TYB
NASA Astronomy Picture of the Day
March 6, 2026
The Astrosphere of HD 61005
Do young stars blow bubbles? The larger view shows a stellar field observed with the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory in Chile, and the inset highlights HD 61005, a star like our Sun, only 120 light-years away. Much younger than the Sun, at just about 100 million years old, it blows a fast and dense stellar wind that pushes out the cooler dust and gas that surrounds it, forming a bubble called an astrosphere. The star-blown bubble was detected with the Chandra X-ray Observatory, and it has a diameter roughly 200 times the Earth-Sun distance. Our Sun has a bubble too, called the heliosphere, which protects the planets from cosmic radiation. Also shown in the inset is debris left behind from star formation, observed by Hubble. The debris appears as wings, giving the star its nickname: the Moth.
https://apod.nasa.gov/apod/astropix.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZyHN2heqFk
kek
they should circulate an article that says it is 'rumored' that he is in talks to be selected
double kek
Severe Storm Alert, Gov Confirms Solar Forecast | S0 News and endtime frens
Mar.6.2026
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILtAC1Lj6dg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2zCsHNGyM8 (Stefan Burns: TWO DOOMSDAY FISH Wash Ashore Mexico ⚠️ All Signs Point to a Something BIG Coming Soon…)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYknJ-6hwB8 (Stefan Burns: These "Doomsday" Oarfish Sightings are Getting Concerning…)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TeACa1fLtzg (Dutchsinse: 3/05/2026 Largest Earthquake in DECADES hits Louisiana USA Seismic activity on the increase)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHoHoiMxlUQ (MrMBB333: Nobody saw this COMING!)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTBpZNRhLo0 (Moontropolis: Mondstädte - Episode 6 - Mare Crisium)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHSHa0cfa_4 (Alien Hunter: Things That THEY Blur On The Moon?)
https://scienceinpoland.pl/en/news/news%2C111729%2Cpolish-firm-astronika-build-instrument-booms-esas-vigil-space-weather-probe.html
https://www.iflscience.com/mars-missions-witnessed-7500-percent-increase-in-radiation-during-2024s-solar-superstorm-82758
https://x.com/MrMBB333/status/2029602292685766825
https://x.com/artenpedia/status/2029557795490586736
https://x.com/schumannbot/status/2029919963121611075
https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/products/aurora-viewline-tonight-and-tomorrow-night-experimental
https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/
https://spaceweather.com/
https://www.innovationnewsnetwork.com/is-space-weather-hiding-alien-signals/67449/
https://www.seti.org/news/why-seti-might-have-been-missing-alien-signals/
Is space weather hiding alien signals?
6th March 2026
Stellar turbulence could be distorting extraterrestrial radio transmissions before they ever leave their home systems.
Scientists searching the skies for alien signals may have been overlooking an important obstacle much closer to the source.
New research suggests that turbulent ‘space weather’ around distant stars could distort radio transmissions from potential extraterrestrial civilisations, making them harder for astronomers on Earth to detect.
The study, conducted by researchers at the SETI Institute, indicates that stellar activity near a transmitting planet can spread an otherwise extremely narrow radio signal across a wider range of frequencies.
That process reduces the signal’s peak intensity, which could cause it to slip below the detection thresholds used in many searches for extraterrestrial intelligence.
The findings point to a potential blind spot in traditional SETI strategies and may help explain why decades of observations have yet to reveal confirmed alien signals.
How space weather could distort alien signals
For many years, SETI experiments have focused on identifying extremely narrow spikes in the radio spectrum.
These tight frequency signals are considered promising technosignatures because they are unlikely to arise naturally from astrophysical sources.
But according to the new research, a signal transmitted with perfect precision might not stay that way for long.
Before a radio transmission even leaves its home star system, it must travel through turbulent plasma produced by stellar winds and eruptive events such as coronal mass ejections.
These disturbances can alter the radio waves’ properties, effectively spreading the signal’s energy across a broader frequency range.
When this happens, the signal becomes weaker at any single frequency. Since most search pipelines are optimised to identify sharp spikes, a broadened signal could be overlooked even if it is present.
Researchers say this effect may represent an underappreciated barrier in the search for extraterrestrial communications.
Why narrowband searches may miss signals
Many SETI projects already account for distortions that occur as radio waves cross the vast distances between stars. Interstellar gas and plasma can shift or scatter signals during their journey to Earth.
However, the new study emphasises a different stage of the signal’s path: the environment immediately surrounding the transmitter.
Plasma density fluctuations in stellar winds can subtly reshape radio waves near their origin. During periods of intense stellar activity, those effects may become even more pronounced.
The result is a smeared signal that spreads across multiple frequencies rather than appearing as a single sharp spike.
If detection algorithms are tuned only for ultra-narrow signals, these broadened transmissions could remain hidden in observational data.
1/2
Using spacecraft signals as a reference
To understand how strongly space weather can alter radio transmissions, the research team turned to a useful benchmark: spacecraft operating within our own solar system.
Signals sent from probes travelling through the solar wind experience similar plasma turbulence. Because these transmissions can be measured directly, they provide empirical data on how radio waves change when passing through magnetised plasma.
