A New Class of Astronaut Candidates on This Week @NASA – December 10, 2021

TL;DR

NASA introduces a new class of astronaut candidates, launches an x-ray satellite mission, and mourns the passing of Mark Geyer.

Transcript

a new class of astronaut candidates highlighting the next era of space communications and a new x-ray satellite mission a few of the stories to tell you about this week at nasa on december 6th we introduced the agency's newest class of astronaut candidates during a ceremony at ellington field near our johnson space center in houston the ten new can... Read More

Key Insights

• 👨‍🚀 NASA introduced a promising group of astronaut candidates, signifying an exciting new phase in space exploration.
• 👾 The Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) showcases advancements in space communication technology, paving the way for more robust communication systems in the future.
• 🙌 The launch of the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (XP) provides an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the complex nature of cosmic sources.
• 👾 Mark Geyer's passing leaves a void in the space exploration community, but his impact as a strong advocate for human space flight will always be remembered.
• 🚀 NASA's visits to the Stennis Space Center and Michoud Assembly Facility demonstrate the agency's commitment to testing and refining next-generation rocket propulsion systems for future exploration missions.
• 👾 The Russian Soyuz spacecraft launch to the International Space Station highlights international collaboration in space exploration.
• 👾 The passing of Mark Geyer calls for reflection on the importance of continuing to push the boundaries of human space flight for the benefit of all.

Questions & Answers

Q: How were the new class of astronaut candidates selected?

The ten new astronaut candidates were chosen from a pool of over twelve thousand applicants, and their selection was based on rigorous evaluation criteria, including qualifications, skills, and potential for future flight assignments.

Q: What is the purpose of the Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD)?

LCRD aims to demonstrate advanced space communications through space-to-ground laser communications. Additionally, it will utilize an optical terminal on the International Space Station to receive and transmit data, showcasing the future of space communication technology.

Q: What is the mission of the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (XP)?

The XP mission, a collaboration between NASA and the Italian Space Agency, is designed to measure the polarization of x-rays emitted by cosmic sources such as black holes and neutron stars. It aims to provide insights into the complex environments in space with extreme gravitational, electric, and magnetic fields.

Q: Who was Mark Geyer, and what was his contribution to space exploration?

Mark Geyer was the former Center Director of the Johnson Space Center and a prominent figure in human space flight. He passionately advocated for venturing deeper into space for the benefit of humanity and played a crucial role in advancing NASA's space exploration missions before his passing.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• NASA presents its newest class of astronaut candidates, selected from over twelve thousand applicants, who will undergo a two-year training program and potentially participate in Artemis missions.

• The Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) and a joint experiment on solar energetic particles were launched on a Department of Defense mission. LCRD aims to showcase the future of space communications and will transmit data to and from the International Space Station.

• The Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (XP) was launched, marking the first satellite dedicated to measuring x-ray polarization from cosmic sources like black holes and neutron stars.

• Mark Geyer, former Center Director of the Johnson Space Center, passed away after a battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy as a strong advocate for human space flight.