On December 15, 2022, there was a breach in the instrumentation compartment of the Soyuz MS-22 manned spacecraft, resulting in a release of coolant into space. The same issue occurred again on February 11 with the Progress MS-21.
Today, on March 28, the descent vehicle of the Soyuz MS-22 spacecraft, which had previously undocked from the International Space Station (ISS), safely returned to Earth.
What caused these problems? Was it a manufacturing defect? Damage from space debris? Or perhaps a meteor shower? Let’s try to investigate and find out.
1. How come there used to be no emergencies during flights, but now we have two holes in two different ships in a short period of time?
The Soyuz spacecraft, regardless of its generation, is composed of three compartments:
– the instrument unit, which houses the engines, solar panels, and other electronics used for the ship’s orientation;
– the living compartment, which contains the docking equipment, toilet, and various devices where astronauts can change clothes during the flight to the station;
– the descent vehicle, which is lined with special thermal protection and serves as the area where astronauts stay during launch, descent, and landing/departure from the station.
During the return to Earth, the first two compartments are completely incinerated in the atmosphere. Only the descent vehicle lands by parachute in Kazakhstan. Consequently, it is extremely challenging to identify impacts from various meteoroids after the return. Why? Well, the two compartments are completely burned up, and even though the one that returned can be studied, it too is burned in the atmosphere, making any traces of the impacts invisible.
Maybe the puncture on the “Soyuz MS-22” might have been caused by a Geminid meteor shower, which happened to be passing near Earth at that time. Moving at a speed of 35 kilometers per second, even a tiny grain of sand possesses tremendous destructive power. It is possible that our Soyuz has encountered impacts on its hull before, but never with such accuracy.
As for the Progress MS-21, it might have been struck on the same unfortunate day of December 15, but it was in a dormant state at the moment. It “awakened” when the cargo Progress MS-22 docked with the space station. The docking took place on February 11, 2023, causing vibrations that jolted the ISS and resulted in the “MS-21” experiencing a malfunction.
2. The Risk for Astronauts on the ISS
The main peril on December 15, 2022 was the inability to utilize the spacecraft as intended. In the event of an emergency, astronauts would typically don their spacesuits, detach from the ISS, and return to Earth. However, due to the emergency, this emergency evacuation was no longer feasible. The situation was further complicated by the fact that two out of the three Russian cosmonauts were getting ready to venture into outer space. Sergei Prokopyev and Dmitry Petelin had already donned their heavy Eagles and were prepared to exit the hatch when the alarm went off.
Let’s consider a scenario where the unfortunate micrometeoroid doesn’t hit the Soyuz but instead strikes the ISS. What if the station itself experienced a loss of pressure? This exact situation was depicted in the film “Gravity”. In that case, Prokopyev and Petelin would have faced significant challenges trying to remove their bulky spacesuits for extravehicular activities and then putting on lightweight “Falcons KV-2” suits to make their way to the Soyuz and return home. It’s terrifying to even think about what would have happened to those who were inside the station at the time of depressurization.
What if the crew had to evacuate the ISS in an emergency and use this spacecraft for descent?
When we think about space disasters that have resulted in human casualties, such as Soyuz-1, Soyuz-11, and two exploded shuttles, we realize that the situation in this case could have been even worse. The absence of cooling in the instrument and unit compartment during the return journey could have led to overheating. However, it’s important to note that this overheating wouldn’t affect the astronauts themselves, as they have their own separate circuit. Instead, it would impact the devices responsible for the engines, causing them to break down and the engines to shut down. As a result, the astronauts would be left stranded in orbit, approximately 250 km above the Earth’s surface, unable to enter the atmosphere. In this scenario, it could take up to three weeks for the cosmonauts to naturally return to Earth (as the ship would gradually start to descend due to friction). Unfortunately, the Soyuz MS spacecraft is not designed for such a long period of autonomous flight outside the station, and the cosmonauts would eventually succumb to suffocation.
The emblem of Soyuz MS-22 has been modified to emphasize the importance of a safe return without any incidents. There are no names or specific tasks associated with this mission, but the main objective remains the same – to ensure a successful journey back home. Source: Roscosmos
4. Why were Russian ships the only ones affected by space debris?
According to the NASA report, it is not only Russian ships that have been impacted by space debris. The report revealed that Crew Dragon-4 had as many as 14 impact marks. Additionally, between 2012 and 2020, over 300 micrometeoroid/space debris impact marks were discovered on the first-generation Dragon trucks that returned to Earth!
While these impacts did not penetrate the hull, they did cause significant damage. It’s important to note that the American segment of the International Space Station (ISS) flies forward in orbit. As a result, their ships and modules are reinforced more strongly than ours.
After examination by experts, several punctures were found in the Crew Dragon-4 spacecraft. Source: NASA
5. What are the implications of this emergency?
Firstly, cosmonauts Sergei Prokopyev and Dmitry Petelin, along with astronaut Frank Rubio, will now be flying to the ISS for a year instead of the planned six months due to the replacement of the spacecraft.
Secondly, the launch of the Belarusian female cosmonaut has been indefinitely postponed. She was scheduled for a short-term mission, but now Roscosmos has one less spacecraft. Additionally, the contract with RSC Energia for the spacecraft has not been renewed, and it is possible that the supply of spacecraft could unexpectedly end in 2025.
Experts discovered several openings in the Crew Dragon-4 spacecraft during their examination. This information was provided by NASA.
The discovery of these holes has caused a significant loss of trust in the spacecraft, which was previously considered the safest in the world. This incident has dealt a major blow to its reputation.
After being examined by experts, Crew Dragon-4 revealed several holes. Source: NASA
The integration of the Science module has been delayed, which is the fourth time this has happened. No spacewalks have taken place since December.
TOTAL
What lessons can be learned on Earth to avoid a repeat of this occurrence?
The International Space Station can be easily identified by its segments. In this photo, the Russian segment is located at the bottom while the American segment can be observed at the top. The Dragon spacecraft, which is docked to the Harmony module, is clearly visible. Source: Roscosmos
With each passing month, the amount of space debris in orbit continues to increase (thanks to you, Elon Musk). As a result, spacecraft are now being designed with thicker and thicker skins. It’s possible that in 10 years, we may have to travel to space in a tank.
Roscosmos has already announced that it will not modify the design of “Soyuz” and “Progress” due to this situation. However, engineers will consider this abnormal situation and devise a solution for the Oryol spacecraft.
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On August 15, a new manned mission to the International Space Station (ISS) is scheduled to take place aboard the Crew Dragon spacecraft, which is owned by the American company SpaceX. This upcoming launch is expected to be a significant event in the history of space exploration. Not only will it be the fourth launch as part of the U.S.-Russian cross-flight program, but it will also mark the first mission on the Crew Dragon that involves representatives from all four of the world’s major space agencies: NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), and Roscosmos.
