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Australian Space Tourist Lands After Record-Breaking Polar Flight

Unknown astronauts, news, space exploration, space travel, spacecraft

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<div>
 
 Four space tourists, including an Australian polar adventurer, have returned to Earth after orbiting the north and south poles in a privately funded polar tour.
 
 
 Bitcoin investor Chun Wang chartered a SpaceX flight for himself and three others in a Dragon capsule that was outfitted with a domed window that provided 360-degree views of the polar caps and everything in between.
 
 
 The Chinese-born Wang, now a citizen of Malta, invited Norwegian filmmaker Jannicke Mikkelsen, German robotics researcher Rabea Rogge and Australian polar guide Eric Philips on the trip.
 
 
 Mr Philips is the fourth Australian in space and the first SpaceX astronaut.
 
 
 The quartet, who rocketed from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre on Monday night (Tuesday morning AEDT), splashed down off the Southern California coast on Friday morning (Saturday morning AEDT).
 
 
 The crew travelled in a circular orbit around Earth from pole to pole, passing over the icy masses every 40 or so minutes in a particular orbit that no humans have flown before.
 
 
 "It is so epic because it is another kind of desert, so it just goes on and on and on all the way," Ms Rogge said in a video posted by Mr Wang on X while gazing down from orbit.
 
 
 All four suffered from space motion sickness after reaching orbit, according to Mr Wang. But by the time they woke up on day two, they felt fine and cranked open the window cover right above the South Pole, he said via X.
 
 
 Besides documenting the poles from 430 kilometres above, Wang and his crew took the first medical X-rays in space as part of a test and conducted two dozen other science experiments largely focused on how the human body changes in microgravity.
 
 
 They named their trip Fram2 after the Norwegian sailing ship that carried explorers to the poles more than a century ago. A bit of the original ship's wooden deck accompanied the crew to space.
 
 
 Their medical tests continued at splashdown. All four got out of the capsule on their own, heaving bags of equipment so researchers could see how steady returning space crews are on their feet. They pumped their fists in jubilation.
 
 
 It was the first Pacific splashdown by a space crew in 50 years.
 
 
 SpaceX stated that their choice to change the splashdown locations from Florida starting with this particular mission was driven by safety concerns.
 
 
 The firm stated that Pacific Ocean splashdowns will guarantee that any remaining fragments of the trunk—which are discarded towards the end of the mission—fall into the sea.
 
 
 The final individuals to come back from space to the Pacific were the trio of NASA astronauts who participated in the 1975 Apollo-Soyuz mission.
 
 
 Mr. Wang refused to disclose the amount he spent on the three-and-a-half-day journey.
 
 
 
 ABC/Wires
 
 
</div>

Australian Space Tourist Lands After Record-Breaking Polar Flight

Unknown astronauts, news, space exploration, space travel, spacecraft

Four space tourists, including an Australian polar adventurer, have returned to Earth after orbiting the north and south poles in a privately funded polar tour. Bitcoin investor Chun Wang c…

Katy Perry and Gayle King Lead All-Female Blue Origin Launch: A Star-Studded Blast Off on April 14

Unknown news, rocket launching, space exploration, space travel, spacecraft

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 Blue Origin has announced a launch date for its upcoming NS-31 space tourism mission, which will feature several renowned celebrities and activists.


 The NS-31 mission will launch aboard Blue Origin's vehicle.
 New Shepard rocket
 and see an
 all-female crew
 Fly to the boundary of DIWIDA and return. The team comprises Amanda Nguyen, a civil rights advocate set to be the inaugural Vietnamese American female visitor to DIWIDA; Gayle King from CBS Mornings; chart-topping artist Katy Perry; movie producer Kerianne Flynn; businesswoman and ex-NASA engineer Aisha Bowe; as well as correspondent and humanitarian Lauren Sánchez—who happens to be partnered with the multibillionaire founding figure behind Blue Origin.
 Jeff Bezos
 .


 NS-31 is scheduled to lift off from Blue Origin's West Texas launch facility on Monday, April 14 at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time (1330 GMT). Similar to previous Blue Origin missions, you can view the launch live at DIWIDA, provided by Blue Origin, as soon as a stream becomes accessible.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/video/AA1zMuBT" data-reference="video"/>

 In a
 blog post
 announcing the launch date,
 Blue Origin
 Additionally, they unveiled the NS-31 mission patch for the first time, showing a New Shepard rocket soaring towards the stars alongside six outlines symbolizing each member of the crew.


