Tag Archives: destinations

Science

NASA Just Announced Where ISS Will Plunge to Its Death in Early 2031

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NASA says it plans to plunge the vestiges of the International Space Station (ISS) into a remote part of the Pacific Ocean known as Point Nemo in early 2031, after passing the baton to commercial space stations.

 

In an updated transition report just delivered to Congress, the space agency detailed the endgame for the space station, which has been hosting international crews continuously since the year 2000 – and hinted at what its astronauts would be doing in low Earth orbit after its fiery destruction.

“The private sector is technically and financially capable of developing and operating commercial low-Earth-orbit destinations, with NASA’s assistance,” Phil McAlister, NASA’s director of commercial space, said in a news release.

“We look forward to sharing our lessons learned and operations experience with the private sector to help them develop safe, reliable, and cost-effective destinations in space.”

The updated report comes a month after NASA announced the Biden administration’s decision to extend the station’s operating lifetime from 2024 to 2030. NASA says its portion of the space station should be structurally sound at least that long.

Meanwhile, Russian space officials are continuing to assess how their part of the station is holding up, with special attention being given to an air leak in the Russian-built Zvezda service module.

NASA said the members of the 15-nation space station partnership would work together “to ensure there is no threat to the long-term viability of the ISS.” At the same time, the report acknowledged that the station can’t last forever.

 

In December, NASA awarded a total of US$415.6 million to three commercial teams – headed by Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin space venture, Nanoracks and Northrop Grumman – to start working on concepts for commercial space stations suitable for low Earth orbit, or LEO. Yet another company, Axiom Space, is already building a commercial module for the ISS that’s meant eventually to become the springboard for a stand-alone space station.

NASA expects to select at least one commercial space station project in 2025 to be certified to host its astronauts for future missions.

Some of the space station’s modules could be split off to become part of other orbital outposts during the transition. The report lays out a plan for shifting operations to those new outposts and gradually lowering the orbit of the old station’s remaining modules during the latter half of the 2020s, building up to a climax in 2030.

NASA’s current scenario calls for three Russian-built Progress supply spacecraft to fire their thrusters while docked to the station for a months-long deorbit operation. Other spacecraft, perhaps including Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus cargo ship, might also play a part.

 

A crew would be aboard the station for the initial months of the deorbit operation, but the latter stages would be executed remotely after the last crew’s departure, toward the end of 2030.

Ground controllers would manage the station’s descent so that the final, fiery plunge through the atmosphere occurred in early 2031 over a “spacecraft cemetery” known as the South Pacific Oceanic Uninhabited Area.

Point Nemo – a spot that’s situated between New Zealand and the coast of Chile, 1,670 miles away from the nearest speck of land – would be the target point for falling debris. Hundreds of defunct spacecraft, including Russia’s Mir space station, have previously been ditched in that isolated part of the Pacific.

The report made clear that after the International Space Station’s destruction, NASA expects to be one of many customers pursuing research, training, tourism and media projects in low Earth orbit.

“By the early 2030s, NASA plans to purchase crew time for at least two – and possibly more – NASA crew members per year aboard [commercial LEO destinations] to continue basic microgravity research, applied biomedical research, and ongoing exploration technology development and human research,” the report said.

By 2033, NASA expects to save roughly US$1.75 billion a year thanks to the transition to commercial LEO operations. Those savings are likely to be earmarked for more ambitious missions that send astronauts beyond Earth orbit – to the moon and eventually to Mars.

This article was originally published by Universe Today. Read the original article.

 

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Science

NASA Reveals the Companies That Could Build Low-Earth Orbit ‘Commercial Destinations’

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Three companies have signed agreements with NASA to design space stations that could eventually replace the International Space Station. Blue Origin, Nanoracks LLC, and Northrop Grumman will receive over $400 million in government funding, according to NASA’s announcement early this month.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said in the announcement that NASA is, “partnering with U.S. companies to develop the space destinations where people can visit, live, and work, enabling NASA to continue forging a path in space for the benefit of humanity while fostering commercial activity in space.”