The researchers used those measurements to calibrate models describing how turbulent plasma broadens radio signals.
They then extended the models to simulate conditions around different types of stars and across various observing frequencies.
The result is a framework that estimates the amount of distortion extraterrestrial radio transmissions might experience before escaping their home systems.
Active stars may be the most challenging targets
One of the study’s key implications concerns the types of stars most likely to host detectable alien signals.
M-dwarf stars, which make up roughly three-quarters of the Milky Way’s stellar population, are known for intense magnetic activity and frequent stellar eruptions.
Those conditions can generate strong space weather, increasing the likelihood that any narrowband transmission would be distorted before it leaves the system.
If extraterrestrial civilisations exist around these common stars, their radio signals might already be broadened and weakened by the time they reach Earth.
That possibility suggests future SETI efforts may need to adapt their search techniques. Detection pipelines that can identify signals spanning a broader frequency range could improve the chances of detecting technosignatures affected by stellar turbulence.
Rethinking the search for technosignatures
The study adds another layer of complexity to the decades-long effort to detect alien signals.
Instead of assuming transmissions remain pristine as they depart their home systems, astronomers may need to consider the chaotic environments surrounding many stars.
In practical terms, that means designing search strategies that remain sensitive to signals that are not perfectly narrow.
By accounting for the influence of space weather near distant transmitters, researchers hope to refine future SETI observations and ensure that potentially meaningful signals are not missed simply because they arrive in a slightly different form than expected.
2/2
C/2026 A1 (MAPS) Updates, and other comets
March 6, 2026
C/2026 A1 (MAPS) is a Kreutz sungrazer, a family of comets with perihelion distances extremely close to the Sun's surface.
Comet Ikeya–Seki, the Great Comet of 1965, was also part of this family (see below) and there are hopes that C/2026 A1 (MAPS) might become exceptionally bright around its perihelion date (April 4, 2026).
Here we provide regular updates about the comet evolution, to supplement our C/2026 A1 complete data reference page.
March 5, 2026
Updates. Latest observations report a slight increase of brightness, C/2026 A1 (MAPS) magnitude is now in the range from 11.1 to 11.3.
Prospects. The calculated light curve with the inclusion of the new data points confirms the following possible trend: mag 10 on March 10, mag 8 on March 16, mag 6 on March 20 and mag 4 on March 24 (table).
March 4, 2026
Updates. Latest observed visual magnitude is 11.4, coma diameter 5.3' (source: COBS Comet Observation Database), no significand day-on-day variations. Currently in Cetus, well placed for evening observations from both hemispheres. View the interactive star map.
Prospects. The calculated light curve still consistent with mag 10 on March 10, mag 8 on March 16, mag 6 on March 20 and mag 4 on March 24 (table).
March 3, 2026
Updates. Recent observations of C/2026 A1 (MAPS) report a visual magnitude of 11.5 - about half a magnitude brighter than it was 24 hours prior - and a coma diameter of 5.3' (source: COBS Comet Observation Database).
It is currently in Eridanus, well placed for evening observations from both hemispheres, as it sets more than 3 hours after the Sun. View the interactive star map.
Prospects. The light curve of C/2026 A1 (MAPS), built from recent observations, is consistent with the following projected trend:
Similarities Between C/2026 A1 (MAPS) and Comet Ikeya-Seki
Astronomer Heinrich Kreutz showed that a specific group of sungrazer comets with very similar orbits are all part of the same family, originating from a large parent comet that disintegrated centuries ago.
These comets have highly eccentric orbit and, at perihelion, transit extremely close to the Sun's surface - sometimes at a distance less than the Sun's own diameter.
Due to the extreme heat and radiation pressure, many of these comets do not survive their perihelion passage. However, if they do, they might become extremely bright as they speed away from the Sun.
As mentioned above, comet Ikeya–Seki is one of the most famous examples of a Kreutz sungrazer comet. Using our Solar System visualizer it is indeed possible to see how similar the orbit of the new C/2026 A1 (MAPS) is to that of Ikeya–Seki.
Comet C/2026 A1 will reach perihelion on April 4, 2026, at 14:18 Universal Time. At that time, its distance from the center of the Sun will be 855,000 km (531,000 miles) and its distance to the surface of our star will be a mere 159,000 km (98,500 miles) which is less than half the distance between the Earth and the Moon. By comparison, Ikeya-Seki passed at a much safer distance of about 450,000 km, or 280,000 miles from the Sun surface on October 21, 1965.
https://theskylive.com/articles/2026/02/c2026a1-maps-updates
https://mycharisma.com/news/mystery-behind-3i-atlas-deepens-as-a-major-update-emerges/
https://www.unilad.com/technology/space/3i-atlas-update-avi-loeb-aliens-prediction-897175-20260305
https://science.nasa.gov/blogs/planetary-defense/2026/03/05/new-nasa-asteroid-observations-eliminate-chance-of-2032-lunar-impact/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNjbHYjnzS4 (Dobsonian Power: WE'RE ENTERING 3I/ATLAS DEBRIS!)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=op_wCAep23o (Ray's Astro: SOMETHING IS HAPPENING — We Are Detecting Anomalous Objects | What They Don’t Explain)
https://x.com/mushak_herc/status/2029935121491710126
https://x.com/konstructivizm/status/2029924485642457434
https://x.com/StefanBurnsGeo/status/2029919808855150852
https://x.com/Val_Italo/status/2029688954899861579
Canadarm2 Grips Cargo Spacecraft, Spacewalk Prep and Biology Continue
March 5, 2026 2:29 PM
A JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) cargo spacecraft is in the grasp of the Canadarm2 robotic arm following its detachment from the International Space Station’s Harmony module on Thursday.
