The People Behind the Astronauts
We have all seen the videos of astronauts floating in space or walking on the moon. But behind the daring adventures in space, there are thousands of people working around the clock to make sure the mission is a success. Mission control, engineers, training staff of all aspects, and the thousands of manufacturers that create rockets like the BFR and SpaceX’s newest rocket Starship.
Mission control is responsible for the constant safety of the astronauts. They make standard operating procedures for events that could be unexpected such as a fire on the space station or trouble with the rocket on its way or on its descent. It's split into two different sections: flight control and ground team (NASA). The two teams build procedures for common occurrences and mission-specific guidelines (NASA). Along with mission control in TX, the Russian’s have a mission control room in Korolev, just outside Moscow (NASA). Most importantly, nasa.gov says, “Mission Control is the visible part, but it’s less than 1 percent of the support team. We’re just the tip of the iceberg.”
The engineers and manufacturers, not only at NASA but across the world apply their technical knowledge to be able to make the miracle missions come to fruition. They make parts for the rockets that are so specific and flush that they won’t spark during a launch sequence. They built the mars rover and moon lander and machined the astronaut's ability to walk on the moon. Without their help, it just wouldn’t get done.
“We’re developing cutting-edge technologies in alternative propulsion and supersonic flight to transform the future of aviation, right here on Earth.” — NASA
SpaceX Starship is looking to carry cargo and people eventually to multi-planetary missions (SpaceX). Starship has 37 raptor engines and 6 landing legs. I will leave a link below for a raptor engine test. The amount of testing, prototyping, and rebuilding just to get qualified to fly cargo was strenuous. This was done thanks to the craftsmanship of the machiners and the engineering design department.
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