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The news cycle was somewhat quieter last week, likely due to the holiday festivities. However, I found the announcement of a collaboration between two innovative startups to bring AI-enabled computing capabilities to space particularly thrilling. Aethero, based in San Francisco, is focusing on the computational aspects, while Cosmic Shielding Corporation is contributing with an innovative material for radiation protection. The mission is slated for launch in a few days, and I’ll be eagerly tracking its progress in the months ahead.
SpaceX’s grand aspirations to conduct up to 44 Starship mega-rocket launches annually from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center are causing ripples among its competitors. Moreover, SpaceX may be eyeing an even loftier goal with plans for an additional launch site, Space Launch Complex (SLC)-37, located at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS).
This Week’s Highlighted Launch
Kudos to Firefly Aerospace for the successful fifth launch of its Alpha rocket last Wednesday. This mission saw the delivery of eight CubeSats into orbit on behalf of NASA, as part of the Venture Class Launch Services (VCLS) Demo 2 initiative aimed at fostering the development of small launch vehicles. Check out a replay of the launch below.
What Has Our Attention
I managed to get an early viewing of “Wild Wild Space,” a latest space documentary by Ross Kauffman, inspired by a book from space journalist Ashlee Vance. While I contemplate a complete review, I’ll say this much: It’s an enthralling experience. One memorable quote from Rocket Lab CEO Peter Beck: “Building mediocre stuff isn’t in my DNA.” Set to be released on HBO by July 17, it promises to be a compelling watch.
Compiled by Techarena.au.
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