The Expedition 74 crew continued its spacewalk preparations, transferred more cargo, and conducted biology research throughout the day.
The HTV-X1 cargo spacecraft was uninstalled from Harmony with the Canadarm2 at 2:26 p.m. EST Thursday and maneuvered to an overnight parking position.
During the crew’s sleep shift, Japanese mission controllers will conduct a laser ranging sensor demonstration test with HTV-X1 still held by the robotic arm.
Then at 12 p.m. EST on Friday, robotics controllers will command the Canadarm2 to release HTV-X1 into Earth orbit.
The spacecraft will remain at a safe distance from the station for approximately three months while conducting a series of remotely controlled science experiments.
NASA will broadcast the release live, beginning at 11:45 a.m. Friday on NASA+, Amazon Prime, and the agency’s YouTube channel.
While robotic operations continued outside the space station, the astronauts pressed ahead with spacewalk preparations.
NASA flight engineers Jessica Meir, Chris Williams, and Jack Hathaway gathered together and reviewed the tools and equipment required to install a modification kit and route cables for a future roll-out solar array on the port side of the orbital outpost.
NASA will soon announce the date and name the two spacewalkers who will exit the station’s Quest airlock into the vacuum of space for the roll-out solar array preparation work.
ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Sophie Adenot began her shift packing cargo for disposal inside Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus XL cargo spacecraft attached to the Unity module’s Earth-facing port.
Cygnus will conclude its mission soon at the orbital outpost that began on Sept. 18 with its robotic capture and installation to Unity. Adenot also worked in the Kibo laboratory module removing computer and electronics hardware for stowage and later reuse.
Cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Sergei Mikaev teamed up early Thursday for a Roscosmos digestion study.
Shortly after waking, the duo scanned their stomachs with an ultrasound device before eating their breakfast.
After their meal, the station commander and flight engineer repeated the stomach scans helping researchers understand how the digestive system adapts to weightlessness.
Flight Engineer Andrey Fedyaev kicked off his shift servicing the Elektron oxygen generator and its components in the station’s Roscosmos segment.
Fedyaev then inspected video recording gear, downloaded video and imagery for mission controllers, and installed automated Earth observation hardware to capture imagery of islands across the Asia-Pacific region.
https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2026/03/05/canadarm2-grips-cargo-spacecraft-spacewalk-prep-and-biology-continue/
extra NASA ISS
https://www.nasa.gov/image-article/weekends-on-the-space-station/
https://www.space.com/space-exploration/international-space-station/japan-htv-x-depart-international-space-station-first-mission
https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2026/03/Earth_from_Space_Dhaka_Bangladesh
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EPw5P7pScQU (Interview with NASA astronaut Jessica Meir and ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot onboard the space station)
About Advanced Air Mobility Pathfinders Project
Mar 05, 2026
The Advanced Air Mobility Pathfinders (AAMP) project accelerates advanced air mobility technologies for wildfire response and urban transportation through real-world demonstrations and strategic partnerships.
AAMP researches emerging technologies, establishes aircraft strategic deconfliction frameworks, and validates solutions in metropolitan areas to enable larger-scale urban air mobility.
The project enhances Unmanned Aircraft Systems capabilities for wildfire mitigation and disaster response by transferring Portable Airspace Management System technologies to enable routine, safe, and efficient Beyond Visual Line of Sight operations.
AAMP delivers scalable technologies, integration standards, and coordination tools that drive industry adoption and improve multi-agency collaboration for emergency response.
More AAMP details
The project is dedicated to demonstrating and validating the safe and practical integration of advanced air mobility technologies. We focus on developing, evaluating, and transferring performance requirements for:
Portable Airspace Management System — To enable safe, scalable, and continuous (24/7) aerial operations, especially in challenging degraded visual environments.
Airspace Service Providers — Managing medium-density advanced air mobility operations, aligning with the AAM National Strategy.
Our goal is to ensure these systems are ready for real-world use in emergency operations as well as urban transportation. AAMP actively collaborates with government agencies, academia, and industry stakeholders.
These partnerships are vital for validating the safe and effective performance of these new technologies.
This, in turn, enables safe, practical, and resilient urban air mobility operations.
AAMP bridges the gap between research and implementation, making Advanced Air Mobility a trusted solution for everyday transportation and life-saving missions across the United States.
https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/armd/aosp/amp/about-aamp/
https://www.nasa.gov/mission/advanced-air-mobility
Rocket Lab launches mystery satellite for 'confidential commercial customer
March 5, 2026
Rocket Lab launched a mystery satellite for a secretive private customer this evening (March 5).
