Mars Gazette

Title: Blue Origin’s Latest Feat: A Giant Leap, But A Slight Misstep

In a fascinating twist of events, Blue Origin, the space exploration company founded by Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, successfully launched its first reused orbital-class rocket, yet the payload didn’t quite land where it was supposed to. The company’s giant Bluebird 7 mobile phone satellite was left hanging in the wrong orbit.

The historic launch was a significant milestone for Blue Origin. It marked a leap forward in the burgeoning industry of reusable rockets, a technology that is expected to drastically cut the cost of space travel. However, the giant Bluebird 7, intended to improve mobile connectivity across the globe, ended up in an unexpected location.

Blue Origin’s team was able to successfully recover the first stage of the rocket, a major accomplishment in itself. This feat, often likened to catching a falling pencil, is a testament to the company’s technical prowess and sets a new benchmark for competitors in the space race. The rocket, after delivering its payload, returned to Earth and landed vertically on a drone ship stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.

However, the excitement was somewhat dampened when it was realized that the Bluebird 7 satellite had been placed in the wrong orbit. Instead of the planned geostationary orbit, which would have allowed the satellite to stay in a fixed position relative to the Earth’s surface, the satellite found itself in a lower, elliptical orbit.

The misplacement is likely to impact the satellite’s intended function, as its position in space is critical to its ability to provide mobile phone coverage. Blue Origin’s team is currently assessing the situation and exploring potential solutions. It’s possible that the satellite might be able to use its onboard propulsion system to correct its course and reach its intended orbit. However, this would significantly drain the satellite’s fuel reserves, potentially shortening its operational lifespan.

Despite the hitch, the launch still marks a significant step forward in space exploration and commercial space travel. The successful recovery of the rocket’s first stage bodes well for the future of reusable rockets, a technology that is expected to significantly cut the cost of space travel and make space more accessible.

Blue Origin’s achievement and minor misstep come amidst an increasingly competitive commercial space race, featuring players such as SpaceX, Virgin Galactic, and others. These companies are not only aiming to make space travel more affordable but also to expand human presence beyond Earth.

While Blue Origin works to correct the course of the Bluebird 7, the world watches with bated breath. The incident serves as a reminder that space exploration, while filled with promise, is also fraught with challenges and uncertainties. As the adage goes, “To err is human,” or in this case, perhaps, “To err is to explore.”

Read more from the original source here: [Blue Origin just launched the giant Bluebird 7 mobile phone satellite into space — but it’s in the wrong orbit](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/blue-origin-just-launched-the-giant-bluebird-7-mobile-phone-satellite-into-space-but-its-in-the-wrong-orbit).

Title: Artemis 2 and Tiangong Space Station Astronauts Set Record for Farthest Distance Between Humans

Imagine standing on the Moon and waving at your fellow humans on a space station orbiting Earth. That’s exactly what the crew members aboard the Artemis 2 lunar mission and the Tiangong space station experienced on April 6th. For a few fleeting moments, these seven astronauts were farther apart from each other than any humans have ever been, setting a new record in the annals of space exploration.

NASA’s Artemis 2 mission is making headlines as the first crewed mission to the Moon since the Apollo program in the 1970s. Meanwhile, China’s Tiangong space station, launched in 2011, has also been a significant contributor to human space exploration. So when the paths of these two ambitious missions crossed – or rather, didn’t – it was a moment for the record books.

The Artemis 2 mission, currently orbiting the Moon, and the three astronauts aboard the Tiangong station, orbiting the Earth, found themselves at an incredible distance from each other. While the exact distance is hard to quantify due to the different orbits of the Moon and Earth, it’s safe to say that this is the farthest humans have ever been apart while both parties remain outside of Earth’s atmosphere.

The record-setting moment underscores the significant advancements in space exploration since Neil Armstrong first stepped on the lunar surface in 1969. The distance between the Artemis 2 and Tiangong crews is a testament to the strides made in technology and human courage, pushing the boundaries of our capabilities in outer space.

