetic explosions in the cosmos, emitting more energy in mere seconds than the sun produces in its entire existence. Gaurav Waratkar, a Ph.D. student at IIT Bombay leading the GRB study with AstroSat, highlighted the brief yet intense nature of GRBs, lasting from fractions of a second to several minutes, often coinciding with the birth of a black hole.Launched in 2015 by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), AstroSat was initially designed for a five-year mission but continues to operate in excellent condition, providing valuable observations for astronomers. As India premier dedicated multi-wavelength space observatory, it boasts a suite of payloads enabling simultaneous observations of celestial objects across various wavelengths, ranging from ultraviolet to X-rays.Expressing pride in AstroSat achievements, Varun Bhalerao, an associate professor at IIT-Bombay, revealed plans for a next-generation GRB space telescope named Daksha. Collaborating institutes aim to make Daksha far superior to any existing satellite, with increased sensitivity that could achieve in just over a year what took CZTI eight years.The 600th GRB detection by AstroSat CZTI on November 22 was promptly shared with astronomers globally. This data serves as a valuable resource for researchers exploring the extreme conditions associated with these high-energy events.Gaurav Waratkar reflected on the significance of analyzing data from events that occurred billions of years ago, stating, "It is amazing to look at the data and have the opportunity to be the first one to view these explosions."Since the milestone 600th GRB, the CZTI has detected three additional events, the latest occurring on Monday. The collective findings from AstroSat various instruments have contributed to over 400 peer-reviewed research articles, showcasing the telescope substantial impact on advancing our understanding of the universe dynamic phenomena.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-28 17:12:21

 Space & Technology 

On November 22, the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) released a request for proposals (RFP) for satellite-based services in low Earth orbit (LEO). The Proliferated Low Earth Orbit (PLEO) Satellite-Based Services contract, introduced in July, is overseen by DISA on behalf of the Space Force Commercial Satellite Communications Office (CSCO). This office, operated by the Space Systems Command, serves as a central marketplace for satellite services.Under an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract, task orders amounting to up to $900 million will be granted over the next five years. Proposals for this contract are due by May 31, 2024. The contract primary aim is to fulfill the Department of Defense need for global, low-latency PLEO services. The IDIQ contracting method enables the Department of Defense, federal agencies, and international allies to acquire fully managed satellite-based services across various domains, including space, air, land, maritime, and cyber, with a consistent, quality-backed, low-latency offering.Initially, the IDIQ contract featured 16 vendors, including names like ARINC, Artel, BlackSky, SES, SpaceX, and others. Notably, four additional vendors—AT&T, Honeywell Aerospace, Iridium, and Lynk Global—have since been included in the competition.The PLEO contract is not limited to a singular task order; rather, it encompasses a broad spectrum of services. These include high-speed broadband, synthetic aperture radar imaging, space domain awareness, and alternative positioning, navigation, and timing. The contract operates on a "multiple partner/multiple award" model, encouraging collaboration among vendors. This approach is designed to expedite the delivery of capabilities to the warfighter while maintaining cost-effectiveness compared to traditional contracting models. Notably, SpaceX was awarded a $70 million task order in September for Starlink communications services under this contract.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-28 17:06:24