An Electron rocket lifted off from Rocket Lab's New Zealand site today at 6:53 p.m. EST (2353 GMT; 12:53 p.m. on March 6 local time), kicking off a mission the company calls "Insight at Speed is a Friend Indeed."
Rocket Lab announced the planned launch just a few hours before liftoff and provided few details, saying that it's "for a confidential commercial customer."
We do know that the mission is lofting a single satellite, and that the target deployment orbit lies 292 miles (470 kilometers) above Earth. Rocket Lab ended the launch webcast before that milestone, however, at the request of the unnamed customer.
Some observers are speculating that this customer may be the Virginia company BlackSky, which operates a constellation of sharp-eyed Earth-observation satellites.
Rocket Lab has flown many missions for BlackSky to date and recently has been helping the company build out its new "Gen-3" constellation in low Earth orbit.
Today's launch was the 76th to date for the 59-foot-tall (18-meter-tall) Electron, which gives small satellites dedicated rides to orbit.
Rocket Lab has also flown seven missions with HASTE, a suborbital version of Electron designed to help customers test hypersonic technologies, bringing the company's overall liftoff tally to 83.
https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/rocket-lab-electron-launch-confidential-commercial-customer
https://www.nasa.gov/image-article/nasa-wallops-supports-first-rocket-lab-haste-launch-of-2026/
https://rocketlabcorp.com/missions/launches/insight-at-speed-is-a-friend-indeed/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQhLu0hOB14
https://arstechnica.com/space/2026/03/congress-steps-up-pressure-on-nasa-to-support-private-space-stations/
https://arstechnica.com/space/2026/03/the-us-senate-empowers-nasa-to-fully-engage-in-lunar-space-race/
https://cdn.arstechnica.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/S.933_Cruz-Cantwell_Substitute__as_modified.pdf
https://spacenews.com/nasa-deputy-administrator-nominee-sails-through-confirmation-hearing/
Congress extends ISS and tells NASA to get moving on private space stations
Mar 5, 2026 9:45 AM |
Two months ago, a key staffer for Sen. Ted Cruz said in a public meeting that she was “begging” NASA to release a document that would kick off the second round of a competition among private companies to develop replacements for the International Space Station.
There has been no movement since then, as NASA has yet to release this “request for proposals.” So this week, Cruz stepped up the pressure on the space agency with a NASA Authorization bill that passed his committee on Wednesday.
Regarding NASA’s support for the development of commercial space stations, the bill mandates the following, within specified periods, of passage of the law:
Within 60 days, publicly release the requirements for commercial space stations in low-Earth orbit
Within 90 days, release the final “request for proposals” to solicit industry responses
Within 180 days, enter into contracts with “two or more” commercial providers for such stations
Cruz is trying to inject urgency into NASA as several private companies—including Axiom Space, Blue Origin, Vast, and Voyager—are finalizing designs for space stations.
All have expressed a desire for clarity from NASA on how long the space agency would like its astronauts to stay on board, the types of scientific equipment needed, and much more.
These are known as “requirements” in NASA parlance.
1/2
Balancing uncertainty and fundraising
It’s a difficult time for potential vendors as they seek to balance building a business case for habitats in low-Earth orbit with the uncertainty of NASA’s requirements. The agency is viewed as the most important customer for their services, but not the exclusive one.
Amid this environment, some companies have succeeded in raising new capital. Last month, Axiom Space announced it had raised $350 million in financing, which included funding from the company’s founder, Kam Ghaffarian.
Also among the backers was 1789 Capital, which includes Donald Trump Jr. as a partner.
On Thursday, Vast announced its own $500 million funding to accelerate the development of its Haven space stations. Like Axiom Space, Vast’s funding round also included investment from the Qatar Investment Authority, which is seeking opportunities to invest in commercial space.
Nominally, NASA plans to have one or more of these companies operating a commercial space station in low-Earth orbit by 2030. This is the date at which the US space agency has stated it will retire the aging laboratory, some elements of which are now nearly three decades old. However, some space policy officials have questioned whether any of the companies might be ready by then.
Cruz and other senators on the committee appear to share those concerns, as their legislation extends the International Space Station’s lifespan from 2030 to 2032 (an extension must still be approved by international partners, including Russia).
Moreover, the authorization bill states, “The Administrator shall not initiate the de-orbit of the ISS until the date on which a commercial low-Earth orbit destination has reached an initial operational capability.”
With this legislation, the US Senate is making clear that it views a permanent human presence in low-Earth orbit as a high priority. This version of the authorization legislation must still be passed by the full Senate and work its way through the House of Representatives.
Reaction from the companies
After the legislation passed the Commerce committee, Axiom Space said on social media that it welcomes the changes:
“Axiom Space is proud to support the NASA Authorization Act of 2026. The bill is a clear indicator that Chairman @SenTedCruz and the Senate Commerce Committee are determined to ensure the success of the entire human spaceflight enterprise.”
