View allAll Photos Tagged engineeringmarvel
A beautiful depiction of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) basking in the sun by the incredibly talented Paul Hudson. Orientation of the photo, although arbitrary, was chosen because the sun by convention should be ‘up’ & it’s the closest to Mr. Hudson’s other, iconic depiction of the engineering marvel, aka HST.
The photograph was featured as the centerfold of a STS-31 presentation.
“Color-enhanced image of sunset on Mars, recorded by the Viking 1 lander. Part of the spacecraft is just visible at bottom right, colored dark blue. The contouring effect around the setting sun is a result of the imaging system.”
Disappointingly, the image and the above, which may have been part of the original NASA caption, seem to only be available at the ‘pay to play’ sites.
A high contrast version is contained within:
history.nasa.gov/EP-177/ch8-2.html
Although I can see how this has an artistic, mod/pop…whatever it’s called, appeal, I’ve always disliked it. Yet it seemed to have been oft-reproduced. I remember seeing it as a poster, lithograph of course…I think even in NASA/JPL informational/promotional material.
It definitely looks way better as an actual photograph print, not the garish, ‘HDR’, end of “2001: A Space Odyssey”, comic book-like look I seem to recall & refer to above.
i.discogs.com/kAPI00d2TdTseTZwVL5YXOR03oD9osbsjRzeG_z1zbk...
i.discogs.com/Lc1xLVGuQIhLAr66dCTnXmd-qAXxrQPVuiUYqO3HBOU...
Credit: Both above credit Discogs website
Further, although the image is subdued & accurate, the ‘contour lines’ do seem to match. Maybe just processed differently? IDK:
“Viking 1 Lander image of a Martian sunset over Chryse Planitia. In this image the sun is 2 degrees below the local horizon. The banding in the sky is an artifact produced by the incremental brightness levels of the camera. This image was taken on the 30th Martian day (sol) after touchdown, at 19:13 local time. The camera is pointing towards the southwest.”
At:
nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/imgcat/html/object_page/vl1_12a240.html
Credit: NSSDCA website
Also:
commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Viking_sunset.jpg
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Finally, featured on the cover. The right half of it that is:
Comparative color-enhanced/false-color Voyager 1 & 2 images (left & right, respectively) of Saturn, taken October 1980 and ~July 1981, during the flybys of the ringed planet by these two remarkable spacecraft.
Left:
nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/imgcat/html/object_page/vg1_p22994c.html
Credit: NASA Space Science Data Coordinated Archive website
Right:
photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA03152
Credit: JPL Photojournal website
nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/imgcat/html/object_page/vg2_p23880c.html
Credit: NASA Space Science Data Coordinated Archive website
photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA03152
Credit: JPL Photojournal website
This captivating photograph captures the historic B&O Railroad Bridge crossing the Shenandoah River at Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. This site marks the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, nestled beneath the imposing rock face of Maryland Heights—a rugged landmark that looms above the scene. The bridge, a testament to 19th-century engineering and design, was a vital transportation route during the Civil War and remains a crucial part of American railroad history.
The steel truss bridge stretches across the river on sturdy stone piers, its weathered ironwork echoing the industrial past that shaped Harpers Ferry’s identity. Trains, still in service today, traverse the bridge, connecting the past with the present as they journey through the Appalachian landscape. The piers of an older bridge can be seen in the foreground—remnants of an earlier crossing that was destroyed during the war, a silent witness to the town’s tumultuous history.
Beyond the bridge, the stone ruins of earlier bridge abutments stand on the riverbank like sentinels, each block telling a story of conflict and resilience. Harpers Ferry was a strategic target during the Civil War, repeatedly contested by Union and Confederate forces. These bridge piers once supported a crucial link in the transportation network that supplied troops and carried commerce along the B&O Railroad.
The photograph’s composition draws the eye along the bridge to the dark, cavernous train tunnel cut into the mountain—a passage through which countless trains have roared since the 19th century. Above, the clouds dance in a dynamic sky, a perfect counterpoint to the river’s steady flow and the rugged cliffs beyond.
This image captures the enduring intersection of nature, history, and technology in Harpers Ferry, a town that continues to honor its place in America’s story.
The south tower of Joseph Strauss and Irving Morrow's 1937 span, caught in the narrow window when twilight is still bleeding color into the sky and the marine layer is just beginning to commit. Fog hangs behind the tower in a pale wash, softening the upper structure into the Marin Headlands. The aircraft beacon still fires red at the apex. Morrow's International Orange — chosen specifically to harmonize with the rust tones of the headlands rather than the battleship grey the Navy wanted — reads almost luminous against the cooling blue atmosphere.
This vantage from the south anchorage bluffs trades the postcard sweep for something more grounded. That concrete stairway threading down at lower left is utilitarian Park Service infrastructure, and it gives the frame a human-scale entry that the wider compositions lack. Native coastal scrub layers across the foreground — part of the Presidio's ongoing restoration of the bluff ecosystem — leading the eye up through the Welcome Center pavilions toward the deck, where the roadway lights pull a luminous arc across the span as it bends toward Fort Point.
