As we gaze up at the night sky, it’s hard not to feel a sense of wonder and curiosity about the universe beyond our planet. For decades, NASA has been at the forefront of space exploration, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and inspiring generations of scientists, engineers, and dreamers. But with budget cuts and changing priorities, some have begun to wonder: is NASA still doing space missions? In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at NASA’s ongoing space missions, exploring the latest discoveries and developments in the agency’s ongoing quest to unlock the mysteries of the universe.
NASA’s Historic Space Missions
The Apollo Missions
The Apollo Missions, launched by NASA between 1961 and 1975, marked a significant milestone in human space exploration. The primary objective of these missions was to land astronauts on the Moon and conduct scientific research in lunar orbit and on the surface.
Apollo 11: The First Moon Landing
On July 20, 1969, NASA’s Apollo 11 mission achieved a monumental success when astronauts Neil Armstrong and Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin became the first humans to set foot on the Moon. Armstrong famously declared, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” as he stepped off the lunar module Eagle onto the Moon’s surface.
The Apollo 11 mission demonstrated NASA’s technological prowess and reinforced the United States’ position as a global leader in space exploration. The Moon landing also ignited a surge of public interest in space travel and sparked a wave of scientific innovation.
Apollo 13: A Close Call in Space
Apollo 13, launched in April 1970, was intended to be the third Moon landing mission. However, an oxygen tank explosion en route to the Moon caused severe damage to the spacecraft, jeopardizing the lives of the three astronauts on board. The crew, comprising Jim Lovell, Jack Swigert, and Fred Haise, managed to survive the ordeal, but the mission was aborted, and they returned to Earth safely.
The Apollo 13 mission demonstrated the immense challenges and risks involved in space exploration. It also showcased the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the astronauts and the NASA team, who worked tirelessly to ensure the safe return of the crew. The mission reinforced the importance of thorough planning, contingency planning, and rigorous testing in the pursuit of space exploration.
The Space Shuttle Missions
Columbia: The First Space Shuttle Mission
The Columbia, named after the sloop that sailed from New York to discover the South Seas, was the first space shuttle mission launched by NASA on April 14, 1981. It was the first time in history that a manned spacecraft had been used more than once, and the mission was a milestone in the history of space exploration. The Columbia’s crew consisted of commander John Young and pilot Robert Crippen, who flew the shuttle on a 12-day mission to test its systems and capabilities. During the mission, the crew performed a series of experiments, including deploying the first satellite, and the shuttle landed safely back on Earth on April 18, 1981.
Challenger: A Tragic Loss in Space
The Challenger, named after the British warship that fought in the Battle of Trafalgar, was the second space shuttle mission launched by NASA on January 28, 1986. The mission was designed to be the first flight of the Shuttle-Mir programme, a joint mission between NASA and the Soviet Union to jointly operate the Mir space station. The crew of the Challenger, consisting of commander Dick Scobee, pilot Michael Smith, and mission specialists Ellison Onizuka, Christa McAuliffe, Gregory Jarvis, and Judith Resnik, were to be joined by Soviet cosmonauts Vladimir Titov and Valery Ryumin on Mir.
However, tragedy struck just 73 seconds after launch when the Challenger’s O-ring seals on the solid rocket boosters failed, causing the shuttle to break apart and plummet into the Atlantic Ocean. All seven crew members were killed, and the incident marked the first loss of a space shuttle crew and the first time a civilian had been killed during a U.S. space mission. The accident led to a stand-down of the shuttle fleet and a thorough investigation of the causes of the disaster, which ultimately led to changes in the design and operation of the shuttle fleet.
The International Space Station (ISS)
The Purpose of the ISS
The International Space Station (ISS) serves as a laboratory and observation deck for studying the effects of microgravity on human physiology, biology, and physics. The station provides a unique platform for conducting research in space, which is essential for understanding the effects of space travel on the human body and for developing new technologies for future space missions.
Building the ISS
The ISS is a joint project between NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), and the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). The station is comprised of pressurized modules, solar arrays, and other components that have been launched into orbit aboard a series of Space Shuttle missions and Russian Progress rockets.