The funding is part of a plan to transition away from the ISS and toward commercial space stations. The ISS is currently set to remain operational through at least 2024, but it’s several decades old and is costly to keep running. NASA wants to save money by becoming a customer of private stations, allowing the agency to focus on other projects like its Artemis missions.

Gorgeous Photos of Earth from Space

Blue Origin, which is receiving $130 million, is partnering with Sierra Space to work on its Orbital Reef station, a “mixed-use space business park” nearly as large as the ISS that the company announced plans for in October. Blue Origin claims Orbital Reef will be ready for operation in the second half of this decade.

Nanoracks LLC, awarded $160 million, is working on a Starlab station in collaboration with Voyager Space and Lockheed Martin. Designed for four astronauts, Starlab is slated to have labs for biology, plant habitation, and physical science and materials research. In October, the three companies announced they plan to launch Starlab in 2027.

Northrop Grumman, receiving $125.6 million, is working with Dynetics and other unannounced partners to develop a modular space station. Northrup currently manufactures the Cygnus spacecraft, which carries cargo to the ISS.

The plans for each station include various interfaces, like multiple docking ports, that could enable future expansion and possibly tourism. NASA says the funding agreements are part of its efforts, “to enable a robust, American-led commercial economy in low-Earth orbit.”

For more of the latest news from NASA, check out our piece about astronauts aboard the ISS making tacos, and read our article on all the NASA easter eggs we could find on the past rovers.

Main image credit: Northrop Grumman

Kait Sanchez is a freelance writer for IGN. Find them on Twitter @crisp_red.



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World

CDC adds 6 destinations to ‘very high’ Covid-19 travel risk list, including Bahamas

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(CNN) — The Bahamas and Morocco are now among the highest-risk destinations for travelers, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s regularly revised travel advisories list.
People should avoid traveling to locations designated with the “Level 4: Covid-19 Very High” notice, the CDC recommends. Anyone who must travel should be fully vaccinated first, the agency advises.
  • Bahamas
  • Haiti
  • Kosovo
  • Lebanon
  • Morocco
  • Sint Maarten

The CDC’s evolving list of travel notices ranges from Level 1 (“low”) to Level 4 (“very high”).

Destinations that fall into the “Covid-19 Very High” Level 4 category have had more than 500 cases per 100,000 residents in the past 28 days, according to CDC criteria. The Level 3 category applies to destinations that have had between 100 and 500 cases per 100,000 residents in the past 28 days.

All six destinations newly added to Level 4 were previously ranked at “Level 3: Covid-19 High.”

The Bahamian prime minister implemented a pandemic curfew on Saturday, August 21, in place from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. in mainland Exuma, Abaco and the Abaco Cays, and North, Central and South Andros. Amid the aftermath of the 7.2-magnitude earthquake that struck the southwest of Haiti August 14, the country’s prime minister reminded citizens to be conscious of Covid-19 risk during recovery efforts.

New ‘Level 3’ destinations

Ten other destinations moved to the “Level 3: Covid-19 High” category on Monday. Albania, Bosnia, Herzegovina, Brunei and Liechtenstein moved up from level one. Bulgaria and Serbia relocated from level two. Greenland and Guernsey changed from “level unknown.” And Paraguay moved down from level four.

CDC guidance for destinations on Level 3 urges unvaccinated travelers to avoid nonessential travel to those locations.

In its broader travel guidance, the CDC has recommended avoiding all international travel until you are fully vaccinated.

“Fully vaccinated travelers are less likely to get and spread Covid-19. However, international travel poses additional risks, and even fully vaccinated travelers might be at increased risk for getting and possibly spreading some Covid-19 variants,” the agency said.

Top photo: Old Bahama Bay West End is shown.

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World

CDC adds 16 destinations to ‘very high’ Covid-19 travel risk list

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(CNN) — The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention added 16 destinations to its “very high” Covid-19 risk level on Monday, including Greece, Ireland and the US Virgin Islands.

