Cornell University researchers were preparing to launch two spacecraft from Ward Laboratory to simulate space conditions on Earth. The project, taking place in a three‐story hangar-like high bay, was designed to model how spacecraft interact while orbiting one another. The simulator is the only one of its kind in the United States and was intended to allow researchers, companies, and government agencies to test and improve space technologies.

The project is supported by the New York Consortium for Space and Technology (NYCST) and led by Mason Peck, director of NYCST and the Stephen J. Fujikawa ’77 Professor of Astronautical Engineering at Cornell Engineering. In September 2023, the U.S. Department of Defense allocated $5 million toward the effort.

However, on April 10, Peck received a stop-work order that halted the renovations of the high bay and the construction of the spacecraft. The project was seen as a step forward in developing space infrastructure and reducing the cost of sending materials into space.

Source: Cornell University

Source Type: College

Source Location: Ithaca

Ithaca, NY

https://www.facebook.com/709174307912162/videos/1068546095137067

Ithaca Vineyard Hosts Wine and Music Event

Six Mile Creek Vineyard hosts Sunday wine event with live music.

Cornell Launches Research Matters Podcast on Global Challenges

Cornell launches podcast featuring researchers turning data into global solutions.

Cornell University Confirms Snowfall in Ithaca

Cornell University confirms campus snowfall with an official update in Ithaca.

Ithaca Closes City Facilities amid Winter Emergency

City facilities close Monday amid snow emergency; essential services continue.

Cornell Men's Hockey Beats Harvard at Home

Cornell hockey beats Harvard in a lively home game at Lynah Rink.

Ithaca Prepares for Snowstorm Amid Freezing Temps

Ithaca braces for winter storm, enforcing odd-even parking and road safety measures.

Cornell Welcomes All Students for Term Start

Cornell's successful start sees all Cornellians return to campus in Ithaca.

Ithaca Enforces Odd-Even Winter Parking Regulation

Ithaca enacts odd-even parking rules to aid winter snow removal.

Cornellians Hit Ground Running on First Day

Cornellians in Ithaca quickly start embracing campus life.

Ithaca Revises Tax Payment Mailing and Postmark

Ithaca taxpayers: update mailing address; observe new USPS postmark rule timing.