T-Minus Space Daily China’s crew capsule concerns.
Nov 17, 2025
In this discussion, Patrick O'Neill, Public Affairs and Outreach Lead at the ISS U.S. National Laboratory, reveals fascinating insights about space initiatives. He talks about the impactful Genes in Space program, which allows students to conduct genetic experiments in orbit. Patrick also shares the vision behind Upward magazine, dedicated to showcasing research from the ISS National Lab. Additionally, he recounts the collaboration with Margaritaville to honor Jimmy Buffett, bringing a unique flair to space-themed fundraising efforts.
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Contingency Launch After Capsule Damage
- China prepared an uncrewed Shenzhou craft as a contingency after cracks appeared on a crew capsule viewport.
- The swap highlights how orbital operations must plan for hardware damage and rapid crew-return logistics.
FAA Lifts Launch Restrictions
- The FAA lifted launch restrictions after the U.S. government shutdown ended, allowing normal launch cadence to resume.
- This removal of limits is expected to quickly clear backlog pressures in Florida and California launch schedules.
Sentinel-6B Continues Sea-Level Record
- Sentinel-6B launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 to continue sea-level and ocean monitoring for climate and operational forecasting.
- The satellite continues a multi-decade altimetry data set vital to hurricane forecasts and maritime operations.