According to the CDC, a risk designation of “Level 4: Covid-19 Very High” means people should avoid travel to these locations. Those who must travel should be fully vaccinated first.

In its overarching guidance, the CDC recommends against all international travel until you are fully vaccinated.

“Fully vaccinated travelers are less likely to get and spread Covid-19. However, international travel poses additional risks, and even fully vaccinated travelers might be at increased risk for getting and possibly spreading some Covid-19 variants,” the agency says.

Destinations that fall into the “very high” risk category have had more than 500 cases per 100,000 residents in the past 28 days, according to CDC parameters.

Direct travel of noncitizens from Ireland and Greece to the United States has been suspended since January 25, 2021, under an executive order limiting travel from multiple countries. The White House recently said those restrictions would remain in place amid surging cases from the Delta variant

The following 16 destinations moved to the CDC’s “Level 4: COVID-19 Very High” category on August 2: Andorra, Curaçao, Gibraltar, Greece, Guadeloupe, Iran, Ireland, Isle of Man, Kazakhstan, Lesotho, Libya, Malta, Martinique, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin and US Virgin Islands.

Top image: Visitors transport their luggage on the eastern Aegean island of Samos, Greece, on Tuesday, June 8, 2021. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris)

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Science

NASA Commercial LEO Destinations project for private space stations

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SpaceX’s Crew Dragon Endeavour seen docked with the International Space Station on July 1, 2020.

NASA

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration last year marked two decades of astronauts continuously onboard the International Space Station. But, as the floating research laboratory ages, the space agency is turning to private companies to build and deploy new free flying habitats in low Earth orbit.

NASA this past week unveiled the Commercial LEO Destinations (CLD) project, with plans to award up to $400 million in total to as many as four companies in the fourth quarter of 2021 to begin development on private space stations.

The agency is seeking to replicate the success of its Commercial Cargo and Commercial Crew programs. Those programs saw three companies take over for NASA as its means of sending cargo and astronauts to the International Space Station.

NASA commercial LEO director Phil McAlister said he thinks about the domain of low Earth orbit as having three main activities: “Cargo transportation, crew transportation, and destinations.” NASA has transferred over responsibility of the former two activities to private companies, with the agency paying SpaceX and Northrop Grumman to send cargo spacecraft to the ISS, as well as SpaceX and Boeing to launch astronauts. McAlister highlighted that previously, NASA had full ownership of all three activities.

“If it were to always remain that way, our aspirations in low Earth orbit would always be limited by the size of NASA’s budget,” McAlister said in a briefing on Tuesday. “By bringing the private sector into these sections and into these areas, as suppliers and users, you expand the pot, and you have more people in low Earth orbit.”

NASA is opening up the International Space Station for tourists with the first mission as early as 2020.

Stocktrek Images | Getty Images

The potential cost savings of NASA being a user of space stations, rather than an owner and operator, is a key motivator for the CLD program. The International Space Station costs NASA about $4 billion a year to operate. Moreover, the ISS cost a total of $150 billion to develop and build, with NASA picking up most of that bill while Russia, Europe, Japan and Canada each contributed.

NASA last year estimated that the Commercial Crew program alone is estimated to have saved the agency between $20 billion and $30 billion, while funding development of two spacecraft, rather than just one. While Boeing has yet to complete development testing, suffering an extended setback after its first uncrewed Starliner capsule launch in December 2019 failed due to multiple anomalies, SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft is now flying NASA astronauts operationally.

Another motivator for beginning the CLD program is the ISS’s aging hardware, as much of the space station’s core structures were manufactured in the 1990s and the final pressurized structure was added in 2011. Last year Russian cosmonauts worked to patch a small air leak in a space station module.

“The ISS is an amazing system but, unfortunately, it won’t last forever,” McAlister said. “It could experience an unrecoverable anomaly at any time.”