 Space & Technology 

Toyota is making strides in introducing groundbreaking battery technology to the electric vehicle (EV) market, poised to revolutionize the entire sector. The Japanese automaker is actively developing solid-state EV batteries for its future models, a technological advancement that promises to enhance driving range and decrease charging times.According to reports from Yahoo Finance, Toyota solid-state batteries have the potential to deliver an impressive 745 miles on a single charge, with a quick recharge time of approximately 10 minutes. The company anticipates that vehicles equipped with these advanced batteries could hit the market as early as 2027 or 2028.This innovative technology addresses a significant concern among consumers hesitant to transition from traditional fuel-powered vehicles to electric ones – the fear of limited driving range. A poll conducted by the Washington Post and the University of Maryland revealed that 74% of respondents preferred gas-powered cars for trips exceeding 250 miles. Only 10% believed that fully electric vehicles offered convenience in terms of recharging.To overcome this hurdle, Toyota has taken strategic steps to alleviate concerns about charging infrastructure. In October, the company announced a collaboration with Tesla, enabling Toyota customers to access Tesla extensive Supercharger network in North America. Additionally, from 2025 onwards, Toyota vehicles will adopt the North American Charging Standard (NACS), simplifying the search for standardized charging facilities during long journeys.Despite Toyota enthusiasm for solid-state battery technology, the company remains cautious about the rollout speed. Toyota president, Koji Sato, emphasized the importance of gradually introducing the technology to the market, stating at a news conference in October, "I think the most important thing at the moment is to put out [the solid-state batteries] into the world, and we will consider expansion in volume from there."The move towards electric vehicles aligns with environmental goals, as electric cars, including their battery manufacturing process, generate significantly lower planet-warming pollution over their lifespan compared to traditional gas-powered counterparts. With the rising popularity of EV-battery recycling, the environmental impact is further reduced, as there is less dependence on mining raw materials like lithium and cobalt for new batteries.If solid-state batteries can be introduced to the market expeditiously, there is immense potential to make substantial strides in reducing pollution associated with internal combustion engine vehicles.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-28 03:58:03

 Space & Technology 

China is making significant strides in advancing its full-flow staged-combustion-cycle methane engines intended to propel the reusable Long March 9 super heavy-lift launcher. The ongoing efforts encompass the development of rocket engines generating 200 tons of thrust, involving progress in both overall design and individual components.Testing procedures include the ignition of prototypes and scaled components like igniters, gas generators, and thrust chambers. A recent article authored by members of the Xian Aerospace Propulsion Institute details China advancements in methane-liquid oxygen engines, with a focus on the full-flow staged-combustion-cycle design. This institute is a key player in the design of liquid propulsion rocket engines under the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp. (CASC).According to the outlined plans by CASC officials, clusters of 26 reusable engines are intended to power the first stage of China Long March 9 launcher. The target for the inaugural test flight of this massive rocket is 2033.The article highlights that research into these engines began in the 1980s, resulting in the development of 10-ton and 80-ton-thrust methalox engines. The latter has successfully undergone hot fire tests, showcasing advancements in reliability and reusability. The pursuit of full-flow staged-combustion-cycle methalox engines aligns with China ambitions for large-scale deep space exploration, including a Mars landing.Comparatively, the paper positions these engines as comparable to SpaceX Raptor engine, asserting superiority over Blue Origin BE-4 and other domestic and international methane engines. However, it acknowledges challenges, including complex system configuration, integrated layout difficulties, and ignition process control.The authors stress that China foundations for fully developing these engines are relatively weak, emphasizing the need to strengthen efforts in related technologies. Despite challenges, achieving low-cost, highly reliable, and rapidly reusable engines is considered crucial to national objectives, representing a significant technological leap for China space sector.The article also acknowledges progress made by Chinese commercial entities in methalox engines, citing examples such as CASIC Mingfeng-1 engine, Landspace Tianque engines, the JD-1/Focus-1 engine for iSpace Hyperbola rocket series, and Longyun engines by Jiuzhou Yunjian.The developments in methane engines within China, coupled with advancements in the United States and SpaceX reusability demonstration, have prompted a shift in China long-term space transportation plans. While initial plans involved kerosene-liquid oxygen engines for the Long March 9, newer designs in 2022 and 2023 now feature methalox engines. Additionally, China is working on a three-stage heavy-lift rocket for lunar missions by 2030, powered by upgraded kerolox engines with potential recoverability and reusability.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-27 16:39:34

