After a thorough agency-level review, NASA has decided that astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore will return to Earth on a SpaceX-crewed Dragon mission in February next year, as issues with Starliner's propulsion system deemed it unsafe for the crew's return. The decision was made after careful consideration by agency administrator Bill Nelson and collaboration with Boeing. The inherent risks of space travel were also emphasized, with a commitment to further understand and improve upon the Starliner's design to ensure safety for future missions.
NASA Announces Change in Astronaut Return Mission Due to Starliner Propulsion Issues
Background:
NASA has been collaborating with Boeing on the development of the Starliner spacecraft, intended to serve as a human-rated transportation system to and from the International Space Station (ISS). However, recent propulsion system issues have raised concerns about the safety of the spacecraft for astronaut return missions.
Current Situation:
Following a thorough review, NASA has decided that astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore will return to Earth on a SpaceX Dragon mission in February 2024. This decision was made due to concerns about Starliner's propulsion system, which NASA deemed unsafe for the crew's return.
Decision-Making Process:
The decision was reached after careful consideration by NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, in collaboration with Boeing. NASA emphasized the inherent risks of space travel and the importance of prioritizing astronaut safety. The agency remains committed to understanding and improving the Starliner's design to ensure its safety for future missions.
FAQs:
1. Why was the decision made to change the return mission? Answer: Concerns about the safety of Starliner's propulsion system led NASA to deem it unsafe for the crew's return.
2. What happens to the Starliner spacecraft? Answer: Starliner will not be used for this particular astronaut return mission, as the focus is on ensuring the safety of the crew.
3. What happens to Boeing's contract with NASA? Answer: NASA will continue to work with Boeing to understand and address the issues with the Starliner spacecraft and ensure its future safety.
4. How will the astronauts return to Earth? Answer: Astronauts Williams and Wilmore will return to Earth on a SpaceX Dragon mission, which NASA has deemed safe for their return.
5. When will the next Starliner mission take place? Answer: NASA has not announced a specific timeline for the next Starliner mission, pending the resolution of propulsion system issues and safety concerns.
As China experiences an outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus, also known as HMPV, health officials in Telangana, India have issued a list of precautions for the public, despite no reported cases in the state. The respiratory virus, which primarily affects children, immunocompromised individuals, and the elderly, can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including mild cold-like illness and more serious respiratory conditions. However, the Indian health agency has assured that there is no cause for alarm and that the country does not need to worry at this time.
Renowned nuclear scientist and key figure in India's nuclear program, Dr. R Chidambaram, passed away at the age of 88. He was known for his contributions to nuclear research and played a significant role in India's nuclear tests and the country's civil nuclear agreement with the United States. His passing marks a significant loss for the scientific community and the country's progress in the field of nuclear technology.
The recent spread of a new virus, human metapneumovirus (HMPV), in China has sparked global concerns, with reports of increasing cases among children under 14. However, Indian health experts and the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have dismissed the possibility of a widespread disruption. This is due to previous knowledge about HMPV and its similarity to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common respiratory pathogen. While HMPV may be a trigger for asthma in infants, it is not as deadly as Covid-19 and there is no reason for alarm yet.
China's disease control authorities have launched pilot systems to monitor and report cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which has been linked to a recent flu outbreak. As the country continues to battle this respiratory virus, the World Health Organization calls for transparency and cooperation in researching the origins of COVID-19 to better prevent and prepare for future epidemics. Experts warn that people with weak respiratory health and weakened immune systems, as well as young children and the elderly, are most at risk for HMPV and urge preventive measures such as frequent hand washing and wearing masks.
Amidst growing concerns over the coronavirus outbreak, China confirms an increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) among children under 14 years old, especially in northern provinces. HMPV is a respiratory illness similar to the common cold, with symptoms including coughing, runny nose, and sore throat. Health officials are urging the public not to blindly use antiviral drugs to fight HMPV, as there is currently no vaccine against the virus. Antibiotics may be prescribed in extreme cases where HMPV has caused pneumonia and a secondary bacterial infection.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced draft guidelines for introducing skill-based courses and micro-credentials in higher education institutions, aligning with the objectives of the National Education Policy 2020. These courses, including emerging fields such as data analytics and AI, aim to enhance students' employability and support economic growth through a qualified workforce. Feedback on the guidelines will be accepted for the next 30 days, giving students and educators a chance to provide their input.
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully placed two satellites, weighing 220kg, into a circular orbit of 475 km for a crucial space docking technology demonstration. This mission also included the launch of POEM-4 with 24 payloads from startups, industries, and academia. Scientist S Somanath stated that the docking process is expected to take place on January 7, after operations at ISTRAC Bengaluru from December 31. This mission is a major step towards future space missions for India.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the PSLV C60 mission on Monday night, marking a historic moment for the country's space exploration. The mission involved the launch of two spacecraft, which will demonstrate India's capabilities in orbital docking- a crucial technology for future human spaceflight and satellite servicing missions. With this achievement, India joins an elite group of countries with this technology, furthering the country's ambitions to send humans to the Moon and establish its own space station.
India's ISRO launched its Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C50) carrying two spacecraft, Spacecraft A and B, to test key technologies for the future establishment of a space station. This mission is a precursor to ISRO's goal of setting up its own space station by 2035 and will aid in space docking, satellite servicing, and future interplanetary missions. The successful launch marks another milestone for India's growing space program.
A new western disturbance is expected to affect the state of Rajasthan, bringing in light to moderate rain and hailstorms on Thursday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted this system to also bring snowfall in the Himalayan region. North India continues to face severe cold wave conditions, with some states experiencing temperatures as low as -10.6 degrees Celsius. However, some relief may be in sight for Rajasthan with these weather changes.