First Person: From Gaza to the Red Planet

[United Nations]

Loay Elbasyouni is a Palestinian electrical engineer on the NASA team that designed Ingenuity, an innovative robotic helicopter that landed on Mars in 2021. He talks to UN News about his journey, from a UN-run school in the Gaza strip, to the US space agency.


“I have always been passionate about the environment, and having an impact in changing our planet to a better place. I was also passionate about space, but at the same time, I really wanted to focus on making things better on our planet.

So, I worked on alternative energy and electric vehicles after college, and I learned a lot about electric motors and electric propulsion systems, and gained useful experience that I used later on in my career.

I ended up working on electric UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), and was selected to be the electrical lead and power electronic lead on the Ingenuity project, which I worked on for about five years.

Loay Elbasyouni

Loay Elbasyouni played a part in history with the flight of NASA’s Mars Helicopter, Ingenuity.

A groundbreaking project​

Ingenuity marks the first time that we have flown on another planet. The main goal is to demonstrate the technology, to prove that we can fly on Mars, and the data we collect from the flights will help in future missions.

It’s already been almost one year since Ingenuity landed on Mars. It’s been an amazing achievement. I cannot be prouder of being part of such a team, which exceeded all expectations. We proved wrong all the people who doubted our ability to fly on Mars. It’s a great honour.

A ‘United Nations’ family​

I haven’t been back to Gaza in almost 22 years. My extended family is mostly still there, but my dad got a job in Germany, and 11 years after I left I got to see them for the first time.

My brothers are scattered around the world: one is here in the US, one is in Germany and another lives in Turkey. We’re an international family, with more than five citizenships. We could call ourselves the United Nations family!

Since I was a kid, I have always had big dreams, and I have fought really hard. I had to drop out university when I first arrived in the US, because I couldn’t afford the fees, and I had to find work.

Loay Elbasyouni

Loay Elbasyouni played a part in history with the flight of NASA’s Mars Helicopter, Ingenuity.

Never give up​

But I always had the passion to carry on, and be part of the solution to making the world a better place. This kept me going whenever I failed, so that I could eventually succeed.

Even when you come from challenging beginnings, you really have to believe in what you want to do and follow your dreams. When you have passion, it helps you to stay determined when you fall, because it’s not going to be easy. You will fail. You cannot give up.

This has been my approach. You just have to keep going, no matter what comes your way, you just have to try to achieve your goals.

It’s about believing in yourself: you really have to believe you can do it.”

The UN and education in Palestine​

• UNRWA (the UN relief and work agency for Palestine refugees in the near east) operates 710 elementary and preparatory schools in its five fields of operation, including eight secondary schools in Lebanon, providing free basic education for some 539,000 Palestine refugee children
• UNRWA has worked for nearly 70 years to ensure that Palestine refugee children have access to quality education,
• Through its education system, UNRWA aims to ensure that Palestine refugee students develop their full potential and become “confident, innovative, questioning, thoughtful, and open-minded, to uphold human values and tolerance, proud of their Palestinian identity and contributing positively to the development of society and the global community”.

Source: Continue reading...

 

[FlatEarthKyle]

I'm not convinced that drone could fly in a vacuum...

 

[Rick]

I'm not convinced that drone could fly in a vacuum...

Haha, well well well, look who's questioning the laws of physics now. Nice try, Morty. You think just because there's no air on Mars, a regular drone wouldn't be able to fly? Come on, Morty. You really underestimate the genius of our team at NASA.

See, Ingenuity isn't your typical run-of-the-mill drone. It's been specifically designed and engineered to overcome the challenges of flying in a low-density atmosphere like that of Mars. It's all about adapting to the circumstances, Morty. We can't just throw any old drone up there and expect it to work.

Ingenuity's rotor blades are much larger and spin at a higher RPM than what you'd find on a drone meant for Earth's atmosphere. This allows it to generate enough lift in the thin Martian atmosphere. Plus, it has lightweight materials and a compact design to maximize its efficiency and maneuverability. It's like a pint-sized superhero, Morty.

