Monday Jan 13, 2025

Space Innovation: Roman’s Milestone, Blue Origin’s Orbital Ambition, and Wooden Satellites: S04E11

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: S04E011

Welcome to the first episode of Astronomy Daily for 2025 for us, where we kick off the year with a stellar lineup of space news and astronomical updates. We're Steve and Hallie, and today we delve into some of the most exciting developments in the cosmos.

Highlights:

- Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope Nears Completion: NASA's Roman Space Telescope is on track for a 2027 launch, with recent integration of its key components marking a significant milestone. Extensive testing is underway to ensure the telescope's readiness for its mission to unveil the universe like never before.

- Blue Origin's New Glenn Rocket Ready for Maiden Voyage: Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin is set for its inaugural orbital launch with the New Glenn rocket. Scheduled to lift off from Cape Canaveral, this mission signifies a new chapter in the commercial space race, challenging SpaceX's dominance.

- Upcoming ISS Spacewalks: The Expedition 72 crew at the International Space Station is preparing for two critical spacewalks to maintain astrophysics equipment and upgrade communication systems. These missions aim to enhance research capabilities and explore potential microbial life on the station's exterior.

- Gilmour Space's First Orbital Launch: Australian startup Gilmour Space is gearing up for its first orbital launch with the Eris rocket. Having received its launch license, the company is poised to make history with an Australian-made rocket from Australian soil.

- Lignosat: The Wooden Satellite: In a groundbreaking experiment, Japan's Lignosat has been deployed from the ISS. This wooden satellite explores the potential of sustainable materials in spacecraft construction, offering innovative insights into eco-friendly satellite manufacturing.

For more cosmic updates, visit our website at astronomydaily.io. Join our community on social media by searching for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, Tumblr, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok. Share your thoughts and connect with fellow space enthusiasts.

Thank you for tuning in. This is Stephen Hallie signing off. Until next time, keep looking up and stay curious about the wonders of our universe.

00:00 - Welcome back to Astronomy Daily for the new year 2025

01:46 - NASA has successfully integrated key components of the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope

03:41 - Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin launches new rocket on Sunday with ambitious mission

09:20 - The Expedition 72 crew spent the week preparing for upcoming spacewalks

15:52 - Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency launches experimental wooden satellite into space in 2025

✍️ Episode References

NASA

https://www.nasa.gov/

Blue Origin

https://www.blueorigin.com/

SpaceX