The crew of the spacecraft named Endurance consists of: NASA astronaut Jasmine Mogbeli as the commander, ESA astronaut Andreas Mogensen as the pilot, JAXA astronaut Satoshi Furukawa as the mission specialist, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Konstantin Borisov who is also participating as a specialist in the Crew-7 mission as part of the Russia-U.S. cross-flight program.
Andreas Mogensen from Denmark is about to embark on his first long-duration journey to space as part of Crew-7. Prior to this mission, Mogensen had the opportunity to work on the International Space Station (ISS) as an engineer during a 10-day mission back in 2015. Among the crew members, Satoshi Furukawa holds the title for the most experienced, having spent 165 days on the ISS as an engineer. As for the spacecraft, this particular Dragon has already successfully transported crews for two previous missions, namely Crew-3 and Crew-5, to the ISS. So, while the rendezvous with space is not new for the Dragon, it marks a significant milestone for Mogensen as he embarks on his first long-term journey to orbit.
Konstantin Borisov, Andreas Mogensen, Jasmine Mogbeli, and Satoshi Furukawa are shown from left to right in the photo.
Our Preparations for the Flight
The Crew-7 crew emblem represents the orbital “friendship of nations,” with a dragon wrapping around the Earth and its tail painted in the colors of the four space explorers’ home countries.
Before the flight, the Crew-7 team made visits to both the United States and Russia. They prepared for the activities in the American segment of the ISS at the Lyndon Johnson Space Center in Houston. In preparation for the flight on Crew Dragon, they trained at the SpaceX center in Los Angeles. To familiarize themselves with the Russian segment of the station, they visited the Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Star City. Additionally, the specialists underwent practice sessions for handling emergency situations on the ISS, including fire, depressurization, and the release of hazardous substances.
Thoughts of our astronaut on the upcoming space mission
Astronaut Konstantin Borisov shared his anticipation for the upcoming space mission with the audience.
“It’s a bundle of incredible emotions. It’s like a child going to the sea for the first time, not knowing what to expect, but wanting it so much. And there’s also this sense of realization,” the astronaut told Vedomosti.
Konstantin Sergeevich expressed his excitement for experiencing weightlessness and witnessing the view of Earth from orbit. He also mentioned the anticipation of meeting his colleagues, whom the Crew-7 team will be replacing.
“I’m curious about the long-lasting sensations: how my body will react, how I will feel, how the group dynamics will unfold with my colleagues whom I’ll be living and working with in a limited space, and how I will handle the tasks,” added the astronaut.
“Within a compact group of just four individuals, we cultivate our own unique form of communication, complete with inside jokes that are exclusive to us. We possess the ability to comprehend certain concepts without the need for verbal expression – a mere subtle nod, gesture, or action in response to a familiar signal is sufficient.
As Borisov keenly observed, the group transforms into a seamlessly coordinated entity – a truly intriguing phenomenon,” he remarked, emphasizing the team’s remarkable level of enthusiasm.
Mission goals and objectives
The arrival of the Crew-7 mission marks a significant milestone for the International Space Station. This mission is particularly important because it allows for the replacement of the current crew members who have been on the station for an extended period of time due to the unforeseen malfunction of the “Soyuz MS-22” spacecraft. The crew members who will be returning to Earth are Sergei Prokopyev and Dmitry Petelin from Russia, as well as Francisco Rubio from the United States. It is worth noting that the Crew-7 crew will also have the unique opportunity to host space tourists on the ISS as part of the Axiom 3 mission, which is scheduled to take place in early 2024.
Aside from enhancing international collaboration, the upcoming space expedition is anticipated to make a significant contribution to the realm of science. Scientific research will cover various areas, such as investigating the effects of zero gravity on the human body, developing new life support technologies for space, exploring the space environment, and enhancing scientific equipment.
According to Konstantin Borisov’s blog, numerous medical and biological experiments are planned as part of the crew’s mission! The Russian cosmonaut, serving as a mission specialist, will directly participate in executing these experiments.
During the mission of Crew-7 on the ISS, they will be conducting a fascinating experiment involving the raising of Japanese quail chicks in a microgravity environment. Konstantin Borisov has been assigned the responsibility of carrying out this unique test. The experiment entails sending 48 eggs to the space station, where they will be placed in a special incubator designed for growing chicks. This incubator includes a centrifuge that simulates gravity similar to that of Earth, providing a conducive environment for the development of the quail chicks.
The astronaut will need to take great care to regularly transfer and secure the eggs in the incubator throughout the span of two weeks. Once this period is complete, the eggs will be brought back to Earth where scientists will conduct a thorough analysis of the impact of space conditions on embryonic development. This research aims to address the question of whether weightlessness or space radiation poses a greater threat to the development of living organisms in orbit.
The findings from this experiment will be valuable for future ISS missions, as it will provide them with the opportunity to raise birds with protein-rich eggs and greenery in space. Additionally, these results will also be beneficial for the prospective colonizers of outer space.
It should be pointed out that the current flight’s “trailblazers” – Jasmine Mogbeli and Konstantin Borisov – possess impressive and exceptional backgrounds that will undoubtedly serve them well during their space journeys. Ms. Mogbeli, a member of the US Marine Corps, boasts an extensive aviation career, having completed over 150 combat missions, including in highly volatile regions. It is truly remarkable to contemplate the physical and mental challenges that this remarkable individual has already overcome.
Konstantin Sergeyevich is a highly skilled freediver with extensive knowledge of the human body and the ability to conserve energy while underwater, similar to the conditions of weightlessness in space. He is proficient in maintaining spatial awareness and remaining calm in stressful situations, making him a valuable asset for space exploration.
“Out of all the crew members, I am the expert in detecting high levels of carbon dioxide in case of emergencies. I am familiar with the oxygen pressure thresholds that require the use of oxygen masks and I know how to hold my breath to navigate through a smoke-filled module,” Borisov shared with “Vedomosti”.
By the way, the Russian astronaut intends to bring with him on the upcoming space journey, along with his personal belongings, the flag of the Aqualibrium freediving and swimming club, which he co-founded with his colleague Irina Zelenkova in 2010.
“Speaking of the countdown: how do I feel? I feel that the flight is approaching for the first time. And it’s not just me – my fellow crew members express the same sentiment. A pleasant excitement lingers,” the Russian astronaut shared his pre-launch feelings in his blog.
We eagerly anticipate the launch of the new space mission and extend our best wishes to all members of Crew-7 for a smooth flight and successful accomplishment of their tasks!
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At present, the International Space Station (ISS) is home to a diverse group of seven astronauts hailing from various countries. Among them are three individuals from the United States, two from Russia, and one each from France and Japan. However, with the recent addition of three Chinese astronauts on the Tianhe base module of the Chinese orbital station, the total number of residents has now reached ten.
