#Helium Leak Testing System

[tekmantechnology]

Tekman India is one of the best manufacturer and supplier of premium quality range of Vacuum Pumps and Helium Leak Detector machines across India. Contact us today for best Helium Leak Testing System     

[literallymechanical]

Breeding blankets for fusion reactors

So, barring a few ambitious projects involving helium-3, fusion reactor power plants will use hydrogen isotopes as fuel: a 50/50 mixture of deuterium (hydrogen-2) and tritium (hydrogen-3). Deuterium is very stable and relatively abundant, as far as these things go, and can be extracted from ordinary seawater.  Tritium, however, has a half life of just over 12 years, so it doesn't occur in nature.

Fortunately, you can use your fusion reactor to synthesize its own tritium fuel, via the transmutation of lithium-6. You use the powerful neutron flux from the fusion plasma to “breed” tritium in lithium, extract it, then feed it back into the reactor. The figure of merit for this process is the tritium breeding ratio (TBR), which is simply the ratio of tritium bred to tritium used. The goal is to get a TBR substantially greater than 1.

This figure shows the physics of tritium breeding, where neutrons from the deuterium-tritium fusion plasma are absorbed by lithium, which then splits into helium and tritium. [source]

Generally speaking, most concepts for tritium breeding involve wrapping a lithium “breeding blanket” around the outside of the reactor, with as few gaps as you can manage. A deuterium-tritium reactor is constantly generating fast neutrons. You want to keep as much of that emission as possible inside the breeding blanket, for both tritium and power generation.

There are a few different ideas for breeding blanket designs, several of which are going to be tested on ITER, the massive reactor being built in France. One concept is a thick sheath of lithium ceramic that surrounds the vessel, either as solid slabs or pebbles.  As tritium breeding occurs under the blanket, water or liquid helium is circulated through it, cooling the lithium and potentially extracting heat for electricity generation.

While such a blanket might be relatively “simple” (lol) to build, there are some pretty fundamental challenges. Neutrons will penetrate most materials with ease, and it might be tricky to extract tritium that's been bred deep inside of solid lithium.  Ideally, you could do the extraction without pause, even as breeding is ongoing. For some designs, though, you have to cycle out breeder units for harvesting as they get a full load of tritium.

Another concept is “liquid breeding." This concept uses a molten mixture of metallic lithium and lead, or a lithium salt compound like FLiBe (fluorine-lithium-beryllium). The liquid would be pumped through a “breeding zone” around the vessel, where the neutron flux is thickest. The tritium will then be continuously extracted from the breeding fluid as it flows back out.  As part of the process, you can run the hot liquid through a heat exchanger, heating water to power a steam turbine. 

Liquid breeding does raise some prominent engineering challenges. Hot, molten breeding fluid will be very hard to handle – not just because of the heat, but also because you're trying to pump a massive quantity of viscous fluid into a very tight breeding zone. Moreover, molten lithium-lead might react explosively with air. If your breeding system springs a leak, you’ll have a serious mess on your hands!

It’s still unclear which of these breeding strategies will bear fruit. From conception to implementation, there are still a lot of unknowns!  Both liquid and solid breeding will be conducted in France, and a number of private fusion companies have plans to breed tritium in their machines as well.

[monkeyssalad-blog]

Linear Aerospike SR-71 Experiment (LASRE) by NASA on The Commons Via Flickr: The NASA SR-71A successfully completed its first cold flow flight as part of the NASA/Rocketdyne/Lockheed Martin Linear Aerospike SR-71 Experiment (LASRE) at NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center (now NASA Armstrong), Edwards, California on March 4, 1998. During a cold flow flight, gaseous helium and liquid nitrogen were cycled through the linear aerospike engine to check the engine's plumbing system for leaks and to check the engine operating characteristics. Cold-flow tests had to be accomplished successfully before firing the rocket engine experiment in flight. The SR-71 flew for one hour and fifty-seven minutes, reaching a maximum speed of Mach 1.58 on this flight. Learn more about the LASRE Project flights in 1997 and 1998 NASA Media Usage Guidelines Credit: NASA/Carla Thomas Image Number: EC98-44440-4 Date: March 4, 1998

[beardedmrbean]

Boeing Leaks

After years of delays and technical problems, Boeing's Starliner finally made it to the International Space Station with NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams on board last week.

But when exactly it'll be able to undock and deliver its crew of two back to the surface remains to be seen.

Teams have discovered an astonishing five different helium leaks so far, each representing yet another thorn in the spacecraft's already cursed development. The gas is "used in spacecraft thruster systems to allow the thrusters to fire" while navigating through space, according to Boeing.

NASA is giving Boeing another four days, extending Wilmore and Williams' mission onboard the ISS from June 14 to no earlier than June 18, though it's unclear whether the leaks are to blame for the delay. Boeing is still "assessing what impacts, if any, five small leaks in the service module helium manifolds would have on the remainder of the mission," according to an update.

Boeing has been through hell and back in its attempts to get its first crewed test flight off the ground, including countless delays, scrubs, technical screwups, and an unsuccessful uncrewed test flight back in 2019.

Where that leaves Starliner's future viability for providing NASA with a reliable way to get astronauts to the space station remains to be seen. While it has managed to dock with the ISS, its mission isn't over until Wilmore and Williams are safely back on the ground.

Hole Story

Last month, officials discovered the first helium leak, which was later underplayed by officials and determined not to be severe enough to delay its journey to the ISS.

On its way up, the capsule sprang even more helium leaks. Even docking procedures didn't initially go as planned, with Boeing calling off its first attempt due to reaction-control thrusters malfunctioning.

There's a lot we still don't know about Starliner's current status. Fortunately, engineers have determined that the capsule will have plenty of helium for its return mission, roughly ten times as much as it needs to maneuver through the near vacuum of space.

"While Starliner is docked, all the manifolds are closed per normal mission operations preventing helium loss from the tanks," Boeing explained in its update.

Meanwhile, NASA is making the most out of the situation.

"The additional time in orbit will allow the crew to perform a spacewalk on Thursday, June 13, while engineers complete Starliner systems checkouts," ISS officials tweeted, referring to two different space station crew members. ________________________________

I'd make Boeing jokes if it weren't for the fact that people could die

[follow-up-news]

NASA is considering keeping the two astronauts who flew Boeing's capsule to the International Space Station there until February as a result of issues the spaceship encountered midflight. The agency said Wednesday that it is still evaluating options for how to bring NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams back to Earth safely, and that no plan has been made yet. But officials acknowledged more openly than before that they may decide to use a SpaceX capsule instead. “Our prime option is to return Butch and Suni on Starliner,” Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, said Wednesday in a news briefing. “However, we have done the requisite planning to make sure we have other options open, and so we have been working with SpaceX to ensure that they’re ready to respond.” Wilmore and Williams arrived at the space station on June 6 on the first crewed test flight of Boeing’s Starliner capsule. The initial plan called for them to stay in space for about a week. But problems with five of Starliner’s thrusters and helium leaking from the capsule’s propulsion system have stranded the astronauts there for more than two months as engineers on the ground gather data about the issues and attempt to troubleshoot. The mission was designed to be the final step before the agency could certify Boeing to conduct routine crewed flights to and from the ISS. The fate of that process is now up in the air.