While the record may seem like a trivial feat, it carries profound implications. This event symbolizes a new era of space exploration, where humans are not only venturing farther into space but are also capable of sustaining life at these extreme distances. It is a reminder of the potential for future human settlement on the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

It’s also an indication of the increasingly global nature of space exploration. With NASA’s Artemis program and China’s space station operating concurrently, it’s clear that the pursuit of knowledge and understanding of the cosmos is not limited to a single nation or agency. The record set by Artemis 2 and the Tiangong space station is a testament to the collaborative spirit of human space exploration.

So, as the Artemis 2 astronauts continue their exploration of the Moon, and the Tiangong crew maintains their vigil over Earth, they do so knowing that they have set a record that symbolizes the progress of human space exploration. They may be farther apart from each other than any humans have ever been, but in a sense, they have never been closer together in their shared pursuit of knowledge and exploration.

Read more from the original source here: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/artemis/artemis-2-and-tiangong-space-station-astronauts-set-record-for-farthest-distance-between-humans.

Title: Hubble Space Telescope Captures Stunning Spiral Galaxy in New Space Photo of the Day

The Hubble Space Telescope, known for its illustrious career of capturing the cosmos in breathtaking detail, has once again wowed space enthusiasts. The newest space photo of the day, released on April 17, 2026, showcases an enchanting spiral galaxy in all its cosmic splendor.

Hubble’s images consistently leave us in awe, and the latest one is no exception. The spiral galaxy, resplendent with countless stars, gas, and dust, is an impressive example of the grandeur and complexity of our universe. The intricate spirals, swirling in a cosmic dance, are a captivating view that underlines why space exploration continues to fascinate scientists and the general public alike.

Spiral galaxies, like the one featured in Hubble’s latest image, are among the most common types of galaxies in the universe. They are characterized by their flat, rotating disks filled with stars and dust, with a central bulge composed of older stars. Supermassive black holes often reside at their cores. The spiral arms are regions of high star formation, making these galaxies vibrant and dynamic.

The Hubble Space Telescope, launched in 1990, has been instrumental in our understanding of the universe. Despite its age, it continues to provide valuable insights into the cosmos. Its powerful lens allows us to gaze into the farthest reaches of the universe, capturing images of celestial bodies millions and even billions of light-years away, like this mesmerizing spiral galaxy.

This image is not just a beautiful snapshot of a distant galaxy. It also provides valuable data for astronomers. The distribution of stars within the galaxy, the color of the stars, and the presence of dust lanes can all provide clues about the galaxy’s structure, age, and the processes occurring within it. It’s this combination of beauty and scientific value that makes Hubble’s images so special.

The Hubble Space Telescope, despite being over three decades old, is still at the forefront of space exploration. It continues to capture the imagination of the public, while also being a vital tool for astronomers. As we look at this awe-inspiring image of a spiral galaxy, we are reminded of the mysteries of the universe that are yet to be unraveled.

Space exploration is a testament to human curiosity and our desire to understand our place in the universe. Images like this one remind us of the grandeur of space and inspire future generations of astronomers and scientists. After more than 30 years, Hubble continues to captivate us with its stunning images of the cosmos. We wait with bated breath for what it will show us next.

Read more from the original source here: [Hubble Space Telescope spots a mesmerizing spiral galaxy | Space photo of the day for April 17, 2026](https://www.space.com/astronomy/galaxies/hubble-space-telescope-spots-a-mesmerizing-spiral-galaxy-space-photo-of-the-day-for-april-17-2026).

Title: Pioneering Japanese Mission Set to Examine Dead Satellites in 2027

In an ambitious leap forward for space exploration, a private Japanese spacecraft is gearing up to perform an unprecedented mission in 2027. Astroscale’s ISSA-J mission will be the first of its kind to inspect multiple defunct satellites across differing orbits during a single flight.

The objective of this mission is to ascertain the condition of two unresponsive satellites adrift in the vast expanse of space. This task is not only a testament to the prowess of space technology but also a step towards understanding and managing the increasing issue of space debris.

Satellites, once they’ve ceased functioning, typically remain in their orbits, effectively becoming space junk. These dead satellites pose a threat to the operational satellites and space stations, as well as to future space missions. This issue has been a growing concern for space agencies worldwide, leading to innovative solutions, like the Astroscale’s mission, to mitigate potential risks.

Astroscale, a trailblazing Japanese company, is no stranger to the field of space debris removal. They are currently conducting a mission, ELSA-d, which is demonstrating the technology to safely deorbit defunct satellites. The success of this ongoing mission will be a stepping stone towards their ambitious ISSA-J mission in 2027.