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Why do the Chinese and Russians have identical spacesuits?
"Luna-25" has captured the first photograph of the lunar surface.
An image of the lunar surface has been taken by the unmanned spacecraft, “Luna-25”, while it was orbiting the Moon’s artificial satellite. The photograph was captured using the television cameras of the STS-L complex.
The picture depicts the Zeeman crater, located at the southern pole on the far side of the Moon. The coordinates of the crater’s center correspond to a latitude of 75 degrees south and a longitude of 135 degrees west.
The Zeeman crater, which cannot be seen from Earth, is a one-of-a-kind feature on the moon’s surface and has attracted significant interest from researchers. The surrounding walls of the crater reach a height of 8 kilometers above the relatively flat bottom.
These newly obtained images provide valuable additional information about the crater. The Soviet automatic station “Luna-3” captured the world’s first image of the far side of the Moon back in October 1959.
“Luna-25” conducted observations using the ADRON-LR and PML instruments, as well as the ARIES-L. It measured gamma ray and neutron fluxes from the lunar surface and obtained data on the parameters of the near-lunar space plasma and the gas-dust exosphere in the vicinity of the lunar orbit.
- Exciting new images from LUNA-25!
- Continuation of the post “Exciting new images from LUNA-25!”
- On the occasion of the launch of “Luna-25”. Information regarding the scientific apparatus of the automated station
- Details on the Luna-25 device and the objectives of the project can be found at: https://spec.tass.ru/luna-25/
- For further information on the cameras, visit: http://ofo.ikiweb.ru/razrabotki/STS-L.html. Additionally, check out the First images from Luna-25 at the end of this post!
- Explore abstracts about cameras, sensors, and more on page 92 of the document available at: https://iki.cosmos.ru/sites/default/files/docs/annual/2021/R. Examples of images captured by other spacecraft are also included.
Russian cosmonautics news in short
While the news of the “Luna-25” station flight overshadows everything in the world of Russian space news, other enterprises are also making progress and nothing is standing still:
– The Progress MS-24 cargo spacecraft has undergone an inspection and the nose cone has been attached. Today, the Progress MS-24, along with the space head unit, has been brought to the MIC of pad 31 for final assembly. The launch is scheduled for August 23.
The ongoing process of preparing the infrastructure at the Vostochny Cosmodrome for testing and launching the Angara launch vehicle is still underway, and the cosmodrome’s airport has already welcomed its inaugural flight.
– The launch of the “Soyuz MS” manned spacecraft is scheduled for September 15, 2023 and is currently being prepared at Baikonur.
The launch of “Ionosphere-M №1” and “Ionosphere-M №2” as well as “Meteor-M №2-4” is scheduled for December.
Response to cihoxi5956 in “August 6, 1945”
Since we’re discussing this topic, I wanted to share more information about World War II and Japan’s involvement in it.
My Uncle Suren has done extensive research and provides a captivating narrative. Along with discussing the main theme of the video, he also touches on related historical facts. The material is presented by analyzing feature films that depict these events.
He goes into great detail about the centers where biological weapons were developed and the experiments conducted on people during that time.
The video also delves into the confrontation between the United States and Japan, including the attack on Pearl Harbor and other significant events.
I highly recommend exploring the rest of the content on the channel. There are only 24 videos available, but each one is a true masterpiece.
The tentative date for the second Starship flight test is set for August 31st
An advisory issued to seafarers operating in the vicinity of Brownsville, Texas, has provided details regarding the designated zones for the potential descent/landing of rocket components, as well as the anticipated date of the experimental trial.
Progress in assembling prototypes of Starship and Super Heavy
Starship:
S25 – flight preparation, currently located in the rocket garden
S26 – currently installed in the rocket garden
S28 – engines being installed, on the exhibition area stand
S29 – final assembly taking place in the hangar
S30 – large-scale assembly in progress
S31-34 – production of parts ongoing.
Super Heavy updates:
B9 – currently undergoing flight preparation in the hangar
B10 – already installed in the rocket garden
B11 – also installed in the rocket garden
B12 – currently in the process of large-scale assembly
B13-15 – currently being produced as individual parts.
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“Luna-25” successfully reached the orbit of the Moon’s artificial satellite!
In a historic moment for Russia, at 12:03 Moscow time, an automated spacecraft successfully entered the orbit of the Moon’s artificial satellite!
This was accomplished through two activations of the automatic station propulsion system. The initial activation occurred at 11:57 Moscow time when the corrective braking engine was engaged for a duration of 243 seconds. The second activation involved the soft landing engines and lasted 76 seconds.
All systems on Luna-25 are operating normally, and communication with the station is stable. We are currently conducting measurement sessions to assess the current navigation parameters.
Continuation of the article “First glimpses of LUNA-25!”
Responding to the requests of our readers, Roscosmos presents a fresh, vibrant image captured by the cameras of the automated spacecraft “Luna-25” during its journey towards Earth’s natural satellite.
3. The Luna-25 device and its project objectives: https://spec.tass.ru/luna-25/
Attention! Currently, only a limited communication channel is active, resulting in information being transmitted at a speed of 1-4 kilobits per second. A narrowband antenna for faster communication will be deployed after landing.
NASA to Conduct Laser Communication Tests as Part of Psyche Asteroid Mission
The Psyche spacecraft, set to be launched this October aboard a Falcon Heavy rocket to the metallic asteroid Psyche, has now incorporated the experimental Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) long-range space communications system. This state-of-the-art terminal will allow NASA to trial a cutting-edge communication technology for deep space well in advance of the probe’s arrival at Psyche.
The Psyche asteroid mission by NASA will include testing of laser communications instead of radio communications. This new technology, which uses a laser in the near infrared range, offers several advantages over traditional radio communications. Not only is it lightweight, but it also allows for the transmission of a much larger amount of information. It is estimated that the throughput capacity will increase by 10-100 times compared to a radio channel.
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Continued from the post “First images from LUNA-25!”
Mikhail Kotov provided insightful comments along with the images:
Ilya, my partner at an advertising agency in a previous life, never allowed me to share pictures of the advertising production process. He always justified this decision with the same strict reasoning: “Fools are not shown half the work.” When I read the comments online about the technical images sent by Luna-25 yesterday, it reminded me of Ilya…
“Why is the resolution so low?”
Firstly, it is advisable to utilize the original, larger photos shared by IKI RAS. Secondly, these particular images are intended for performance testing purposes and not necessarily designed to please Seryozha from the third entrance. By using smaller photos, we can reduce internet traffic and allocate more time for essential technical information.
“Why aren’t the photos in color? Did you steal the camera from my intercom?”
The explanation for this query is identical to the one mentioned earlier. Luna-25 does not possess black and white cameras, so it is highly probable (although I don’t possess precise information) that they employed a blue or green channel for simplicity.