[fleshchyme]

Boeing and NASA don’t believe that any of Starliner’s thrusters are damaged, say Stich and Nappi speaking at a press conference on Wednesday. If Starliner had to leave the International Space Station immediately (maybe because of a collision with a piece of satellite debris, like the near-miss that caused the crew to take shelter aboard Starliner earlier this week), the ship could get its crew home safely, according to Nappi. “If we were to have to do that today, we would just perform a nominal undocking and return,” Nappi told reporters during a press conference on Wednesday. The extensive tests keeping the spacecraft docked at ISS, they said at the press conference, are a chance for engineers to figure out exactly why five of Starliner’s 28 maneuvering thrusters (technically called the Reaction Control System, or RCS) failed while the spacecraft was docking with the International Space Station on June 6. Starliner’s service module — which houses the thrusters — is designed to burn up during re-entry to Earth’s atmosphere, so once the ship heads home, engineers will lose their chance to poke at the problem. Boeing and NASA also want to be extremely sure there’s actually nothing wrong. “We don’t believe that we have damaged thrusters, but we want to fill in the blanks and run these tests to assure ourselves of this,” Nappi says. Stich adds, “Really, what we're doing is just taking the time to make sure that we have looked under every rock and every stone, just to make sure that there's nothing that would surprise us.”

[ccitusa]

Evaluating Integrity of Bottles with SIMS 1915+

The pharmaceutical industry relies on reliable leak testing to ensure the integrity of bottle seals. CCIT offers the SIMS 1915+ helium-based leak testing system, designed specifically for pharmaceutical packaging. This system quantitatively evaluates package seals to levels far surpassing traditional methods, supporting the entire lifespan of the product. The SIMS 1915+ is highly customizable and can accommodate various package types and sizes. Its sensitivity and accuracy make it an essential tool for ensuring patient safety and product quality in the pharmaceutical industry.

[spacenutspod]