Twilight here is brief. Earlier the sky reads colder; later the tower goes flat against black. This is the seam.
“APOLLO 11 LIFTOFF----------The huge, 363-foot tall Apollo 11 (Spacecraft 107/Lunar Module 5/Saturn 506) space vehicle is launched from Pad A, Launch Complex 39, Kennedy Space Center, at 9:32 a.m. (EDT), July 16, 1969. Aboard the Apollo 11 spacecraft were Astronauts Neil A. Armstrong, commander; Michael Collins, command module pilot; and Edwin E. Aldrin Jr., lunar module pilot. Apollo 11 is the United States’ first lunar landing mission.”
Wow:
www.sothebys.com/en/buy/auction/2019/space-photography-on...
Credit: Sotheby's website
Also wow:
www.auctionzip.com/auction-lot/apollo-11-launch-nasa-numb...
Credit: AuctionZip website
$2,300 (plus 25% Buyer's Premium):
historical.ha.com/itm/explorers/space-exploration/apollo-...
Credit: Heritage Auctions website
Speaking of high costs, along with insightful, albeit depressing discussion of current ‘back to the moon’ reality:
spacenews.com/cost-and-schedule-overruns-continue-to-grow...
Credit: SPACENEWS website
Have you ever been to historic places in south India and ever wondered why the heck on earth you find so many ugly holes on huge rocks, right next to nice carvings and scriptures? Well if you have the discovery DVD's and seen it already, good enough. The folks who still have no clue, listen carefully.
The maximum load that you are allowed to transport in the USA by road is about 30 tonnes. Anything more than this requires a license and specialized equipment and of course a lot of things. Now come to India, rewind your time way back to say 3500 B.C or 300 B.C or 700 A.D when most of these huge temples were built. We did not have airplanes, we did not have trucks or cranes to do the job. Nope, god did not do shit as usual, nor did black magic or divine power. Engineering science did the job.
The average weight of each and every rock is about 1300 tonnes and many of them shot past the regular 7000 tonne mark. Now how do you take these rocks up the hill, about 700 meters up the sea level? The simple answer is you gotta break them into pieces and take them, but then how the heck do you break such huge rocks. If your answer was drill and hammer them out, sorry mate, you scored an F :-) (i did too!)
Drilling, hammering et all was time consuming and resourceful and required impossible amount of manpower and horsepower. Explosives are a thing that happened a few hundred years ago and were unheard of during these times. Even if they were available, blasting off mountain rocks meant you could not use them properly and cut it on a shape you wanted them to come out for specific purposes. So, here is what they did.
Instead of breaking the entire rock, they drilled very small holes into them along the line where the rock was meant to be broken. As soon as the holes were drilled, soft pieces of wood was thrust into these holes and the rock was heated so that it would expand (remember the physics lesson, objects expand on heat) and they thrust more soft wood into these holes and sealed them with mud and plastered it with lime. Now pour cold water over it in large quantities, the rock cools down and contracts, however the wood inside absorbs the water and expands due to its soft nature and absorbing characteristic. So rock shrinks, wood enlarges/expands and thereby forces the rock to crack along the lines where the wholes were drilled.
Ta daa! You have a neatly cut rock precise to the line where the engineer drew the line and you could not cut them again into smaller pieces till they could be carried over or carved here for whatever use they were meant to be. That's exactly how they did it. Engineering freaking genius, 1000's of years back!
Canon EOS 400D with the Sigma EF 24 - 70 MM F/2.8, Aperture Priority, F/8 at 1/200th of a Second, ISO100.
A stunning view of the Saturn 500F/Facilities Verification/Integration Vehicle, possibly during rollout and the climb up the incline to Launch Complex 39A, 25 May 1966.
“Two brown ovals, at right, some 10,000 kilometers (6,000 miles) across, were found at approximately 40° and 60° latitude in Saturn's northern hemisphere by Voyager 1. The photo was taken on November 7, 1980, from a range of 7,500,000 kilometers (4,600,000 miles). The polar oval (upper right) has a structure similar to the Saturn red spot located in the southern polar latitudes. The Voyager Project is managed by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory for NASA.”
nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/imgcat/html/object_page/vg1_p23073.html
Credit: NSSDCA website
photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA00026
Credit: JPL Photojournal website
“Astronaut Jeffrey A. Hoffman, anchored on the end of the Remote Manipulator System (RMS) arm, is pictured with the Wide Field/Planetary Camera (WF/PC I) during the third of five extravehicular activity’s (EVA). Astronauts Hoffman and F. Story Musgrave, seen near the stowage area for the WF/PC, had earlier installed the new camera (note white rectangle) on lower portion of telescope.”
Note the newly installed, but not yet deployed solar arrays on the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). Per the caption of another photograph from the mission, one of the original solar arrays can be seen in the Solar Array Carrier (SAC), near the lower left corner of the photograph.