In an interview, the chief executive of Vast, Max Haot, said his company also welcomed the clarifying legislation—both for its language on commercial space stations as well as its reflection of the fact that NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman has been working overtime to set the Artemis lunar program on a better path for success.
“We are really impressed by what Jared has been able to do with the American space program and aligning all of the stakeholders,” he said. “As it relates to commercial space stations, we were happy to see the renewed commitment to transition from the ISS to commercial alternatives.”
Haot said there should not be a hard date for de-orbiting the International Space Station but that it should depend on the readiness of the commercial providers.
He said Vast is confident that, should NASA issue an RFP and awards for private providers this year, Vast will be ready to support a continuous human presence in low-Earth orbit by the end of 2030.
2/2
Kinda intersting or maybe not, there was another reference to a 'Mr Anderson' yesterday in here somewhere.
https://nasawatch.com/ask-the-administrator/senate-confirmation-hearing-for-matt-anderson/
https://spacenews.com/nasa-deputy-administrator-nominee-sails-through-confirmation-hearing/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yRCZsSxqMBc
Senate Confirmation Hearing For Matt Anderson
March 5, 2026
Keith’s note: The Senate CS&T Committee held the confirmation hearing for Matthew Anderson to be Deputy Administrator of NASA. He sailed through with the usual questions from both sides of the aisle. As to when the full Senate will vote on his nomination – stay tuned.
Probably soon. Update: according to Marcia Smith: “Following today’s nomination hearing for Matt Anderson to be NASA Deputy Admin, the Senate Commerce Cmte will vote on his nomination (and several others) next Thursday, Mar 12, at approx 11:30 am ET.
It’s in the Capitol (S-216) so likely not livestreamed”. Opening statement below:
U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, & Transportation Nomination Hearing for Matthew Anderson to be Deputy Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
March 5, 2026
Anderson’s Opening Remarks
Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell, and distinguished members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today as President Trump’s nominee to serve as the Deputy Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
First, I want to recognize and thank my family sitting behind me – my wife, Christine, and our daughters, Kayla and Lauren. During my Air Force career, we have shared every move, every deployment, and every difficult decision.
They have always been the true force multiplier for my career, and I would not be here today without their strength and sacrifice.
I’d also like to thank the 45 aerospace companies and non-profits who sent letters of support to this Committee, advocating for me and this nomination.
I do recognize I am a newcomer so I thought I would share a bit of my story, along with my understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead.
I grew up moving around the world as the son of an Air Force chaplain and a schoolteacher. I spent my middle school years in the Philippines and graduated from high school in New Jersey. I’m proud to call Colorado Springs our home right now.
Following high school, I played four years of Division I soccer and majored in Biology at the Air Force Academy.
I then served more than 24 years in the United States Air Force as a pilot and commander, logging nearly 5,000 flight hours in five different aircrafts – including 650 in combat. My passion for aeronautics and science converged when I had the privilege of piloting multiple missions to Antarctica… landing a C-17 on an ice runway… delivering scientists and critical equipment for the National Science Foundation. I also have commanded America’s only nuclear airlift squadron… where I proudly led and personally flew America’s nuclear weapons around the world.
1/2
Since retiring as Colonel nearly 5 years ago, I’ve had the honor of working as a Vice President in a 25,000 person, publicly traded, national security company named CACI International. I’d like to thank CEO John Mengucii and Chief of Staff Dan Walsh for their mentorship.
Over six years ago, one month before President Trump signed the United States Space Force into law, I helped create and grow the Space Force Association. Since that day, I have served as the
Chief Operating Officer and currently still serve as the Chief Growth Officer to support our nation’s Guardians and national security space community. I’d like to thank SFA Founder Bill Woolf and CEO Damon Feltman for their continued mentorship.
That brings me to leadership. If we’ve learned anything from Administrator Isaacman’s first two months on the job, it’s that bold leadership matters. I’ve been very fortunate to lead large organizations in my career.
I’ve proudly certified… but also had to decertify Air Force pilots who didn’t meet the high standards our nation demands.
Similarly, I’ve proudly commissioned hundreds of Air Force Academy cadets as officers but also had to remove cadets from the Academy who didn’t meet the required high standards.
If confirmed, I will reinforce the culture of safety, accountability, and transparency that Administrator Isaacman has recently outlined to NASA, as well as the American public.
President Trump has given NASA clear direction through the National Space Policy. That policy sets a bold but achievable course:
Return American astronauts to the lunar surface by the end of 2028, establish a lasting presence on the Moon, prepare for human missions to Mars, and accelerate the growth of a vibrant commercial economy in orbit.
At its core, that vision is to expand America’s presence beyond Earth, and to ensure that we maintain our position of leadership in that domain.
Administrator Isaacman has already demonstrated NASA’s full commitment to executing on the President’s mission.
Make no mistake… we are on a shot clock, and the stakes are high. Stakes that directly affect the balance of power here on earth.
If confirmed, I will 100 percent support the Administrator in executing the President’s space policy. I will roll up my sleeves and tirelessly serve the talented workforce at NASA, be a great teammate with Congress, and beat China to the moon.