29 Min Read The Marshall Star for August 21, 2024 Hundreds Honored at Marshall, NASA Awards Ceremony NASA Chief Financial Officer Margaret Vo Schaus speaks to audience members and honorees Aug. 15 during the 2023 Agency/Center Honor Awards at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Activities Building 4316. In all, 332 Marshall team members were awarded this year for their outstanding work and dedication to furthering the NASA mission, along with 97 teams. “As a newcomer to NASA, I am in awe of the work of this agency and the breadth of what we do,” said Vo Schaus, who served as the keynote speaker for the ceremonies. “These awards celebrate those who have gone above and beyond in making NASA what it is, and who have driven NASA forward in ways that demonstrate this agency’s core values of safety, integrity, teamwork, excellence, and inclusion.” View a full list of honorees and watch the ceremonies. (NASA/Charles Beason) Marshall Center Director Joseph Pelfrey welcomes team members to the Agency/Center Honor Awards program. (NASA/Charles Beason) › Back to Top FAQ: NASA’s Boeing Crew Flight Test Return Status Editor’s note: This article was updated Aug. 20 to reflect the latest information from NASA’s Office of Communications. NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams arrived at the International Space Station orbiting laboratory on June 6 aboard the Boeing Starliner after lifting off on June 5 from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The Boeing Starliner arrived at the International Space Station on June 6 after lifting off from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on June 5.NASA During Starliner’s flight to the space station, engineers noticed some of the spacecraft’s thrusters did not perform as expected and several leaks in Starliner’s helium system also were observed. Engineering teams at NASA and Boeing have since conducted several thruster tests and in-depth data reviews to better understand the spacecraft. While engineers work to resolve technical issues before Starliner’s return to Earth, the astronaut duo have been working with the Expedition 71 crew, performing scientific research and maintenance activities. NASA now plans to conduct two reviews – a Program Control Board and an Agency Flight Readiness Review – before deciding how it will safely return Wilmore and Williams from the station. NASA expects to decide on the path forward by the end of August. Here are some frequently asked questions about their mission. About the Mission and Delay What is NASA’s Boeing Crew Flight Test? NASA’s Boeing Crew Flight Test launched June 5, and is the first flight of the Starliner spacecraft to the International Space Station with astronauts. The flight test aims to prove the system is ready for rotational missions to the space station. NASA wants two American spacecraft, in addition to the Roscosmos Soyuz spacecraft, capable of carrying astronauts to help ensure a permanent crew aboard the orbiting complex. What are the goals of the Crew Flight Test? This flight test aims to demonstrate Starliner’s ability to execute a six-month rotational mission to the space station. The flight test objectives were developed to support NASA’s certification process and gather the performance data needed to evaluate readiness ahead of long-duration flights. Why is the Crew Flight Test staying longer than planned aboard the space station? During Starliner’s flight to the space station, some of the spacecraft’s thrusters did not perform as expected and several leaks in Starliner’s helium system were observed. While the initial mission duration was planned for about a week, there is no rush to bring crew home, so NASA and Boeing are taking additional time to learn about the spacecraft. This is a lesson learned from the space shuttle Columbia accident. Our NASA and Boeing teams are poring over data from additional in-space and ground testing and analysis, providing mission managers data to make the best, safest decision on how and when to return crew home. If there’s an emergency on the space station, how will Butch and Suni get home? Starliner remains the primary option for Butch and Suni if an emergency occurs and they need to rapidly depart the station. There is no urgent need to bring them home, and NASA is using the extra time to understand the spacecraft’s technical issues before deciding on a return plan. How long could Butch and Suni stay on the space station if they don’t come home on Starliner? If NASA decides to return Starliner uncrewed, Butch and Suni would remain aboard station until late-February 2025. NASA would replan the agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission by launching only two crew members instead of four in late September. Butch and Suni would then return to Earth after the regularly scheduled Crew-9 increment early next year. Are Butch and Suni staying in space until 2025? No decisions have been made. NASA continues to evaluate all options as it learns more about Starliner’s propulsion system. Butch and Suni may return home aboard Starliner, or they could come back as part of the agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission early next year. Can Starliner fly without astronauts? Yes, Starliner can undock and deorbit autonomously, if NASA decides to return the spacecraft uncrewed. Could NASA send a SpaceX Dragon to bring Butch and Suni back? If NASA decides to return them aboard a SpaceX Dragon, NASA will replan its SpaceX Crew-9 mission by launching only two crew members in late September instead of four. Butch and Suni would then return to Earth after the regularly scheduled Crew-9 increment early next year. Why does NASA need two crew transportation systems? The main goal of the agency’s Commercial Crew Program is two, unique human spaceflight systems. Should any one system encounter an issue, NASA still has the capability to launch and return crew to ensure safety and a continuous human presence aboard the International Space Station. NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore, center front, and Suni Williams, center rear, work with the Expedition 71 crew on the space station.NASA About the Astronauts Are Butch and Suni stuck on the space station? No, Butch and Suni are safe aboard the space station working alongside the Expedition 71 crew. They also have been actively involved in Starliner testing and technical meetings. Butch and Suni could return home aboard Starliner if an emergency arises. The agency also has other return options available, if needed, for both contingency and normal returning planning. Are Suni and Butch prepared for a longer stay on the station? Butch and Suni each have previously completed two long-duration stays aboard the station. NASA astronauts embark on missions fully aware of the various scenarios that may become reality. This mission is no different, and they understood the possibilities and unknowns of this test flight, including being aboard station longer than planned. How long would an extended stay for Butch and Suni compare to other space station mission lengths? A typical stay aboard the space station is about six months, and NASA astronauts also have remained on the space station for longer duration missions. Previous missions have given NASA volumes of data about long-duration spaceflight and its effects on the human body, which the agency applies to any crew mission. Do the astronauts have what they need (e.g., food, clothing, oxygen, personal items, etc.)? Yes. The space station is well-stocked with everything the crew needs, including food, water, clothing, and oxygen. Additionally, NASA and its space station partners frequently launch resupply missions to the orbiting complex carrying additional supplies and cargo. Recently, a Northrop Grumman Cygnus spacecraft carrying 8,200 pounds of food, fuel, supplies, and science and a Progress resupply spacecraft carrying three tons of cargo arrived at the station. NASA has additional SpaceX resupply missions planned through the end of 2024. What are they doing aboard the space station? The crew continues to monitor Starliner’s flight systems and gather performance data for system certification. NASA also is taking advantage of Butch and Suni’s extra time aboard the orbital laboratory, where they have completed various science experiments, maintenance tasks, and assisted with spacewalk preparations. Some of the science they’ve recently completed includes new ways to produce fiber optic cables and growing plants aboard the orbiting complex. Can they talk to their family and friends? Butch and Suni enjoy many of the same comforts we have here on Earth. They can email, call, and video conference with their family and friends when they have “free time” aboard the space station. About the Return Plan What are the other options for bringing Butch and Suni back? NASA has two unique American space transportation systems capable of carrying crew to and from station. Although no decisions have been made, NASA is considering several options to return Butch and Suni from the space station, including returning aboard Starliner, if cleared, or as part of agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission in February 2025. Is it safer to bring them home aboard a SpaceX Dragon? Crewed test flights are inherently risky, and although rotation missions may seem routine, they also are not without risk. It is NASA’s job to evaluate that risk and determine whether it is acceptable for crew ahead of each flight. What other steps is NASA taking to bring them home? NASA adjusted SpaceX Crew-9 launch and the agency’s SpaceX Crew-8 return, allowing more time to finalize Starliner return plans. NASA also is