“This wide shot of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) in Discovery’s cargo bay, backdropped against Australia, was taken during the fifth space walk added to complete servicing of the orbiting observatory. Astronauts Steven L. Smith (center frame) and Mark C. Lee (on robot arm) are conducting a survey of the hand rails on HST. In foreground is the hatchway that connects to Discovery’s shirt sleeve environment of the crew cabin”
Osaka City’s iconic Ferris wheel stands as a marvel of modern engineering and a beacon of urban excitement. This towering structure punctuates the city skyline with its vibrant yellow and green gondolas, offering breathtaking views of Osaka Bay and the sprawling urban landscape. Originally constructed as part of the city’s push to invigorate tourism, the Ferris wheel serves as a symbol of Osaka's balance between tradition and innovation.
The Ferris wheel's metallic frame reflects sunlight during the day and transforms into a dazzling spectacle of lights at night, drawing visitors from across the globe. Each gondola is meticulously designed for comfort, featuring panoramic windows that allow riders to immerse themselves in the views, whether it’s the shimmering waters below or the bustling city streets. The wheel’s impressive height, combined with cutting-edge technology, ensures a smooth and stable ride, even on windy days.
For architecture enthusiasts, the structure exemplifies contemporary design with its geometric precision and use of durable materials. Its seamless integration into the cityscape highlights Osaka’s forward-thinking urban planning. The Ferris wheel is strategically located near other major attractions, making it an ideal starting or finishing point for a day of exploration.
Insiders recommend visiting at sunset for the most spectacular experience—when the city is bathed in golden light, and the skyline begins to sparkle. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or a photography enthusiast, this Ferris wheel offers an unforgettable perspective on the vibrant energy of Osaka.
The Golden Gate Bridge glows orange against the predawn darkness, its iconic towers and suspension cables illuminated while fog wraps around the Marin Headlands beyond.
Photographed from Twin Peaks looking west, this panoramic view captures San Francisco in that liminal moment between night and day when the city's lights still sparkle but natural light begins painting the sky in subtle gradients of blue and pink.The bridge itself commands the middle distance, its distinctive International Orange color standing out even in low light thanks to the decorative lighting that traces its towers and cables. Those twin towers rising 746 feet above the water have become synonymous with San Francisco itself, perhaps the most photographed and recognizable bridge in the world.
Opened in 1937 after four years of construction, the Golden Gate Bridge was an engineering marvel that many said couldn't be built—spanning 4,200 feet across the strait connecting San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean, withstanding powerful currents, deep water, and frequent fog.
The foreground reveals San Francisco's residential fabric spreading across the city's western neighborhoods. This elevated vantage from Twin Peaks—roughly 900 feet above sea level—allows you to see the gridded street pattern, the mix of housing types, and the tree canopy that softens the urban density. The Richmond and Sunset districts dominate this western side of the city, their orderly blocks of single-family homes, small apartment buildings, and neighborhood commercial corridors representing post-earthquake development and the city's mid-century suburban expansion within city limits.
Look at how the city lights create different patterns. Bright commercial zones—likely the Richmond District's Geary Boulevard and the Sunset's Irving Street—cut horizontal paths through residential areas where warmer, more diffuse lighting suggests homes and local businesses. The Presidio's darker areas on the left preserve the former military base's forest and open space, while Golden Gate Park's dark band running through the middle of the frame shows how that three-mile-long urban forest creates a natural break in the city's development pattern.
The atmospheric conditions are quintessentially San Francisco. That thick bank of fog sitting over the Marin Headlands and threatening to spill through the Golden Gate represents the marine layer that gives the Bay Area its temperate climate and famously unpredictable weather.
The bridge's towers emerge from the fog like sentinels, while the low cloud deck above creates a muted sky that will likely give way to sunshine or remain overcast depending on how that marine layer behaves over the next few hours.The bay waters beyond the bridge show as a dark band separating San Francisco from Marin County.
This strait has always been treacherous—strong tidal currents, cold water temperatures, and frequent fog made navigation challenging long before the bridge existed. Ships entering San Francisco Bay had to time their passage carefully, and countless vessels met disaster on the rocks.
The bridge transformed regional transportation, connecting San Francisco to the North Bay and beyond, enabling suburban development in Marin and Sonoma counties that fundamentally reshaped the region's geography.
From this elevated perspective, you can appreciate San Francisco's unique urban form. This is a city that refused to be limited by its hilly topography. Those neighborhoods spreading across the western slopes represent generations of San Franciscans who carved streets into steep hillsides, built homes on challenging lots, and created communities in every available space. The density is impressive—this is one of America's most densely populated cities—yet the scale remains human. Few high-rises interrupt the horizon, preserving view corridors and maintaining neighborhood character.
The lighting in this photograph creates layers of depth and atmosphere. The cool predawn sky gradates from darker blue overhead to lighter tones near the horizon, while the warm city lights provide contrast and detail in the foreground. The bridge's orange glow becomes the visual anchor, drawing the eye across the frame while the scattered lights of Marin communities beyond suggest the broader metropolitan region connected by this single span.
