Tech

NASA test payload launches into space on US satellite to improve weather forecasting


A satellite to improve weather forecasting and an experimental inflatable heat shield to protect spacecraft entering the atmosphere were launched into space from California on Thursday.

A United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying the Polar Satellite System-2 satellite and NASA The test payload lifted off at 1:49 a.m. local time (3:19 p.m. IST) from Vandenberg Space Force Base, northwest of Los Angeles.

Developed for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, JPSS-2 was placed in pole-to-pole orbit around the Earth, joining previously launched satellites in a new system. The system is designed to improve weather forecasting and climate monitoring.

Mission officials say it represents the latest in technology and will increase the accuracy of observations of the atmosphere, oceans and land.

After satellite launch, the rocket’s upper stage is repositioning to position the test payload for re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere and descent into the Pacific Ocean.

Called LOFTID, which stands for Inflatable Decelerator Low Orbital Flight Test, the device is an “aerosol pod” that can be used to slow and protect heavy spacecraft from traveling. down into the atmosphere, such as that of Mars or Venus, or payloads returning to Earth.

According to NASA, effectively slowing down heavy spacecraft would require more atmospheric drag than can be created by traditional rigid heat shields that fit within shrouds surrounding the spacecraft. payload on rocket.

The inflated LOFTID aerosol housing is approximately 6 meters in diameter.

In the thin atmosphere of Mars, for example, having such a large aeroshell would begin to slow the vehicle at higher altitudes and reduce heating intensity, according to the space agency.

The aerosol shell is expected to impact the ocean a few hundred miles east of Hawaii, where a ship is waiting. NASA hopes to recover the aerosol housing as well as a data logger that was ejected prior to the splash.


Affiliate links can be generated automatically – see ours Moral standards for details.

news7f

News7F: Update the world's latest breaking news online of the day, breaking news, politics, society today, international mainstream news .Updated news 24/7: Entertainment, Sports...at the World everyday world. Hot news, images, video clips that are updated quickly and reliably

Related Articles

Back to top button