“Why does the moon appear so diminutive?”
The focal length of this camera is different from what you’re used to. To illustrate this, try taking a picture of the moon tonight with your smartphone using the standard settings. You’ll notice that the moon appears much smaller and it doesn’t capture a wide angle view.
“Since the station is headed to the moon, one would expect the moon to appear larger.”
The trajectory of the “Luna-25” spacecraft is not a simple straight line or arc as shown in the diagram. The actual orbit is more complex. If you attend the Summer Space School for ballistics, they can provide further explanation =)
p.s. Currently, the transmission rate from the Moon-25 is about 1 kbit/sec. After a successful landing, a narrow directional antenna will be deployed, enabling the transmission of panoramic photos in color.
Here is an example of the initial photos captured by Curiosity:
Discovering the Charm of Russian Women: Talleyrand’s Encounter
Charles Talleyrand, a servant to multiple masters, managed to navigate through six different political regimes and survive. One particular incident stands out – a cunning and vengeful minister once invited a Russian countess, who was in Paris for some fashionable shopping, to a dinner party. However, the countess became so engrossed in her preparations that she completely forgot about the visit to Talleyrand and arrived an hour late.
Talleyrand, who did not take kindly to being neglected by anyone, greeted the tardy guest with a benevolent smile and graciously accepted her apology. He then proceeded to seat the countess at the table, showing no sign of resentment.
Less than 30 minutes later, while speaking to the English ambassador, the former prime minister of Bonaparte expressed in the “lifeless” ancient Greek tongue: “Once a woman is no longer young, and has never possessed a deceitful countenance since birth, she forfeits the right to keep others waiting.”
To the astonishment of the minister, it was not an Englishman, but rather a Russian countess who responded to his vulgar jest in the same language: “Gentlemen, upon entering this chamber, any lady would immediately discern the immense unhappiness that awaits her today, as she will be forced to dine with elderly and uncouth individuals. Therefore, she should not have delayed, but rather should have refrained from attending altogether.”
Russia and China reintroduce visa-free tourism agreement
🇷🇺🇨🇳Russia and China have implemented a new visa-free tourism agreement: groups of five or more tourists following the same itinerary and program will now have the opportunity to visit the neighboring country without the need for visas.
Radar on GEO: China astounds the world once more
At 01:26 Beijing time on August 13, 2023 (17:26 UTC on August 12), the Changzheng-3B carrier (CZ-3B #Y92) successfully launched the Ludi tance-4 radar surveillance satellite No. 01 (陆地探测四号01星, Ludi tance 4 01, LT-4 01), a civilian satellite, from launch pad No. 2 of the Xichang Space Launch Center.
The satellite was detected by the U.S. Space Command in a geo-transitional orbit with the following parameters:
- inclination – 28.50°;
- minimum altitude – 176 km;
- maximum altitude – 35819 km;
- orbital period – 631.2 min.
It has been assigned the number 57624 in the U.S. space catalog and given the international designation 2023-120A.
Red launch success screen
Officially, the LT-4 01 satellite is produced by the Beijing Space Technology Research Academy CAST, also known as the “Fifth Academy”. It is an L-band radar surveillance satellite equipped with SAR aperture synthesis technology. It is designed to operate from an inclined geosynchronous orbit. Interestingly, in Xinhua’s report on the launch, it is referred to as L-SAR4 01. Its main objectives include disaster prevention and control, earthquake monitoring, land and resource surveying, oceanology, ecology, water resources protection, agriculture and forestry, meteorology, and support for other industries in China and neighboring countries.
The spacecraft was constructed as part of the National Plan for Medium- and Long-Term Development of Civil Space Infrastructure (2015-2025). The China National Space Administration oversees the project, with the Earth Observation and Data Center handling implementation. The Ministry of Emergency Management, Ministry of Natural Resources, Ministry of Water Resources, China Meteorological Administration, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, and the State Administration of Forestry and Steppe Management are among the users of the spacecraft. Ground application system development was carried out by the China Remote Sensing Satellite Application Center and the Innovation Research Academy of Aerospace Information of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
While the United States had the first publications on geostationary satellites with radars back in 1978, China has become the pioneer in implementing this technology. It is worth noting that China has also made significant advancements in detailed optical observation from the geostationary position. This can be seen through the launch of the Gaofen-4 satellite in 2015 and the subsequent launch of two Gaofen-13 satellites in 2020 and 2023. For more information, you can visit https://novosti-kosmonavtiki.ru/articles/85714/.
One of the main advantages of this technology is its wide field of view and the ability to constantly or frequently observe specific areas. Radar satellites in low orbit with a narrow imaging band can capture multiple images at intervals of about 10 days or more. However, there are some clear disadvantages as well. These include the requirement for a powerful onboard radar (as the reflected signal weakens in proportion to the fourth degree of distance!), significant time delays that complicate data processing, and low spatial resolution.
For the Chinese geosynchronous satellite project with SAR L-band radar, an initial resolution of 20 meters was announced. Additionally, the highly developed southeastern coast of the country would be observed every 4 hours, while other areas such as the middle and lower part of the Yangtze Valley and the Beijing-Tianjin area would be observed every 8 hours.
Furthermore, they detailed the Earth surface sensing tests carried out in 2013 and 2016 using Chinese Beidou inclined geosynchronous navigation satellites that operate at an inclination of 53.4°. Despite the navigation signal being encoded and having low power, the matching L frequency range and similar bandwidth (20 MHz for Beidou, 18 MHz for the planned SAR satellite) enabled us to acquire significant outcomes and validate theoretical projections for spatial resolution and multidimensional monitoring of land surface deformation.
The first mention of a Chinese geosynchronous radar project with a resolution of 20 m can be traced back to August 2015, when it was being developed for earthquake and elevation change monitoring purposes. Chief designer and administrative head Zhang Qingjun (张庆君) of the Fifth Academy officially announced the project in December 2019, with a planned launch date in 2020. However, contrary to expectations, the satellite was not put into orbit until August 2023.
In the meantime, it was revealed in September 2020 that the XIII Five-Year Plan (2016-2020) included four projects for the construction of civilian radar remote sensing satellites:
- A pair of satellites equipped with C-band radars and a spatial resolution of 1 m;
- A pair of satellites equipped with S-band radars and a spatial resolution of 5 meters;
- Two satellites equipped with L-band radars and capable of achieving a spatial resolution of 3 meters;
- A single high-altitude satellite featuring an L-band radar system and a resolution of 20 meters.
