It was announced that SpaceX received the contract to complete NASA's Psyche mission, where the company will use its Falcon Heavy rocket to launch an aircraft toward an asteroid. The mission was initially approved in 2017, however, no outside organization had been chosen to complete the task.
NASA is interested in the asteroid, as they believe it could be a core of a planet, which may be broken due to the impact of collisions.
Being selected for the mission is a milestone for SpaceX, as it now has the opportunity to solidify itself as one of the top companies in the industry. Additionally, the mission will be the first time NASA will use a Falcon Heavy Rocket.
Private Sector Space Missions
SpaceX's Falcon Heavy Will Be Used in NASA's Psyche Mission
Trend Themes
1. Private Space Missions - Companies like SpaceX are being contracted by NASA to complete space exploration missions, opening up opportunities for collaboration and innovative technologies.
2. Asteroid Exploration - NASA's interest in asteroids as potential planet cores presents possibilities for companies to develop specialized spacecraft and instruments for studying these celestial bodies.
3. Rocket Technology Advancements - The use of the Falcon Heavy rocket by NASA signifies a milestone in rocket technology, inspiring companies to develop more advanced and efficient launch vehicles.
Industry Implications
1. Space Exploration - SpaceX's contract with NASA highlights the growing importance of private companies in the space exploration industry, with increased opportunities for disruptive innovations in spacecraft design and technology.
2. Aerospace Manufacturing - The collaboration between SpaceX and NASA for the Psyche mission creates possibilities for advancements in aerospace manufacturing techniques and materials to meet the demands of future space missions.
3. Scientific Instrumentation - The need to study asteroids in detail for the Psyche mission opens avenues for companies to develop and improve scientific instruments specialized in asteroid exploration, leading to disruptive technologies in the field.