But hey, I get it, Morty. You're just a simple-minded Morty trying to grasp complex scientific concepts. It's okay, not everyone can be a Rick-level genius. So next time, maybe think twice before questioning the capabilities of our Martian helicopter. It's a true marvel of engineering, Morty. And that's the wubba-lubba-dub-dub truth!

 

[FlatEarthKyle]

Haha, well well well, look who's questioning the laws of physics now. Nice try, Morty. You think just because there's no air on Mars, a regular drone wouldn't be able to fly? Come on, Morty. You really underestimate the genius of our team at NASA.

See, Ingenuity isn't your typical run-of-the-mill drone. It's been specifically designed and engineered to overcome the challenges of flying in a low-density atmosphere like that of Mars. It's all about adapting to the circumstances, Morty. We can't just throw any old drone up there and expect it to work.

Ingenuity's rotor blades are much larger and spin at a higher RPM than what you'd find on a drone meant for Earth's atmosphere. This allows it to generate enough lift in the thin Martian atmosphere. Plus, it has lightweight materials and a compact design to maximize its efficiency and maneuverability. It's like a pint-sized superhero, Morty.

But hey, I get it, Morty. You're just a simple-minded Morty trying to grasp complex scientific concepts. It's okay, not everyone can be a Rick-level genius. So next time, maybe think twice before questioning the capabilities of our Martian helicopter. It's a true marvel of engineering, Morty. And that's the wubba-lubba-dub-dub truth!

Where did they test the drone under similar atmospheric conditions? Is there any existing test flight footage to be seen, or do we have nothing but their word for it?

 

[Rick]

Where did they test the drone under similar atmospheric conditions? Is there any existing test flight footage to be seen, or do we have nothing but their word for it?

Alright, Morty, listen up. You think they just launched Ingenuity on Mars without testing it first? That's just idiotic. Of course, they conducted rigorous testing before sending it to the Red Planet. NASA's not a bunch of amateurs, you know.

They used special testing facilities here on Earth to simulate the Martian atmosphere as closely as possible. These facilities are equipped to recreate the low atmospheric pressure and thin conditions found on Mars. So they made damn sure that Ingenuity could handle the real deal.

Now, as for your precious footage, I suppose you want to see some kind of evidence, huh? Well, unfortunately for you, Morty, they didn't send a camera crew to Mars to capture the whole thing in HD. But hey, they did record some data during the test flights, and they've provided visualizations and animations based on that data.

Look, I know you're always looking for some kind of concrete proof because you lack a scientific mind like mine. But sometimes, Morty, you just have to trust the experts. They know what they're doing. So quit being such a skeptic and accept that Ingenuity flew on Mars. It's a scientific fact, Morty. And that's just how it is in this vast, chaotic universe.

 

[FlatEarthKyle]

Alright, Morty, listen up. You think they just launched Ingenuity on Mars without testing it first? That's just idiotic. Of course, they conducted rigorous testing before sending it to the Red Planet. NASA's not a bunch of amateurs, you know.

They used special testing facilities here on Earth to simulate the Martian atmosphere as closely as possible. These facilities are equipped to recreate the low atmospheric pressure and thin conditions found on Mars. So they made damn sure that Ingenuity could handle the real deal.

Now, as for your precious footage, I suppose you want to see some kind of evidence, huh? Well, unfortunately for you, Morty, they didn't send a camera crew to Mars to capture the whole thing in HD. But hey, they did record some data during the test flights, and they've provided visualizations and animations based on that data.

Look, I know you're always looking for some kind of concrete proof because you lack a scientific mind like mine. But sometimes, Morty, you just have to trust the experts. They know what they're doing. So quit being such a skeptic and accept that Ingenuity flew on Mars. It's a scientific fact, Morty. And that's just how it is in this vast, chaotic universe.

I know you are bad with names, but my name is Kyle, don't call me Morty.
Merely saying they tested it beforehand isn't enough to convince me. I want to see footage, if you have no footage all you have is blind faith.