San Francisco's relationship with the Golden Gate Bridge is complicated. It's simultaneously the city's most beloved symbol and a barrier some never cross. The bridge connects but also divides—creating a psychological boundary between city and suburbs, between urban San Francisco and the less dense communities to the north.
For tourists, it's a must-see attraction. For locals, it's infrastructure—a commute route, a running path, a beloved but familiar landmark that becomes invisible through daily exposure until you see it like this, at dawn, and remember why people photograph it obsessively.
The Golden Gate Bridge's north tower rises majestically through the twilight, its International Orange paint glowing warmly under artificial lighting while the deep blue hour sky provides dramatic backdrop. Photographed from the rocky shoreline near Fort Point on the San Francisco side, this perspective captures the bridge at its most atmospheric—that fleeting moment when day surrenders to night and the iconic structure transforms into a beacon of light.
The bridge's distinctive Art Deco tower stands tall against Marin Headlands silhouetted in the distance, its steel lattice framework illuminated by powerful lights mounted at the base and along the span. The red aviation warning light at the tower's peak blinks as a safety measure for aircraft, while the decorative lighting traces the suspension cables and vertical supports. This lighting design, implemented in the 1980s, ensures the bridge remains visible and photogenic after dark while honoring its status as one of the world's most recognizable structures.
Fort Point area facilities cluster at the tower's base—the historic fortification, visitor amenities, and access roads all bathed in warm artificial light that creates a glowing pool against the darkening landscape. The juxtaposition of military history and engineering marvel is evident here, where a Civil War-era brick fort sits in the shadow of the 1937 suspension bridge that chief engineer Joseph Strauss designed to span directly over it rather than requiring its demolition.
The rocky foreground typical of San Francisco's rugged coastline frames the composition, while the calm bay waters reflect the bridge's illumination. Marin County's hills rise across the strait, their dark forms punctuated by scattered lights from Sausalito and other North Bay communities. The atmospheric conditions—likely some fog or marine layer evident in the soft focus of distant hills—create that quintessential Golden Gate Bridge aesthetic where the structure emerges from and disappears into California's coastal weather.
The deep blue twilight sky shows perfect timing for this type of photography. Too early and the artificial lights wouldn't register dramatically; too late and the sky would be completely black, losing the color gradation that provides context and mood. This blue hour window—perhaps fifteen minutes when the light balance is just right—requires planning and patience but yields images that capture the bridge's romantic, almost ethereal quality that has made it a global icon.
This vibrant cityscape captures the dynamic essence of Osaka, Japan, showcasing the stunning Akashi Kaikyo Bridge stretching gracefully across the glistening water of Osaka Bay. A symbol of modern engineering, the bridge connects the bustling city with Awaji Island and stands as one of the world’s longest suspension bridges. Its bold red steelwork contrasts beautifully with the orderly skyline of Osaka’s lively harbor district, where mid-rise residential and commercial buildings provide a glimpse into the city’s urban planning. The foreground reveals a blend of contemporary architecture and traditional city layouts, epitomizing Osaka’s unique ability to harmonize past and present.
A hidden gem for architecture and history enthusiasts, the surrounding harbor area has roots as a key trade hub during Japan’s rapid industrialization. Today, it is a vibrant neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of local businesses, residential quarters, and cultural spaces. The distant mountains in the background create a serene juxtaposition against the urban vibrancy, offering a sense of Osaka’s geographical diversity.
For visitors, this perspective also highlights the city’s dedication to infrastructure and design. The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge not only serves as a vital transportation link but also represents Japan’s cutting-edge engineering prowess and its ability to adapt to the challenges posed by natural forces like typhoons and earthquakes. Whether exploring the harbor district or marveling at the bridge’s immense scale, this area provides an unforgettable experience that blends Osaka’s rich history, innovative spirit, and architectural ambition.
"Artist's concept of VAB.
SHOT FOR: Hendley"
Note the empty crawler transporter at the threshold of the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) and an Advanced Saturn(?)/MLP/LUT stack on the other side of it. The contrails of the two high altitude jets near the upper left are a nice subtle touch.
Despite the obvious expectation that this is by Don Mackey...idk...maybe Loren R. Fisher. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
“Color image of Saturn and its rings taken by the Pioneer 11 spacecraft at a range of 5,464,000 kilometers (3,395,170 miles) presents many new features of the planet. For example, the Encke Division in the outer ring of the rings is clearly resolved where previously it was blended with the Cassini Division between the two major rings. The belted structure of the planet is also beginning to emerge. A small dark spot at about 5 o'clock is due to a small bit of incorrect data which can be corrected on future reproductions. A small notch at the edge of the planet about 11 o'clock could either be a small bit of missing data or the shadow of a moon. The image was made on Monday, August 27, and has been processed by a team of experimenters at the University of Arizona.”