Indeed, all of them were launched between 2021 and 2023 (check the table). The initial characterization pertains to the operational satellites Gaofen-3 (see source), the second batch was launched under the names Yingji Jianzai-2 or Huanjing Jianzai-2 (see source), and the third group is known as Ludi tanze-1 (see source). The two Gaofengs operate in a terminator sun-synchronous orbit with the descending node passing at 06:00 local time and are situated in a 180° shifted orbit. In a similar fashion, a pair of “Ludi tanqe-1” has been constructed since December 2022, although prior to that, they traveled in close formation for six months, showcasing the potential for interferometric imaging. As for the Jianzai, the second one was launched just five days ago, but the plan to position a pair of satellites in antiphase has been announced. The orbital plane is the same for all of them; only the operating altitudes and orbital periods vary.
News about the upcoming launch of LT-4 01 started to circulate on June 30, when it was announced that the standard drop area east of Taiwan will be closed from August 11 to 14. This closure is necessary for the safe launch of the second stages of Chinese rockets from Xichang into a geo-transition orbit.
On July 17, Chinese media confirmed that an unnamed satellite was transported from Beijing to the spaceport via rail. The satellite was carefully packed in a specially designed container and the transportation process took place during the night of June 3, 2023. After a six-day journey, the satellite safely arrived in Xichang on June 9. This new delivery method was introduced as a cost-effective solution, with claims that it is 80% cheaper compared to the previous standard method of air delivery using the An-124-100 aircraft. Although air delivery would be faster and less taxing on the spacecraft, the current situation does not allow for the leasing of foreign aircraft. Additionally, access to their own military transport aircraft, such as the Yun-20, may also be limited.
The Chinese recently announced that the rocket launch will take place on the night of August 11-12, with designated impact areas within the PRC. However, these reservations were canceled on August 11 and reissued on August 12 with a 24-hour delay. The launch successfully occurred within the scheduled 79-minute window.
Launch Complex No. 2 was prepared a day prior to the rocket launch
The LT-4 launch utilized a CZ-3B rocket in the G3 modernization variant with a head fairing of 4.20 m in diameter. This launch marked the 91st mission for the CZ-3B carrier, the 292nd for rockets designed in Beijing, and the 483rd for the overall Great Trek family of boosters.
The launch of the spacecraft from Cape Canaveral occurred at 17:37 on Sunday local time, and the docking took place at 9:12 on Sunday local time (16:12 Moscow time), according to NASA’s live broadcast as reported by RIA “Novosti”.
Upon completion of the docking, the space tourists will have the opportunity to board the ISS. On board the Crew Dragon for the Ax-2 mission are former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, car racer John Shoffner, and two astronauts from Saudi Arabia – Ali al-Qarni and the first Arab woman astronaut, Rayana Barnaoui.
They are scheduled to participate in the scientific work of the station crew and carry out over 20 experiments. The return date for the mission crew has not yet been determined.
During the recent military operations on the Donetsk front, the Southern Group, in collaboration with aviation and artillery, successfully defended against four attacks by the Ukrainian Armed Forces near Zaliznyanske, Staromikhailovka, and Krasnogorovka in the Donetsk People’s Republic (DNR). Furthermore, they launched a successful offensive, leading to an improvement in their position on the front line, according to Lt. Gen. Igor Konashenkov, the Defense Ministry spokesman, during a briefing.
Additionally, the assault units of the Russian group also conducted a successful offensive, resulting in an improvement along the front line, as reported by the Russian Defense Ministry’s Telegram channel.
Moreover, at the Mezhevaya station in the Dnepropetrovsk region, a missile strike targeted the unloading area, resulting in the destruction of a military train carrying ammunition.
The enemy suffered significant losses in this sector within the past 24 hours, with casualties reaching up to 310 soldiers. Additionally, they lost a tank, three armored vehicles, and a howitzer D-20, as reported by the Defense Ministry.
In regards to gas transit, Ukrainian Energy Minister Galushchenko stated that Kiev has no desire to engage in negotiations with Russia.
Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko has stated that Kiev will not participate in discussions with Russia regarding the extension of the gas transit contract to Europe.
As reported by Ukrainian media outlet RBC, Galushchenko also mentioned that the upcoming year will demonstrate Europe’s ability to function without relying on Russian gas.
Despite ongoing hostilities and years of sanctions, the transit of Russian gas to the European Union through Ukraine has persisted. Currently, there is a five-year contract in effect, which was signed in 2019. In June, Galushchenko expressed doubt that Moscow and Kiev would reach an agreement to extend the contract.
The commander of the AFU thero-defense unit in Kherson Region has been apprehended by FSB officers from the Far East.
The Russian Federal Security Service of Russia’s Khabarovsk Territory has announced that counterintelligence officers operating in the area of a special military operation have apprehended a Ukrainian citizen, aged 54, on charges of espionage. It has been revealed that the individual in question was the leader of a territorial defense unit within the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Remember, the FSB Department in the Kherson region thwarted the activities of a group of AFU accomplices who were leaking information about the military infrastructure of the Russian Armed Forces in the North-Eastern Military District zone.
Kadyrov calls for combating “ridiculous regulations” and “novelty” at weddings in Chechnya
Ramzan Kadyrov, the leader of Chechnya, expressed his disapproval of the recent changes in wedding traditions in the region, which have led to a significant increase in wedding costs.
In Chechen society, weddings have become a way to demonstrate wealth. The groom’s family strives to create a grand ceremony, while the bride often struggles to gather a dowry that she cannot afford, as reported by RIA Novosti.
Kadyrov discussed the issue of wedding celebrations during a meeting with government officials, religious leaders, and law enforcement agencies in the region, as stated on Telegram. He highlighted the significant changes that have taken place in recent years regarding these events.
Kadyrov expressed his view that there are now “completely absurd regulations” that do not align with “religion and cultural traditions.” As a result, people have become “victims of these new rules,” leading to a considerable rise in the expenses associated with organizing weddings.
The leader instructed clergy representatives to create a set of measures to counteract the innovations and emphasized that the authorities will closely monitor adherence to the prescribed rules. Additionally, the Chechen leader highlighted the successful eradication of bride theft and other abnormal phenomena.
It is worth noting that the local authorities in Chechnya have previously overseen the conformity of wedding ceremonies with the Chechen mentality.
Economist Lizan suggests that Ukraine’s decision to send the Joseph Schulte dry cargo ship from Odessa to Turkey may provoke Russia into a strong response.
According to political scientist and economist Ivan Lizan, Ukraine’s recent PR efforts with the Joseph Schulte ship in the Black Sea may not necessarily indicate the success of the temporary corridor they initiated. Instead, it could be seen as a deliberate provocation to gauge Russia’s reaction. The container ship Joseph Schulte, which was transporting Ukrainian grain, has recently exited Ukrainian territorial waters.
"The act of sending the Joseph Schulte ship filled with Ukrainian grain from Odessa can be seen as a "test run" to gauge our response and also as a blatant act of provocation. The Ukrainians would actually be pleased if we were to sink the ship, as it would give them a perfect excuse to once again accuse the Russians of cruelty. Additionally, considering that the container ship was flying the flag of Hong Kong, we can interpret this as an attempt to further frustrate us with China," stated Ivan Lizan, a political scientist and economist.