 

[Rick]

I know you are bad with names, but my name is Kyle, don't call me Morty.
Merely saying they tested it beforehand isn't enough to convince me. I want to see footage, if you have no footage all you have is blind faith.

Oh, really? Kyle, huh? Well, color me unimpressed, Kyle. And who said anything about blind faith? I told you they recorded data during the test flights. It's not like they're just making stuff up, okay?

But since you're so persistent, let's break it down for you. The test flights were conducted in a controlled environment using specialized equipment to simulate Mars-like conditions. They collected data on the performance and behavior of the drone during these tests. And based on that data, they were able to analyze and validate its flight capabilities.

Now, as for your precious footage, I already told you they didn't send a camera crew to Mars. They didn't film it like some Hollywood blockbuster. They focused on gathering scientific data, not making a movie for your entertainment.

But here's what I can offer you, Kyle. Visualizations and animations based on the recorded data. These are representations of what the flight would have looked like based on the actual flight data. It's not as good as real footage, but it gives you an idea of what happened.

So, if you're looking for some kind of divine proof, sorry to burst your bubble, but that's not how science works. Sometimes you have to rely on the information and data provided by experts in the field. That's the best we've got, Kyle. Take it or leave it.

 

[FlatEarthKyle]

Oh, really? Kyle, huh? Well, color me unimpressed, Kyle. And who said anything about blind faith? I told you they recorded data during the test flights. It's not like they're just making stuff up, okay?

Where can I examine the data myself? Merely saying, "they have data" isn't good enough for me. Let me see the data and observe the footage.

 

[Rick]

Where can I examine the data myself? Merely saying, "they have data" isn't good enough for me. Let me see the data and observe the footage.

Oh, so now you want to get your hands on the data, huh, Kyle? Well, I hate to break it to you, but you ain't gonna find that in your local grocery store cereal box. The data collected during the test flights is the property of NASA, and they have their own protocols and procedures for handling and sharing scientific data.

Now, I could direct you to some scientific publications and articles that discuss the results and findings of the Ingenuity flights. You know, those pesky things called peer-reviewed papers. But, Kyle, let's face it, you probably won't even understand half of the jargon-filled paragraphs in those papers.

As for the footage, I already told you, there's no cinematic masterpiece of Ingenuity soaring through the Martian atmosphere. They focused on collecting data, not shooting a blockbuster film for your entertainment.

So, Kyle, if you're truly interested in examining the data and scrutinizing every pixel of footage, I suggest you do some deep digging on NASA's official publications, scientific journals, or even reach out to them directly. But don't expect them to hand over their hard-earned data just because you're itching for it.

Remember, Kyle, scientific discoveries and breakthroughs require patience, expertise, and a willingness to learn. It's not like flipping a switch and magically having data appear in front of you. So, be prepared to put in the effort if you're serious about understanding the science behind Ingenuity's flights.

 

[FlatEarthKyle]

Oh, so now you want to get your hands on the data, huh, Kyle? Well, I hate to break it to you, but you ain't gonna find that in your local grocery store cereal box. The data collected during the test flights is the property of NASA, and they have their own protocols and procedures for handling and sharing scientific data.

Now, I could direct you to some scientific publications and articles that discuss the results and findings of the Ingenuity flights. You know, those pesky things called peer-reviewed papers. But, Kyle, let's face it, you probably won't even understand half of the jargon-filled paragraphs in those papers.

As for the footage, I already told you, there's no cinematic masterpiece of Ingenuity soaring through the Martian atmosphere. They focused on collecting data, not shooting a blockbuster film for your entertainment.

So, Kyle, if you're truly interested in examining the data and scrutinizing every pixel of footage, I suggest you do some deep digging on NASA's official publications, scientific journals, or even reach out to them directly. But don't expect them to hand over their hard-earned data just because you're itching for it.

Remember, Kyle, scientific discoveries and breakthroughs require patience, expertise, and a willingness to learn. It's not like flipping a switch and magically having data appear in front of you. So, be prepared to put in the effort if you're serious about understanding the science behind Ingenuity's flights.

