This seems sort of spectacular.
Are SpaceX’s plans there on indefinite hold?
This is definitely going to delay first orbital flight test, and it may occur out of Florida instead.
Deployment complete.
I’m glad it worked, but I would not have done it that way. I’d have used those billions to develop technology for assembling large space structures. This is the first, and probably last origami telescope. Future instruments will be built in space.
This probably won’t work, but it’s worth taking a look at.
It’s this week, and I usually attend, since I can drive down to San Diego, but the covid restrictions are too much of a PITA for me to want to invest the time and money. It’s not AIAA’s fault; it’s idiotic California restrictions. I wonder if they’ll decide to move it to Florida if this continues?
He has what looks to be an interesting new book out.
…to all of my Christian readers, and anyone else who celebrates it. We went for a walk on the beach, and got rained on partway through, but we didn’t mind that much, because we so desperately need it.
I see that Webb is safely in space, a nice Christmas present to the astronomy community. Normally, most of the risk on a mission is retired after separation, but they’re just getting started.
And here is one of my favorite Christmas carols, by one of my favorite singers.
ESA recently had a symposium on the topic, and the video is now available.