The assembly of the ISS began in 1998 with the launch of the first module, Zarya, by a Russian Proton rocket. The first American module, Unity, was launched in 1999 by the Space Shuttle Discovery. Over the next several years, additional modules were added to the station, including the Destiny laboratory, the Quest airlock, and the Columbus laboratory.
The ISS has been continuously inhabited by a crew of six astronauts since November 2000. The crew conducts a variety of scientific experiments, maintains the station’s systems, and conducts spacewalks to perform maintenance and repairs.
The ISS is an important symbol of international cooperation in space exploration, and it has enabled scientists and engineers to conduct research that would not have been possible without the unique environment of microgravity. The station continues to be an important asset for NASA and its international partners as they explore the frontiers of space and prepare for future missions beyond Earth orbit.
Current Space Missions
Orion and the Space Launch System (SLS)
The Orion Spacecraft
The Orion spacecraft is a critical component of NASA’s human space exploration program, designed to transport astronauts to deep space destinations, such as the Moon, Mars, and beyond. This state-of-the-art spacecraft boasts advanced features and capabilities that make it an ideal vehicle for extended space missions.
Some of the key features of the Orion spacecraft include:
- Aero-shaped design: The Orion spacecraft is designed to withstand the harsh conditions of deep space, with an aero-shaped heat shield that protects the crew and equipment during re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere.
- Modular design: The Orion spacecraft is modular, allowing for the addition or removal of components, such as the service module, as needed for specific mission requirements.
- Advanced life support systems: The Orion spacecraft is equipped with advanced life support systems that provide a safe and habitable environment for the crew during extended space missions.
- Innovative communication systems: The Orion spacecraft is equipped with cutting-edge communication systems that enable real-time communication with Earth, even in the most remote locations of deep space.
The Space Launch System (SLS)
The Space Launch System (SLS) is a powerful rocket system designed to launch the Orion spacecraft and other heavy payloads into deep space. This advanced rocket system is the most powerful ever built by NASA and is capable of taking humans and equipment to a variety of deep space destinations.
Some of the key features of the Space Launch System (SLS) include:
- Advanced solid rocket boosters: The SLS is powered by advanced solid rocket boosters that provide unparalleled thrust and power during lift-off.
- J2X engine: The SLS is equipped with a powerful J2X engine that provides precise control and maneuverability during flight.
- Modular design: The SLS is designed to be modular, allowing for the addition or removal of components, such as the upper stage, as needed for specific mission requirements.
- Reusable design: The SLS is designed to be reusable, with a variety of features and systems that enable safe and efficient re-entry and landing.
Together, the Orion spacecraft and the Space Launch System (SLS) represent a major leap forward in human space exploration, enabling NASA to conduct ambitious missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. With these powerful tools at their disposal, NASA is poised to continue pushing the frontiers of space exploration and discovery.
Commercial Crew Program
The Purpose of the Commercial Crew Program
The Commercial Crew Program (CCP) is a collaborative effort between NASA and private aerospace companies to develop a commercially-operated space transportation capability that can safely transport NASA astronauts to and from the International Space Station (ISS). This program aims to end the country’s reliance on Russia for human spaceflight services, which has been the case since the retirement of the Space Shuttle in 2011. The CCP’s primary objectives are to encourage competition in the commercial space industry, promote innovation, and foster the development of new technologies.
SpaceX’s Crew Dragon and Boeing’s Starliner
SpaceX and Boeing are two major players in the Commercial Crew Program, each developing their own crew transportation systems: SpaceX’s Crew Dragon and Boeing’s Starliner.
SpaceX’s Crew Dragon
SpaceX’s Crew Dragon is a reusable, pressurized spacecraft designed to carry up to seven astronauts to and from the ISS. The spacecraft consists of a pressurized capsule, which houses the crew and cargo, and a Falcon 9 rocket that serves as the launch vehicle. The Crew Dragon’s design incorporates advanced safety features, such as a robust abort system, and it is capable of performing both crewed and uncrewed missions.
On March 2, 2019, SpaceX’s Crew Dragon made history when it successfully completed its first demonstration mission, known as Demo-1, carrying NASA astronauts Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley to the ISS and back. This mission marked the first time in history that a private company had sent humans to the ISS.