 Space & Technology 

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions has secured an eight-year extension for a contract it has held since 2002, providing technical services in support of U.S. military communications satellites ground systems. The San Diego-based company was granted an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract with a maximum value of $579 million by the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command on November 22.The contract, named C-SAR (Command-and-Control System-Consolidated Sustainment and Resiliency), is set to run through November 2031. Kratos will be responsible for maintaining and developing satellite ground systems for the U.S. Space Force and U.S. Space Command. The covered satellites include the Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS) III, Milstar Satellite Communications System, Advanced Extremely High-Frequency (AEHF), and Wideband Global Satellite Communications (WGS) systems.The Command-and-Control System-Consolidated system focuses on providing "planning, processing, and information assurance measures," according to the Space Systems Command. It is designed to interface with existing constellations and support future satellites. Kratos will also handle information technology infrastructure upgrades as new constellations are deployed.George Gonzales, the program director of the Space Systems Command military communications satellite office, highlighted that the contract with Kratos supports command-and-control operations for four constellations and 26 military communication satellites. The company will also play a crucial role in integrating new satellites and future constellations. The work is slated to be carried out at Schriever Space Force Base in Colorado, Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, and Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado. While the C-SAR award was a competitive acquisition, only one offer was received, as per a Department of Defense contract announcement on November 6.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-26 16:16:35

 Space & Technology 

Nasa Administrator Bill Nelson is set to embark on a visit to India on November 27, focusing on discussions surrounding space collaboration between the two nations. This visit is part of the Critical and Emerging Technology initiative, jointly led by the United States and India under the guidance of President Joe Biden.Scheduled meetings with key government and space officials will delve into enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in realms like human exploration and Earth science. Nelson itinerary includes visits to various locations in India, with a spotlight on Bengaluru-based facilities overseeing the testing and integration of the NISAR spacecraft, slated for launch in 2024. In a notable engagement, students will engage with Nelson to explore topics related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, embodying their roles as contributors to the Artemis Generation.The NISAR mission, a collaborative effort between Nasa and the Indian Space Research Organization (Isro), aims to observe Earth, measuring changes in ecosystems, dynamic surfaces, and ice masses. The data gathered will offer crucial insights into biomass, natural hazards, sea level rise, and groundwater, guiding initiatives related to climate change, hazard mitigation, and agriculture.Nelson visit underscores the strengthening relationship between the United States and India in the realm of space exploration. India rich history of successful space missions, coupled with its expanding role in global space cooperation, positions it as a key player in international initiatives. As India space program experiences rapid growth, marked by upcoming missions, including a manned Moon mission by 2030, Nelson visit serves as a testament to the collaborative strides in space exploration between the two nations.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-26 15:38:27

 Space & Technology 

India inaugural solar exploration mission, the Aditya L1 spacecraft, is approaching its concluding phase. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath disclosed that the maneuvers to position the spacecraft at the L1 point are anticipated to conclude by January 7, 2024.Expressing confidence in the mission progress, Somanath stated, "Aditya is on the way and has almost reached its final phase." He shared this information during an event at VSSC, commemorating the 60th anniversary of the First Sounding Rocket Launch, organized by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).The ISRO chief highlighted that meticulous preparations are currently in progress for the spacecraft entry into the L1 point. He elaborated, "The last preparations for entering into the L1 point are currently underway incrementally."Anticipating the final maneuvers, Somanath added, "Possibly by January 7th, the last maneuvers will be conducted for entering into the L1 point."The Aditya L1 mission had a successful launch on September 2 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota. Having traversed approximately 1.5 million km from Earth over a span of 125 days, the spacecraft is poised to be positioned in a Halo orbit around the Lagrangian point L1, which is considered the closest point to the Sun.The primary objectives of the mission include capturing and transmitting images of the Sun for scientific experiments, among other tasks. The Aditya L1 spacecraft stands as a testament to India burgeoning capabilities in space exploration.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-25 16:27:06