NASA sees the CLD program as a way to have multiple companies develop and build new habitats in the next few years, so that the agency has an overlap period before the ISS is retired. McAlister noted that, separate from the CLD program, NASA awarded spaceflight specialist Axiom Space with an $140 million contract to build modules to add to the ISS. When the ISS retires, Axiom plans to detach its modules and turn it into a free-flying space station.

“We’re making progress there and very pleased about that,” McAlister said. “We would like to have competition in the supply area, which is why we’re doing [CLD]. It’s always been part of our plan to both attach modules as well as have free fliers.”

An Axiom spokesperson, in a statement to CNBC, said that the company “broadly supports NASA’s vision of a multifaceted economy in LEO.”

“We are raising private funding to design and develop our world’s-first commercial destination to demonstrate that truly commercial leadership can advance the LEO economy. Constructing Axiom Station initially as an extension of the International Space Station will expand the work that can be done on-station in the near-term and best enable a timely and seamless transition when the ISS reaches the end of its life,” Axiom said.

A NASA list of organizations registered for the briefing revealed a wide variety of aerospace and space companies, including: Airbus U.S., Blue Origin, Boeing, Collins Aerospace, Firefly Aerospace, General Dynamics, ispace, Lockheed Martin, Moog, Nanoracks, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, Redwire Space, RUAG Space, Sierra Nevada Corporation, SpaceX, Virgin Galactic, Virgin Orbit, Voyager Space Holdings, and York Space Systems.

Already, one of those companies announced that it will soon unveil its plan for a free-flying space station. Sierra Nevada Corporation, or SNC, said it will host a virtual press conference on March 31 to reveal the design of the “SNC Space Station.”

NASA will release a final announcement for CLD proposals in May, with the first phase of funding awards expected between October and December. NASA’s Johnson Space Center will manage the CLD program through its commercial LEO development office.

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Sports

JuJu Smith-Schuster landing spots: Chargers, Dolphins among nine logical destinations for Steelers receiver

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Two days into 2021 NFL free agency and several days after the start of legal tampering, one of the biggest projected offseason targets remains without a home: JuJu Smith-Schuster, the Steelers’ 24-year-old Pro Bowl wide receiver. While some teams have reportedly targeted or spoken with the young pass catcher, the top of the WR market as a whole has been slow to develop as clubs prepare to welcome a similarly deep receiving group in the 2021 draft.

What does Smith-Schuster’s market look like at this point? Here’s our best guess at the nine most logical landing spots for the Steelers’ former top receiver:

Why would they pay for JuJu when they still need to extend Allen Robinson? Well, this is the same organization that apparently signed Andy Dalton and committed to him as the starter in a make-or-break year for the coach and general manager. So … yeah. After freeing up space by cutting Kyle Fuller, they could easily try to upgrade at slot receiver, where they’re shopping Anthony Miller.

Wouldn’t this be spicy? Cincy isn’t usually itching to spend big, but if Smith-Schuster’s market is actually depressed, why wouldn’t they consider it? With A.J. Green gone, they could use another proven body alongside Tyler Boyd, Tee Higgins and Auden Tate, even if Boyd works the slot well already. JuJu, on the other hand, would get a crack at facing the Steelers twice a year.

They could quietly be in the driver’s seat here. JuJu is from California and would assuredly welcome the return to sunnier game days. More importantly, L.A. has money, only added Jared Cook as a short-term tight end fix and has every reason to keep building around Justin Herbert. Keenan Allen plays plenty in the slot, but both he and Smith-Schuster are capable of rotating outside.

They don’t appear eager to burn through their big pile of money, in part because they have several lucrative extensions on the docket, but there’s still room for at least one notable offensive addition, especially with T.Y. Hilton still unsigned. They’ve openly campaigned for a play-making tight end, and JuJu can basically be that as a big, rugged over-the-middle target for new quarterback Carson Wentz.

They’ve already spent at several offensive spots, adding Jacoby Brissett and Malcolm Brown as high-end backups. There’s also the addition of Will Fuller, a very capable starter, out wide. But Fuller on a one-year flyer should not prevent them from ponying up more dough for the more reliable Smith-Schuster, whose style would pair well with both Fuller and DeVante Parker.

