Initiative & Institute for Interstellar Studies’ Post

Germany's QUBE CubeSat Explores Quantum Key Distribution in Space on SpaceX Mission 🚀 QUBE, a 3U CubeSat designed by Germany’s Center for Telematics, was launched on SpaceX’s Transporter-11 Mission to explore quantum key distribution (QKD) technology in #space. The #CubeSat uses a miniaturized quantum random number generator (QRNG) to generate and transmit #quantum states of light pulses for secure communication. https://lnkd.in/ej2RRaPy

SpaceX's Rockets are fantastic feats of engineering. However, it is largely inefficient and not good for the environment to launch from earth for every single thing we want to have in space. Dynamic Space Operations in form of In-Space assembly and manufacturing, re-fueling, and debris collision avoidance are super exciting applications that we might be able to see from 2025 onward. 🚀 https://lnkd.in/eEsXtdYG

An important and impressive step in achieving Quantum Space's vision.

Riding aboard NASA’s #Psyche spacecraft, the agency’s Deep Space #Optical #Communications technology demonstration continues to break records. After interfacing with the #Psyche’s radio frequency #transmitter, the #laser communications demo sent a copy of engineering #data from over 140 million miles (226 million kilometers) away, 1½ times the distance between Earth and the Sun. This achievement provides a glimpse into how spacecraft could use #optical #communications in the future, enabling higher-data-rate #communications of complex scientific information as well as high-definition #imagery and #video in support of humanity’s next giant leap: sending humans to Mars.

Rideshare Opportunities to Orbit. Included in Approach Venture's latest Field of View (FOV) newsletter - don't hesitate if the below mission timing / orbital regime(s) align with your product's readiness for integration. H2 2025 LEO to LLO Opportunity. Orbital Regime: LEO to LLO Target Launch Window: H2 2025 Payload Type(s): Hosted (up to 30 kg) and Deployed (up to 60 kg ranging from 1U-16U form factors) Spacecraft Size: ESPA-Class Spacecraft Type: Transport Vehicle Large 2026 LEO Opportunity. Orbital Regime: LEO Target Launch Window: 2026 High Level Mission CONOPS: 300-400 km drop off; flexible inclination Payload Type(s): 3,000 kg minimum - 4,000 kg maximum Spacecraft Type: Transport Vehicle #spaceexploration #rideshare https://lnkd.in/gg8wjdkS

The story of NASA's Ingenuity, now grounded with broken rotors on Mars, marks not an end but the dawn of a new era in space exploration. Proud to see @TEConnectivity playing a vital role in solving the tough problems found in space exploration and LEO satellites . To find out more, read our story in the latest edition of @AerospaceManufacturing. https://lnkd.in/eBYTNyDe #engineering #aerospace #aerospaceengineering

Space laser transmission strikes Earth from 140 million miles away: NASA "This achievement provides a glimpse into how spacecraft could use optical communications in the future, enabling higher-data-rate communications of complex scientific information as well as high-definition imagery and video in support of humanity’s next giant leap: sending humans to Mars." "NASA wanted to show the potential for laser communications to be conducted across interstellar distances, allowing for high bandwidth and a much speedier connection — from 10 to 100 times faster than what’s available today — between humans and the probes they send into space." https://lnkd.in/ex4uRCP3 #nasa #templartitannews

🚀 Monday News from The Word Astronaut: Rocket Lab's Latest Mission 🚀 The space industry just got a big boost! Rocket Lab has been awarded an $8 million contract by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to advance digital engineering for its Archimedes rocket engine. This innovative engine is set to power the Neutron, Rocket Lab’s reusable medium-lift launch vehicle, targeting a 2025 debut. Why This Matters: ✨ For National Security: Neutron is positioned as a key player for future government missions in the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program. ✨ For Innovation: The contract focuses on digital engineering to streamline integration with federal requirements, cutting costs and reducing risks. ✨ For the Future of Launch: With a capacity of up to 13,000 kg to low Earth orbit, Neutron is tailored to meet demand from satellite operators and military needs alike. Rocket Lab CEO Peter Beck shared, “This project supports smoother integration of Neutron to the NSSL program.” With this step, Rocket Lab is not only advancing technology but also solidifying its role as a major contender in the medium-lift market, complementing its dominance with the Electron rocket. We’ll be following this closely as Rocket Lab bids for NSSL Phase 3 missions and continues innovating for the stars. 🌌 Read full article: https://lnkd.in/genAWkHJ #TheWordAstronaut #RocketLab #SpaceNews #ArchimedesEngine #NeutronRocket #USAirForce #SpaceInnovation #AerospaceTech

👏 #Highly_Cited_Article in Aerospace MDPI 📜 "Maneuvering Spacecraft Orbit Determination Using Polynomial Representation" 🏫 Beijing Institute of Technology 🏫 China Academy of Space Technology 🔗 Read via: https://lnkd.in/gPtgKwdP #orbitdetermination #maneuveringtracking #extendedKalmanfilter #polynomialrepresentation