looking at crew assignments to ensure Butch and Suni can return with Crew-9, if needed. For NASA’s blog and more information about the mission, visit here. › Back to Top NASA Awards $1.25 Million to 3 Teams at Deep Space Food Finale NASA has awarded a total of $1.25 million to three U.S. teams in the third and final round of the agency’s Deep Space Food Challenge. The teams delivered novel food production technologies that could provide long-duration human space exploration missions with safe, nutritious, and tasty food. The competitors’ technologies address NASA’s need for sustainable food systems for long-duration habitation in space, including future Artemis missions and eventual journeys to Mars. Advanced food systems also could benefit life on Earth and inspire food production in parts of the world that are prone to natural disasters, food insecurity, and extreme environments. Interstellar Lab, a small business comprised of team members from France, Texas, and Florida, took home the $750,000 grand prize for their food system, NUCLEUS, which uses a multi-pronged approach to growing and harvesting food outputs for astronauts on long-duration human space exploration missions.Credit: OSU/CFAES/Kenneth Chamberlain “The Deep Space Food Challenge could serve as the framework for providing astronauts with healthy and delicious food using sustainable mechanisms,” said Angela Herblet, challenge manager for the Deep Space Food Challenge at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. “The challenge has brought together innovative and driven individuals from around the world who are passionate about creating new solutions that support our agency’s future Moon to Mars missions.” Since the challenge’s launch in 2021, more than 300 teams from 32 countries have participated by submitting innovative food system designs. The competition, conceived and managed by NASA Centennial Challenges at Marshall, is a first-of-its-kind coordinated effort between NASA and CSA (Canadian Space Agency), which ran its own challenge in parallel. Four American teams competed in Phase 3, which began in September 2023. The Methuselah Foundation partnered with Ohio State University to facilitate the final phase of the challenge, which included a two-month testing and demonstration period held on the university’s campus in Columbus, Ohio. Each U.S. team in Phase 3 was awarded $50,000 and took their technology to Columbus for testing. Throughout this phase, the teams constructed full-scale food production systems that were required to pass developmental milestones like safety, sensory testing, palatability, and harvesting volumes. Each team worked with four “Simunauts,” a crew of Ohio State students who managed the testing and demonstrations for Phase 3 over the eight-week period. The data gathered from testing was delivered to a judging panel to determine the winner. The challenge concluded at the Deep Space Food Symposium, a two-day networking and learning summit Aug. 15-16 at the Nationwide and Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center. Throughout the event, attendees met the Phase 3 finalists, witnessed demonstrations of the food production technologies, and attended panels featuring experts from NASA, government, industry, and academia. The winners of the challenge were announced at an awards ceremony at the end of the symposium. The U.S. winner and recipient of the $750,000 grand prize is Interstellar Lab of Merritt Island, Florida. Led by Barbara Belvisi, the small business combines several autonomous phytotrons and environment-controlled greenhouses to support a growth system involving a self-sustaining food production mechanism that generates fresh vegetables, microgreens, and insects necessary for micronutrients. Two runners-up each earned $250,000 for their food systems’ successes: Nolux of Riverside, California, and SATED of Boulder, Colorado. Nolux, a university team led by Robert Jinkerson, constructed an artificial photosynthetic system that can create plant and fungal-based foods without the operation of biological photosynthesis. Standing for Safe Appliance, Tidy, Efficient & Delicious, SATED is a one-man team of Jim Sears, who developed a variety of customizable food, from pizza to peach cobbler. The product is fire-safe and was developed by long-shelf-life and in-situ grown ingredients. NASA also selected and recognized one international team as a Phase 3 winner: Solar Foods of Lappeenranta, Finland, developed a food production system through gas fermentation that relies on single-cell protein production. In April 2024, CSA and Impact Canada awarded the grand prize winner of its parallel challenge to Ecoation, a Vancouver-based small business specializing in greenhouses.  “Congratulations to the winners and all the finalist teams for their many years dedicated to innovating solutions for the Deep Space Food Challenge,” said Amy Kaminski, program executive for NASA’s Prizes, Challenges, and Crowdsourcing at NASA Headquarters. “These food production technologies could change the future of food accessibility on other worlds and our home planet.” Also present at the symposium was celebrity chef and cookbook author Tyler Florence. After spending time with each finalist team and getting acquainted with their food systems, Florence selected one team to receive the “Tyler Florence Award for Culinary Innovation.” Team SATED of Boulder, Colorado, received the honor for their system that impressed Florence due to its innovative approach to the challenge. The Deep Space Food Challenge, a NASA Centennial Challenge, is a coordinated effort between NASA and CSA. Subject matter experts at Johnson Space Center and Kennedy Space Center supported the competition. NASA’s Centennial Challenges are part of the Prizes, Challenges, and Crowdsourcing program within NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate and managed at Marshall. The Methuselah Foundation, in partnership with NASA, oversees the United States and international competitors. › Back to Top Roger Baird Named Associate Director of Marshall Roger Baird has been named to the position of associate director of NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, effective Aug. 19. Baird will lead execution and integration of the center’s business operations, mission support enterprise functions, and budget management. In addition, he will be a senior adviser in advancing the direction of the center’s future. He will also help manage the center’s 7,000 civil service and contract employees and help oversee an annual budget of approximately $5 billion. He will provide executive leadership across Marshall’s mission support areas as well as the center’s diverse portfolio of human spaceflight, science, and technology efforts, which touch nearly every mission NASA pursues. Roger Baird has been named to the position of associate director of NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center.NASA Prior to this assignment, Baird served as associate director for operations of Marshall’s Engineering Directorate from 2020-2024, after being detailed to the position in 2019. Named to the Senior Executive Service position in March 2020, he provided senior management and leadership expertise for the evaluation of spacecraft, payloads and launch vehicle systems, and the integration of the associated budgets and resources authority for these efforts. He was responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating engineering project management and integration activities in support of Marshall’s programs and projects, and oversaw an annual budget of approximately $550 million, including management of a highly technical workforce of more than 2,500 civil service and contractor employees.  In 2018, Baird was selected as manager of the Engineering Resource Management Office, where he was responsible for advising, coordinating, monitoring, directing, and performing work associated with planning, programming, budgeting, and managing the Engineering Directorate’s financial, human and infrastructure resources. Baird brings a wealth of expertise to the role, with 34 years of NASA experience in the areas of engineering design, development, testing, facility and budget management, and strategic workforce acquisition and development. He joined NASA in 1990 as an avionics engineer in Marshall’s Astrionics Laboratory and served in multiple technical leadership positions within the Engineering Directorate’s Space Systems Department, Spacecraft and Vehicle Systems Department, and Propulsion Systems Department. A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Baird earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Alabama in Birmingham. He has received numerous NASA awards, including an Outstanding Leadership Medal, Exceptional Achievement Medal, and a Silver Snoopy. › Back to Top NASA SPoRT Using Science Data to Better Understand Hurricanes By Paola Pinto The Short-term Prediction Research and Transition (SPoRT) Center at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center is at the forefront of converting advanced research into practical tools to enhance weather forecasting and decision making, particularly for hurricane prediction. One of SPoRT’s major partners is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). NOAA employs the Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) to gather valuable information on physical lightning properties, such as size and brightness, within storms. These properties can be indicative of storm structure and intensity changes in hurricanes undergoing rapid intensification. A Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) image shows that Hurricane Beryl 2024 exhibited large, energetic