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

Cornell Students Reimagine The Tempest for 2025

Cornell students prepare a vibrant 2025 production of The Tempest.

Cornell Hosts Free Ag Quad Concerts Every Friday

Cornell hosts free live music concerts on Ag Quad every Friday.

Cornell Finds Harmful Blooms Suppress Competing Algae

Toxic blooms suppress algae in U.S. lakes, threatening health and recreation.

Headband Rocks Ithaca at Six Mile Creek

Headband delivers folk-pop covers and originals at Six Mile Creek Vineyard tonight.

Cornell’s Fu Set for World University Games

Cornell’s Gina Fu preps for global table tennis competition at Summer Games.

Cornell Alumna Sarah Spain Triumphs in Sports Media

Cornell alum Sarah Spain transitions from athletic captain to ESPN sports journalist.

Heat Advisory Issued for Scranton and Surrounding Areas

Scranton heat advisory warns residents amid forecasts of dangerously high heat index values.

Scranton Area Faces Heat and Thunderstorm Risks

Hot, humid conditions with heavy rain chances expected in Lackawanna County.

Cornellians Share Aha Moments of Insight

Cornell shares community "aha moments" highlighting personal insights and growth.

Navy Logistics Research Halted Mid-Exercise

Frazier's team develops AI logistics tools for the military; project halted.