a day ago
- Australia's Gilmour Space Technologies' Eris rocket flew for 14 seconds on July 30th, generating valuable engineering data despite crashing, and proving hybrid propulsion works.
- This launch was Australia's first orbital attempt from its own soil since 1971, positioning it to become the sixth nation with regular orbital launch capability, with a second attempt planned within six months.
- The 40-year corporate rivalry between Coca-Cola and Pepsi in space, beginning in 1985, involved absurd engineering solutions for carbonated drinks in microgravity, with neither performing well.
- Physics challenges in space include CO2 bubbles not separating from liquid, causing foamy spheres, and microgravity affecting taste and digestion, making warm cola a disliked experience.
- Despite failures, space beverage patents led to practical innovations like home carbonation appliances, showing that even frivolous space research yields Earthly benefits.
- The rivalry's peak included a $300 million TV commercial on Mir in 1996 and a 2019 orbital billboard fiasco that was canceled due to public outrage, leading to laws banning space advertising.