China has successfully tested and landed a reusable rocket, signalling a significant step forward in their space ambitions. On 23rd June 2024, a liquid-fuelled launcher ascended to an altitude of 7.5 miles (12 km) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. This achievement places China in closer competition with pioneers in reusable rockets like SpaceX, who have revolutionised the space industry with their reusable rocket technology.
At the forefront of space innovation, Rolls-Royce recently showcased its groundbreaking Micro-Reactor concept at the esteemed UK Space Conference in Belfast. This event marked a significant milestone in the UK Space Agency-backed research initiative, which aims to pioneer the first modular nuclear reactor for lunar exploration. The introduction of this Micro-Reactor model stirred widespread interest across various industries, signifying a new era in space technology.
With space exploration advancing at a rapid pace, it won’t be long before we see humanity’s first home in another world using advanced off-world construction technologies.
To further develop efforts for building on the Moon, NASA has awarded ICON, a construction technologies company based in Austin, a contract to find practical off-world construction solutions for building on the lunar surface and on Mars. The primary objective of this partnership is to build infrastructures using 3D printing technology, including landing pads, habitats, and roads.
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