There’s no way Green Bay could fit Smith-Schuster into a tight cap situation unless his market is really that disappointing and/or the Packers have more cost-cutting moves ahead. But you could easily see JuJu taking a bit less to suit up with Aaron Rodgers for one of the NFL’s most popular franchises. Rodgers would assuredly love a solid starter of Smith-Schuster’s caliber.

They’re not loaded with money, but they’ve got enough room to get creative. And giving Lamar Jackson such a sturdy mid-range target would bode well for the entire offense, not to mention potentially weaken a key rival. The question, really, is whether the Ravens can or even want to spend more than a few million at WR when they’ve already invested a decent amount in Jackson’s O-line.

Steelers

The longer JuJu sits on the market, the more likely a return to Pittsburgh becomes. Yes, the guy’s already openly flaunted his likely departure and probably has a larger number of suitors than reports suggest, but he’s said before he’d like to stay in Steel City. If the Steelers can have him back on an under-market deal, they’d jump at the chance for Ben Roethlisberger’s title-or-bust return.

They’ve already poached one big-name Steeler for big bucks in Bud Dupree, so why not another? In all seriousness, the Titans need at least one major reinforcement on offense now that both Corey Davis and Jonnu Smith have signed elsewhere. Pairing JuJu with A.J. Brown would help offset the losses immediately, and they’ve still got cap space to work with.

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Sports

Kyle Lowry’s potential trade destinations if/when Raptors decide it’s ‘time to move on’

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Image: Getty Images

Lowry, the Philadelphia native, the Villanova alum, returns home.

The Sixers are currently first in the Eastern Conference with a 17-7 record in the Doc Rivers and Daryl Morey era, but no one NBA team has a stranglehold on this oddity of a season thus far. Joel Embiid has looked like an MVP frontrunner, Tobias Harris should command All-Star consideration at the absolute minimum, and Ben Simmons, for better or worse, still looks like the same guy he was as a rookie. While the team’s playmaking could improve, Simmons is averaging his usual 8.0 assists per game, but as great as Embiid has been, working with Lowry would decrease his offensive workload, give the Sixers someone who could create a shot in the game’s final two minutes, and give the roster a leader it needs.

What people forget about the Embiid and Simmons pairing is that they were at their best in 2018-19 when Jimmy Butler was present to carry the load. You could see the semifinal stats against the Raptors that season for yourselves. Lowry could have a similar impact, and it appears that Embiid may be ready to shoulder the responsibility, but a true point guard (who is willing to shoot from the outside) would help. It will matter come playoff time, and Lowry is a proven champion.

Regarding an actual deal, the Sixers have several expirings, most notably Danny Green’s $15.4 million. They have several young pieces, led by Matisse Thybulle, Tyrese Maxey, and Shake Milton, who are all making less than $3 million each this season, and they have most of their first-round picks going forward, which were discussed in the Harden deal before he went to Brooklyn.

They also have Ben Simmons at nearly $30 million, and he’s maxed out through 2025. Again, just saying.

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World

These international destinations are open to US tourists

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Editor’s Note — CNN Travel updates this article periodically. It was last updated in its entirety on January 19. The item on Sri Lanka was added January 22. The US State Department advises that travelers consult country-specific travel advisories via their website or consult the CDC’s latest guidance. Before you make any international travel plans, check these sites first and again before you depart.
(CNN) — Once one of the world’s most powerful travel documents, the might of the US passport has shriveled during the pandemic. With US Covid-19 cases still causing concern, many nations continue to view American vacationers with trepidation.

The European Union has omitted the United States from its list of countries whose tourists may visit. Americans still can’t vacation in their neighbor to the north, Canada, nor head to many Asian favorites such as Japan.

While most American travelers are staying on US soil, some are going abroad. For those, there are still popular options such as Mexico and Turkey — and other places they might not have considered until now.