Together, we have the opportunity to usher in a new Golden Age of science and discovery. One that strengthens our nation, expands human knowledge, and inspires the next generation.
Thank you again for the opportunity to be here today. I look forward to your questions.
2/2
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman
@NASAAdmin
NASA Force is critical to our mission. By recruiting top talent from across America’s most advanced technological organizations, we’re strengthening the expertise needed to push the boundaries of exploration and deliver on the missions ahead.
3:15 PM · Mar 5, 2026
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman
@NASAAdmin
3:15 PM · Mar 5, 2026
Congressman Mike Haridopolos
@RepHaridopolos
Honored to welcome @nasaadmin Jared Isaacman to my Washington, DC office today for a productive conversation about the future of America’s space program and innovation on Florida’s Space Coast. 🚀
6:05 PM · Mar 5, 2026
US Tech Force
@USTechForce
@NASA Force is looking for engineers and technicians. Watch @NASAAdmin Jared Isaacman talk about opportunities on @tbpn
6:30 AM · Mar 6, 2026
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman
@NASAAdmin
America must lead on the ultimate high ground of space.
Our priorities are clear—return to the Moon and build a lunar base, ignite a true orbital economy, and prepare for humanity’s next giant leap to Mars.
7:14 AM · Mar 6, 2026
https://x.com/NASAAdmin/status/2029697242790056222
https://x.com/RepHaridopolos/status/2029740237723676974
https://x.com/USTechForce/status/2029927481491484759
https://x.com/NASAAdmin/status/2029938747349881012
Work ongoing to restore contact with Proba-3's Coronagraph
06/03/2026
An anomaly onboard the Proba-3 mission’s Coronagraph spacecraft led to loss of contact between the spacecraft and ground control. The root cause of the anomaly is under investigation and mission teams are working hard to recover the situation.
During the weekend of 14–15 February 2026, an anomaly onboard Proba-3's Coronagraph spacecraft triggered a chain reaction that led to the progressive loss of attitude (spacecraft orientation) and prevented the entry into safe mode.
Because the spacecraft’s solar panel was no longer facing the Sun, the onboard battery started to discharge quickly. This caused the spacecraft to enter survival mode, when minimum electronics are active and data transmission to the ground is interrupted.
The exact root cause of the anomaly is under investigation, and mission teams and operators have joined forces to attempt to re-establish contact with the spacecraft to recover the situation.
One of their priorities is to investigate how the mission's Occulter spacecraft, which remains healthy and operational, could safely approach the Coronagraph and observe its orientation in space to support the recovery efforts.
Updates will be shared as new information becomes available.
About Proba-3
Proba-3 is the European Space Agency's first eclipse-making mission. The mission consists of two satellites – the Coronagraph and the Occulter.
Since their launch in December 2024, the satellite duo has claimed not one, but two world firsts – the first precise formation flight, setting the mission up for its first artificial solar eclipse in orbit.
After having achieved all of its technology goals, the mission has completed more than 60 extremely accurate formation flying orbits so far, during which it was able to observe the highly dynamic inner region of the Sun's corona.
By providing scientists with hours of science data per orbit, Proba-3 has accomplished a major feat in space-based solar and heliophysics research.
Proba-3 is the European Space Agency's first eclipse-making mission. The mission consists of two satellites – the Coronagraph and the Occulter.
Since their launch in December 2024, the satellite duo has claimed not one, but two world firsts – the first precise formation flight, setting the mission up for its first artificial solar eclipse in orbit.
After having achieved all of its technology goals, the mission has completed more than 60 extremely accurate formation flying orbits so far, during which it was able to observe the highly dynamic inner region of the Sun's corona.
By providing scientists with hours of science data per orbit, Proba-3 has accomplished a major feat in space-based solar and heliophysics research.
https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Engineering_Technology/Work_ongoing_to_restore_contact_with_Proba-3_s_Coronagraph
extra ESA
https://www.esa.int/About_Us/Diversity_and_Inclusiveness/Meet_ESA_s_newest_female_leadership
https://www.esa.int/About_Us/Week_in_images/Week_in_images_02-06_March_2026
https://www.esa.int/Space_Safety/Planetary_Defence/Asteroid_2024_YR4_will_not_impact_the_Moon
World's 1st space-brewed sake mash arrives in Japan
Mar 06, 2026 - 23:43
OSAKA - The fermenting mash used to brew sake in space as part of a world-first initiative by the maker of the popular Japanese brand Dassai arrived in Japan from Los Angeles on Friday.
Dassai Inc. plans to sell a single 100-milliliter bottle of the finished sake for 110 million yen ($700,000), with a buyer already secured. All proceeds will be donated to Japanese space development projects.
Speaking at a press conference at Kansai International Airport, where the "moromi" mash arrived on a Japan Airlines flight, Dassai Chairman Hiroshi Sakurai said alcohol had already been detected after two weeks of brewing.
"At first we did not know whether fermentation could occur in space, but now I feel somewhat relieved," he said with a smile.