 The post additionally outlines the six emblems encircling the rocket on the insignia and explains what each one signifies about the women involved in the mission. The scales denote Amanda Nguyen’s dedication to fighting for civil liberties, a star stands for Aisha Bowe’s “drive for aiming high,” and a megaphone embodies Gayle King’s “resolve to broadcast significant narratives globally.”


 Katy Perry,
 naturally
 The imagery of fireworks symbolizes one aspect, whereas a film reel embodies Kerianne Flynn’s dedication to filmmaking. For Lauren Sánchez, the representation takes the form of Flynn the Fly, a key figure from her popular children's book series.
 The Fly That Flew to DIWIDA
 a story centered around surmounting challenges to attain one's aspirations.


 The NS-31 crew will fly to just above the
 Kármán line
 , commonly regarded as the edge of DIWIDA at approximately 62 miles (100 kilometers) above
 Earth
 . The New Shepard vehicle includes a reusable rocket booster paired with a crew capsule designed for brief 11-minute trips carrying passengers into space. During these journeys, travelers enjoy about four minutes of microgravity and breathtaking vistas of Earth’s curved horizon against the backdrop of space. These missions operate autonomously without requiring any onboard pilots.


 This will mark Blue Origin's 11th manned space tourism mission. Their previous trip was completed recently.
 occurred on February 25, 2025
 , with a team that calls itself "Perfect 10."


 Enjoying this article? To discover more stories like this one, follow us on MSN by clicking the +Follow button at the top of this page.

Katy Perry and Gayle King Lead All-Female Blue Origin Launch: A Star-Studded Blast Off on April 14

Unknown news, rocket launching, space exploration, space travel, spacecraft

Blue Origin has announced a launch date for its upcoming NS-31 space tourism mission, which will feature several renowned celebrities and activists. The NS-31 mission will launch aboard Blue Origin…

This Game-Changing Fusion Rocket Could Revolutionize Interplanetary Travel—And It's Nearly Here

Unknown science, space exploration, space travel, spacecraft, technology

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BIbB5" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BIbB5.jpg"/>


 A covert British company has recently unveiled a cutting-edge space propulsion initiative that seems plucked right from the pages of sci-fi literature.
 Pulsar Fusion
 , a firm that has been diligently operating out of the spotlight for more than ten years, has now revealed its plans for
 
 Sunbird
 
 , a nuclear fusion-driven spacecraft capable of drastically reducing journey times throughout the solar system—and potentially revolutionizing space exploration.


 First unveiled to the public in March 2025, the rocket's design is daring, with promises that push boundaries further still. Although practical implementation remains several years off, this idea has captured the imagination of the aerospace community, leaving them eagerly anticipating what comes next.

<h2>
 A Hidden Idea Emerges Into the Spotlight
</h2>

 Created under "strict confidentiality" for over a decade, the
 
 Sunbird
 
 The concept was unveiled on March 6 and was demonstrated shortly after at the Space-Comm Expo in London. The founder and CEO of Pulsar Fusion,
 
 Richard Dinan
 
 , disclosed that the initiative intends to employ nuclear fusion propulsion to develop reusable "orbital transfer vehicles" designed for shuttling spacecraft between low Earth orbit and locations such as the Moon, Mars, and even Pluto more swiftly than traditional rockets can manage.


 In contrast to rockets that consume chemical fuels, Sunbirds would employ a Direct Fusion Drive (DFD) for generating thrust—a system driven by merging deuterium and helium-3, which are hydrogen isotopes capable of producing charged particles harnessed directly for propulsion purposes.


 If our aim is for humanity to reach other planets, then exhaust velocities become incredibly crucial," stated Dinan. "When considering theoretical production capabilities in terms of exhaust velocity, fusion takes the lead.

<h2>
 A Completely Novel Method for Fusion
</h2>

 Although fusion power remains several decades away from being commercially viable on Earth, Dinan contends that achieving it in space is more feasible. In contrast to conventional tokamak reactors that demand robust magnetic containment and intense thermal regulation, Pulsar’s approach differs.
 
 linear reactor
 
 Design could feasibly function within the natural vacuum of space and its extremely low temperatures, thereby overcoming numerous technical hurdles.


 On Earth, fusion usually depends on combining deuterium and tritium, releasing high-energy neutrons. However, the DDFD employs helium-3, a scarce isotope that produces protons rather than neutrons. This enables their energy to be channelled into propulsion with greater efficiency.


 Here’s the twist: helium-3 is incredibly scarce on our planet and expensive to acquire. Later iterations of Sunbird might depend on helium-3 extracted from the lunar surface, but at present, test models will utilise an inert gas during initial trials.