The ISSA-J mission is unique because it isn’t just focusing on one piece of space debris. Instead, it’s set to investigate two dead satellites. This is a challenging goal, considering the satellites are in different orbits. Despite the complexity, the mission will provide invaluable insights into the condition of these satellites, contribute to the study of space debris, and pave the way for future debris removal missions.

The spacecraft will rendezvous with each satellite, inspecting them thoroughly for signs of damage and determining their status. This information will not only help in planning their possible removal but also aid in designing more durable satellites in the future.

The success of the ISSA-J mission will mark a significant milestone in space exploration. It will demonstrate our ability to interact with, and potentially clean up, the space debris that clutters our near-Earth orbital environment.

Astroscale’s groundbreaking mission is a promising stride towards responsible stewardship of outer space. With the increasing number of satellites launched each year, missions like ISSA-J are a crucial part of ensuring the sustainable use of our shared cosmic backyard.

As we continue to reach for the stars, it’s clear that space isn’t just the final frontier for exploration—it’s also the next frontier for cleaning up after ourselves, and Astroscale is leading the charge.

Read more from the original source here: [Space.com](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/satellites/private-japanese-spacecraft-will-inspect-2-dead-satellites-in-2027).

Title: Peering Back in Time: Scientists Use Rare ‘Einstein Cross’ to Probe Young Galaxy with Old Stars

In a fascinating blend of cosmic detective work and time travel, scientists have utilized a rare celestial phenomenon known as an ‘Einstein Cross’ to study a young, elliptical galaxy teeming with stars that appear to be paradoxically ancient. This discovery has allowed researchers to delve into the enigmatic nature of stars located at the heart of this elliptical galaxy, casting new light on a remote era of the universe.

The Einstein Cross, named after the physicist who first predicted its occurrence, is a unique astronomical event caused by a phenomenon known as gravitational lensing. When a massive object, such as a galaxy, comes between us and a distant light source, its gravitational field can bend and magnify the light, forming multiple images. In rare cases, this results in an ‘Einstein Cross,’ where the distant source appears as four points of light in a rough cross formation around the lensing mass.

In this instance, the Einstein Cross enabled scientists to observe a galaxy in its youth, a feat akin to looking back in time. However, the stars found at the galaxy’s center presented a paradox. They appeared to be much older than the galaxy itself, a finding that defies conventional understanding of how galaxies evolve.

“The discovery of this exceptional object has allowed us to accurately study the nature of the stars at the center of an elliptical galaxy in a remote era of the universe when the galaxy was still young,” said one of the researchers involved in the study.

Elliptical galaxies, often containing older stars than their spiral counterparts, are usually characterized by their rounded, elongated shapes. They lack the vibrant, star-forming regions seen in spiral galaxies, leading scientists to believe they are more mature in cosmic terms. However, this recent find has thrown a cosmic curveball, presenting an elliptical galaxy in its infancy, yet filled with seemingly old stars.

This revelation poses intriguing questions about the formation and development of galaxies. It challenges the widely held view that stars within a galaxy are roughly the same age as the galaxy itself, suggesting that our understanding of galactic evolution may need to be revised.

The discovery also underscores the value of gravitational lensing and phenomena like the Einstein Cross as tools for probing the distant universe. These natural ‘telescopes’ permit us to see further and more clearly than ever before, opening up new possibilities for studying the cosmos.

As scientists continue to probe this young galaxy with its surprisingly old stars, they will undoubtedly uncover more mysteries and challenges to our understanding of the universe. But each question brings us one step closer to unraveling the complex tapestry of cosmic evolution, offering insights into the past and predictions for the future of our universe.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/galaxies/scientists-use-rare-einstein-cross-to-learn-about-young-galaxy-with-surprisingly-old-stars](https://www.space.com/astronomy/galaxies/scientists-use-rare-einstein-cross-to-learn-about-young-galaxy-with-surprisingly-old-stars).

Title: Artemis 2 Astronauts Triumphantly Return Home: A Beacon of Success in Space Exploration

Astronauts Victor Glover and Christina Koch, the heroic duo of Artemis 2 mission, have successfully splashed down on Earth, their faces donned with radiant smiles that echo their triumphant return. The world watched with bated breath as the spacecraft gently descended into the waters, marking a monumental milestone in the annals of space exploration.