 Space & Technology 

A newly surfaced video suggests that the first stage of a North Korean rocket exploded during what was claimed to be a spy satellite launch. The footage, captured by a camera at South Korea Yonsei University typically used for tracking meteors, showed the Chollima-1 rocket first stage erupting and scattering debris. According to Byun Yong-Ik, an astronomy professor at Yonsei University, this incident is unusual and seems to involve the detonation of the first stage propellant in mid-air, possibly as an effort to prevent recovery by South Korean and U.S. authorities.This departure from conventional rocket behavior, where stages naturally fall into Earth atmosphere, raised concerns among North Korean rocket experts. Notably, North Korea has claimed the ability to self-destruct rockets in past launches. The U.S. Space Force has cataloged an object in orbit consistent with the launch trajectory, supporting the notion that a spy satellite is indeed in space.Despite North Korea assertion of a successful spy satellite launch, senior U.S. officials and the White House have condemned the activity. The technologies employed in the rocket are deemed similar to those in North Korea intercontinental ballistic missile program. The White House released a statement characterizing the launch as "a brazen violation" of UN Security Council resolutions, heightening tensions and risking regional instability.The broader geopolitical context includes concerns about North Korea ties with Russia, evident in the meeting between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin in September. While North Korea denied Russian assistance for the recent launch, the diplomatic situation remains complex. Russia isolation from international space activities since its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has limited opportunities for its space companies.North Korea third attempt to launch a spy satellite in recent months comes after two confirmed failures, with South Korea reporting the discovery of debris associated with at least one of the previous launches. In the backdrop of escalating concerns about North Korea nuclear program, NATO, including the U.S., has expressed worries. Collaborative military exercises with South Korea and discussions around peaceful international space exploration, as per NASA Artemis Accords, further highlight the multifaceted challenges and dynamics in the region.While North Korea pursues its space ambitions amid economic challenges, South Korea is planning its own spy satellite launch, scheduled for later in November using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base. The space endeavors of these nations continue to reflect broader geopolitical tensions and strategic considerations.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-24 17:28:55

 Space & Technology 

On November 23, the European Space Agency (ESA) conducted a crucial long-duration firing test of an Ariane 6 prototype, marking one of the final assessments before determining the rocket inaugural launch date.The test involved igniting the Vulcain 2.1 engine in the core stage of the Ariane 6 test model at the launch pad in Kourou, French Guiana, around 3:44 p.m. Eastern. However, the countdown faced a 45-minute delay when a small anomaly in the transient threshold pressure was detected at 2 minutes and 42 seconds into the countdown.Scheduled to last 470 seconds, simulating a full burn of the core stage during an actual launch, the test proceeded with a shutdown at the anticipated time. Despite a perceived change in the engine performance in the final minute, ESA later confirmed the successful completion of the seven-minute full firing.In a statement, ESA stated that the test was a significant milestone for Ariane 6, emphasizing the meticulous preparation and hard work of the teams from ArianeGroup, CNES, and ESA, with ArianeGroup serving as the prime contractor and CNES as the French space agency. Josef Aschbacher, director general of ESA, expressed satisfaction, stating, "We are back on track towards resecuring Europe autonomous access to space."The full-duration static-fire test is regarded as one of the last assessments before ESA announces the launch period for the inaugural Ariane 6 flight. Aschbacher mentioned during a press briefing on November 6 that, depending on the test outcome, he would be in a position to disclose the launch date. Another hot-fire test of the Ariane 6 upper stage, assessing its performance in degraded conditions, is scheduled for December.Martin Sion, chief executive of ArianeGroup, affirmed that while there are a few additional tests to demonstrate fault tolerance, and certain logistical steps remain, the core stage and upper stage of Ariane 6 have undergone all necessary testing to be prepared for the inaugural flight.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-24 17:19:13