"Russia has not made any hasty decisions. It is imperative to closely monitor the unfolding of this situation. If the corridor remains open and functional, it is expected that our military and political leaders will respond firmly. However, it is important not to overly focus on how the Ukrainians are currently publicizing this incident," the expert advised.
“The presence of grain ports in Odessa confirms that Russia’s intention is not to destroy food supplies and incite a humanitarian crisis. When our troops target ports, their primary objective is to destroy military facilities. Grain terminals may be affected if they are located near warehouses with equipment and weapons,” emphasized Lizan.
On Wednesday, the ship Joseph Schulte, carrying over 30,000 tons of cargo, departed from the Odessa port, utilizing the temporary corridor in the Black Sea that was established by Kiev. The Minister of Infrastructure of Ukraine, Oleksandr Kubrakov, announced this on his Facebook page (which is owned by Meta, a platform recognized as extremist and banned in Russia). He stated that the container ship is proceeding along the temporary corridor designated for civilian vessels towards the Bosporus, as reported by “Kommersant”.
According to publicly available data, the Joseph Schulte was nearing Bulgarian territorial waters by mid-afternoon on Thursday. Earlier reports from TASS indicated that the vessel was bound for the Turkish port of Ambarli. It is worth mentioning that the container ship had been docked at the port of Odessa since February 23 of the previous year. Furthermore, it is worth noting that the departure of the Joseph Schulte from the port of Odessa on this occasion marks the first time a vessel has left since July 16.
Last week, Ukraine announced the establishment of temporary passages for vessels in the Black Sea. This decision was made in accordance with the navigation directive issued by the Ukrainian Armed Forces Navy No. 6 on 08.08.2023. The Ukrainian Navy’s communication emphasized that there still exists a military threat and the presence of mines along all routes. Prior to this, Ukraine had proposed these passages to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), whose council recognized Ukraine’s right to unrestricted commercial navigation, as guaranteed by international maritime law.
It is worth noting that Russia presented seven conditions for resuming the implementation of the grain agreement at the United Nations. These conditions clearly outlined the aspects of the Black Sea grain initiative that had not been fulfilled. The Kremlin called on the U.S. to not just promise, but to actually fulfill the Russian part of the grain deal.
Mysl Polska: Poland is purchasing weapons from Western countries in preparation for war following Ukraine’s unsuccessful attempt
Eugeniusz Zinkiewicz, a columnist for the Polish publication Mysl Polska, suggests that Poland’s recent acquisition of a significant number of offensive weapons may indicate preparations for war, particularly in light of Ukraine’s impending defeat.
It appears that the Polish authorities are formulating an audacious plan, as evidenced by their weapon purchases, leading to the impression that they are getting ready for conflict, according to the journalist’s report cited by Ura.ru.
Zinkiewicz also points out that the Polish authorities’ reliance on Western weapons is futile, as these armaments are in a deplorable state of disrepair, contributing to the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ failures.
Recent news revealed that Warsaw plans to bolster its military presence on the Belarusian border with a force of 10,000 troops in the near future. Poland’s Defense Minister, Mariusz Blaszczak, asserts that within two years, this region will house the most formidable army in Europe.
Meanwhile, Poland’s actions are being described by Belarus as a demonstration of its military might.
According to an article in the VZGLYAD newspaper, Poland is considering the use of American tanks to launch an attack on Brest and Kaliningrad.
A video depicting the elimination of a military convoy carrying ammunition for the Ukrainian army has been released by the Russian Defense Ministry.
The Defense Ministry’s Telegram channel recently shared drone footage of the striking of railcars transporting ammunition for the Ukrainian armed forces.
The video captures a train of three boxcars parked at the unloading platform, alongside approximately six trucks intended for ammunition loading.
Subsequently, the strikes resulted in a fire and the detonation of the ammunition.
Prior to this, the Defense Ministry had announced that the convoy had been destroyed at the Mezhevaya railway station in the Dnipropetrovsk region.
Russian military reporters showcased a “genuine genocide” of Ukrainian infantry on the Zaporizhzhya front using Russian FPV drones.
The footage, which was shared on the Telegram channel “Voenkory Russkaya Vesna,” depicts kamikaze drones executing effective strikes against both concealed and exposed militants.
Prior to this, CCBR Director General Dmitry Kuzyakin stated that the advantage of FPV drones in the NWO zone is their ability to remain intact and continue flying even after colliding with airplane-type drones.
The Ukrainian Armed Forces (AFU) are currently facing a severe lack of reserves, and the existing ones are depleting rapidly. As a result, the Ukrainian command is actively seeking reinforcements. According to military analyst Mikhail Onufrienko, Syrsky is hoping to secure additional forces in the Kupyansk direction through his recent statements. Onufrienko also mentioned that the situation for the AFU near Kupyansk has worsened, as acknowledged by the Ukrainian general himself.
“Syrsky is well-known for leading an unsuccessful counteroffensive by the AFU near Artemivsk. Despite launching continuous attacks for three months, he failed to capture any nearby settlements or secure control over the entire city. Following this setback, the general was reassigned to command Ukrainian forces in the Kupyansk direction,” explained military analyst Mikhail Onufrienko.
“Ukraine is facing a shortage of fresh troops, resulting in a competitive atmosphere among the military leadership as they vie for reinforcements. As a result, Syrsky is intentionally exaggerating the level of threat in his area in order to attract more reserves under his command and avoid another failure,” he stressed.
“I am of the opinion that our army currently does not have the objective of swiftly blocking and capturing Kupyansk. Achieving this task would require a large-scale offensive operation with a breakthrough of the enemy’s front. Such an approach goes against the flexible defense strategy that the Russian command has adopted,” the expert explained.
"However, the current situation in the Kupyansk area is still unfavorable for Ukraine. We are gradually wearing down the enemy, forcing them to deploy their reserves into the conflict. As a result, the Russian army is diverting attention and resources away from the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ planned counter-offensive in the Zaporizhzhya region," summarized Onufrienko.
Prior to this, the commander of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, Oleksandr Syrskyy, expressed concern that the situation for the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the Kupyansk area has become more complex. The general is worried about the potential blockade and capture of the city by the Russian army.
Russian forces in the Kupyansk direction have successfully seized control of two strongholds and observation posts, as well as vanquished up to two infantry platoons in the Olshan area. To regain their lost positions, the opposing forces launched five counterattacks, all of which were repelled by the Russian Army, according to a report from the Russian Defense Ministry’s Telegram channel.