Boeing’s Starliner
Boeing’s Starliner is a reusable, crewed spacecraft designed to transport up to seven astronauts to and from the ISS. The spacecraft consists of a crew module, a service module, and a launch vehicle, which is provided by the United Launch Alliance’s Atlas V rocket. The Starliner’s design emphasizes reliability and safety, with features such as a robust heat shield, autonomous docking capabilities, and a built-in life support system.
In December 2019, Boeing’s Starliner encountered significant issues during its first uncrewed demonstration mission, known as Orbital Flight Test (OFT), when it failed to correctly orbit the ISS. The spacecraft later returned to Earth prematurely, landing in the New Mexico desert. While the OFT mission was considered a setback, Boeing has since worked to address the issues and prepare for a second uncrewed flight test.
Artemis Program
The Purpose of the Artemis Program
The Artemis Program is a multifaceted endeavor spearheaded by NASA with the ambitious goal of returning humans to the Moon by 2024. The program seeks to not only pave the way for lunar exploration but also establish a sustainable presence on the lunar surface. The name Artemis is derived from the Greek goddess of wilderness, the hunt, and the Moon, reflecting the program’s emphasis on venturing into the uncharted territories of space.
Plans for Lunar Exploration
Under the Artemis Program, NASA aims to achieve several key objectives in the coming years. These include:
- Developing a new lunar lander: The agency is working on the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the Orion spacecraft, which will be used to transport astronauts to and from the lunar surface.
- Establishing a base camp on the Moon: The initial focus is on setting up a base camp near the South Pole of the Moon, known as the “South Pole-Aitken Basin.” This location offers resources that could be utilized for sustaining human presence and future missions.
- Performing scientific research: The Artemis Program will facilitate research in various fields, such as geology, astrobiology, and heliophysics. The presence of astronauts on the lunar surface will enable them to conduct experiments and gather data that would be inaccessible through remote observation.
- Testing technologies for deep space exploration: The Artemis missions will serve as a stepping stone for further space exploration, allowing NASA to test and validate technologies that will be crucial for missions to Mars and beyond.
- Engaging international partnerships: The Artemis Program seeks to collaborate with other space agencies, such as the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), to promote a shared vision of space exploration and scientific discovery.
- Paving the way for commercial space activities: The Artemis Program will support the development of a commercial space economy around the Moon, fostering innovation and economic growth in the space industry.
The Artemis Program represents a significant milestone in human space exploration, with far-reaching implications for scientific discovery, technological innovation, and international collaboration. By returning humans to the Moon, NASA aims to rekindle the spirit of adventure and push the boundaries of human knowledge, paving the way for future generations to explore the frontiers of space.
Upcoming Space Missions
Europa Clipper Mission
The Purpose of the Europa Clipper Mission
The Europa Clipper Mission is a planned spacecraft mission by NASA to study the icy moon of Jupiter, Europa. The primary objective of this mission is to explore the surface and subsurface of Europa, gathering data on its composition, geology, and potential habitability. The mission is set to launch in the mid-2020s and will take around three years to reach Europa, with a possible extended mission duration of up to two years.
Exploring Europa’s Potential for Life
Europa is considered one of the most promising places in our solar system for finding life beyond Earth. The moon’s subsurface ocean, which is thought to be twice the size of Earth’s oceans, contains a vast amount of water, a key ingredient for life as we know it. Additionally, Europa’s surface is covered with a layer of ice, which could provide a protected environment for potential life forms. The Europa Clipper Mission aims to investigate these features and assess the habitability of Europa, with the ultimate goal of searching for signs of life.
The spacecraft will conduct a detailed survey of Europa’s surface and subsurface, using a suite of scientific instruments to analyze the composition of the ice, map the distribution of subsurface water, and search for signs of geological activity. The mission will also search for evidence of potential biomarkers, such as organic molecules, that could indicate the presence of life.
Overall, the Europa Clipper Mission represents a significant step forward in our understanding of Europa and the search for life beyond Earth. With its innovative design and advanced scientific instruments, the mission has the potential to uncover new insights into the nature of Europa and its potential for life.