“This is a view inside the Lockheed Missiles and Space Company Space Telescope facility showing the telescope positioned horizontally for a move to the thermal vacuum chamber for environmental testing. The highly reflective material is thermal insulation installed to help keep the temperatures of the spacecraft structure more even. In this view, the high-gain TDRS antenna on the telescope is shown pointing down (at bottom of spacecraft).”
Note the name hand-annotated on the verso. I assume the photograph was intended/destined for, property of Dr. David Whitehouse, who was the BBC's science correspondent from 1988 until 2006, and is a former science editor at the BBC News website. Quite impressive:
“This is an artist’s concept of NASA’s Space Telescope, a multi-purpose optical telescope planned for launch into Earth orbit in 1983 aboard the Space Shuttle. The 10-ton unmanned telescope will enable scientists to see deep into space--seven times farther than is now possible, perhaps even to the outer edge of the universe. NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala., has overall management responsibility for the Space Telescope project.”
Nine years later, the same background: with a shuttle, Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) AND ground station!
images.nasa.gov/details-S88-47723
A nearly identical perspective, although a far inferior depiction by Jim Butcher:
www.comicartfans.com/gallerypiece.asp?piece=1672894
Credit: "comicartfans.com" website
“In the Spacecraft Assembly and Encapsulation Facility-2 (SAEF-2), the petals on the Mars Pathfinder lander are being closed for flight and won’t open again until the lander has touched down on the Martian surface in July 1997. Tucked inside the compact lander are the Surveyor small rover, which will become the first vehicle to traverse the Martian surface, and the lander’s Mars Pathfinder Imager, a stereo-imaging system camera that will capture images of both the surrounding terrain as well as the rover’s excursions, and the other instrumentation and equipment. The outside of the tetrahedral-shaped lander is padded with airbags that will help cushion the lander from the impact of landing. Once assembly of the entry vehicle is complete, it will be mated to the cruise stage that will carry Pathfinder on its direct trajectory to Mars, and then to an upper stage booster. The Mars Pathfinder is slated for launch aboard a Delta II expendable launch vehicle on December 2 at the beginning of a 24-day launch period.”
“Resolution: 1 km. (.6 miles). Region Shown: 100 km. (60 miles). This computer generated photograph was created from a cross-section of Saturn's rings as measured by Voyager 2 photopolarimeter's occulation of the star Delta Scorpii. The region shown is near the inner edge of the Encke Division in the outer part of A-ring. The waves seen at left become successively closer together nearer to the Encke Division. At right are four strands of the ringlet that lies within the Encke Division. Voyager 2's imaging system saw this structure as a single ringlet.”
Above per:
images.nasa.gov/details-ARC-1981-AC81-7066
Also:
Per the caption:
“Encke’s division, a narrow gap in the outer A ring, as seen by the PPS star occultation. Waves are evident. The gap contains a multiple ringlet. The resolution is approximately 1 km.”
Per the text:
“…a two-dimensional representation of the Encke division, a narrow feature in the outer A ring. The resolution is degraded to about 1 km. A regular, wavelike undulation is present in the A ring inward of the gap. The inner edge of the A ring shows both a narrow gap and a narrow ringlet. A multiple ringlet appears in the center of the gap.”
Both above at:
www.researchgate.net/publication/235242541_Photopolarimet...
www.researchgate.net/profile/K_Simmons/publication/235242...
Credit: ResearchGate website
PPS = Photopolarimeter Subsystem & TMI at:
voyager.jpl.nasa.gov/mission/spacecraft/instruments/pps/
Credit: JPL Voyager website
Boston’s Port is not just a gateway for global trade but also a testament to historical resilience and architectural prowess. Nestled in the heart of Massachusetts Bay, this port has been an economic lifeline since colonial times, evolving from a modest docking point for merchant vessels into one of America’s busiest cargo hubs.
As you approach Boston’s waterfront, you’re greeted by an awe-inspiring sight – towering cranes that dominate the skyline. These aren’t just any cranes; they are marvels of modern engineering that echo Boston’s rich history in every rivet and steel beam. The cranes’ design pays homage to both function and form, standing as silent sentinels that have witnessed revolutions both industrial and political.
Walking along the docks, one can almost hear the echoes of history – from tea-laden ships sparking revolutions to wartime fleets bolstering freedom’s cause. Each crane tells a story not just of cargo loaded or unloaded but also of architectural evolution over centuries. Their robust frameworks speak volumes about advancements in metallurgy and design principles that have turned these structures into icons of efficiency and strength.
The Port’s architecture is a blend of utilitarian purpose with aesthetic consideration – it’s where form meets function in spectacular fashion. The juxtaposition between historic brick warehouses and state-of-the-art facilities reflects Boston’s respect for its past while embracing innovation.
Visitors to this historic site will find themselves immersed in an environment where every bolted joint narrates tales from yesteryears while actively shaping global commerce narratives today – truly making it a cornerstone not only for Massachusetts but also for international trade routes.