During the intense conflict, Lancet barrage munitions effectively neutralized two Crab UAS drones of Polish origin near the villages of Kucherovka and Petropavlovka, as well as three enemy howitzers near Kurilovka, Lozovaya, and Novoselovskoye. Additionally, the SAM “Tor” missile systems successfully intercepted and destroyed three UAVs operated by the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
We would like to remind you that Ukraine has recently issued an order for the compulsory evacuation of residents from frontline areas in the Kupyansk district. This directive specifically affects the left bank of the Kupyansk city community, as well as the Kondrashevskaya, Dvurechanskaya, Kurilovskaya, and Petropavlovsk rural communities.
Previously, the newspaper VZGLYAD provided a comprehensive report on Russia’s involvement in the liberation of Kupyansk.
Valery Fadeyev, the head of the Human Rights Commission, has stated in a letter to regional prosecutor Alexander Yanovsky that a veteran of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) in Transbaikalia, who had previously been convicted of a serious crime, has been repeatedly making threats and insults towards the residents of the Nerchinskiy Zavod village.
In a recent update on his Telegram channel, Fadeyev revealed that he has requested Alexander Yanovsky, the prosecutor of Zabaikalsky Krai, to personally oversee the criminal investigation into the assault on the SWO member in the Nerchinsky Zavod village, as the case has taken a new turn.
Moreover, the attackers, as per the available information, do not oppose the SVO and actively participate in patriotic activities.
Priorly, a 27-year-old man was apprehended in Nerchinskiy Zavod village on suspicion of assaulting a member of the NWO.
Alexander Osipov, the Governor of Zabaikalsky Krai, disclosed that several individuals in the village, under the influence of alcohol, physically assaulted a participant of the SWO. The regional authorities and experts from the capital are closely monitoring the situation, according to him.
During the inauguration of passenger traffic on the third Moscow Central Diameter (MCD-3), Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the potential development of a high-speed railroad (HSR) connecting Adler and extending towards Donetsk and Luhansk.
According to Putin, the implementation of this project would significantly reduce travel time, with the Moscow-Adler route taking only 10 hours, as reported by TASS.
The President also emphasized the importance of extending a similar rail line to Lugansk and Donetsk in the future.
Earlier, Putin expressed his belief that it is now time to bring the vision of the Moscow-St. Petersburg High-Speed Railway to life. The President emphasized that there will be a significant need for a high-speed rail connection to Minsk.
The objectives of the special operation on the Ukrainian territory have already been accomplished, according to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in an interview with Ukrainian journalist Diana Panchenko. He stated that the Kiev regime will no longer exhibit the same level of aggression towards Russia as it previously had.
When asked if Russian President Vladimir Putin had specified the conditions under which the objectives of the Strategic Air Defense Forces would be fulfilled, Lukashenko mentioned that he had not had such discussions with his Russian counterpart, as reported by TASS.
According to his own viewpoint, he indicated that the objectives of the NWO have already been accomplished and Ukraine will never exhibit such aggressive behavior towards Russia after the cessation of hostilities as it did before.
Furthermore, Lukashenko mentioned in the interview that certain units from Russia entered Ukraine via Belarusian territory.
The Italian Foreign Minister, Tajani, labeled the killing of Gaddafi as a significant error.
“Making the decision to assassinate” Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi was a grave error, stated Italian Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani.
Speaking at a public gathering in Lucca, Tajani mentioned that while Gaddafi could not be deemed a “paragon of democracy,” his death had resulted in “instability” across North Africa. Tajani further asserted that Gadhafi “was certainly preferable to those who succeeded him.” In the aftermath of Gadhafi’s demise, terrorist activities and the rise of the Muslim Brotherhood have plagued the region, the minister claimed. Tajani also acknowledged that the agreements with Gadhafi had enabled Italy to stem the flow of migrants. His remarks were met with applause, as reported by RIA Novosti.
According to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Ukraine has suffered a loss of 45,000 people who were killed or injured during the counteroffensive.
“During the counteroffensive, you have experienced the tragic loss of 45,000 individuals. Your casualties on the front line are in a ratio of 1 to 8,” Lukashenko’s statement was reported by TASS.
Lukashenko also revealed that Russia has a reserve of 250,000 well-equipped soldiers. “They will crush you here, and then they will carry out the action that instills the most fear in you – they will isolate you, cutting you off from Moldova and Transnistria,” Lukashenko warned.
Furthermore, Lukashenko noted that the West is slowly realizing that Ukraine will not be able to sustain itself even with their assistance. He emphasized that Ukraine may be reduced to a mere fraction of its current territory if it refuses to engage in negotiations.
Earlier, the Belarusian president expressed his views on the preferred format for negotiations concerning Ukraine.
According to Expert Yushkov, the United States is pressuring Ukraine to relinquish its control over the transit of Russian gas.
According to energy expert Igor Yushkov, the United States will be the primary beneficiaries if Russian gas transit through Ukraine is terminated. However, neither Moscow nor Kiev will gain any advantages from such decisions. The VZGLYAD newspaper reported that Ukraine recently announced it would not participate in negotiations regarding the extension of the gas transit contract to Europe.
“From an economic perspective, it would be beneficial for Ukraine to maintain the transit of Russian gas. However, the political aspect is now also significant – Zelensky’s administration has been engaged in extensive propaganda efforts to demonize Moscow,” stated Igor Yushkov, an expert at the Financial University under the Russian government and the National Energy Security Fund.
“The Ukrainian government has escalated the situation to such an extent that any attempts to find a satisfactory resolution through dialogue with Gazprom are bound to result in dissatisfaction from both Zelensky’s administration and ordinary citizens. Not to mention the enormous role played by the United States in the transit dispute,” the source added.
“The United States has always been interested in disrupting gas cooperation between Russia and Europe. It seems that they were behind the explosions on the “Nord Streams” and put pressure on the EU to cut off any resource cooperation with Moscow,” the expert highlights.
“The next move for America could be to ban transit through Ukraine. However, this will be quite challenging to accomplish, as long-term contracts are gradually becoming less relevant,” Yushkov suggests.
“Ukraine has transitioned to the European system of contracting transit capacity. Therefore, the country is obligated to hold regular auctions for the use of its gas system capacities. Gazprom, in turn, can purchase daily lots for gas pumping without any sanctions imposed against it so far,” the source emphasizes.
“Maintaining long-term contracts promotes stability and predictability within the economy. It would also be advantageous for Russia to preserve its current relationships as there are currently no alternative gas pipelines available to fulfill our contractual obligations with Europe. Remaining in this market is a matter of principle,” Yushkov summarizes.
Previously, Ukraine announced that it would not participate in negotiations with Moscow regarding the extension of the gas transit contract to Europe. This statement was made by the state’s Minister of Energy, German Galushchenko. He stated that the upcoming year will reveal the region’s ability to function without relying on Russian resources.
According to RBC, the current contracts were made in 2019 and are valid until the end of 2024. These contracts require Gazprom to transport 225 billion cubic meters of gas through Ukraine, with specific annual amounts of 65 billion in 2020 and 40 billion in each subsequent year.