Mars 2020 Mission
The Purpose of the Mars 2020 Mission
The Mars 2020 mission is a significant undertaking by NASA, aimed at expanding humanity’s understanding of the red planet. This ambitious project seeks to build upon the discoveries made by previous Mars missions, while also laying the groundwork for future manned missions to Mars. Scheduled to launch in July 2020, the Mars 2020 mission will mark a major milestone in the history of space exploration.
Searching for Signs of Life on Mars
A primary objective of the Mars 2020 mission is to search for signs of past or present life on Mars. To achieve this, the mission will employ a suite of advanced scientific instruments, including a powerful microscopic imager, a Mars-bound drone, and a sophisticated array of chemistry and biology labs. By analyzing samples collected from the Martian surface, scientists hope to uncover evidence of ancient microbial life or other biosignatures that could indicate the presence of life on Mars.
Additionally, the Mars 2020 mission will focus on studying the Martian climate and geology, as well as evaluating the potential of using local resources to support future human missions. By exploring these topics, NASA aims to deepen our understanding of Mars and its potential for habitation, paving the way for a new era of space exploration and discovery.
James Webb Space Telescope
The Purpose of the James Webb Space Telescope
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is a next-generation space observatory designed to unveil the mysteries of the universe. It is set to succeed the renowned Hubble Space Telescope and is expected to provide insights into the origins of the universe, the formation of galaxies, and the search for habitable exoplanets. The JWST will be launched into space in 2021 on an Ariane 5 rocket from French Guiana, South America.
Exploring the Early Universe
One of the primary objectives of the JWST is to study the early universe, a time when the first galaxies were forming. By observing these ancient galaxies, scientists hope to learn more about the conditions that led to the formation of the first stars and galaxies. The JWST will also search for signs of water vapor in the atmospheres of exoplanets, which could indicate the presence of life.
Furthermore, the JWST will study the atmospheres of nearby exoplanets, focusing on those that are similar in size and composition to Earth. By analyzing the chemical composition of these atmospheres, scientists hope to identify signs of life and better understand the potential habitability of these planets.
In addition to its scientific objectives, the JWST is also expected to provide valuable data on the formation of the Milky Way galaxy, which is the home galaxy of Earth. By studying the star formation history of the Milky Way, scientists hope to learn more about the galaxy’s evolution and the role that various processes, such as supernovae and stellar winds, have played in shaping it.
Overall, the James Webb Space Telescope represents a significant leap forward in our ability to study the universe and the objects within it. With its advanced instruments and powerful capabilities, the JWST promises to unlock new discoveries and further our understanding of the cosmos.
Future of Space Exploration
The Next Steps in Human Spaceflight
Lunar Gateway
The Lunar Gateway is a key component of NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon by 2024. The Gateway will be a mini-space station that orbits the Moon, providing a staging point for human missions to the lunar surface. It will also serve as a testing ground for technologies needed for future missions to Mars and beyond.
Mars Sample Return Mission
NASA’s Mars Sample Return Mission is a planned robotic mission to collect samples from the Martian surface and return them to Earth for further analysis. The mission is scheduled to launch in the mid-2020s and will involve a combination of rovers, landers, and orbital vehicles. The goal of the mission is to gain a better understanding of the geology and climate of Mars, and to search for signs of life.
Human Mission to Venus
Venus is the hottest planet in our solar system, with surface temperatures that can reach over 800 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite these challenges, NASA is exploring the possibility of sending humans to Venus in the future. The mission would involve sending a crew to orbit Venus and conducting a series of spacewalks to study the planet’s atmosphere and surface.
Other Potential Destinations
In addition to the Moon, Mars, and Venus, NASA is also considering other potential destinations for human spaceflight. These include asteroids, comets, and even distant planets such as Jupiter and Saturn. By exploring these destinations, NASA hopes to gain a better understanding of the universe and our place in it.
Advancements in Technology
Nuclear Thermal Propulsion
Nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) is a technology that uses nuclear energy to heat a propellant, which is then expelled to generate thrust. This technology has the potential to revolutionize space travel by providing a more efficient and powerful means of propulsion compared to traditional chemical rockets.
NTP works by using a nuclear reactor to heat a propellant, typically hydrogen, to high temperatures. The heated propellant is then expelled through a nozzle to generate thrust. The high temperature and pressure of the heated propellant also create a plasma, which can be used to shield the spacecraft from radiation and other hazards.