The Artemis 2 mission, the first crewed lunar mission since the iconic Apollo program, has been hailed as a momentous stepping stone towards the future. Glover and Koch, both NASA astronauts, have not only set records but also raised the bar, demonstrating what the human spirit is truly capable of achieving.

Their return is not merely a successful splashdown; it is a testament to human ingenuity, resilience, and the persistent quest for knowledge. As the spacecraft pierced through the Earth’s atmosphere, it carried with it not just two astronauts, but also a wealth of data and experiences that will shape the future of space exploration.

Victor Glover, a decorated Navy aviator, was the pilot for this mission. His calm demeanor and strategic approach were vital in ensuring the mission’s success. This voyage marked Glover’s second time in space, having spent 167 days aboard the International Space Station in a previous mission.

Christina Koch, the flight engineer for Artemis 2, is no stranger to space herself. She holds the record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman, with an astounding 328 days in space. Koch’s extensive experience and expertise were integral to the mission’s accomplishments.

Their smiles, captured in the ‘Space Photo of the Day’ for April 13, 2026, are symbolic of the joy and relief shared by the entire space community. The successful return of Artemis 2 has not only given the world a reason to celebrate but also paved the way for the ambitious Artemis 3 mission, which aims to land astronauts on the lunar south pole.

The Artemis program, named after the Greek goddess of the Moon and Apollo’s twin sister, represents NASA’s renewed commitment to lunar exploration. It is a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for future space explorers. The success of Artemis 2 is a significant leap towards achieving the program’s ultimate goal: to land “the first woman and the next man” on the Moon by 2024.

As the world celebrates the victorious return of Glover and Koch, the journey is far from over. The lessons learned, the data gathered, and the experiences shared by these intrepid astronauts will fuel the next phase of lunar exploration. The spirit of adventure, discovery, and the drive to push our boundaries continue to propel us towards the stars and beyond.

For more details on the Artemis 2 mission and to see the jubilant astronauts’ photo, you can read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/space-exploration/artemis/artemis-2-astronauts-celebrate-successful-return-to-earth-space-photo-of-the-day-for-april-13-2026](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/artemis/artemis-2-astronauts-celebrate-successful-return-to-earth-space-photo-of-the-day-for-april-13-2026).

Title: Total Solar Eclipse 2026: Spain and Iceland Prepare with Array of Epic Events

On August 12, 2026, a total solar eclipse will sweep across the skies of Spain and Iceland, turning day into night in a celestial spectacle that never fails to inspire awe. For those lucky enough to be in the path of totality, the experience will be nothing short of magical. But the countries aren’t just promising a celestial show – they’re planning a full roster of epic events to mark the occasion. From spas to boat parties, skywatching festivals and beyond, the 2026 eclipse is set to be a sky-gazing experience like no other.

Spain, a country enamored with its sky, is gearing up for the eclipse with a line-up of festivals that will cater to both science enthusiasts and fun-seekers alike. One event invites visitors to take a dip in a thermal spa in Galicia, while watching the sun disappear behind the moon from the comfort of warm waters. Imagine the serenity of relaxing in a spa while witnessing one of the most spectacular astronomical events!

In a more upbeat setting, a boat party off the coast of Ibiza promises a unique view of the eclipse over the Mediterranean Sea. With music and drinks flowing, party-goers will be able to dance the day away under a darkened sky, an experience that will undoubtedly make for unforgettable memories.

As the path of totality stretches north, Iceland, known for its dramatic landscapes and ethereal Northern Lights, offers a different but equally enthralling experience. The country is hosting skywatching events, where expert astronomers will guide visitors through the stages of the eclipse, explaining the science behind this natural marvel.

For those inclined towards the arts, Iceland is also planning a series of music and art festivals that will incorporate the eclipse into their programming. Imagine the thrill of watching your favorite band perform under the backdrop of a darkened daytime sky!

In addition to these experiences, both countries are organizing a series of workshops, exhibitions, and lectures related to the eclipse. These events aim to educate the public about the science behind solar eclipses, helping to demystify the event and promote an interest in astronomy.