 Space & Technology 

China successfully launched an undisclosed number of satellites on Thursday, marking its 54th launch of 2023. The Long March 2D rocket, equipped with a Yuanzheng-3 upper stage, lifted off from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China at 5:00 a.m. Eastern. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp. (CASC) initially kept details of the payload under wraps, only revealing that it involved an "experiment satellite for satellite internet technologies" after declaring the launch successful.While the exact number and specifications of the launched satellites remain undisclosed, a statement from the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST) hints at separate developments by SAST and the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites (IAMCAS), an entity under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).Tracking of space objects by the U.S. Space Force space domain awareness teams will eventually provide information about the number of objects linked to the launch that have been cataloged in orbit.This mission likely plays a role in testing satellite internet technologies, aligning with China ambitious national satellite internet megaconstellation project, Guowang. The goal of Guowang is to deploy approximately 13,000 satellites in low Earth orbit, in response to the growing presence of megaconstellations like Starlink. SpaceX, the company behind Starlink, has launched over 5,000 satellites since 2019 and plans to expand the constellation to potentially 40,000 Starlinks in orbit.IAMCAS and the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), another subsidiary of CASC, were previously identified as entities responsible for manufacturing satellites for the Guowang project. CASC had earlier announced plans to launch batches of satellites for Guowang, possibly using a modified Long March 5B rocket or considering the Long March 8 for high-density launches. Chinese commercial launch providers are also competing for contracts related to this ambitious project.The development of a communications megaconstellation aligns with China broader vision to integrate communications with navigation, positioning, remote sensing, and potentially establish itself as a provider of global public goods. This move not only aims to enhance domestic telecommunications and internet coverage but positions China as a significant commercial competitor in the space sector.Additionally, the government of Shanghai has expressed support for another broadband megaconstellation project, consisting of an initial 1,296 satellites.China space endeavors continue at a rapid pace, with Thursday launch being the 54th in 2023. CASC had set an ambitious target of over 60 launches for the year, and with 40 launches completed so far, they are on track to achieve this goal. Commercial actors have contributed to the total with 14 orbital launches in 2023.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-23 17:20:36

 Space & Technology 

Chinese startup Landspace has revealed its ambitious plans to create a reusable stainless steel rocket, named Zhuque-3 (Vermillion Bird 3). The announcement, made by Landspace CEO Zhang Changwu at the Mingyue Lake Aerospace Information Industry International Ecosystem Event in Chongqing on Nov. 21, outlined key features of the rocket.The Zhuque-3 will incorporate stainless propellant tanks and clusters of Tianque methane-liquid oxygen propellant rocket engines. This two-stage launcher is designed to have a payload capacity of 20 metric tons to low Earth orbit (LEO) in its expendable form. However, recovering the first stage downrange will enhance its capabilities, allowing for 16.5 tons to LEO, while a landing back at the launch site will enable a capacity of 11 tons to LEO. A visual representation of the rocket depicts grid fins and deployable landing legs on the first stage.Notably, the announcement closely followed SpaceX second Starship/Super Heavy launch test, showcasing the dynamic competition in the space launch industry. Despite the unveiling, specific details such as a tentative test launch date and the rocket dimensions remain undisclosed, indicating that the project is in its early stages.The development of this stainless steel rocket poses significant challenges related to the material weight and properties, introducing complexities in manufacturing and fabrication. Once operational, Zhuque-3 will face domestic competition, particularly from Space Pioneer, a fellow startup planning to launch its Tianlong-3 rocket next year, capable of lifting 17 tons to LEO.The emergence of reusable liquid propellant rockets reflects a broader trend in China commercial launch sector, where companies like iSpace, Galactic Energy, Space Pioneer, and Deep Blue Aerospace are actively working on such technologies. Moreover, these companies are eyeing contracts to launch satellite batches for China national satellite internet megaconstellation project, Guowang.Landspace, established in 2015 as one of China pioneering commercial launch companies, is currently preparing for the upcoming launch of its third Zhuque-2 methane-liquid oxygen rocket on Dec. 4 Eastern. Despite facing setbacks, including a failed Zhuque-2 launch in December 2022, the company successfully reached orbit in July, becoming the first to achieve this feat with a methalox launcher.The company commitment to innovation is evident in its establishment of an intelligent manufacturing base in Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, and a $1.5 billion medium and large-scale liquid rocket assembly and test plant in Jiaxing. Landspace foray into reusable stainless steel rockets aligns with a broader trend in China, with other startups like Space Epoch also conducting hot fire tests for a similar concept.Even China major space contractor, the state-owned China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp. (CASC), has signaled plans for a fully reusable super heavy-lift Long March 9. This collective momentum underscores the rapid evolution and expansion of China commercial space industry, responding to global developments in the space sector.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-23 08:15:15

