The Aerospace Corporation played a pivotal role in the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS). In the 1970s, Aerospace actively collaborated with the United States Air Force in establishing a program office dedicated to assisting in the creation of GPS. Aerospace's contributions to GPS earned them a share of the prestigious 1992 Robert J. Collier Trophy, the highest award for aeronautical achievement in the United States. Today, the Aerospace Corporation continues to play a vital role in the evolution of GPS and other advanced space systems.
The Lithium-ion Battery Deorbiter is solution developed by the Aerospace Corporation to address the increasing problem of space debris in low Earth orbit (LEO). As the population of satellites in LEO is expected to rise rapidly, the risk of collisions between active satellites, inactive satellites, and other space debris also increases. The Lithium-ion Battery Deorbiter utilizes the onboard lithium-ion battery of a spacecraft to actively reduce debris in LEO. This novel technology takes advantage of the fact that lithium-ion batteries pose a risk of thermal runaway, wherein the battery can potentially catch fire. Instead of considering this risk a weakness, the Lithium-ion Battery Deorbiter turns it into a strength by intentionally triggering controlled thermal runaway. When thermal runaway is activated in a controlled manner, the resulting red-hot gases are directed through a nozzle to generate thrust for deorbit. This approach is unique as it introduces a zero-added-mass onboard spacecraft technology capable of reducing orbital debris, providing a proactive solution to protect low Earth orbit from additional space junk. Small satellites, often lacking propulsion systems, are typically reliant on atmospheric drag for deorbit. By using the satellite's battery as a propulsion unit, the Lithium-ion Battery Deorbiter extends the overall lifetime of satellites and decreases the chances of collisions in space. The projected thrust is substantial enough to reduce the residual orbit time for a small satellite by 55% in LEO, showcasing the efficacy of this solution.
December 1, 1783
Today marks a historic moment. As a mechanic working tirelessly behind the scenes, supporting Jacques Alexandre Cesar Charles in his audacious endeavor to conquer the skies in a hot-air balloon, I find myself compelled to journal about this extraordinary day.
The excitement in the air was palpable as we prepared the balloon. Charles, our pilot, exuded a mix of nervous anticipation and enthusiasm. The balloon filled with heated air. As the moment of ascent approached, my heart raced with a blend of pride and anxiety. The crowd, a curious mix of skeptics and believers, gathered to witness history unfold. The balloon lifted gently from the ground, carrying Charles into the vast expanse above. I couldn't help but marvel at the sight.
In the days that followed, Charles' achievement became the talk of the town, sparking discussions about the limitless possibilities that lay ahead. As a witness to this historic flight, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in contributing in my humble way.
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