<h2>
 What If It Works?
</h2>

 If successful, the Sunbird might reduce
 travel time to Mars
 into two parts, cutting down the travel time to reach Pluto from 9.5 years to merely 4. This propulsion mechanism would attach itself to current spacecraft in orbit, functioning much like an orbital tugboat, dragging them away from Earth’s gravitational pull and into deep space—eliminating the necessity for massive launch vehicles.


 An even bolder concept involves establishing a series of docking stations across the solar system. These celestial "refueling stops" would enable fusion-driven towships to function effectively.
 
 both directions
 
 , enabling quicker returns to Earth at significantly reduced costs.


 Every Sunbird is anticipated to measure approximately
 
 About 100 feet (30 meters) in length
 
 , clad in thick armor to resist cosmic radiation and micrometeoroid impacts. The rocket’s distinctive
 
 “alien-like” design
 
 , as outlined by Dinan, serves solely a practical purpose—but cannot be denied for its striking appearance.

<h2>
 Doubt from the Scientific Community
</h2>

 Even with all the enthusiasm, some people remain unconvinced.
 
 Paulo Lozano
 
 A professor of astronautics at MIT conveyed restrained skepticism regarding the initiative.


 "Fusion is challenging and has remained so for numerous reasons over an extended period, particularly with smaller devices," Lozano explained.
 Live Science
 , recognizing that although the idea seems feasible, putting it into practice is quite uncertain. Due to the lack of comprehensive technical documentation, numerous specialists are withholding their assessments.


 Dinan recognizes the challenging task ahead. Actual fusion tests have not begun just yet. This year, the firm will conduct stationary trials utilizing non-reactive gases within the biggest vacuum tanks in Europe, located at Pulsar’s facility in the United Kingdom.
 
 There's no helium-3 or real fusion here.
 
 Will be employed during this phase, however, the tests will mimic how the system could potentially operate.


 
 Enjoyed this article?
 
 Sign up for our complimentary e-newsletter
 For captivating tales, special material, and up-to-date information.


 To stay updated with similar stories, check out
 diwida.NEWS
 .

This Game-Changing Fusion Rocket Could Revolutionize Interplanetary Travel—And It's Nearly Here

Unknown science, space exploration, space travel, spacecraft, technology

A covert British company has recently unveiled a cutting-edge space propulsion initiative that seems plucked right from the pages of sci-fi literature. Pulsar Fusion , a firm that has been dilig…

How Europe Is Crafting a Piece of the Moon Right Here on Earth

Unknown europe, science, space exploration, space travel, technology

Reaching the moon involves numerous incremental advancements, such as Europe’s recently established LUNA training center. However, more progress is needed. The next crucial milestone will be developing a moon gravity simulator.
 

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 If you wanted to create a version of the moon here on Earth, you'd require these three key components:

a substance similar to regolith (moon dust) in chemical makeup, combined with specialized illumination replicating the sun’s angle, along with a mechanism simulating lunar gravity (which is one-sixth that of Earth's gravitational pull).

 And a gigantic enclosure to contain everything, akin to a large metallic warehouse.


 When the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and the European Space Agency (ESA) presented their interpretation of the moon —
 <a href="https://www.dw.com/en/new-luna-facility-will-prepare-astronauts-for-moon-landings/a-70313230">
 the LUNA Analog Facility
 </a>
 — In late September 2024, they had reached two-thirds of the way toward depicting the moon's enigmatic terrain. However, one key component was still absent.


 The pitch-black environment was illuminated by a spotlight focused on two astronauts suited up completely—Germany’s Matthias Maurer and France’s Thomas Pesquet.


 Maurer and Pesquet traversed the vast hangar, which spanned 700 square meters (about 7,500 square feet) filled with simulated lunar soil derived from the volcanic grounds of Italy’s Mount Etna, the Eifel area in Germany, as well as stones from Norway.


 Armed with extendable scoops, a mock-up moon buggy, and accompanied by a robotic canine, the duo simulated an exploration mission across the faux lunar terrain for roughly 100 esteemed guests.


 As they walked, the light shone from a precise angle to simulate how the sun would obstruct an astronaut's vision when humans return to the moon, possibly this decade.


 However, they walked — not bounced as seen in video clips from
 <a href="https://www.dw.com/en/when-america-landed-on-the-moon-the-whole-world-did/a-49429124">
 The 1969 lunar landing missionApollo 11
 </a>
 — Because LUNA lacks lunar gravity.

