Tag - Spacecraft

Plasma-ramming Device Works as A True Speedometer For Spacecraft

The device (circled, at left) has already been tested on the International Space StationNASAGiven that satellites orbit at speeds of thousands of miles per hour, it's crucial to know exactly how fast they're moving in order to prevent potential collisions. A new instrument, called the Spacecraft Speedometer, promises to significantly improve this kind of...

New Heat Shield Developed to Protect Next-Gen Reusable Spacecraft During Reentry

The new shield will be used on the Dream Chaser winged spacecraftSierra Space/ORNLOak Ridge National Laboratory and Sierra Space Corporation have created an advanced heat shield, inspired by 1980s Space Shuttle technology, to protect reusable spacecraft during reentry.Challenges of Atmospheric Reentry and Advances in Heat Shield TechnologyEarth's atmosphere poses a significant challenge for returning...