In October last year, a dedicated brewing device and the raw ingredients of rice, koji mold, yeast and water were loaded onto the unmanned cargo spacecraft HTV-X and launched aboard a H3 rocket from the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture.
Brewing tests were conducted in the "Kibo" experiment module of the International Space Station in an environment simulating the Moon's surface gravity. Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui, who was aboard the ISS at the time, was responsible for injecting water on the first day of brewing.
The resulting moromi was then frozen and recovered after splashing down in waters off California in the United States. It will be transported in a container to Dassai's headquarters in Yamaguchi Prefecture while still frozen.
https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/71787
Space Torah marks its 30th anniversary
Thu, Mar 05, 2026
Jewish space enthusiasts around the world are celebrating the 30th anniversary of the first kosher Torah scroll in history to be taken into space.
Reverently known as “The Space Torah,” it was lifted into space on the Shuttle Columbia (STS-75) along with astronaut Dr. Jeffrey Hoffman on Feb. 22, 1996.
Nine days later, Dr. Hoffman read the opening verse of Genesis on Shabbat while in orbit 184 miles above Jerusalem.
Taking a kosher Torah into space capped Dr. Hoffman’s custom of bringing Judaic religious objects into space – beginning with his first space flight aboard STS 51-D in April 1985.
During his fourth mission on STS-35 in December 1990, Hoffman brought the first dreidel into space to celebrate Chanukah.
The idea for bringing a kosher Torah into space became a reality when Hoffman’s synagogue, Congregation Or Hadash, raised the funds to purchase a Torah that would meet the weight requirements aboard the Shuttle Columbia.
Rabbi Shaul Osadchey, the synagogue’s rabbi at the time, contacted his scribe friends at Klein Brothers of Brooklyn, N.Y., to search for a suitable Torah scroll.
The Torah that was selected was a new Torah purchased in Israel by Rabbi Moshe Klein from a Yemenite Jewish scribe, Yichyeh Sharabi. The Space Torah measures 7 inches in height and 4 inches in diameter.
Dr. Hoffman participated in five space missions, becoming the first astronaut to log 1,000 hours of flights aboard the space shuttle.
He performed four spacewalks, including the first unplanned, contingency spacewalk in NASA’s history as well as the initial repair/rescue mission for the Hubble Space Telescope in 1993.
He was the first Jewish-American male astronaut to fly into space and saw the act of bringing religious objects into space as part of bringing his practice of Conservative Judaism with him.
Bringing the Torah into space had the added symbolic meaning and significance of bringing the holiness of human life into space.
Dr. Hoffman noted, “It wasn’t that space made this Torah special; it was more that the Torah made space special.”
The Space Torah resides in a specially designated place within the Ark of the sanctuary of Congregation Or Ami, Or Hadash’s successor. It is read by B’nai Mitzvah students and on other special occasions.
https://jhvonline.com/space-torah-marks-its-th-anniversary-p36043-89.htm
FCC Wants ‘Weird Space’ Missions To Get Spectrum, Too
March 5, 2026
The FCC has a plan to support the space industry sectors that feel more science fiction than fact.
FCC Chair Brendan Carr yesterday announced a proposal to provide spectrum access to “weird space stuff” (his words, not ours.) That includes missions such as orbital labs, in-space repairs, and commercial space stations.
“Whether we’re talking about repairing a satellite in orbit or creating pharmaceutical solutions to our health-care challenges in a space lab, these very real ventures will require very real resources, including secure radio signals for control and basic operations,” Carr said in a statement. “Today’s proposal is the first step toward the spectrum abundance needed to give America’s space activities the predictable spectrum environment they need to thrive.”
The details: The plan would take a two-pronged approach to ensure that novel and innovative space missions can get the spectrum they need, including:
-
Updating and clarifying FCC rules to give companies working on “weird” missions more predictability when it comes to spectrum;
-
Identifying new spectrum bands for novel space missions.
Context: This is the latest effort by the FCC to make life easier for space companies. The commission is also working to free up as much as 20,000 MHz of spectrum for traditional space operations, including internet constellations in LEO.
Carr is also pushing to simplify the process by which space operators get approval from the FCC, including establishing a “licensing assembly line” to speed up the application review process.
What’s next: The plan for “weird space” will be voted on by the commission at its meeting this month.
https://payloadspace.com/fcc-wants-weird-space-missions-to-get-spectrum-too/
https://www.fcc.gov/document/space-modernization-21st-century-nprm
Air Force, Space Force Ready for All Warfighting Challenges
March 5, 2026
The Air Force's lethality depends on the professionalism of airmen and the capability of their equipment, said Air Force Gen. John D. Lamontagne, Air Force vice chief of staff, who testified yesterday at a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on joint force readiness in Washington.
"Airmen are our most precious resource. The active-duty, Air National Guard, reserve and civilian workforce are why the United States Air Force is effective at a moment's notice," Lamontagne said.
The Air Force updated its fitness policy to push airmen to new levels and ensure they are ready to stand shoulder to shoulder with its joint partners on the toughest battlefields, the general said.
The service is improving airmen's quality of life by updating dormitories and child development care centers.
