Space Exploration 2024: Upcoming Missions and Opportunities

This lecture provides an overview of the exciting developments in space exploration planned for 2024. It begins with a discussion on the current state of the International Space Station (ISS) and highlights the upcoming SpaceX Crew 8 mission scheduled for March 1, 2024. The instructor introduces the selection of 17 new ESA astronauts and their upcoming training. The lecture covers significant missions such as the Boeing Starliner flight test and the Sierra Space Dream Chaser cargo resupply mission. The Polaris Dawn private mission is also discussed, emphasizing its scientific investigations. The ongoing Odysseus lunar mission is highlighted, along with the challenges of soft landings on the Moon. The NASA Artemis 2 mission, set for September 2025, is presented, detailing its crew and objectives. The lecture concludes with insights into the development of European launchers and the SpaceX Starship mega-launcher, setting the stage for future advancements in space technology and exploration.