Whether you’re a seasoned eclipse chaser or a curious first-timer, the 2026 total solar eclipse presents a perfect opportunity to witness a spectacle of nature while immersing yourself in unique cultural experiences. So, mark your calendars for August 12, 2026, and prepare for a cosmic journey that promises to be both educational and entertaining.

Remember, total solar eclipses are fleetingly rare events. Don’t miss your chance to witness the extraordinary spectacle that the 2026 eclipse promises to be. And with Spain and Iceland’s stellar line-up of events, you’re guaranteed not just a view, but an experience of a lifetime.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/stargazing/solar-eclipses/from-spa-to-boat-party-10-epic-events-for-the-aug-12-2026-total-solar-eclipse-in-spain-and-iceland](https://www.space.com/stargazing/solar-eclipses/from-spa-to-boat-party-10-epic-events-for-the-aug-12-2026-total-solar-eclipse-in-spain-and-iceland).

Title: Artemis 2 Takes Center Stage in Episode 205 of ‘This Week In Space’ Podcast

In the latest episode of the popular podcast, ‘This Week in Space’, hosts Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik delve into the details and excitement surrounding the upcoming flight of Artemis 2, the next chapter in NASA’s ambitious lunar exploration program.

Episode 205, appropriately titled ‘All About Artemis’, provides a comprehensive overview of Artemis 2, its mission objectives, and the potential implications for the future of space exploration. The hosts, Pyle and Malik, seasoned veterans in the field of space journalism, bring their expert insights to the table, making the complex world of space exploration comprehensible and intriguing for their listeners.

Artemis 2, as the hosts explain, is part of NASA’s Artemis program, a series of successive missions aiming to return humans to the moon for the first time since the Apollo missions of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Unlike its predecessor, Artemis 1, which was an uncrewed test flight, Artemis 2 will carry a crew of astronauts around the moon, marking the first manned mission of the Artemis program.

The enthusiasm of Pyle and Malik is palpable as they discuss the Artemis 2 mission. They delve into the specifics of the spacecraft, its state-of-the-art technology, and the training regimen of the astronauts chosen for this pioneering mission. The duo also addresses the hurdles and challenges that NASA has faced and may continue to encounter as it ventures to make this lunar dream a reality.

“The Artemis program is not just about revisiting the moon. It’s about establishing a sustainable human presence there and using it as a stepping-stone for future Mars exploration,” says Malik during the podcast. This sentiment is echoed by Pyle, who emphasizes that our return to the moon will be a monumental achievement in deep space exploration and a testament to human endeavor.

For the uninitiated, ‘This Week in Space’ is a go-to resource for the latest news and discussions on space exploration. Pyle, an author and history consultant for NASA, and Malik, the editor-in-chief of Space.com, have a knack for making the intricacies of space science and exploration accessible to their audience. Their engaging conversations, coupled with in-depth analysis and a dash of humor, make the podcast a must-listen for space enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

Episode 205, ‘All About Artemis’, is a riveting exploration into what the future holds for human space exploration. As we inch closer to the launch of Artemis 2, the anticipation and excitement are only set to rise. Through podcasts like ‘This Week in Space’, we can all be part of this thrilling journey, one podcast episode at a time.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/this-week-in-space-podcast-episode-205-all-about-artemis](https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/this-week-in-space-podcast-episode-205-all-about-artemis).

In the world of science fiction television, few shows have captivated audiences with their blend of drama, history, and scientific accuracy as the Apple TV+ series “For All Mankind.” As the show prepares to launch its fifth season, we sat down with creators Ben Nedivi and Matt Wolbert to discuss the upcoming dramatic arc, their commitment to scientific accuracy, and the surprising real-world parallels within their show.

Nedivi and Wolbert are clear – their priority is not just to entertain, but to educate. “We want to make sure that our audience is getting an experience that feels authentic,” Wolbert explained. “We’re not shipping cows up to Mars. We’re not delving into the realm of the impossible. Instead, we’re taking what we know about space exploration and pushing it forward.”

The creators’ commitment to scientific accuracy is evident in the show’s meticulous depiction of space exploration. They work closely with consultants from NASA and other scientific communities to ensure the technology and science portrayed in the show aligns with what is currently known or projected.