lightning flashes during its intensification.NOAA/NASA John Mark Mayhall, a research assistant and graduate student at the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), and Kiahna Mollette, a NASA Pathways Intern and UAH graduate student, both contribute significantly to NASA SPoRT’s projects. Their work focuses on utilizing high-resolution data to deepen the understanding of hurricane behavior. Mollette’s research examines how lightning characteristics evolve during hurricanes’ rapid intensification. “Lightning data provides insights into the storm’s structure that are not available from other sources,” Mollette said. “For instance, lightning activity around the eye of the hurricane can help determine whether or not the storm will intensify.” Meanwhile, Mayhall’s research focuses on identifying cloud features within the upper levels of tropical cyclones. His findings have shown promising correlations between specific cloud formations and hurricane intensity and behavior. Mayhall’s machine-learning model has revealed transverse bands in tropical cyclones are more common during the day than overnight. Transverse bands are regions of upper-level clouds that look like waves and typically occur in regions of strong wind shear. These cloud bands tend to form on the leading edge of thunderstorms that move outward from a hurricane, influenced by changes in solar radiation. Mayhall’s results have quantified these relationships for the first time using an objective algorithm, supporting previous research linking these cloud patterns to changes in a hurricane’s thunderstorm activity throughout the daytime. His endeavors recently earned him the Highest Undergraduate Achievement award from the UAH College of Science. Another significant focus area of NASA SPoRT research is the development and application of sea surface temperature (SST) products. Mollette said NASA SPoRT’s high spatial resolution SST product has been instrumental in predicting hurricane development and intensification since warm sea surface temperatures provide the energy needed for hurricanes to develop and intensify. “SST data is used by other government agencies, universities, and the private sector to help stakeholders understand the environmental conditions that favor hurricane formation and growth,” Mollete said. “The data is then assimilated into models to improve hurricane prediction and is used to anticipate the impacts of hurricane landfall.” At left, an image shows a sea surface temperature (SST) values plot extending to 15 degrees south latitude, showcasing the cooler SSTs associated with La Nina along the equator in the Eastern Pacific. The data represents a 7-day composite of SST. The image on the right shows an SST anomaly plot extending to 15 degrees south latitude, highlighting the cool anomalies associated with La Niña along the equator in the Eastern Pacific. This plot illustrates the SST anomaly from 1991 to 2020. NASA The SPoRT SST is available in NOAA National Ocean Service nowCoast portal and the NASA Disaster’s program portal, providing widespread access to emergency management to anticipate coastal risk as hurricanes approach landfall. Sebastian Harkama, a research scientist at UAH working with SPoRT, has focused on updating the SST product. He said warmer sea surface temperatures fuel hurricanes and notes this year’s significant temperature anomalies due to La Niña could lead to a more intense hurricane season. La Niña, a climate pattern marked by cooler waters in the eastern Pacific, alters atmospheric circulation, potentially increasing hurricane activity in the Atlantic. The upcoming updated version of the SPoRT SST product is in development and will feature new satellite datasets for greater accuracy. This update will include plots showing short-term temperature trends and anomalies, expected to be highly beneficial during this hurricane season. The datasets will incorporate observations from the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite on NOAA-20 and NOAA-21 satellites, as well as the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer on MetOp-B and MetOp-C satellites. Mayhall highlights the significance of the SPoRT Dust RGB (red, green, blue) product on the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-16 (GOES-16) for monitoring dust and its impact on tropical cyclone development and intensity. The Dust RGB product contrasts airborne dust with clouds by using band differencing and measuring thermal energy. These measurements are then represented in various colors to differentiate dust from cloud formations and facilitate precise analysis. “Saharan dust can significantly impact hurricane formation and strength,” Mayhall explained. “The presence of dust in the atmosphere can weaken tropical cyclones by introducing dry air into the storm, disrupting its structure, and inhibiting its growth.” NASA SPoRT’s collaborative efforts with researchers and stakeholders extend beyond the tools and data. Regular engagement with experts from various institutions helps identify priorities for data products in the tropical cyclone community and develop solutions to persistent challenges. A July 24 image from NASA SPoRT’s Dust RGB product, with dark red indicating regions of cold clouds. The light magenta color over the central Atlantic Ocean highlights a region of dust associated with the Saharan Air Layer, which originates in Africa and helps to suppress tropical cyclone activity in the Atlantic Ocean as it moves westward toward the Caribbean.NOAA/NASA NOAA predicts the 2024 season will be particularly active. The products and capabilities derived from SPoRT’s research are more important than ever in helping communities prepare for and respond to these potentially devastating storms. Patrick Duran is a research scientist at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center and tropical meteorology team lead with the SPoRT mission and advises graduate students like Mollette and Mayhall. He also serves as the mission applications lead for NASA’s TROPICS mission, a constellation of advanced small satellites that measure temperature, humidity, and precipitation with high spatial resolution and an unprecedented 60-minute median revisit time. Duran fosters interaction between the TROPICS Science Team and the community of end users to maximize the mission’s societal benefits. Duran collaborates with other NASA experts, particularly research scientist Chris Schultz, in understanding how lightning can predict hurricane intensity. Together, they are researching the dynamics of lightning outbreaks to determine those that correspond to storm intensification from those indicating weakening. Using the geostationary lightning mapper, they analyze the size and energy of lightning flashes to gain insights into storm processes. Larger and more energetic flashes often signify intensification, while smaller, less energetic flashes can indicate weakening. Duran also mentions the development of situational awareness products for aircraft observation, which provide NOAA Hurricane Hunter aircraft with real-time data to enhance their operations. Although these products are not yet publicly available, they signify advancement in utilizing SPoRT’s research for practical applications in hurricane tracking and prediction. For example, these products will include imagery from the GOES and TROPICS satellites, allowing Hurricane Hunters to see their position within the storm relative to key meteorological features observed by the satellites. The NASA SPoRT Center is advancing the understanding of hurricanes and providing tools to aid forecasters in their decision-making process. During this active hurricane season, NASA SPoRT’s collaborative efforts with stakeholders, other government agencies, and NASA programs like NOAA National Weather Service, National Ocean Service, and the NASA Disasters Program are vital in helping communities prepare for and mitigate the impacts of these powerful storms. Pinto is a research associate at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, specializing in communications and user engagement for NASA SPoRT. › Back to Top NASA Telescopes Work Out Black Hole’s Snack Schedule By using new data from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory and Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory as well as ESA’s XMM-Newton, a team of researchers have made important headway in understanding how – and when – a supermassive black hole obtains and then consumes material, as described in a press release. This artist’s impression shows a star that has partially been disrupted by such a black hole in the system known as AT2018fyk. The supermassive black hole in AT2018fyk –  with about 50 million times more mass than the Sun – is in the center of a galaxy located about 860 million light-years from Earth. An artist’s concept of the supermassive black hole in AT2018fyk – with about 50 million times more mass than the Sun – is in the center of a galaxy located about 860 million light-years from Earth.NASA/CXC/M.Weiss Astronomers have determined that a star is on a highly elliptical orbit around the black hole in AT2018fyk so that its point of farthest approach from the black hole is much larger than its closest. During its closest approach, tidal forces from the black hole pull some material from the star, producing two tidal tails of “stellar debris”. The illustration shows a point in the orbit soon after the star is partially destroyed, when the tidal tails are still in close proximity to the star. Later in the star’s orbit, the disrupted material returns to the black hole and loses energy, leading to a large increase in X-ray brightness occurring later in