In the end, it’s up to you to decide whether travel to international destinations is responsible or advisable. Nations might change rules at any time. You may have to follow curfews and mask mandates. Violations could involve hefty fines and even jail time. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the US State Department provide Covid-19 risk assessments by country.
Also keep this important update in mind: Starting January 26, all air passengers 2 and older must show proof of a negative Covid-19 test to enter the United States. That includes US citizens returning from trips to other countries. Be sure to get information on testing sites in your destination for your return trip.

What follows is a list of countries, in alphabetical order, where it’s still possible for US passport holders to go for a vacation:

Albania

Set on the Adriatic Sea, Albania remains open. The US Embassy website states that while there’s no Covid-19 test requirements or quarantine to enter, you can expect a health screening. Mask requirements and new curfews are in place.

Anguilla

To enjoy resorts such as Belmond Cap Juluca on Anguilla, you must go through a strict approval and testing regimine.

Richard James Taylor/Belmond Cap Juluca

This British territory in the Caribbean is accepting US visitors. You must be preapproved; click here to start the process and read up on extensive Covid-19 testing requirements, including the specific type of test you must get, as well as mandatory quarantine and insurance.

Antigua and Barbuda

US travelers 12 and older to Antigua and Barbuda “arriving by air must present a negative Covid-19-RT-PCR (real time polymerase chain reaction) test result, taken within seven days of their flight,” according to the country’s tourism website.

Aruba

Scroll down to the “Dutch Caribbean” entry below for information on Aruba and other islands in this group.

The Bahamas

UPDATE: Visitors 11 and older to these sun-kissed islands must have a negative Covid-19 PCR test result no more than five days old before arrival. Once you have the negative result, you can apply for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa here, where you must opt in for Covid-19 health insurance. You must also take a rapid test on day 5 unless you’re leaving. Get updates on the islands’ travel website and on the US Embassy website.

Bangladesh

US citizens may travel to this culturally rich South Asian nation. The US Embassy in Bangladesh says you must have a medical certificate with English translation stating you’re negative for Covid-19, with the test taken within 72 hours of travel. You must also “home quarantine” for 14 days even with a negative test.

Barbados

Hammocks and sunbeds under the palm trees are the calling cards of Barbados.

zstock/Shutterstock

UPDATE: US citizens must complete an online form and submit it 24 hours before travel, the US Embassy says. You must present a valid negative Covid-19 PCR test result, taken within 72 hours of arrival. As the US is designated a high-risk country, you must still quarantine at an approved hotel or resort until you get a second test and negative result. You must also wear an electronic tracking bracelet. Find out more at the Visit Barbados website.

Belize

UPDATE: Known for diving and jungle wildlife, Belize is open to US citizens. To enter, you must download the Belize Health App and have a negative Covid-19 PCR test result taken within three days of arrival. Or you can be tested upon arrival at a cost of $50. Get additional information with the Belize Tourism Board.

Bermuda

Bermuda requires each inbound passenger 10 and older to apply for travel authorization at the cost of $75 per adult and $30 for flight crew and children 9 and younger. Upon arrival, passengers must present a negative Covid-19 PCR test result taken no more than five days before departure. More tests are required on days 4, 8 and 14 of your visit. Read Bermuda’s extensive requirements here, including a traveler’s wristband rule.

Bolivia

A boat gently sails close to the shores of Lake Titicaca, which Bolivia shares with neighbor Peru.

Martin Bernetti/AFP/Getty/File

This landlocked South American country allows US visitors who have a negative Covid-19 test taken within 10 days of a flight departing North America. Expect a health screening. No quarantines are in place. Check here for details.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

US citizens may enter Bosnia, known for cosmopolitan Sarajevo and gorgeous lakes, with a negative Covid-19 PCR test result that’s less than 48 hours old.

Botswana

UPDATE: US citizens can enter this safari favorite with a negative Covid-19 PCR test result taken no more than 72 hours before departure. If you fail to provide test results or show coronavirus symptoms, you will have to quarantine for 14 days at your own expense. Another test will be given on the 10th day. The US Embassy says Botswana has limited testing capacity. For details, check here.