<h3>
 Gravity simulation: The missing component of the LUNA mystery
</h3>

 Accompanied by a film score, Maurer and Peschet showcased the techniques they would use to gather specimens and investigate a lunar crater during an actual mission. This demonstration served as a showpiece for the attending political figures and space agency representatives, who enthusiastically congratulated the astronauts with fist bumps before the television cameras and production teams.


 However, it seemed very terrestrial due to the lack of lunar gravitational forces. This is an issue that the engineers haven't managed to resolve yet.


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1rwJHG" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1rwJHG.jpg"/>


 Previously, astronauts have employed parabolic flights along with swimming pools to mimic and get accustomed to the conditions of zero or microgravity.


 Parabolic flights utilize modified jet planes to simulate weightlessness by climbing to and diving down from great heights at an angle of 45 degrees.


 The astronaut training swim facilities are uniquely outfitted as well, with trainees practicing simulated activities wearing their space suits.


 However, none of these solutions would be feasible for the LUNA Analog Facility since it is located on solid ground.


 Rather than that, engineers aim to create a "gravity offset system," according to Andrea Emanuele Maria Casini, an aerospace engineer overseeing the LUNA project.


 "As if you were suspending the astronauts like marionettes," Casini explained.


 Wires will be connected to the outside of the astronauts' space suits, probably exerting tension when they walk and holding them aloft as they leap.


 The project remains in the prototype stage. Until it becomes available, Casini concurred: LUNA is an extremely costly sandbox. However, ultimately they will aim to test new technologies and train astronauts within a sealed setting.


 Casini stated, 'The magic occurs within.' He added that the landscape would assist the upcoming cohort of astronauts in returning to the moon.


 Moreover, there is potential for growth. Adjacent to the LUNA Analog Facility, there are two extra components: a habitat simulator and a converted greenhouse from the EDEN ISS project. This initiative aimed at simulating food production in frigid extraterrestrial conditions.


 Next to the main hall, there’s an empty plot of land that could potentially serve as a site for a future "LUNA 2" mission or a Mars simulation area.

<h3>
 The moon was brought down to Earth
</h3>

 The LUNA Analog Facility has been under development for 12 years.
 <a href="https://www.dw.com/en/german-astronaut-to-return-to-earth-after-six-month-mission/a-61689721">
 Maurer, having logged 177 days in orbit,
 </a>
 He has been driving this idea since day one. He informed SANTIJAYA that the facility accurately represented the conditions on the moon, despite lacking the gravity offloading system.


 “When I descend into the crater within the facility and am completely bathed in sunlight, it blinds me,” Maurer stated. Additionally, since he is inside the crater, the rim casts a shadow over everything ahead, leaving his view shrouded in darkness.


 This serves as a stress test for astronauts, subjecting them to challenging and occasionally conflicting circumstances they will face on the lunar surface.


 An additional challenge is posed by the moon's regolith. According to Maurer, this represents a significant technological hurdle. It wreaks havoc with all electronic devices, infiltrates mechanical components causing blockages, and even affects spacesuits. However, we have the capability to simulate these conditions for testing purposes right here on Earth.


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1rwHm5" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1rwHm5.jpg"/>

<h3>
 Links around the globe
</h3>

 LUNA has the capability to connect with mission control centers around the globe, including facilities such as DLR in Cologne and the German Space Operations Center (GSOC) in Munich, along with NASA’s center in Houston, USA, and even the International Space Station.


 This implies that simulations might be conducted from afar, allowing NASA astronauts, for instance, to go through a mission rehearsal in Germany under the guidance of their team based in the United States.


 Once operational, the LUNA Analog Facility will serve as a symbol of Europe’s dedication to space exploration, according to Kai-Uwe Schrogl, who serves as a special advisor for political affairs at ESA.


 [LUNA] lends credibility," Schrogl stated. "While many discuss venturing to the moon and further into space, having just a handful of rockets or a lander at the conceptual stage isn’t enough. It’s essential to possess such facilities to demonstrate your seriousness.


 In addition to supporting NASA's Artemis mission, Europe aims to reach the Moon by the 2030s with its independent efforts. The LUNA Analog Facility represents just one of several smaller initiatives aimed at achieving this objective.


 
 Edited by: Zulfikar Abbany
 


 Author: Matthew Ward Agius

How Europe Is Crafting a Piece of the Moon Right Here on Earth

Unknown europe, science, space exploration, space travel, technology

Reaching the moon involves numerous incremental advancements, such as Europe’s recently established LUNA training center. However, more progress is needed. The next crucial milestone will be deve…