the orbit (not shown here). This process repeats each time the star returns to its point of closest approach, which is approximately every 3.5 years. The illustration depicts the star during its second orbit, and the disk of X-ray emitting gas around the black hole that is produced as a byproduct of the first tidal encounter. Researchers took note of AT2018fyk in 2018 when the optical ground-based survey ASAS-SN detected that the system had become much brighter. After observing it with NASA’s NICER and Chandra, and XMM-Newton, researchers determined that the surge in brightness came from a “tidal disruption event,” or TDE, which signals that a star was completely torn apart and partially ingested after flying too close to a black hole. Chandra data of AT2018fyk is shown in the inset of an optical image of a wider field-of-view. When material from the destroyed star approached close to the black hole, it got hotter and produced X-ray and ultraviolet (UV) light. These signals then faded, agreeing with the idea that nothing was left of the star for the black hole to digest. However, about two years later, the X-ray and UV light from the galaxy got much brighter again. This meant, according to astronomers, that the star likely survived the initial gravitational grab by the black hole and then entered a highly elliptical orbit with the black hole. During its second close approach to the black hole, more material was pulled off and produced more X-ray and UV light. Based on what they had learned about the star and its orbit, a team of astronomers predicted that the black hole’s second meal would end in August 2023 and applied for Chandra observing time to check. Chandra observations on Aug. 14, 2023, indeed showed the telltale sign of the black hole feeding coming to an end with a sudden drop in X-rays. The researchers also obtained a better estimate of how long it takes the star to complete an orbit, and predicted future mealtimes for the black hole. A paper describing these results appears in the Aug. 14 issue of The Astrophysical Journal and is available online. The authors are Dheeraj Passam (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), Eric Coughlin (Syracuse University), Muryel Guolo (Johns Hopkins University), Thomas Wevers (Space Telescope Science Institute), Chris Nixon (University of Leeds, UK), Jason Hinkle (University of Hawaii at Manoa), and Ananaya Bandopadhyay (Syracuse). NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center manages the Chandra program. The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory’s Chandra X-ray Center controls science from Cambridge Massachusetts and flight operations from Burlington, Massachusetts. › Back to Top Europa Clipper Solar Array Alignment, Installation Technicians move NASA’s Europa Clipper spacecraft inside the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility to accommodate installation of its five-panel solar array at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center on Aug. 1. After moving the spacecraft, the team had to precisely align the spacecraft in preparation for the installation. The huge arrays – spanning more than 100 feet when fully deployed, or about the length of a basketball court – will collect sunlight to power the spacecraft as it flies multiple times around Jupiter’s icy moon, Europa, conducting science investigations to determine its potential to support life. Europa Clipper is launching Oct. 10. Scientists predict Europa has a salty ocean beneath its icy crust that could hold the building blocks necessary to sustain life. Managed by Caltech in Pasadena, California, JPL leads the development of the Europa Clipper mission in partnership with the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, Maryland, for NASA’s Science Mission Directorate. APL designed the main spacecraft body in collaboration with JPL and NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. The Planetary Missions Program Office at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center executes program management of the Europa Clipper mission. (NASA/Frank Michaux) › Back to Top Danish Instrument Helps NASA’s Juno Spacecraft See Radiation Scientists with NASA’s Juno mission have developed the first complete 3D radiation map of the Jupiter system. Along with characterizing the intensity of the high-energy particles near the orbit of the icy moon Europa, the map shows how the radiation environment is sculpted by the smaller moons orbiting near Jupiter’s rings. The work relies on data collected by Juno’s Advanced Stellar Compass (ASC), which was designed and built by the Technical University of Denmark, and the spacecraft’s Stellar Reference Unit (SRU), which was built by Leonardo SpA in Florence, Italy. The two datasets complement each other, helping Juno scientists characterize the radiation environment at different energies. This view of Jupiter was captured by the JunoCam instrument aboard NASA’s Juno spacecraft during the mission’s 62nd close flyby of the giant planet on June 13. Citizen scientist Jackie Branc made the image using raw JunoCam data.Image data: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS. Image processing: Jackie Branc (CC BY) Both the ASC and SRU are low-light cameras designed to assist with deep-space navigation. These types of instruments are on almost all spacecraft. But to get them to operate as radiation detectors, Juno’s science team had to look at the cameras in a whole new light. “On Juno we try to innovate new ways to use our sensors to learn about nature, and we have used many of our science instruments in ways they were not designed for,” said Scott Bolton, Juno principal investigator from the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. “This is the first detailed radiation map of the region at these higher energies, which is a major step in understanding how Jupiter’s radiation environment works. This will help planning observations for the next generation of missions to the Jovian system.” Consisting of four star cameras on the spacecraft’s magnetometer boom, Juno’s ASC takes images of stars to determine the spacecraft’s orientation in space, which is vital to the success of the mission’s magnetic field experiment. But the instrument has also proved to be a valuable detector of high-energy particle fluxes in Jupiter’s magnetosphere. The cameras record “hard radiation,” or ionizing radiation that impacts a spacecraft with sufficient energy to pass through the ASC’s shielding. “Every quarter-second, the ASC takes an image of the stars,” said Juno scientist John Leif Jørgensen of the Technical University of Denmark. “Very energetic electrons that penetrate its shielding leave a telltale signature in our images that looks like the trail of a firefly. The instrument is programmed to count the number of these fireflies, giving us an accurate calculation of the amount of radiation.” Because of Juno’s ever-changing orbit, the spacecraft has traversed practically all regions of space near Jupiter. ASC data suggests that there is more very high-energy radiation relative to lower-energy radiation near Europa’s orbit than previously thought. The data also confirms that there are more high-energy electrons on the side of Europa facing its orbital direction of motion than on the moon’s trailing side. This is because most of the electrons in Jupiter’s magnetosphere overtake Europa from behind due to the planet’s rotation, whereas the very high-energy electrons drift backward, almost like fish swimming upstream, and slam into Europa’s front side. Jovian radiation data is not the ASC’s first scientific contribution to the mission. Even before arriving at Jupiter, ASC data was used to determine a measurement of interstellar dust impacting Juno. The imager also discovered a previously uncharted comet using the same dust-detection technique, distinguishing small bits of the spacecraft ejected by microscopic dust impacting Juno at a high velocity. Like Juno’s ASC, the SRU has been used as a radiation detector and a low-light imager. Data from both instruments indicates that, like Europa, the small “shepherd moons” that orbit within or close to the edge of Jupiter’s rings (and help to hold the shape of the rings) also appear to interact with the planet’s radiation environment. When the spacecraft flies on magnetic field lines connected to ring moons or dense dust, the radiation count on both the ASC and SRU drops precipitously. The SRU is also collecting rare low-light images of the rings from Juno’s unique vantage point. “There is still a lot of mystery about how Jupiter’s rings were formed, and very few images have been collected by prior spacecraft,” said Heidi Becker, lead co-investigator for the SRU and a scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, which manages the mission. “Sometimes we’re lucky and one of the small shepherd moons can be captured in the shot. These images allow us to learn more precisely where the ring moons are currently located and see the distribution of dust relative to their distance from Jupiter.” NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a division of Caltech in Pasadena, California, manages the Juno mission for the principal investigator, Scott Bolton, of the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. Juno is part of NASA’s New Frontiers Program, which is managed at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center for the agency’s Science Mission Directorate. The Technical University of Denmark designed and built the Advanced Stellar Compass. The Stellar Reference Unit was built by Leonardo SpA in Florence, Italy. Lockheed Martin Space in Denver built and operates the spacecraft. › Back to Top

