Monday, August 19, 2013

RINGS propels satellites without propellants

RINGS propels satellites without propellants
Gizmag, 18 August 2013
http://www.gizmag.com/rings-satellite-iss/28712/

Developed in the University of Maryland's Space Power and Propulsion Laboratory, this new electromagnetic propulsion technology called the Resonant Inductive Near-field Generation System (RINGS) uses magnetic fields to move spacecraft as a way to increase service life and make satellite formation flying more practical.

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

JPL, Masten testing spacecraft precision landing software

JPL, Masten testing spacecraft precision landing software
TG Daily, 14 August 2013
http://www.tgdaily.com/space-features/73654-jpl-masten-testing-spacecraft-precision-landing-software

Flight testing of the new Fuel Optimal Large Divert Guidance algorithm – G-FOLD for short -- for planetary pinpoint landing is being conducted jointly by JPL engineers in cooperation with Masten Space Systems in Mojave, Calif., using Masten's XA-0.1B "Xombie" vertical-launch, vertical-landing experimental rocket.

Monday, August 5, 2013

Video: Leaving Earth

Departing Earth from Messenger
Youtube, 21 July 2013
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFDjAfwmWKM

The Mercury-bound MESSENGER spacecraft captured several stunning images of Earth during a gravity assist swingby of its home planet on Aug. 2, 2005.