A 2014 Preview From Emily Lakdawalla

24 spacecraft are either busy exploring the solar system or speeding toward an exciting destination.  The Planetary Society's Senior Editor takes us on a whirlwind advance tour.  Another SpaceX commercial launch is the lead-in to Bill Nye the Science Guy’s regular segment.  Bruce Betts decides Mat needs professional help for his obsession regarding “Gravity.”  Maybe a tour of the night sky and the chance to win a Year in Space wall calendar will cure him.

Related Links

• Emily: What's Up in Planetary Missions in 2014?
• "Wake Up Rosetta!" Vote for Bill Nye and the Planetary Society's Entry
• A Photographer on Mars: Emily Lakdawalla Talks with Jim Bell

Trivia Contest

This week's prize is the 2014 Year In Space Wall Calendar!

This week's question:
What was the first power tool specifically designed for space use in 1964, according to NASA?

To submit your answer:
Complete the contest entry form at http:planetary.org/radiocontest or write to us at [email protected] no later than Monday, January 13, at 2pm Pacific Time.  Be sure to include your name and mailing address.

Last week's question:
Who recorded the first observations that indicated Venus has phases like the Moon?

Answer:
The answer will be revealed next week.

Question from the week before:
Around what location in space will the Gaia spacecraft orbit?

Answer:
The Sun-Earth L2 Lagrange Point.