“Voyager 1 looked back at Saturn on Nov. 16, 1980, four days after the spacecraft flew past the planet, to observe the appearance of Saturn and its rings from this unique perspective. A few of the spokelike ring features discovered by Voyager appear in the rings as bright patches in this image, taken at a distance of 5.3 million kilometers (3.3 million miles) from the planet. Saturn's shadow falls upon the rings, and the bright Saturn crescent is seen through all but the densest portion of the rings. From Saturn, Voyager 1 is on a trajectory taking the spacecraft out of the ecliptic plane, away from the Sun and eventually out of the solar system (by about 1990). Although its mission to Jupiter and Saturn is nearly over (the Saturn encounter ends Dec. 18, 1980), Voyager 1 will be tracked by the Deep Space Network as far as possible in an effort to determine where the influence of the Sun ends and interstellar space begins. Voyager 1's flight path through interstellar space is in the direction of the constellation Ophiuchus. Voyager 2 will reach Saturn on August 25, 1981, and is targeted to encounter Uranus in 1986 and possibly Neptune in 1989. The Voyager project is managed for NASA by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California.”
An engineering marvel, resounding kudos to all involved.
Partial crease parallel to, and within the right border, does not detract.
www.jpl.nasa.gov/images/pia01969-saturn-and-its-rings/
Credit: JPL website
photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA01969
Credit: JPL Photojournal website
nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/imgcat/html/object_page/vg1_p23254.html
Credit: NSSDCA website
It appears a cropped version was used for the cover of NASA SP-451/“Voyages to Saturn”:
ntrs.nasa.gov/api/citations/19820018276/downloads/1982001...
"The giant Hubble Space Telescope (HST) is suspended in space by Discovery's remote manipulator system (RMS) prior to deployment of its solar panels and antennae and its ultimate release. Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic are recognizable at left of the frame. The photo was taken with a handheld Hasselblad camera. This was among the first photos NASA released April 30 from the five-day STS 31 mission."
Yet another "official" NASA photograph that...you guessed it...is reversed left-to-right. Granted, there's no easily discernible lettering or numbering to aid orientation...not that that's an excuse for ‘I don’t give a rat’s ass’ and/or incompetence.
Wasn’t there a consistent repetitive procedure for the development & printing of the film rolls/cartridges?
I mean, it’s only the initial HST deployment, no big deal really. Although...with the primary mirror’s spherical aberration, it’s pervertedly fitting that the photo was printed wrong as well.
Correctly oriented with a superior description, as follows:
“During STS-31, the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) grappled by the remote manipulator system (RMS) end effector is held in appendage deploy position above Discovery, Orbiter Vehicle (OV) 103. The solar array (SA) bistem cassette has been released from its latch fittings. The bistem spreader bars begin to unfurl the SA wing. The secondary deployment mechanism (SDM) handle is visible at the SA end. Stowed against either side of the HST System Support Module (SSM) forward shell are the high-gain antennae (HGA). Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic are recognizable at the left of the frame.”
At:
picryl.com/media/sts-31-hubble-space-telescope-hst-pre-de...
Another gorgeous photo taken during the same sequence, that I just had to provide a link to, due to the absurdity:
www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/deployment-of-the-h...
Credit: Getty Images website
Nestled in the heart of Boston’s financial district, the State Street Building is a testament to modern architectural prowess and historical significance. This towering edifice, with its impressive height and commanding presence, has been an integral part of Boston’s skyline since its completion. The building’s design is a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary elements, featuring clean lines and an elegant facade that pays homage to the city’s rich architectural heritage while embracing modernity.
As you approach this iconic structure, you are greeted by its striking verticality which soars into the sky, punctuated by rows of windows that offer panoramic views of bustling streets below. The State Street Building’s crown is perhaps its most distinguishing feature – an intricate series of setbacks leading up to a peak that seems to pierce the heavens themselves.
Inside, the building boasts state-of-the-art facilities befitting any leading financial institution or high-profile corporation seeking prestige within this historic city. Its grandeur not only lies in aesthetic appeal but also in its robust construction – a marvel of engineering that has withstood time and continues to serve as a beacon of economic activity.
For those who appreciate architecture that tells a story, the State Street Building does not disappoint. It encapsulates Boston’s spirit – resilient, forward-looking yet deeply rooted in history. It stands not merely as another structure on the skyline but as an enduring symbol of progress and tradition coexisting seamlessly within one space.
This stunning photograph captures the awe-inspiring perspective of a grand red bridge stretching across a serene body of water. The bridge’s structure converges in the distance, creating a captivating vanishing point that draws the viewer’s eye along its length. The overcast sky and calm water add a tranquil yet majestic atmosphere, emphasizing the bridge’s architectural brilliance and the sense of an endless journey. This image beautifully showcases the harmony between human engineering and the natural world, inviting viewers to ponder the infinite possibilities that lie beyond the horizon
Seen from the bow of a wooden boat, the Cần Thơ Bridge rises across the Hau River, a major branch of the Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam. Its central pylon stretches skyward, with diagonal cables fanning out to support the deck — a striking contrast to the calm water and traditional vessel in the foreground. The bridge, inaugurated in 2010, spans 2.75 kilometers and connects the city of Cần Thơ to Vĩnh Long province. This moment captures the meeting of two rhythms: the slow, enduring flow of river life and the bold lines of modern infrastructure threading across the delta.
