The field of space technology is both fascinating and diverse. This article examines various classic pieces of technology that have influenced how humans uncover the big unknown. It’s amazing to see how much space technology has progressed and developed over the years, from reusable satellites to microwaves.
It’s a nascent industry, with new technical advancements being created all the time. Governments from all around the world are pouring money into the sector, seeking to be a part of the space race. In this post, we’ll look at some classic space technology, both new and old, that has had a significant effect on the area. Let’s get this party started.
Small Satellites
Over the last few years, these sorts of satellites have grown in popularity. Small-scale satellites are substantially less expensive to build and can easily be mass-produced. Because they are more user-friendly than their bigger siblings, most space entrepreneurs opt to launch them. Given our desire for GPS technology, which is primarily reliant on tiny communication satellites, the globe will see a lot more of them.
Low Earth orbit satellites
These fly very near to the Earth’s surface, usually little more than a thousand kilometres above it. They can be as low as 160 kilometres in most cases. They are quite simple to launch using contemporary rockets, and they are lighter than traditional satellites.
NeoWISE Probe
During its existence, this probe completed two distinct missions. To begin with, it produced one of the most comprehensive surveys of our galaxy ever recorded, revealing everything from stellar nurseries to brown dwarf stars. Astronomers are still utilising the data they acquired to do data analysis today. Following the launch of the original WISE probe, the NeoWISE mission examined our solar system for comets and asteroids approaching Earth.
A large number of near-Earth objects must be mapped since some of them may pose a threat to life on Earth. As a result, this piece of technology assists us in mitigating risks and assessing any potential consequences that may be catastrophic to humanity. The probe has lived far longer than expected since its first mission in 2009, hence the original mission has been extended many times to acquire more data.
Propulsion technology
Smart propulsion technology is one of the most critical subsystems for satellite constellations. Companies are constantly seeking for new methods to reduce mission costs and environmental effect. Various forms of propulsion technology are now in use, including green propulsion, electric propulsion, and others. Iodine-based methods are even used to launch spacecraft and satellites into orbit.
SELENE Orbiter
Reconnaissance Orbiter
Forget about 3D printing in space, NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, which was launched in 2005, is a really intricate piece of technology! It includes a built-in mass spectrometer that allows it to identify the chemical composition of Mars and is capable of studying geological characteristics. Scientists want to know if Mars has water on its surface, and this orbiter’s data collection capabilities can readily identify this.
In fact, the orbiter has discovered water on Mars! There is a camera onboard that can photograph objects as tiny as a dining table. It has given us numerous stunning images of the planet’s surface. It has also captured photographs of three separate rovers that are now parked on Mars’ surface.
Space tech continues to fascinate us
Hopefully, it’s evident that advances in space technology are intriguing and have had a significant impact on modern culture. All facets of our life have benefited from innovation, from supporting economic progress to interacting with others. What will be the next technological breakthrough that will change the world? Only time will tell if this is true.
What part of space technology development fascinates you the most, and why? Let us know what you think in the comments area below.
