S03E144: BepiColombo's Mercury Flyby, China's Sea-Based Launch, and Artemis 4G Revolution

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: 3rd September 2024
Welcome to Astronomy Daily, your go-to Podcast for all the latest news in the world of space and Astronomy. I'm Anna, your host for today. We've got some exciting stories lined up for you, from NASA's Artemis III mission to the latest updates on the BepiColombo spacecraft and more. So stay tuned for some incredible space news and insights.
Highlights:
- BepiColombo's Fourth Mercury Flyby: The joint mission by the European Space Agency and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is gearing up for its fourth Mercury flyby. Scheduled for 23:48 CEST (21:48 UTC) on September 4, BepiColombo will pass just 165 km above Mercury's surface. This flyby is crucial for adjusting the spacecraft's speed and trajectory, and it offers scientists a valuable opportunity to gather preliminary data and fine-tune onboard instruments. Despite challenges with its electric thrusters, the mission remains on track, with 10 of the 16 scientific instruments operational during this flyby. Expect the first images to be released on September 5, with initial scientific results to follow on September 13.
- China's Sea-Based Satellite Launch: Galactic Energy, a private rocket manufacturer based in Beijing, has achieved its third sea-based launch of the Series One carrier rocket, marking China's 12th successful sea-based satellite launch. The rocket deployed six satellites into a sun-synchronous orbit approximately 535 km above Earth, showcasing the reliability and effectiveness of their technology. This successful launch highlights China's growing prowess in space exploration and satellite deployment.
- Artemis III Mission and 4G Connectivity: NASA's upcoming Artemis III mission will break new ground by equipping astronauts with cutting-edge 4G connectivity designed by Nokia. This technology will allow lunar explorers to broadcast high-definition video and transmit large volumes of scientific data back to Earth in real-time. The 4G network will be tested later this year with Intuitive Machines' IM-2 mission, and the technology could benefit future lunar missions and various lunar devices.
- The Mystery of Lunar Swirls: Visible through even basic telescopes, lunar swirls have long puzzled scientists. Recent studies suggest that these light-colored swirls are the result of magnetized rocks that create a magnetic field strong enough to deflect solar wind particles. Understanding the origin of these swirls could reveal more about the Moon's geological history and its ancient magnetic environment. NASA plans to send a rover to the famous Reiner Gamma swirl in 2025 as part of the Lunar Vertex mission to gather more data.
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