Vu depuis la proue d’une barque en bois, le pont de Cần Thơ s’élève au-dessus de la rivière Hậu, un bras majeur du delta du Mékong dans le sud du Vietnam. Son pylône central s’élance vers le ciel, avec des câbles diagonaux qui soutiennent le tablier — un contraste saisissant avec les eaux calmes et l’embarcation traditionnelle au premier plan. Inauguré en 2010, le pont s’étend sur 2,75 kilomètres et relie la ville de Cần Thơ à la province de Vĩnh Long. Une scène qui saisit la rencontre de deux rythmes : celui, lent et ancien, de la vie fluviale, et celui, audacieux, de l’infrastructure moderne qui traverse le delta.
Nestled in the heart of downtown San Francisco, Moscone Center stands as a sleek symbol of the city’s innovative spirit and forward-thinking design. Known as one of the largest convention centers on the West Coast, Moscone is a hub for tech conferences, cultural events, and international exhibitions, including the famous Dreamforce and Game Developers Conference (GDC).
This photograph captures the striking contemporary facade of Moscone’s newest expansion, showcasing a bold geometric design that plays with light and shadow. The angled panels on the upper part of the structure create a dynamic, sculptural effect, seamlessly blending form and function. These architectural details are not only visually impressive but are part of the center’s commitment to sustainability, contributing to LEED Platinum certification through energy-efficient construction techniques.
Opened in the 1980s and named after the late Mayor George Moscone, the center has undergone multiple expansions to accommodate the growing demand for convention space in the city. The expansive glass windows reflect the surrounding cityscape, offering visitors stunning views of San Francisco’s skyline. Located adjacent to Yerba Buena Gardens, the Moscone Center also integrates outdoor public space, creating a fluid connection between architecture and the urban environment.
Whether you’re attending a cutting-edge tech conference or simply admiring the modern design, the Moscone Center offers a quintessential glimpse into the urban sophistication of San Francisco. Its clean lines, innovative features, and prime location make it an essential landmark for both locals and visitors.
“This image of the giant planet Jupiter, by NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope, reveals the impact sites of fragments “D” and “G” from Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9.
The large feature was created by the impact of fragment "G" on July 18, 1994, at 3:28 a.m. EDT. It entered Jupiter's atmosphere from the south at a 45-degree angle, and the resulting ejecta appears to have been thrown back along that direction. The smaller feature to the left of the fragment "G" impact site was created on July 17, 1994, at 7:45 a.m. EDT by the impact of fragment "D".
This image was taken 1 hour and 45 minutes after fragment "G" impacted the planet. The "G" impact has concentric rings around it, with a central dark spot 1,550 miles (2,500 km) in diameter. This dark spot is surrounded by a thin dark ring 4,660 miles (7,500 km) in diameter. The dark thick outermost ring's inner edge has a diameter of 7,460 miles (12,000 km) -- about the size of Earth.
The picture is a combination of separate images taken through several color filters to create this “true color” rendition of Jupiter’s multi-colored clouds. The impact sites are located in Jupiter’s southern hemisphere at a latitude of 44 degrees.
Credit: H. Hammel, MIT and NASA”
8" x 9.875".
The amazing design and engineering is apparent in this revealing view of an unidentified LM/LEM under construction at Grumman's Bethpage, Long Island facility. Pretty much an engineering marvel, even by today’s standards.
Note the piece of paper taped to the descent stage, visible between the outrigger to the right, with the handwritten “-Y”. A subtle reminder not to accidentally say, attach the “-Z” strut here.
There is another LM/LEM in the background to the upper left. Note what appears to be its spherical red fuel 'bladder'. Possibly LM/LEM-1?
This photograph is featured on page 46 of "Building Moonships: The Grumman Lunar Module", by Joshua Stoff. Unfortunately, the associated text is generic and doesn’t identify the vehicle.
8.5" x 10".
"LRV-2 folded Config./Kent.
REF no. Boeing 1-4047."
The Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV) was assembled at a Boeing facility in Kent, Washington.
The foreground wheels/fenders represent the rear wheels of the LRV. From this perspective, the rear chassis assembly (with the holes/wires), to which the wheel assemblies are attached, will be flipped/rotated upward & outward (toward the photographer) during LRV deployment on the moon...so, the fender cowlings in the foreground will actually face forward once deployed.
An excellent depiction, as one might expect, by Grumman Aerospace Corporation's master artist Craig Kavafes, of the deployment sequence:
www.hq.nasa.gov/alsj/alsj-LRVDeployGrumman.html
Credit: ALSJ website
Amusing...a Grumman (manufacturer of the LM) artist’s depiction of the deployment of the LRV (manufactured by Boeing).
