Max Q: Relativity Space Milestone & NASA Asteroid Missions

A Warm Welcome to Max Q

Greetings and welcome back to Max Q. I trust everyone is experiencing the pleasant changes in temperature and the various joys that the autumn season offers.

Here in Austin, my current location, while daytime temperatures remain in the 90s, the evenings and mornings provide a welcome respite with cooler air. This is certainly appreciated.

Connect and Share Your Thoughts

Your insights, feedback, and perspectives are highly valued. Feel free to reach out via email at aria.techcrunch@gmail.com or connect with me on Twitter at @breadfrom.

Stay Updated with the Max Q Newsletter

Ensure you don't miss out on the latest updates. Sign up to receive the complimentary newsletter edition of Max Q directly in your inbox.

This provides a convenient way to stay informed about all things Max Q.

Relativity Space Concludes Initial Testing Phase for Terran 1 Rocket

Relativity Space announced on Friday the successful completion of Stage 1 testing for its Terran 1 rocket. This phase encompassed crucial tests such as hydro proofing, cryogenic proofing, and flight pressure validation.

Following these tests, the company will proceed with post-integration assessments. These final checks are scheduled to be conducted at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

Advancing 3D-Printed Rocket Technology

Relativity Space is working towards a groundbreaking achievement: launching the world’s first rocket constructed entirely using 3D-printing technology into orbit.

The anticipated launch window for this innovative rocket is early 2022. A visual record of Relativity engineers positioning Stage 1 onto the test stand is available for viewing.

Terran 1 represents a significant leap forward in aerospace manufacturing, utilizing additive manufacturing techniques to streamline production and reduce costs.

William Shatner to Travel to Space with Blue Origin

The upcoming Blue Origin flight will include a very special passenger: William Shatner. The renowned 90-year-old actor, celebrated for his portrayal of Captain James T. Kirk in “Star Trek,” is slated to join Chris Boshuizen and Glen de Vries on a launch occurring on October 12th.

Should the mission proceed as planned, Shatner will surpass Wally Funk as the oldest individual to venture into space. Funk previously experienced space travel with Blue Origin as well.

Audrey Powers, Blue Origin’s Vice President of New Shepard Mission & Flight Operations, will complete the four-member crew for this historic flight.

NASA’s DART Mission: A Real-Life Space Defense Test

In other exciting space news, NASA has announced a launch date for its DART mission – the Double Asteroid Redirection Test. This undertaking resembles a plot from a science fiction film. The core concept involves testing asteroid deflection techniques.

The mission will deploy two spacecraft towards a nearby asteroid system, consisting of a larger asteroid and a smaller orbiting “moonlet.” This moonlet represents the type of space object that could potentially threaten Earth, and NASA intends to evaluate the feasibility of altering its trajectory by impacting it at a velocity of approximately 15,000 miles per hour.

The DART mission is currently scheduled for launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Southern California on November 23rd at 10:20 PM, utilizing a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. This launch was initially postponed from earlier this year.

• Key Personnel: William Shatner, Chris Boshuizen, Glen de Vries, Audrey Powers
• Mission Dates: Blue Origin launch – October 12th; DART launch – November 23rd
• Launch Locations: Blue Origin – unspecified; DART – Vandenberg Space Force Base, California

Space exploration continues to push boundaries, offering both thrilling adventures and vital tests for planetary defense.

UAE Plans Asteroid Belt Mission for 2028

The United Arab Emirates Space Agency is preparing for its most challenging undertaking to date, focusing on asteroids. Established in 2014, the agency intends to dispatch a spacecraft towards the asteroid belt situated between Mars and Jupiter by the year 2028.

Although the specific scientific objectives remain undisclosed, any information gathered by the spacecraft promises to enhance our knowledge regarding the universe’s formation. Asteroids are theorized by numerous scientists to be remnants from the solar system’s early stages.

Mission Trajectory and Timeline

Following its launch, the spacecraft will embark on an extensive, multi-stage voyage. Over a period of five years, it will traverse 3.6 billion kilometers, utilizing gravitational assists from both Venus and Earth to gain the necessary speed.

This maneuver will allow the spacecraft to ultimately reach the asteroid belt, located beyond Mars, by 2030. The UAE’s objective is to achieve a landing on a selected asteroid sometime in 2033.

Key mission highlights include a complex orbital path and a long duration, demonstrating the UAE’s growing capabilities in deep-space exploration.

• Launch Date: 2028
• Arrival at Asteroid Belt: 2030
• Target Landing: 2033
• Total Distance: 3.6 billion kilometers

The mission represents a significant step forward for the UAE’s space program, solidifying its position as a key player in international space research. Data obtained from the asteroid belt could provide invaluable insights into the solar system’s history.

Recent Developments in the Space Industry

Recent reports from CNBC indicate that SpaceX’s current valuation has exceeded $100 billion. This assessment comes after an agreement allowing investors to sell as much as $755 million in company stock.

