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The space sector has experienced a spectacular evolution since the launch of the first satellite, the Sputnik 1, on October 4, 1957. With the emergence of the commercial space industry, access to space has been considerably widened, allowing the sending of increasingly varied useful loads. Recently, a particularly intriguing mission was carried out by the German startup, The Exploration Company, which launched its NYX capsule on June 23 from the Vandenberg base aboard a Falcon-9 rocket. This mission, baptized “possible mission”, has carried a load of the most singular, including human ashes and cannabis.
A daring mission and unusual useful charges
The mission orchestrated by The Exploration Company highlighted a fascinating aspect of modern spatial exploration: the transport of human ashes and vegetable matter in space. During this mission, the NYX capsule won the remains of more than 166 deceased, supplied by Celestis, a company specializing in spatial commemorative flights. This initiative testifies to the evolution of funeral rituals, while some now choose to rest among the stars. In parallel, cannabis seeds, from the citizen scientific project Martian Grow, have also taken place on board, aimed at studying the effects of microgravity on their germination. This approach could offer new perspectives on the resilience of life in extraterrestrial environments.
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A tragic end for the NYX capsule
Despite a successful launch and a controlled orbit entry, the mission took an unexpected turn during the return phase. The NYX capsule encountered a critical problem: its parachutes did not deploy, causing its crash in the Pacific Ocean on June 24. This reverse led to the total loss of its cargo. In a press release, The Exploration Company described this flight as a “partial success” due to the technological advances accomplished despite the final failure. This situation highlights the risks inherent in innovationbut also the determination of the company to learn from this incident to improve its future missions.
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Celestis and the challenges of space funeral
Celestis, responsible for the transportation of ashes, has already experienced a similar setback in 2023 when a rocket carrying the incinerated remains of the NASA astronaut Philip K. Chapman exploded above the New Mexico. Faced with this new loss, Celestis expressed condolences to families, assuring them that their loved ones had participated in a historic trip. Although the capsules cannot be recovered, the idea that their dear beings rest in the immensity of the Pacific is presented as a respectful tribute. This challenge highlights the complexities and uncertainties of space funerals, an area still in full emergence.
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Perspectives futures pour The Exploration Company
Despite this failure, The Exploration Company does not be discouraged. The company is already considering new missions to test the capacity of the NYX capsule to transport useful loads to low terrestrial orbit, including to the International Space Station (ISS). A demonstration flight to the ISS is scheduled for 2028, subject to the approval of the European space agency. In the meantime, the company focuses on the analysis of the causes of recent failure to guide its future attempts. Determination and innovation remain at the heart of The Exploration Company’s strategywhich continues to push the limits of commercial space exploration.
At the dawn of new explorations, the commercial space industry continues to captivate the imagination, despite the challenges encountered. What other horizons will these daring companies seek to reach, and how will these advances shape our understanding of space?
The author relied on artificial intelligence to enrich this article.
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