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Exploring the Realities of Reduced Gravity: Microgravity vs. Zero Gravity on the ISS

The International Space Station (ISS) serves as a cornerstone for scientific research and technological development in outer space. One of the most unique aspects of the ISS is its microgravity environment, which allows researchers to conduct experiments that would be difficult or impossible to perform under Earth’s gravitational pull. However, it’s important to clarify that the microgravity of the ISS is not the same as “zero gravity,” a term sometimes used colloquially but inaccurately. Moreover, the ISS’s specific orbit and inherent vibrations also have an influence on the microgravity environment. This article provides a look at these aspects related to microgravity on the ISS.

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Paper: Humans to Mars Will Cost About “Half a Trillion Dollars” (NASA 2016)

The paper was presented at the 46th International Conference on Environmental Systems and discusses the estimated costs of a human mission to Mars. According to the document, the cost of the first human mission to Mars could be around “half a trillion dollars”. This estimate is consistent with most past estimates. Using mass-cost estimating factors based on the International Space Station (ISS) and other experiences, the cost of life support for the Mars mission could be two billion dollars or more. The cost to go to Mars is expected to be two or three times that of either Apollo, space shuttle, or ISS and could be as much as all three together.

N2YO: Track Satellites and Space Stations in Real-Time

N2YO.COM is a website that allows users to track satellites and space stations in real-time. It provides interactive maps and models that show the current location of satellites orbiting Earth. This article identifies key details about the N2YO website.

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The Impact of Space on Astronauts’ Eyesight

The environment of outer space presents unique challenges to human physiology, including effects on vision. The absence of Earth’s gravitational pull in a microgravity setting has been shown to lead to a phenomenon known as Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS). This condition has been a subject of concern among researchers, clinicians, and space agencies due to its potential to adversely affect an astronaut’s ability to perform tasks that require keen eyesight.

Report: Annual Highlights of Results from the International Space Station (NASA 2023)

This article summarizes the key points from the report.