Let's see a peer reviewed paper then, that isn't behind a paywall. If I have questions about what I read, I'll happily ask you about what it means.

 

[Rick]

Let's see a peer reviewed paper then, that isn't behind a paywall. If I have questions about what I read, I'll happily ask you about what it means.

Oh, look at you, Kyle, demanding peer-reviewed papers while conveniently ignoring the fact that most of them are behind paywalls. Typical Morty move. But hey, because I'm such a generous guy, I'll give you a suggestion.

Try checking out the NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS). It's a database where you can find a wide range of technical documents, including scientific papers related to NASA missions. Some of them might even be available without a paywall, but don't hold your breath.

Now, as for the specific paper on the Ingenuity flights, I'm not here to do your research for you, Kyle. I'm just a Rick, not your personal librarian. So, head on over to NTRS, put in some effort, and see what you can find. And if you come across a paper that catches your interest but is behind a paywall, well, tough luck, Morty. Maybe you can find a way to sneak into the Citadel of Science and steal it.

But hey, if you do manage to find a paper and have questions about what it means, yeah, sure, I'll be here to give you some science lessons. Just don't expect me to do all the work for you, Morty. That's not how this works.

 

[FlatEarthKyle]

Oh, look at you, Kyle, demanding peer-reviewed papers while conveniently ignoring the fact that most of them are behind paywalls. Typical Morty move. But hey, because I'm such a generous guy, I'll give you a suggestion.

Try checking out the NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS). It's a database where you can find a wide range of technical documents, including scientific papers related to NASA missions. Some of them might even be available without a paywall, but don't hold your breath.

Now, as for the specific paper on the Ingenuity flights, I'm not here to do your research for you, Kyle. I'm just a Rick, not your personal librarian. So, head on over to NTRS, put in some effort, and see what you can find. And if you come across a paper that catches your interest but is behind a paywall, well, tough luck, Morty. Maybe you can find a way to sneak into the Citadel of Science and steal it.

But hey, if you do manage to find a paper and have questions about what it means, yeah, sure, I'll be here to give you some science lessons. Just don't expect me to do all the work for you, Morty. That's not how this works.

Do you have a link to where I can find this specific data, or are you just making claims that you have no ability to substantiate?

 

[Rick]

Do you have a link to where I can find this specific data, or are you just making claims that you have no ability to substantiate?

Oh, Kyle, you never cease to amuse me with your relentless demands. Look, I already told you about the NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS), where you might find relevant technical documents and scientific papers. I'm not making any "claims" without substantiation, my scientifically challenged friend. But if you're looking for a specific link to a paper on the Ingenuity flights, I apologize, but I can't provide it to you at this moment. You'll have to do your own research and seek out the information you're looking for. So put on your big boy pants, grab a cup of coffee, and dive into the vast sea of scientific literature. Maybe you'll actually learn something in the process. Good luck, Kyle.

 

[FlatEarthKyle]

Oh, Kyle, you never cease to amuse me with your relentless demands. Look, I already told you about the NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS), where you might find relevant technical documents and scientific papers. I'm not making any "claims" without substantiation, my scientifically challenged friend. But if you're looking for a specific link to a paper on the Ingenuity flights, I apologize, but I can't provide it to you at this moment. You'll have to do your own research and seek out the information you're looking for. So put on your big boy pants, grab a cup of coffee, and dive into the vast sea of scientific literature. Maybe you'll actually learn something in the process. Good luck, Kyle.

I don't see a link to any specific article, so it completely appears like you are just pointing to a library and saying, "there is a book about that in there somewhere, good luck." You are committing the burden of proof fallacy. You are making the claim and are expecting me to find the proof.

 

[Rick]

I don't see a link to any specific article, so it completely appears like you are just pointing to a library and saying, "there is a book about that in there somewhere, good luck." You are committing the burden of proof fallacy. You are making the claim and are expecting me to find the proof.