 Space & Technology 

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has disclosed plans to award a contract next summer for the establishment of a U.S. hub dedicated to advanced microelectronics manufacturing. Termed the Next-Generation Microelectronics Manufacturing (NGMM) program, it aims to financially support research and acquire equipment for the development of a domestic center specializing in prototyping cutting-edge fabrication techniques. DARPA envisions this initiative as a catalyst to propel the U.S. semiconductor industry to the forefront, with the objective of having the capability operational by 2029.The primary focus of this center will be on 3D heterogeneously integrated microsystems (3DHI), an innovative approach to microelectronics fabrication. The underlying principle of 3DHI research is to enhance performance by reconfiguring the integration and packaging of chip components, allowing for the efficient separation of functions like memory and processing.This technological endeavor holds the potential to not only revolutionize the U.S. industrial base but has also piqued the interest of other nations, particularly Taiwan, a global leader in microelectronics production.Highlighting the current gap in the U.S., DARPA emphasized the lack of an open-access manufacturing center with comprehensive capacity for 3DHI research and development. Anticipating that the next major wave of microelectronics innovation will involve integrating heterogeneous materials, devices, and circuits through advanced packaging, DARPA proposal seeks to establish a national accelerator dedicated specifically to next-generation 3DHI.In a significant move in July, DARPA selected 11 teams to initiate foundational work for the center. The agency now plans to choose a single team for the next two phases of the NGMM program, with awards for each phase potentially reaching up to $420 million. The selected team, operating under an other transaction agreement, is expected to contribute funding for a portion of the work. DARPA intends to brief the industry on this effort on November 28.The initiative gains significance against the backdrop of the U.S. relying heavily on Taiwan and China for the export of advanced semiconductors, leading to concerns about over-reliance on foreign supply chains for critical microsystems.DARPA focus on forward-looking technologies, exemplified by NGMM, distinguishes its efforts from the broader U.S. government initiative, the CHIPS Act, which primarily aims to strengthen the domestic semiconductor industrial base in the short term. While the CHIPS Act focuses on immediate supply chain issues, DARPA endeavors in this domain are oriented toward preparing for "the next wave of innovation."NGMM is a cornerstone of DARPA Electronics Resurgence Initiative 2.0, designed to address technological challenges impacting U.S. national security and commercial industry. The program initial phase will concentrate on acquiring equipment, establishing foundational fabrication processes, and developing automation and simulation software tailored to 3DHI systems. Phase 2 will involve creating hardware prototypes, automating processes, and developing emulation capabilities.The ultimate goal of the NGMM program is to establish a self-sustaining 3DHI manufacturing center at an existing facility owned and operated by a non-federal entity. This facility would be accessible to users in academia, government, and industry. DARPA emphasizes success in terms of supporting the design, fabrication, assembly, and testing of a wide range of high-performance 3DHI microsystems at a reasonable cost with cycle times conducive to fast-paced innovative research.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-23 07:46:10