One of the main advantages of NTP is its high specific impulse, which is a measure of the efficiency of a propulsion system. NTP has a specific impulse that is significantly higher than that of chemical rockets, which means it can achieve higher speeds with less fuel. This would greatly reduce the mass of the spacecraft and the amount of fuel needed for long-distance missions.
Another advantage of NTP is its lower cost compared to chemical rockets. NTP uses nuclear energy, which is much cheaper than the chemical fuels used in traditional rockets. This would make it more affordable to launch payloads into space and could potentially open up new markets for space exploration and commerce.
3D Printing in Space
3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a technology that allows for the creation of physical objects by building them up layer by layer. This technology has the potential to revolutionize space exploration by enabling the in-situ manufacture of spacecraft components and supplies.
3D printing can be used to create a wide range of objects, from small components to large structures. This could enable spacecraft to be built on-site using local materials, which would greatly reduce the mass of the spacecraft and the cost of launching it into space. It could also enable the production of spare parts and repairs for spacecraft, which would extend their lifespan and increase their reliability.
One of the main advantages of 3D printing in space is its flexibility. It would allow for the creation of customized objects that are tailored to specific mission requirements. This could enable the production of specialized tools and equipment that are not available on the market.
Another advantage of 3D printing in space is its potential to support human exploration of other planets. It could enable the production of food, water, and other supplies that would be needed for long-duration missions. It could also be used to create shelters and other structures that would be needed for human habitation.
Quantum Communications
Quantum communications is a technology that uses quantum mechanics to transmit information securely over long distances. This technology has the potential to revolutionize space communications by providing a more secure and reliable means of communication.
Quantum communications uses quantum bits, or qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This allows for the transmission of multiple pieces of information at once, which could greatly increase the bandwidth of space communications. It could also enable the secure transmission of sensitive information, such as classified military or intelligence data.
One of the main advantages of quantum communications is its security. Traditional communications systems are vulnerable to interception and hacking, but quantum communications uses quantum mechanics to ensure that information cannot be intercepted or copied without being detected. This would greatly increase the security of space communications and enable the transmission of sensitive information over long distances.
Another advantage of quantum communications is its potential to support human exploration of other planets. It could enable the establishment of long-distance communication networks that would be needed for human settlements on other planets. It could also be used to communicate with probes and other spacecraft that are exploring other parts of the solar system.
International Collaboration
Artemis Alliance
As NASA continues to push the boundaries of space exploration, it is becoming increasingly clear that international collaboration will play a crucial role in achieving the ambitious goals set forth by the agency. One of the key partnerships that NASA has formed is the Artemis Alliance, a group of international partners working together to advance the goals of the Artemis program. The Artemis Alliance includes partners from Europe, Canada, and Japan, who are all working together to develop the technologies and capabilities needed to support human missions to the Moon and beyond.
Lunar Gateway Partnership
Another key example of international collaboration in space exploration is the Lunar Gateway Partnership, which was established to develop a lunar-orbiting outpost that will serve as a staging point for future missions to the Moon and beyond. The Lunar Gateway Partnership includes partners from around the world, including the European Space Agency, the Canadian Space Agency, and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. By working together, these partners are able to pool their resources and expertise, allowing them to achieve their goals more efficiently and effectively.
Mars Sample Return Mission Collaboration
Finally, NASA is also working with international partners on a Mars Sample Return Mission, which aims to collect samples of Martian soil and rocks and bring them back to Earth for further study. This mission is a major undertaking that will require a significant amount of coordination and cooperation between NASA and its international partners. The mission is expected to launch in the 2030s and will involve a number of different spacecraft and technologies, including the Mars 2020 rover, which is currently exploring the surface of the Red Planet.
Overall, international collaboration is becoming increasingly important in the field of space exploration, and NASA is at the forefront of these efforts. By working together with partners from around the world, NASA is able to leverage the resources and expertise of a diverse range of organizations, which is essential for achieving the ambitious goals set forth by the agency.