The stock was offered at a price of $560 per share, contributing to the significant increase in SpaceX’s overall worth.

Rocket Lab Secures NASA Contract

Rocket Lab experienced a boost in its share price following the announcement of a contract awarded by NASA. The agreement centers around the launch of a technology demonstration satellite.

Specifically, NASA’s Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3) will be deployed into orbit utilizing a Rocket Lab Electron rocket, with a planned launch window in the middle of 2022.

Muon Space Receives Seed Funding

Muon Space, a company concentrating on climate-related technologies, has successfully secured $10 million in seed funding. Their objective is the development and deployment of a satellite constellation.

This funding round was spearheaded by Costanoa Ventures, with additional investment from Space Capital, Congruent VC, Ubiquity Ventures, South Park Commons, and Climactic VC.

U.S. Space Force Announces Hyperspace Challenge Participants

The U.S. Space Force has chosen 13 startups and 11 university teams to participate in its Hyperspace Challenge accelerator program.

This challenge is being facilitated through a collaboration between the Air Force Research Laboratory and CNM Ingenuity, fostering innovation within the space sector.

TC Sessions: Space Returns This December

Following the success of our inaugural space-focused event last year, we are pleased to announce its return in 2021. This year’s conference, TC Sessions: Space, will be held on December 14th and 15th.

The event will again be conducted entirely online, ensuring global accessibility for attendees worldwide. Participation is open to everyone interested in the space industry.

What to Expect at TC Sessions: Space

This virtual conference provides a unique platform for engaging with leading figures in the space technology sector. Attendees can expect insightful discussions and valuable networking opportunities.

The format allows individuals from any location to participate, removing geographical barriers to knowledge sharing and collaboration. It’s a fantastic opportunity to stay current with the latest advancements.

• Dates: December 14-15, 2021
• Format: Entirely virtual
• Accessibility: Global

Further details regarding speakers and the agenda will be released shortly. Stay tuned for updates on how to register and secure your place at TC Sessions: Space.

The burgeoning space industry is attracting significant investment and innovation. Recent events, such as TC Sessions: Space 2021, highlight the growing momentum within this sector.

Investment Trends in Space Technology are rapidly accelerating. Venture capital firms are increasingly focusing on companies developing technologies for space exploration, satellite communications, and Earth observation.

Several key areas are driving this investment surge. These include advancements in rocket technology, the development of small satellites, and the expanding applications of space-based data.

TC Sessions: Space 2021 served as a platform for showcasing these advancements. The event featured discussions with leading figures in the space industry, including entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers.

Discussions centered around the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. Topics included the need for regulatory frameworks that support innovation, the importance of international collaboration, and the ethical considerations surrounding space exploration.

Key Takeaways from the event emphasized the transformative potential of space technology. It was noted that space-based solutions can address critical global challenges.

• These challenges include climate change monitoring.
• Improved communication infrastructure is also a key area.
• Furthermore, advancements in resource management were discussed.

The event also highlighted the growing role of the private sector in space exploration. Companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic are pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

Future Outlook for the space industry remains exceptionally positive. Continued investment and technological breakthroughs are expected to fuel further growth.

The democratization of space access, driven by lower launch costs and the proliferation of small satellites, is opening up new opportunities for businesses and researchers. This trend is expected to continue, fostering a more vibrant and innovative space ecosystem.

Ultimately, the space industry is poised to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of our planet and expanding our understanding of the universe.

Read more stories on TechCrunch.com

TechCrunch is a prominent source for technology news, covering startups, venture capital funding, and the broader tech industry. It provides in-depth reporting and analysis on emerging trends.

A Leading Technology Media Outlet

Established in 2005, TechCrunch has become a go-to platform for individuals seeking information about the latest advancements in technology. Its coverage spans a wide range of topics, from artificial intelligence to electric vehicles.

Key Coverage Areas

• Startups: TechCrunch closely follows the progress of new companies, detailing their funding rounds and product launches.
• Venture Capital: The platform offers insights into the venture capital landscape, tracking investments and identifying key players.
• Technology Trends: Readers can find analysis of emerging technologies and their potential impact on various industries.
• Gadgets & Reviews: TechCrunch provides reviews and news related to consumer electronics and gadgets.

Impact and Influence

TechCrunch’s reporting often influences the narrative surrounding the tech industry. Its articles are frequently cited by other news outlets and serve as a valuable resource for investors and entrepreneurs.

Accessibility and Platforms

Content is readily accessible through the TechCrunch website, as well as via various social media channels. The platform also offers podcasts and video content to cater to diverse preferences.

Continued Growth and Evolution

TechCrunch continues to adapt to the evolving tech landscape, expanding its coverage and exploring new formats. It remains a vital source of information for anyone interested in the world of technology.

For further reading and the latest updates, visit TechCrunch.com.