Space

Just within the last day, this and this happened and barely made any news.  Space launches are becoming very common, which is both good news and bad news. (post in memory of Mike Nofsinger)

Way to go ESA

It looks like the James Webb telescope launch last week will be in service much longer than expected thanks to the ESA’s Ariane 5’s efficiency. Story here.  (post in memory of Mike Nofsinger)

This is cool

While I am generally wary of Chinese ambitions in space, I have to say that this is a cool example of cooperation and an indication of where we could go with a less oppressive Chinese government.

China is serious about space: Part 654321

Story here.  Note, there is no such thing in China as a “private company”.  ( Post in memory of Mike Nofsinger)

How many times do I have to say it?

China is serious about space.  We need to get serious too.  Thank God for Elon Musk. ( post in memory of Mike Nofsinger, who would be pulling his hair out over this, if he had any left. 🙂  )

The Chinese are serious about space

And we need to be too.

Example 1

Example 2

Now, none of this is stuff the US hasn’t done, but the Chinese have already caught up technologically in a lot of areas.  There is no reason to believe that they won’t catch up in space, and quickly.

Starlink

SpaceX has launched another 60 Starlink satellites.  The plan is to provide worldwide satellite broadband access.  Apparently, you can already sign up to beta test the service.  It is reportedly pretty good.   In a rare miss, the booster failed to land on the recovery ship.  That booster had already flown 6 previous times.  Amazing.

SpaceX getting into national defense

Well, sort of.  Got to say I am happy about this as SpaceX seems to be one of the few competent companies out there.

Power from space

This technology has been talked about in one form or another since the 70s.  Interesting that they are finally getting around to experimenting with it.  I am still skeptical of its practicality.  (Post in memory of Mike Nofsinger)

Its not just SpaceX

Rocket Lab just launched a Japanese earth imaging satellite from New Zealand. This is their seventh successful launch this year. Story here. (post in memory of Mike Nofsinger)