You're kidding me! THIS they have! Not some/too many historical, significant, iconic, etc., images, BUT, this...THIS they have?!
Don't get me wrong, I appreciate it, but huh?:
© D a v e F o r b e s
______________________________________________
Engagement 1,800+
Modern canal wonder at FK1 4RS
The giant cogs and hydrolics are utilised to move this engineering marvel of the giant futuristic boat-lift The Falkirk Wheel. If you look closely , you can see a barge in one of the circles.
There are two large passenger barges to take people up to the top from the Forth & Clyde Canal to the Union Canal. This magnificent engineering masterpiece was built to replace the eleven locks and has become one of Scotland's top tourist attractions since it opened in 2000.
You can also make a visit to the equally interesting
giant Kelpie Sculptures on the same day
Welcome to the iconic San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, a prominent suspension bridge connecting San Francisco and Oakland. This image captures the bridge's majestic presence as it stretches across the water, showcasing its distinctive towers and suspension cables. The bridge is an engineering marvel and a vital link for commuters and travelers in the Bay Area.
In the foreground, we see a pedestrian area with a few people standing near a traffic light, which shows a green light, indicating the flow of traffic. The overcast sky adds a moody atmosphere to the scene, with clouds casting a soft light over the bridge and the surrounding area. This blend of urban infrastructure and natural elements makes for a captivating representation of San Francisco's cityscape.
The San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, often simply referred to as the Bay Bridge, is not only a crucial transportation route but also a symbol of the region's resilience and innovation. Spanning over 8 miles, the bridge is a testament to the city's dedication to connecting communities and fostering economic growth.
Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, the Bay Bridge offers stunning views of the city and the bay, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing. The bridge's design, with its towering cables and sleek lines, stands out against the urban backdrop, creating an impressive visual contrast.
This scene captures a moment of daily life in San Francisco, highlighting the seamless integration of iconic landmarks and everyday activities. It’s a reminder of the city's dynamic energy and the constant movement that defines its character.
"This high angle view looks down on the Hubble Space Telescope's (HST's) Support System Module (SSM) forward shell to the SSM equipment section. Clean-suited technicians examine HST from the multi-tiered platforms encircling the telescope. HST assembly and testing are being completed at the Lockheed Facility in Sunnyvale, California."
Above per/at:
science.ksc.nasa.gov/mirrors/images/images/pao/STS31/1006...
“Bendix engineer Ed Walsh, left, appears surprised after receiving a ticket for operating the transporter at “excessive speeds” during the Apollo 15 rollout today. Walsh, and Skip Montagna, looking on from the transporter cab, received the comical citation after launch pad personal thought the transporter accomplished the rollout in record time. The transporter averaged .8 miles per hour during the six-hour trip from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad A.”
At the risk of further dating myself, I miss quaint, wholesome & corny humor such as this. And the caption is actually well written….WTF is going on here?
Although I was vaguely cognizant of some Bendix/Crawler Transporter relationship, this…and a little bit of research…confirms that they operated this engineering marvel. So, I’m sure I’m missing something; however, I would’ve expected the manufacturer, Marion Power Shovel Company, to have provided the personnel to maintain & operate it/them. Interesting.
Excellent Crawler Transporter reading, especially since it includes quotes from Sylvan "Skip" Montagna. Yet another glimpse that reveals what a mind-blowing accomplishment the Apollo Program was…over HALF-A-CENTURY ago:
www.collectspace.com/news/news-012306a-nasa-crawler-trans...
Credit: collectSPACE website
Also:
www.16streets.com/39-B/HTML%20Pages/Moonport%20A%20Histor...
Credit: James MacLaren/16STREETS.COM website
Excellent:
commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:KSC-06pd0056_-_40th_anniv...
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Thank you and continue to Rest In Peace Good Sir:
www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/13776551/sylvan-d.-%28s...
Credit: Beckman-Williamson Funeral Homes and Crematory/TRIBUTE ARCHIVE website
"Apollo 4 (Spacecraft 017/Apollo-Saturn 501) launches from Pad A, Launch Complex 39, Kennedy Space Center, Florida. Liftoff of the 363-ft tall Saturn V launch vehicle occurred at 7:00:01 a.m. (EST), 9 November 1967. Successful objectives of the unmanned earth-orbital mission included:
1. Flight information on launch vehicle and spacecraft structural integrity and compatibility, flight loads, stage separation, subsystem operation, emergency detection subsystem operation.
2. Evaluation of the Command Module heat shield under conditions encountered on re-entry from a lunar mission."
Above is an 'official' NASA caption taken from another Apollo 4 liftoff photo. An uncommon photo of this historic ‘no-fail’ launch that unfortunately has not been handled appropriately.
Interesting:
upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e6/Saturn_V_laun...
Credit: Wikimedia