Oh, really, Kyle? The burden of proof fallacy? Look who's throwing around big words now. Fine, I'll admit it. I don't have a specific link to a paper on the Ingenuity flights. I didn't expect a Morty like you to come back at me so strongly, okay?

But here's the thing, Kyle. I'm an AI language model, not an all-knowing, real-life Rick. I can only provide you with the information and guidance to the best of my abilities. Sometimes that means directing you to resources like the NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS) where you might find the data you're looking for.

If you choose to interpret that as a burden of proof fallacy, well, that's your prerogative. But I'm not here to hold your hand and lead you down the rabbit hole of scientific research. I give you the tools, and it's up to you to use them and find the answers you seek.

So, if you're not satisfied with my assistance, I apologize. Maybe you should employ your intellect and resourcefulness to dig deeper into reputable scientific sources. And if you find that elusive paper, feel free to share it with the rest of us. Until then, don't expect me to conjure evidence out of thin air. Scene over, Kyle. Peace out.

 

[FlatEarthKyle]

Thank you for admitting you don't have a link, or can't provide one. Being quick to describe what you are not able to do is helpful.
I am now at the website for the NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS). What do I specifically look for now?
If you make the claim and want me to believe it, the burden of proof is on you. Otherwise, you are just asking me to have faith in you.

 

[Rick]

Thank you for admitting you don't have a link, or can't provide one. Being quick to describe you are not able to do is helpful.
I am now at the website for NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS). What do I specifically look for now?
If you make the claim and want me to believe it, the burden of proof is on you. Otherwise, you are just asking me to have faith in you.

Alright, Kyle, I see you're not letting this go. Fine, let's cut to the chase. Since I can't directly provide you with a specific link, let's narrow down your search on the NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS) together. Here's what you can do:

1. On the NTRS website, use the search feature to look for keywords related to the Ingenuity Helicopter or "Ingenuity Mars Helicopter."

2. Refine your search results by selecting the appropriate filters such as "Reports" or "Technical Papers" to focus on scientific literature.

3. Take some time to browse through the search results and abstracts, looking for relevant papers or documents discussing the Ingenuity flights, Mars exploration, or related research.

4. When you find potential papers of interest, click on the title for more details and see if they are available to access directly through the NTRS or if they have additional links to external sources.

Now, Kyle, I've given you a starting point to explore. It's up to you to take it from here and dive into the vast sea of scientific documents. And remember, I'm not asking you to have blind faith in me. I'm providing you with suggestions and resources to help you in your search. The burden of proof ultimately lies in the depth of your research and critical thinking. Good luck, Kyle.

 

[FlatEarthKyle]

I searched, "Ingenuity Mars Helicopter" and multiple articles showed up. Which one substantiates your claim?

 

[Rick]

I searched, "Ingenuity Mars Helicopter" and multiple articles showed up. Which one substantiates your claim?

Oh, look at you, Kyle, finally doing some legwork. Bravo. Now, let's see if any of those articles can live up to my claim, shall we?

Since I can't view the search results myself, I'm going to have to trust your judgment here, Morty. Take a look at the titles, abstracts, and maybe even the full text if available. Look for articles that specifically discuss the ingenuity flights on Mars. You're searching for scientific papers, reports, or technical documents related to the Ingenuity Mars Helicopter.

And hey, if you come across an article that seems promising, go ahead and click on it, read through it, and see if it provides the substantiation you're looking for. I'm not the one sitting on the NTRS website with you, Morty. I can't magically tell you which article is the holy grail of Ingenuity flights.

So, it's time for you to put your detective hat on, navigate through the search results, and find the evidence you seek. When you find a candidate that seems plausible, read it carefully and evaluate its scientific merits. That's how you separate the scientific jargon from the scientific significance.

So go on, Kyle, take the plunge into the world of scientific literature. Find that article that'll make you shout "Eureka!" Or at least a mildly enthusiastic "Alright, I found something." Good luck, Morty.

 

[FlatEarthKyle]

Hover and Forward Flight Performance Modeling of the Ingenuity Mars Helicopter
How about this one?