In 2024, significant developments emerged in space exploration and technology across various countries, marking a pivotal year for global space initiatives.
On February 4, Russian astronaut Oleg Kononenko set a new world record for cumulative time spent in space, surpassing the previous record of 878 days. By June 5, he became the first individual to spend a total of 1,000 days in near-Earth space, concluding his mission with an impressive total of 1,110 days.
Russia also achieved a milestone in heavy-lift rocket technology with the successful test launch of the Angara-A5 rocket on April 11. This 54.5-meter, 773-ton rocket demonstrated its capability to deliver payloads of approximately 24.5 tons to orbit, reinforcing Russia's position in the space sector.
In the United States, discoveries in lunar and planetary exploration were notable. Research from the University of Maryland revealed that the Moon is gradually shrinking, potentially leading to moonquakes that could threaten future human exploration. Additionally, data from the Cassini spacecraft indicated the presence of a subsurface ocean on Saturn's moon Enceladus, while scientists detected water molecules on two asteroids.
American astronomers discovered the heaviest known supermassive black hole pair, weighing 28 billion solar masses, and made precise measurements of the expanding universe, contributing valuable data to cosmology.
SpaceX's Starship project also made headlines as it was recognized as one of the top ten scientific breakthroughs of the year. In September, the Polaris Dawn mission achieved the first commercial spacewalk, further advancing the commercial space sector.
In the UK, astronomers discovered new types of stars at the center of the Milky Way, and the James Webb Space Telescope identified the oldest black hole, dating back to just 400 million years after the Big Bang.
France initiated the Carioqa project, aiming to deploy a quantum accelerometer in space by 2030 to create detailed gravity maps of Earth. This innovative technology could enhance predictions of natural disasters.
Germany made strides in satellite technology, launching Earth observation satellites and developing a mini-satellite system for collecting space debris.
Japan successfully landed its SLIM lunar lander on the Moon, marking a significant achievement in lunar exploration. The country also launched its H3 rocket, enhancing its capabilities for future missions.
South Korea established the Korea Aerospace Administration and initiated a second phase of its lunar exploration project, aiming for a moon landing by 2032.
South Africa collaborated with NASA to develop lunar and deep space exploration infrastructure, while also launching a suborbital rocket facility for scientific research.
Israel signed a $1 billion satellite manufacturing agreement with Morocco, while also addressing challenges with its own reconnaissance satellites. The country is also working with NASA to train its first female astronaut.