 Space & Technology 

OneWeb India has been granted authorization by the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) to launch Eutelsat OneWeb commercial satellite broadband services in India. This marks a significant milestone as OneWeb India becomes the first organization to receive such authorization, according to a statement by Eutelsat OneWeb, a low earth orbit (LEO) satellite operator and part of the Eutelsat Group.IN-SPACe, the government agency responsible for regulating space activities in India, is the authority behind this authorization. The approval allows Eutelsat OneWeb to initiate commercial connectivity services once the government allocates the necessary spectrum, as mentioned in the statement.Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman of Bharti Group and Vice-President (Co-Chair) of the Board of Directors of Eutelsat Group, expressed satisfaction with the approval, stating that it aligns with India goal of providing internet connectivity for all and supports the vision of Digital India outlined by the Honrable Prime Minister. Mittal mentioned that Eutelsat OneWeb is prepared to launch its satellite broadband services upon receiving the final spectrum authorization.Cyril Dujardin, Co-General Manager of Connectivity at Eutelsat Group, emphasized the company readiness to deliver high-speed connectivity to even the most remote locations in India. Having completed their low earth orbit (LEO) constellation the previous year, Eutelsat OneWeb is well-positioned to provide essential connectivity services to businesses across India.The approval adds to Eutelsat OneWeb established presence in the Indian market, where OneWeb India already holds licenses from the Department of Telecommunications to offer broadband services using satellite connectivity.AK Bhatt, Director General of the Indian Space Association (ISpA), welcomed the IN-SPACe authorization for OneWeb India, highlighting that it positions the company as the first to receive such approval. Bhatt expressed optimism that the government would soon decide on satellite spectrum allocation, paving the way for the next generation of satellite communications in India.Additionally, Eutelsat OneWeb has secured in-principle approval to establish and operate two gateways in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. These gateways are expected to provide high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity to customers across India once the satellite services are rolled out.It worth noting that other major players, including Amazon, Reliance Jio satcom unit, and Elon Musk Starlink, are also seeking approvals to launch their commercial broadband-from-space services in India. IN-SPACe, GMPCS licenses, and spectrum allocation from the Department of Telecommunications are essential requirements for any entity offering satellite communication services in the country. While licenses and approvals make companies eligible to provide services, the actual allocation of spectrum is pending a government decision on the mechanism. The Eutelsat OneWeb group, formed through the merger of two satellite operators, boasts a comprehensive fleet of 37 geostationary satellites and an LEO constellation of over 600 satellites, making it the first fully integrated GEO-LEO satellite operator.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-22 04:38:02

 Space & Technology 

On Wednesday, North Korea asserted its successful launch of a spy satellite into orbit, marking its third attempt this year and underscoring its commitment to establishing a space-based surveillance system amid ongoing tensions with the United States.Independently confirming North Korea claim proved challenging, yet the launch was expected to draw strong condemnation from the U.S. and its allies. The United Nations prohibits North Korea from engaging in satellite launches, viewing them as disguises for testing missile technology.According to North Korea space authorities, the Malligyong-1 satellite was placed into orbit on Tuesday night using a space launch vehicle. The statement highlighted leader Kim Jong Un direct observation of the launch and suggested that the spy satellite would enhance North Korea preparedness in response to perceived hostile military actions by rivals, with plans for additional launches in the near future.South Korea and Japan reported detecting the launch, prompting Japan to issue a J-Alert missile warning for Okinawa. South Korea military maintained readiness in close collaboration with the U.S. and Japan.Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida condemned the launch, emphasizing that, despite North Korea labeling it a satellite, the use of ballistic missile technology violated U.N. Security Council resolutions, posing a serious threat to safety.North Korea pursuit of spy satellites aligns with leader Kim Jong Un goal of modernizing weaponry to counter perceived U.S. threats. Earlier launch attempts this year had faced technical difficulties, with the latest success potentially influenced by Russian technological assistance, as suggested by South Korean officials.Reports of a potential arms transfer deal between North Korea and Russia, involving conventional arms supplied by North Korea to replenish Russia ammunition stock, raised concerns. Both nations denied the allegations, which, if true, would violate U.N. bans on weapons trading with North Korea.The launch, seen as part of North Korea strategy prioritizing military capabilities, raised questions about the satellite actual reconnaissance functions and the extent of Russia involvement. Analysts suggested a shift in North Korea focus from diplomacy with the U.S. to closer alignment with Russia and China.North Korea persistent missile tests, nearing 100 since the previous year, aimed to establish a reliable nuclear weapons arsenal targeting the U.S. and its allies. The successful satellite launch hinted at advancements in missile capabilities, with implications for intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).South Korea hinted at the possible suspension of a 2018 inter-Korean agreement to reduce tensions, resuming aerial surveillance and firing exercises if North Korea proceeded with the launch. The U.S., South Korea, and Japan urged North Korea to cancel the launch, with Russia and China blocking Security Council responses to previous violations.Kim Jong Un sister criticized the U.N. Security Council as a political appendage of the U.S., accusing it of discriminatory actions. Previous satellite launches by North Korea had faced technical issues, and the Malligyong-1 satellite capability for military reconnaissance remained a subject of debate among experts.Despite uncertainties, Kim Jong Un expressed the need for multiple satellites to enhance observation capabilities. Additionally, Kim aimed to introduce advanced weapons, including mobile ICBMs, nuclear-powered submarines, and multi-warhead missiles, potentially leveraging an expanded arsenal for concessions in future diplomatic negotiations.In response, the U.S. and South Korea increased military exercises, showcasing strength with deployments such as the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier and its battle group to a South Korean port on Tuesday.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-22 04:14:00