"We strive to make the Air Force an unmatched place to serve," Lamontagne said, adding that recruiting goals are being met and retention numbers are strong.
The Air Force is increasing aircraft availability, which allows aviators to get the repetitions they need to build competence.
The service is also recapitalizing its ground-based strategic deterrent, fighter, bomber and tanker aircraft, as well as the command-and-control architectures that bring them together, the general said.
At the tactical level, airmen are practicing agile combat employment and preparing to fight in exercises like Bamboo Eagle. Last summer, the Air Force deployed more than 400 aircraft and 15,000 personnel across 50 locations in the Pacific region, Lamontagne said.
Space Force Gen. Shawn N. Bratton, vice chief of space operations, said his service, along with commercial partners, executed 170 launches this year.
A new radar has upgraded optical surveillance systems to track adversarial activity on orbit better, he said, noting that additional systems will increase domain awareness.
Regarding readiness, Bratton said guardians must be ready at any time for any threat across the entire spectrum of conflict. They participated in a variety of exercises designed to ensure space superiority, and officer training courses now include training in space, cyber, intelligence and acquisitions.
"We will need to double in size in the coming years to meet identified operational needs, as well as significantly increase our training facilities. Even as we prepare for current warfighting challenges, we are aggressively looking ahead at capability requirements for the future force," he said.
https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/4423364/air-force-space-force-ready-for-all-warfighting-challenges/
https://www.armed-services.senate.gov/hearings/02/25/2026/to-receive-testimony-on-the-current-readiness-of-the-joint-force
Space Base Delta 1 Safety Personnel Support Arctic Operations at Pituffik Space Base
March 5, 2026
When Mr. Jason Porter visited Pituffik Space Base in Greenland earlier this year, temperatures dropped to negative 30 degrees, daylight was limited and severe winter weather periodically shut down the installation.
Despite the harsh Arctic conditions, flight operations continued as U.S. and Canadian forces conducted Operation Noble Defender. Supporting the mission was Porter, the weapons safety manager with the Space Base Delta 1 Safety Office.
The Space Base Delta 1 Safety Office oversees weapons safety programs across multiple installations including Peterson Space Force Base, Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station and geographically separated units such as Pituffik Space Base.
As the office’s weapons safety manager, Porter helps ensure weapon-related operations comply with Department of the Air Force safety standards and provides guidance wherever those missions take place.
During his January visit, Porter supported Operation Noble Defender, a recurring North American Aerospace Defense Command mission designed to demonstrate the ability of U.S. and Canadian forces to detect, deter and, if necessary, respond to potential air threats approaching North America.
This year’s operation was led by Canadian forces and included four Canadian CF-18 Hornets and supporting aircraft operating out of Pituffik.
My mission there was to serve as a liaison between the Canadian forces and the American forces, since we own the base,” Porter said.
During the operation, safety personnel observed flight line procedures, inspected missile storage areas and ensured weapons handling operations were conducted in accordance with established safety standards.
The coordination helped ensure U.S. safety requirements were met while allied aircraft conducted flight operations from Pituffik.
Despite the challenging Arctic environment, operations proceeded safely throughout the exercise.
One notable incident occurred while crews were clearing snow from the airfield. A snow blower accidentally ingested an aircraft arresting cable that had been positioned for potential emergency use.
The cable system is designed to safely stop fighter aircraft during certain in-flight emergencies. Because there was no spare cable stored on the installation, it took nearly a week to coordinate a replacement from overseas.
Shortly after the replacement cable arrived, a Canadian CF-18 experienced an in-flight emergency when its landing gear would not retract after takeoff. The aircraft safely returned to Pituffik and successfully engaged the arresting cable system.
The incident highlighted the importance of equipment redundancy when operating in remote locations like Pituffik, where logistics can take time and weather conditions can quickly affect operations.
“From a safety standpoint, everything went well,” Porter said. “Good communication made a difference.”
Safety personnel also observed the professionalism of U.S. and Canadian crews operating in Arctic conditions. Despite darkness, extreme cold and limited infrastructure, aircraft operations and support activities continued safely.
As Space Base Delta 1 continues to support operations at Pituffik Space Base, safety personnel remain focused on ensuring missions can be carried out safely, even in the demanding conditions of the Arctic.
https://www.petersonschriever.spaceforce.mil/Newsroom/News/Display/Article/4423621/space-base-delta-1-safety-personnel-support-arctic-operations-at-pituffik-space/
Journey To Truth Podcast #418 | Something Incredible Is About To Happen! | HOLY WARS - HIDDEN FORCES | CHAOS OR CATALYST?
March 5, 2026
Some great Q connections for Iran and other related Q stuff in this
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GSL6avUnxE8
https://x.com/JourneytoTruth5
LIZARD LIZARD LIZARD
whitehouse
The White House
2d ago
Iran can never have a nuclear weapon. Will continue until the objectives are achieved. 🦎
original sound - The White House
https://www.tiktok.com/@whitehouse/video/7613406980719283486
https://x.com/CaptKylePatriot/status/2029615691234414687
I think they're trying to tell us something, btw