The Importance of Space Exploration
Economic Benefits
Space exploration has long been a driving force behind technological innovation and economic growth. From the development of new materials and technologies to the creation of jobs and the growth of industries, space exploration has had a profound impact on the economy. For example, the global space industry is estimated to be worth over $300 billion, with the United States accounting for the largest share of this market.
Inspiration and Education
Space exploration has also had a profound impact on society, inspiring generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers to pursue careers in STEM fields. In addition, space exploration has been instrumental in promoting science education and literacy, providing students with opportunities to learn about space and the universe through hands-on experiments and simulations.
Scientific Discoveries and Advances
Perhaps most importantly, space exploration has led to numerous scientific discoveries and advances, shedding light on the mysteries of the universe and advancing our understanding of the cosmos. From the discovery of planets orbiting other stars to the detection of dark matter and the study of the origins of the universe, space exploration has provided us with a wealth of knowledge about the universe and our place within it.
In conclusion, the importance of space exploration cannot be overstated. From its economic benefits to its impact on society and scientific advancements, space exploration continues to be a vital endeavor, driving innovation, inspiring the next generation of scientists and explorers, and expanding our understanding of the universe.
The Role of NASA in Space Exploration
Leadership in Space Exploration
As the United States’ space agency, NASA has played a significant role in the exploration of space. Since its inception in 1958, NASA has been at the forefront of space exploration, leading international efforts to explore the unknown frontiers of our solar system.
One of NASA’s primary goals is to advance scientific knowledge through space exploration. By sending spacecraft to explore other planets and celestial bodies, NASA has gathered valuable data about the solar system and the universe beyond. NASA’s exploration of space has also led to the development of new technologies, such as the development of spacecraft and space suits, which have had a profound impact on many areas of life on Earth.
Collaboration with Private Industry
NASA has also been working closely with private industry to advance space exploration. NASA has been collaborating with private companies such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic to develop new technologies and capabilities for space exploration. This collaboration has been crucial in advancing space exploration, as private companies have brought innovative ideas and resources to the table.
Continued Funding and Support for Space Exploration
In order to continue its leadership in space exploration, NASA requires continued funding and support from the government and the public. NASA’s budget has been the subject of much debate in recent years, with some calling for increased funding to support ambitious new missions, while others argue that NASA’s budget should be cut to reduce government spending. Regardless of the outcome of these debates, it is clear that NASA will continue to play a vital role in the exploration of space for years to come.
FAQs
1. Is NASA still doing space missions?
Yes, NASA is still actively conducting space missions. The agency has a long history of space exploration and continues to be a leader in the field. In fact, NASA has a number of ongoing space missions, including the International Space Station (ISS), the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, and the Hubble Space Telescope, among others.
2. What are some of NASA’s current space missions?
NASA has a number of ongoing space missions, including the International Space Station (ISS), which is a habitable spacecraft that orbits the Earth at an altitude of around 408 kilometers. The ISS is home to a crew of astronauts who conduct research and experiments in microgravity. NASA also has a number of robotic missions, such as the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, which is studying the Martian surface and searching for signs of water, and the Hubble Space Telescope, which is exploring the universe and expanding our understanding of space.
3. What are the goals of NASA’s space missions?
The goals of NASA’s space missions vary depending on the specific mission. However, in general, NASA’s space missions are designed to advance our understanding of space and to explore new frontiers. Some of NASA’s missions are focused on studying other planets and moons in our solar system, while others are focused on studying the universe and the origins of the cosmos. NASA’s space missions also often have practical applications, such as developing new technologies and improving our understanding of Earth’s environment.
4. How does NASA fund its space missions?
NASA’s space missions are funded through a combination of government appropriations and private contracts. The agency receives funding from Congress through the annual appropriations process, and it also enters into contracts with private companies to provide services and technology for its missions. In addition, NASA receives funding from other sources, such as international partners and private foundations, to support its space exploration efforts.
5. Are NASA’s space missions dangerous?
Like any endeavor that involves exploring unknown territory, NASA’s space missions do carry some risk. However, the agency takes great care to minimize these risks and ensure the safety of its astronauts and equipment. NASA has a rigorous testing and training program for its astronauts, and it also invests heavily in technology and engineering to ensure that its spacecraft and equipment are as reliable and safe as possible.