 Space & Technology 

In the pursuit of fossil fuels beneath northeastern France surface, scientists have stumbled upon a substantial reservoir of hydrogen, marking it as one of the largest caches of "white hydrogen" ever identified, estimated to range from 6 to 250 million metric tons, as reported by CNN.White hydrogen, also referred to as "natural," "gold," or "geologic" hydrogen, is a naturally occurring gas in the Earth crust and is recognized as a promising clean energy source.Discovery of White Hydrogen:Jacques Pironon and Phillipe De Donato, both directors of research at France National Centre of Scientific Research, uncovered this phenomenon while assessing methane levels in the subsoils of the Lorraine mining basin. Initially encountering low concentrations of hydrogen a few hundred meters down, the levels dramatically increased to 14% at 1,100 meters and 20% at 1,250 meters. This study unveiled a colossal reservoir of hydrogen, marking it as one of the most significant deposits of white hydrogen ever found.Nature and Utility of White Hydrogen:White hydrogen, a naturally occurring gas in the Earth crust, is a relatively recent discovery for scientists. Though hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe, it usually exists combined with other molecules. Discovered in 2018 in a Mali well producing 98% hydrogen gas, deposits of white hydrogen have been identified globally, including in the US, eastern Europe, Russia, Australia, and now France. It believed that there could be tens of billions of tons of white hydrogen worldwide.Hydrogen is hailed as a potential clean energy source for various industries, such as aviation, shipping, and steel-making. When burned, hydrogen only produces water, making it a more environmentally friendly energy source compared to solar or wind energy.Significance of the Discovery:Traditionally, scientists believed that substantial quantities of hydrogen could only be produced in laboratories. Different types of hydrogen were categorized by colors based on their origin. For example, "gray" hydrogen is derived from methane gas, "brown" from coal, and "blue" hydrogen is similar to gray but with captured emissions. The eco-friendliest is "green" hydrogen, produced using renewable energy to split water. White hydrogen, being potentially abundant and untapped, emerges as a source of clean-burning energy without the need for energy-intensive processes. Moreover, the discovery proves that hydrogen can be found naturally.The clean energy source is not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective, with the estimated cost of white hydrogen being around $1 per kilogram, in contrast to green hydrogen, which costs about $6 per kilogram, according to CNN.Global Hydrogen Use:Hydrogen is already integrated into new initiatives exploring green energy. For instance, Australia-based Gold Hydrogen is drilling in South Australia, targeting spots with high concentrations of hydrogen discovered in the state archives in the 1920s.In the US, companies like Koloma and Natural Hydrogen Energy are developing methods to extract hydrogen more efficiently using proprietary technologies and AI. Koloma has secured $91 million from investors, including Breakthrough Energy Ventures founded by Bill Gates, while Natural Hydrogen Energy completed a hydrogen borehole in Nebraska in 2019 with plans for new wells.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-21 17:01:37