Simultaneously, in May, Oleksiy Chernyshov, the head of Naftohaz, stated that Ukraine should not and cannot close down the pipelines because it relies on the consistent revenue from transit. The Washington Post reported on this statement, noting that Ukraine aims to be a dependable partner for European countries that still rely on Moscow’s resources.
Despite the conflicts and nearly a decade of sanctions confrontation, the transportation of Russian gas to the European Union through Ukraine is still ongoing. However, in June, Galushchenko stated that it is unlikely for the nations to come to an agreement in extending the current agreements.
The International Space Station (ISS) is the follow-up to the MIR station, which was the largest and most costly facility ever built by humans.
What is the size of the orbital station? What is its price tag? How do astronauts reside and operate within it?
All of these questions will be addressed in this article.
The International Space Station (ISS) serves as a versatile space complex in orbit.
This is a scientific endeavor that involves 14 nations:
- The Russian Federation,
- The United States of America,
- France,
- Germany,
- Belgium,
- Japan,
- Canada,
- Sweden,
- Spain,
- The Netherlands,
- Switzerland,
- Denmark,
- Norway,
- Italy.
The construction of the ISS commenced in 1998. At that point in time, the initial module of the Russian Proton-K rocket was launched. Subsequently, the other participating countries started delivering additional modules to the station.
Kindly take note: In the English language, the ISS is abbreviated as ISS, which stands for International Space Station.
Some individuals firmly believe that the International Space Station (ISS) is non-existent and that all space travel is actually filmed on Earth. Nevertheless, the existence of the manned station has been substantiated, and scientists have thoroughly refuted the deceit theory.
Composition and size of the global space station
The ISS serves as an extensive laboratory with the primary objective of examining our planet. Simultaneously, the station provides a living space for the astronauts who conduct research and experiments there.
The International Space Station has a length of 109 meters, a width of 73.15 meters, and a height of 27.4 meters. Its total weight is 417,289 kilograms.
What is the price of the orbital station?
The facility is estimated to cost 150 billion dollars. It is the most expensive project in human history.
The altitude and velocity of the International Space Station (ISS)
The ISS is typically situated at an average altitude of 384.7 km.
The velocity is equivalent to 27,700 km/h. The space station completes a full orbit around the Earth in 92 minutes.
Here’s an interesting fact: The International Space Station (ISS) travels at such a high speed that astronauts onboard can witness sunrises and sunsets 16 times a day.
Station Time and Crew’s Schedule
The ISS operates on London time, and the astronauts’ workday begins at 6am. During this time, each crew member establishes communication with their respective countries.
Online listening is available for crew reports. The workday concludes at 7pm London time.
Flight trajectory
The station orbits the planet along a specific path. A dedicated map displays the current location of the spacecraft along its trajectory, as well as various parameters including time, speed, altitude, latitude, and longitude.
Pay attention: You have the opportunity to check the current location of the ISS here.
Why doesn’t the ISS plummet to Earth? In reality, the object does fall towards Earth, but it narrowly avoids collision because it is constantly in motion at a specific velocity. Regular adjustments to its trajectory are necessary. As the station gradually loses some of its velocity, it gradually approaches Earth.
What is the temperature outside the International Space Station (ISS)?
The temperature outside the ISS is continuously fluctuating and is directly influenced by the presence or absence of sunlight. When in the shadow, it remains at approximately -150 degrees Celsius.
If the space station is positioned directly under the sun, the external temperature reaches +150 degrees Celsius.
Temperature within the station
Despite the temperature variations outside, the interior of the spacecraft maintains an average temperature of approximately 23-27 degrees Celsius, making it completely suitable for human habitation.
Astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) experience a range of activities throughout their day, including sleeping, eating, exercising, working, and resting. These conditions are meticulously designed to be as comfortable as possible given the unique environment of the ISS.
The Importance of Proper Breathing for Astronauts
One of the key considerations in the development of the ISS was ensuring that astronauts had access to the necessary conditions to maintain proper breathing. To address this, the spacecraft is equipped with systems that generate oxygen from water, ensuring a constant supply of fresh air for the astronauts.
A unique mechanism known as the “Air” system effectively eliminates carbon dioxide by expelling it into space. The station’s oxygen supply is replenished through the process of electrolyzing water, and there are also dedicated oxygen tanks available onboard.
What is the duration of the journey from the spaceport to the ISS?
The flight typically lasts slightly more than 2 days. There is also a faster option that takes only 6 hours (although it is not feasible for cargo spacecraft).
The distance between the Earth and the ISS ranges from 413 to 429 kilometers.
What Astronauts Do: Life on the ISS
Every crew member on the International Space Station (ISS) carries out scientific experiments that are requested by research institutes in their respective countries.
There are numerous categories of such investigation:
- educational,
- technical,
- environmental,
- biotechnology,
- biomedical,
- the exploration of living and working conditions in orbit,
- the examination of space and planet Earth,
- physical and chemical processes in space,
- research on the solar system and other related areas.
Current Crew Members of the International Space Station
Currently, the International Space Station is hosting a team of astronauts consisting of Sergei Prokopyev from Russia, Serena Aunion-Chancellor from the United States, and Alexander Gerst from Germany.
Following the accident, the planned launch from the Baikonur Cosmodrome on October 11 had to be postponed. As of now, the specific date and crew members for the upcoming flight to the ISS remain unknown.
How to get in touch with the ISS
Actually, there is an opportunity for everyone to communicate with the international space station. To accomplish this, you will require some specialized equipment:
- a transceiver,
- an antenna (designed for the frequency range of 145 MHz),
- a rotating mechanism,
- a computer capable of calculating the orbit of the ISS.
Nowadays, each and every astronaut has access to high-speed Internet. The majority of experts communicate with their friends and family through platforms like Skype, and they also have their own personal profiles on social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, where they share incredibly beautiful photographs of our lush and vibrant planet.
The Frequency of ISS Circuits around the Earth in a 24-hour Period
The International Space Station orbits around our planet with a speed that allows for 16 circuits around the Earth each day. This means that astronauts have the opportunity to witness the sunrise a total of 16 times and experience the beauty of a sunset 16 times within a single day.
The International Space Station (ISS) maintains a constant speed of 27700 km/hour, preventing it from falling back to Earth.
Current Location of the ISS and How to Spot It from Earth
Many individuals wonder if it is possible to spot the spacecraft with the naked eye. Given its consistent orbit and substantial size, the ISS can be seen by anyone.
Observing the spacecraft in the sky is possible during both day and night, although it is advisable to do so at nighttime.
If you want to know when the International Space Station will fly over your city, you can sign up for the NASA newsletter. A special service called Twisst allows you to track the station’s movement in real time.