Nedivi shared, “When we’re discussing plot points or technologies, we often ask, ‘Could this really happen?’ We want to ensure that what we’re presenting is plausible, even if it’s a bit of a stretch.”

The fifth season of “For All Mankind” is set to offer a gripping storyline filled with political intrigue, personal challenges, and the ever-present danger of life in space. The creators hinted that the upcoming season draws inspiration from the colonial era, bringing new depth to the show’s exploration of humanity’s drive to conquer and colonize new worlds.

“The colonial parallels are definitely intentional,” Wolbert confirmed. “We’re looking at the colonial era as a kind of blueprint for what might happen as we start to colonize space.”

The creators also highlighted the real-world parallels in the show, pointing out that the political and social issues tackled on screen are reflections of the challenges we face today. From the struggle for resources to the ethical implications of colonization, “For All Mankind” encourages its audience to consider these issues in a new light.

“Space exploration is not just about the science and technology,” Nedivi stated. “It’s about how we, as a society, handle the challenges and opportunities that come with stepping into the unknown.”

With its blend of drama, scientific accuracy, and thought-provoking themes, “For All Mankind” continues to push the boundaries of science fiction television. As we look forward to the upcoming fifth season, we can be sure that the creators will continue to deliver a show that not only entertains but also challenges us to consider the impact of our own journey into space.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/theyre-not-shipping-cows-up-to-mars-for-all-mankind-creators-talk-scientific-accuracy-and-colonial-inspirations-behind-season-5-interview](https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/theyre-not-shipping-cows-up-to-mars-for-all-mankind-creators-talk-scientific-accuracy-and-colonial-inspirations-behind-season-5-interview).

Title: NASA Astronaut Leland Melvin Turns Cartoon in Disney+’s ‘Hey A.J.!’

The world of space exploration has just collided with children’s entertainment in the most exciting way. NASA astronaut Leland Melvin made a special appearance in the latest episode of Disney+’s popular show, ‘Hey A.J.!’, but not as we usually see him. This time, Melvin went animated.

“I’m proof that if you keep dreaming big, you too can be out of this world,” Melvin’s character encourages young viewers in the episode. This inspirational message mirrors Melvin’s own journey into space which began with a dream and ended amongst the stars.

For those not familiar with ‘Hey A.J.!’, the show is based on a series of children’s books written by former NFL player Martellus Bennett. The series revolves around a young girl named A.J., who has a world of imagination and a thirst for discovery. Bennett’s aim with ‘Hey A.J.’ is to inspire children to dream big and never limit their potential.

The show’s recent episode saw Melvin’s character explaining the wonders of space travel to A.J., a treat that will no doubt inspire the next generation of astronauts, scientists, and space enthusiasts.

Leland Melvin, a retired astronaut, served NASA for more than 24 years. He joined the astronaut corps in 1998 and flew two missions to the International Space Station in 2008 and 2009. As a mission specialist, Melvin helped expand the space station and conduct important science experiments. His journey from being a professional football player for the Detroit Lions to an astronaut is a testament to his mantra: “Keep dreaming big.”

Melvin’s cartoon cameo is an unique approach to spark interest in space exploration among young minds. It’s a playful, engaging way to show kids that space is not just for the characters they see in movies—it’s a real place that real people, like Melvin, have visited.

His appearance on ‘Hey A.J.’ also aligns with NASA’s ongoing efforts to encourage educational outreach, especially in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). By bringing real-life astronauts into children’s programming, NASA and Disney are fostering a love for space exploration in young audiences, potentially inspiring the astronauts of tomorrow.

Melvin’s message can resonate with all of us — dream big, and you too could reach the stars. His cameo is a gentle reminder that anyone can contribute to the vast field of space exploration, regardless of their background or career path.

The episode featuring Melvin is now streaming on Disney+. So, whether you’re an aspiring astronaut, a space enthusiast, or a parent wanting to inspire your child, tune in to ‘Hey A.J.’ to witness the melding of animation and real-life space exploration.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/nasa-astronaut-leland-melvin-makes-a-cartoon-cameo-in-latest-episode-of-disney-s-hey-a-j](https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/nasa-astronaut-leland-melvin-makes-a-cartoon-cameo-in-latest-episode-of-disney-s-hey-a-j).