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NASA astronaut F. Story Musgrave, STS-6 mission specialist, performs the first Extra Vehicular Activity of the Space Shuttle era in the payload bay of Challenger. Also on the EVA, but out of the frame here, was Donald Peterson. NASA astronaut Karol J. Bobko, pilot, took photographs through the aft flight deck windows. Credit: NASA
This Month in NASA History: STS-6 was a Mission of Firsts

First flight of Challenger includes the first spacewalk of the shuttle program and an important test of a new generation of spacesuits.

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The sample return capsule from NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission shortly after touching down in the desert, Sunday, Sept. 24, 2023, in Utah. The sample sealed inside has surprised scientist who have only begun to analyze it. Credit: NASA/Keegan Barber
Historic OSIRIS-REx Asteroid Sample Holds Surprises

The parent of Bennu was deep in the solar system, held many of the building blocks of life, and likely contained salty brines below the surface. 

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Shown here in 2017, the site for what is now the Johnson Space Center was selected from a list of 23 cities in September 1961. It was chosen for its key attributes, including moderate climate, established industrial complex, and ready access to water transportation that could accommodate massive barges. Credit: United States Coast Guard
Houston, we had a problem…and we learned from it!

Space is hard. Inevitably, problems may occur. We can all learn valuable lessons from past events to ensure the safety and success of current and future programs. Enjoy reading and learning from a selection of such events. This booklet produced by the Johnson Space Center Knowledge Management Office contains numerous lesson learned from NASA missions and projects.

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On Jan. 5, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Dr. James C. Fletcher, NASA Administrator, discussed the proposed Space Shuttle vehicle in San Clemente, Calif. The President announced that day that the United States should proceed at once with the development of an entirely new type of space transportation system. Credit: NASA
This Month in NASA History: Nixon OKs Shuttle Program

The nation chooses to reduce spending after Apollo, focusing on a versatile, reuseable spacecraft for low-Earth orbit.

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Banner image showing the Small Steps, Giant Leaps logo featuring an illustration of an astronaut leaping from the Moon to Mars. The image on the right of the banner is of a man using a virtual reality headset with controls for NASA simulator training. The text above reads 143: NASA Training Simulators.
Podcast Episode 143: NASA Training Simulators

Before leaving the ground, astronauts prepare for spaceflight by immersing themselves in life-like training simulators. NASA’s Simulation and Graphics Branch makes it happen, and it’s critical to the success of humans in space.

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The Soyuz MS-24 crew ship is pictured docked to the International Space Station’s Rassvet module. NASA is making plans to deorbit the ISS into a remote ocean location sometime after 2030. Credit: NASA
NASA Selects Deorbit Vehicle for the ISS

Powerful new spacecraft under development will guide the venerable station through Earth’s atmosphere to a remote ocean site, sometime after 2030.

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In June of 1969, Neil Armstrong and Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin prepare to practice spacewalk techniques, walking over a simulated lunar surface in a facility at what is now NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Photo Credit: NASA
This Month in NASA History: The ‘Third One Down’

In June 1969, NASA charges Apollo 11 with a single, straightforward objective — Perform a manned lunar landing and return.

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Astronauts John Grunsfeld and Andrew Feustel perform the first of five spacewalks scheduled on STS-125 to upgrade and extend the working life of the Hubble Space Telescope. Photo Credit: NASA
This Month in NASA History: The Hubble Repairman’s Last Visit

The crew of STS-125 make repairs and upgrades to the revolutionary telescope, expanding its capabilities and extending its operational lifespan.

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Panelists from left to right are Kaitlin Liles, Joe Gasbarre, and Mike Cisewski. Credit: NASA
Critical Knowledge inSight: Successful Project Team Characteristics

Project leaders can create a working environment for their team members that will lead to mission success.

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