[usa-journal]

Astronaut Sunita Williams Faces New Challenges in Extended Space Mission

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, along with her colleague Butch Wilmore, is confronting significant challenges after their planned return from space was delayed. Initially set to return within a week of their June 5, 2024 launch aboard Boeing's Starliner, the astronauts may now face an extended stay until February 2024.

The change arises from potential issues with the Starliner, leading NASA to consider a return on SpaceX's Crew Dragon. This development could extend their mission from the intended eight days to over eight months, raising concerns about the impact on their health and well-being.

Radiation Exposure Concerns

The International Space Station (ISS) orbits approximately 400 kilometers above Earth, exposing astronauts to higher levels of cosmic radiation than on the ground. Radiation levels in space are up to 30 times higher than those on Earth. Over a week, astronauts encounter radiation equivalent to about one year’s worth on Earth, which can increase their risk of cancer and damage their immune system.

Effects of Microgravity

Extended exposure to microgravity presents additional challenges. Without Earth’s gravity, astronauts experience a loss of bone and muscle mass at a rate of about 1.5% per month, particularly affecting the lower spine, hips, and femurs. This can impair their physical performance and increase the risk of injuries. Additionally, the lack of gravity causes bodily fluids to shift upward, leading to facial puffiness and potential sensory changes.

Psychological Impact

The prolonged mission also poses psychological challenges. Being away from family for an extended period, especially in the isolation of space, can be mentally taxing. The astronauts' spacecraft has reported issues, including a helium leak and unpredictable thruster problems, which add to their stress.

Rescue Options and Hope

Despite these concerns, there are contingency plans. NASA can utilize SpaceX's Crew Dragon for a potential rescue and might seek assistance from the Russian space agency, Roscosmos, though this would involve complex technical and geopolitical negotiations.

Historically, long-duration space missions have been successfully managed. Russian cosmonaut Valeri Polyakov spent 437 consecutive days in space and demonstrated the feasibility of long-term space travel. Williams, orbiting Earth at 27,000 km/h, will experience time slightly slower than those on the ground due to relativistic effects. By the time of her return, she will be just 0.01 seconds younger than someone born at the same time on Earth.

As Williams and Wilmore continue their mission, both their physical resilience and psychological fortitude will be put to the test.

[anitasblogs]

The Tekman Advantage: Superior Quality Industrial Vacuum Pumps

In the world of industrial machinery, efficiency and reliability are key factors that can make or break production. Among the various tools used in industries, vacuum pumps are indispensable for a range of applications. Tekman has emerged as a leader in the field, offering superior-quality industrial vacuum pumps designed to meet the growing demands of various sectors. Whether it's for helium leak testing machines, vacuum furnaces, or screw vacuum pumps, Tekman stands out for its commitment to excellence.

A Leader in Vacuum Technology

Industrial vacuum pumps made by Tekman are well known for their unparalleled quality, effectiveness, and inventiveness. The need for dependable vacuum solutions is growing as India's industries develop, and Tekman is the brand that companies turn to when they need high-performance machinery. The company offers a variety of goods, such as vacuum furnaces and systems designed specifically for testing helium leaks. By utilizing state-of-the-art technology and prioritizing longevity, Tekman guarantees that our vacuum pumps satisfy regional and global regulations.

The Importance of Quality Vacuum Pumps

Industrial vacuum pumps are indispensable for procedures like as degassing, drying, and leak testing. Inefficient and costly production delays can result from subpar pumps for enterprises. Superior vacuum pumps from Tekman, such as helium recovery systems, are built to last a long time and require little maintenance. Businesses may increase operational efficiency, reduce breakdowns, and guarantee steady production flow by investing in Tekman's premium pumps.

Tekman’s Helium Leak Testing Solutions

The helium leak testing machine is one of Tekman's most notable products. It is an essential tool for companies who need to precisely test their systems for leaks. Because of its tiny atomic size, helium is the perfect gas for leak detection and is very good at finding even the smallest leaks. The highest safety and quality standards are maintained by the automotive, aerospace, and electronics industries thanks to Tekman's equipment, which use cutting-edge technology to guarantee accuracy and dependability.

Custom Helium Leak Testing Systems

Additionally, Tekman provides helium leak testing devices that are specially designed to meet the demands of your sector. With the experience to design and manufacture a system that satisfies your needs, Tekman can provide a machine for large-scale operations or high-pressure settings. These systems are perfect for sectors like the production of medical equipment, oil & gas, and refrigeration. Because of Tekman's emphasis on accuracy, their leak testing devices are capable of handling even the most difficult applications.

Helium Recovery Systems: Sustainable and Cost-Effective

In response to the growing expense and scarcity of helium, Tekman has created cutting-edge helium recovery devices that assist companies in cutting expenses and minimizing waste. To ensure that no precious gas is wasted, these devices recover and recycle the helium utilized throughout the leak testing procedure. This reduces operational expenses and supports environmental sustainability objectives. The helium recovery systems offered by Tekman are a wise option for sectors trying to maximize resource utilization while upholding strict quality standards.

Vacuum Furnaces for Precision Manufacturing

Tekman's vacuum furnaces provide accuracy and dependability for companies requiring heat treatment procedures. These furnaces are employed in the production of parts for electronics, medical equipment, and aircraft that must be free of impurities. The clean, regulated environment provided by Tekman's vacuum furnaces enables exact temperature control and higher-quality product production. Manufacturers may achieve consistent outcomes, lower defect rates, and improve overall product performance with Tekman's vacuum furnace technology.

The Power of Screw Vacuum Pumps

The screw vacuum pump is one of Tekman's other signature products. For enterprises that need to efficiently handle enormous volumes of gas and vapor, these pumps are indispensable. The long-term low operating costs of Tekman's screw vacuum pumps are guaranteed by their design, which aims for optimum durability and energy economy. Tekman's screw vacuum pumps are used in food packing, chemical processing, and pharmaceuticals. They offer reliable performance with low maintenance needs. They are able to endure even the most demanding industrial situations thanks to their sturdy design.

Tekman’s Commitment to Innovation

In terms of technological innovation, Tekman has always led the way in vacuum pump invention. In order to keep ahead of market trends and to consistently enhance its line of products, the company makes significant investments in research and development. Industries all throughout India choose Tekman because of its focus on developing cutting-edge solutions including vacuum furnaces, helium recovery systems, and leak testing machines. Customers will always have access to the newest and most effective technologies because to the company's commitment to innovation.

Serving Indian Industries with Pride

India is a significant market for Tekman's vacuum pumps because there, businesses are always seeking for methods to boost output and cut expenses. Many industries rely on Tekman's products, from the busy manufacturing centers of Mumbai to the industrial corridors of Delhi and Chennai. Tekman is a top vacuum solution provider in India because of its emphasis on sustainability, affordability, and quality, which is valued by Indian enterprises.

Exceptional Customer Support and Service

Tekman is renowned for providing outstanding customer service in addition to producing high-quality products. The company guarantees that customers can depend on their vacuum pumps for many years to come by providing end-to-end service, from installation to maintenance. Tekman's group of proficient professionals is constantly on hand to offer support, encompassing both normal upkeep and troubleshooting. Because of its dedication to client pleasure, Tekman has been able to establish enduring connections with customers in a variety of industries.

The Competitive Edge with Tekman Vacuum Pumps

Tekman is unique among manufacturers because of its comprehensive approach to vacuum pump solutions. Along with high-performance equipment, the company specializes in offering complete systems such as specialized leak testing solutions and helium recovery systems. Tekman's clients benefit from a competitive edge in their respective industries because of its ability to provide end-to-end solutions. If you require a sophisticated system for large industrial facilities or a vacuum pump for a small-scale operation, Tekman has the knowledge and product line to satisfy your demands.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Energy efficiency is a top priority for companies trying to lower expenses and their carbon imprint in today's industrial environment. Tekman's vacuum pumps are engineered with energy-efficient features that enable businesses to cut expenses significantly. Tekman's products, such as the screw vacuum pump and vacuum furnace, are designed to maximize production while consuming minimal electricity. Because of their emphasis on energy efficiency, Tekman's vacuum pumps are a great option for companies looking to reduce operating costs without sacrificing functionality.

[tekmantechnology]

Tekman India is one of the best manufacturer and supplier of premium quality range of Vacuum Pumps and Helium Leak Testing system machines across India. Contact us today

[dertaglichedan]

Boeing Starliner astronauts remain stuck on International Space Station with no set return date, NASA announces

After nearly two months of postponement, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are still on board the ISS. But NASA and Boeing say they still plan to return the two aboard Starliner.

There is still no return date for Boeing's stranded Starliner astronauts, who have been stuck on the International Space Station (ISS) since June after their spacecraft developed multiple issues, NASA has announced. 

Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams rode to orbit in Boeing's spacecraft following years of delays, successfully blasting off on Starliner's inaugural crewed flight from Florida's Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on June 5. They were scheduled to stay a week in orbit.

But during the flight the spacecraft suffered a series of issues, including five helium leaks and five failures of its reaction control system (RCS) thrusters, forcing engineers to troubleshoot issues on the ground. This extended the two astronauts' stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS) to the current 50 days. 

Yet NASA and Boeing say that even though ground tests have been completed, there is still no clear date for a flight home.

*** What's the odds, they cut it loose and let it burn up?

Guessing those two astronauts are wishing they'd brought some more underwear with them.

[ilmemcmi]

The global helium market is expected Growth owing to Rising Demand from Various End Use Industries

Helium finds wide applications in cryogenics, leak detection, welding, pressurizing, and lifting among other industrial processes. Its properties such as inert chemical nature and low boiling point enable it to perform critical functions across various end use verticals. Growing MRI scanning procedures and rising semiconductor manufacturing activities have significantly boosted the demand for helium over the years.

The global helium market is estimated to be valued at US$ 8.13 Mn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 6.3% over the forecast period from 2024 to 2031. Key Takeaways Key players operating in the gaseous and liquid helium market are ThermoFisher Scientific Inc., OSI Systems Inc., Chemring Group PLC, Bruker Corporation, Viken Detection, FLIR Systems Inc., Astrophysics Inc., Aventura Technologies Inc., Teknicom Solutions Ltd., L3 Security and Detection Systems Inc., Nuctech Company Limited, and Smiths Detection Inc. These players are focusing on capacity expansion and new product development strategies to strengthen their market position. The Gaseous and Liquid Helium Market Demand offers lucrative growth opportunities such as increasing demand for helium from the healthcare sector. Helium finds wide usage in MRI scans owing to its non-reactive nature and ability to conduct magnetic fields. Rising prevalence of chronic diseases and growing geriatric population are driving the demand for advanced medical imaging procedures worldwide. This is expected to propel the consumption of helium in the healthcare vertical over the coming years. Key players are also focused on expanding their footprint in high growth regions. For instance, several manufacturers have increased their production capacities in Asia Pacific and Middle East & Africa. Ease of raw material availability and lower production costs are encouraging companies to set up manufacturing facilities in these regions. Additionally, growing industrialization and infrastructure development activities in developing nations will further accelerate the demand for helium in the forthcoming years. Market drivers:

The primary driver which is propelling the growth of gaseous and liquid helium market is the rising demand from healthcare sector. Helium is widely used in MRI scans which are seeing increasing adoption rates owing to rising cases of chronic diseases. Market restraints:

One of the major challenges faced by the gaseous and liquid helium market is the volatile supply and pricing of helium. As helium is a non-renewable resource, fluctuations in its production and supply have led to unpredictable price trends over the past years which hinders the market growth.

Segment Analysis The gaseous and liquid helium market is dominated by the medical sector sub segment. This is because helium gas is used as a carrier and shielding gas in MRI machines. It allows for effective transfer of magnetic fields through the human body without any safety issues. Helium is also used for lung function testing and as a pressurizing agent in life jackets. The welding sector is another fast growing sub segment as helium gas allows for inert atmosphere arc welding of certain materials. It prevents oxidation of hot metal surfaces which is crucial for achieving high quality welds in applications such as aerospace. Global Analysis Content: The North American region currently dominates the global gaseous and liquid helium market with the United States being the largest consumer. This is attributed to high demand from medical device manufacturing and materials processing industries in the region. The Asia Pacific region is projected to be the fastest growing market during the forecast period. This is due to rising medical infrastructure and increasing popularity of cryogenics applications in countries like China and India. Countries in Europe such as Germany also have a sizeable market share due to major welding and scientific research activities carried out in the bloc.

Gets More Insights on, Gaseous and Liquid Helium Market

About Author:

Priya Pandey is a dynamic and passionate editor with over three years of expertise in content editing and proofreading. Holding a bachelor's degree in biotechnology, Priya has a knack for making the content engaging. Her diverse portfolio includes editing documents across different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. Priya's meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence make her an invaluable asset in the world of content creation and refinement.

(LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/priya-pandey-8417a8173/)

[beardedmrbean]

As Boeing's first crewed Starliner test flight nears the 80-day mark of what was initially an eight-day mission, NASA leaders will give an update on Saturday (Aug. 24) to outline their plan on how to return Starliner's astronaut crew to Earth.

The press conference, which is scheduled for Saturday at 1 p.m. EDT (1700 GMT), will include NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and other agency leadership as they discuss plans to return Boeing Starliner astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams home. You'll be able to watch the press briefing live on this page, courtesy of NASA TV.

The two astronauts launched to the International Space Station on Starliner on June 5, but saw their mission extended over two months as Boeing and NASA studied helium leaks and thruster issues on the spacecraft. 

"NASA and Boeing have gathered data, both in space and on the ground, regarding the Starliner spacecraft's propulsion and helium systems to better understand the ongoing technical challenges," NASA officials wrote in a statement Thursday (Aug. 22). "The review will include a mission status update, review of technical data and closeout actions, as well as certify flight rationale to proceed with undocking and return from the space station."

Nelson and NASA leadership will discuss that flight rationale in an internal Agency Test Flight Readiness Review at the Johnson Space Center in Houston on Saturday before the press conference to share the meeting's results. 

Last week, NASA officials said they were studying several options for how to return Boeing's Starliner and its crew to Earth. Those include the astronauts landing on Starliner as planned or returning Starliner to Earth empty while its astronauts make their own landing on a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. A final decision must be made by the end of August to allow time for planning, agency officials said. 

Boeing's Starliner spacecraft is one of two commercial vehicles NASA picked to fly astronauts to and from the International Space Station under its Commercial Crew Program. SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule is the other. SpaceX has flown nine crewed flights for NASA since 2020 (and several private missions of its own), while Boeing's Starliner's current mission, called the Crew Flight Test, is the company's first of at least six planned crewed missions for NASA under the multibillion-dollar contract.