Brazil

The famed Christ the Redeemer statue stands above Guanabara Bay in an aerial view of Rio de Janeiro.

Mario Tama/Getty Images South America/Getty Images

Starting December 30, Brazil banned entry by land and sea (with a few exceptions) and put stricter measures on visitors by air, who must fill out a health declaration and present a negative Covid-19 PCR test result taken with 72 hours of boarding the flight. Read the embassy website for more details.

British Virgin Islands

NEW: US citizens need a travel certificate that you can get at the BVI Gateway website. You need a negative Covid-19 test result taken five days or less before travel to enter. You’ll also get another test on arrival and must quarantine four days while waiting for results. More information: US Embassy website | BVI government website.

Cambodia

If you want to go to Cambodia, the rules are quite stringent. You’ll have to pay a $2,000 deposit and you must possess a negative Covid-19 test result taken within 72 hours of arrival. You must also take two more Covid-19 tests — on arrival and on day 13 of a 14-day mandatory quarantine. You must also buy a $90 local health insurance package.

Chile

Colombia

All arriving passengers to Colombia should either have a negative result from a Covid-19 PCR test taken no more than 96 hours before departing; take a test upon arrival and quarantine waiting for a negative result; or quarantine for 14 days. Find out additional details here.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is allowing residents from all US states access. Visitors must complete a “health pass” form but are no longer required to take a Covid-19 PCR test. You must have proof of travel medical insurance, which you can get in Costa Rica. Get more details here.

Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast)

NEW: US citizens must have a negative Covid-19 PCR test result no more than seven days old before arrival. You must fill out a travel declaration form and pay the fee online. Learn more: US Embassy webpage.

Dominica

Dominica is a lush, rugged Eastern Caribbean island.

Peter Schickert/picture-alliance/dpa/AP

This eastern Caribbean island is open. All travelers to Dominica must present a negative Covid-19 PCR test result, recorded between 24 and 72 hours before arrival, and complete an electronic Immigration and Customs form via Dominica’s online portal 24 hours before traveling. US travelers should expect further testing and screening as it’s deemed a high-risk country.

Dominican Republic

People traveling to the Dominican Republic no longer have to show a negative PCR Covid-19 test result on arrival. DR authorities will give breath tests to a small percentage of random passengers plus anyone showing symptoms. You must also fill out a health affidavit. More info: US Embassy in the DR.

Dubai

Scroll down our new entry on United Arab Emirates below.

Dutch Caribbean islands

Find out the important details on these various Dutch islands in the Caribbean by clicking on the links:

Aruba: All US visitors 15 and older must fill out a health assessment and have a negative Covid-19 test result. Aruba has eliminated its list of US states that require extra testing. JetBlue passengers can take an at-home, saliva-based test. Check the Aruba tourism site for all the specific health requirements.
Bonaire: You must transit through Curaçao (see below) and comply with a host of testing and quarantine protocols. Find out the details on Bonaire’s tourism website.
Curaçao: The island of Curaçao is allowing entry to US citizens from all 50 states starting January 1. All visitors must present proof of a negative Covid-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of traveling. You must fill out a digital immigration card at dicardcuracao.com.
Saba: This unspoiled island has extensive entry requirements for US citizens, including getting government permission, a negative Covid-19 PCR test result (no more than 120 hours old) and 10 days of quarantine. Check the details here.

Ecuador

Photographers get to film the wildlife of the Galapagos within inches of their cameras.

Ecuador requires US travelers to present proof of a negative Covid-19 PCR test taken within 10 days of arrival to avoid quarantine. Testing is available for those who don’t arrive with a negative result. You must quarantine at an approved facility while waiting for results. The Galapagos Islands require additional entry requirements. Click for details on those.

Egypt

US travelers to Egypt need to present a negative PCR Covid-19 test result. Carefully read the US Embassy’s update on the timing of the test — to be safe, it should be no older than 72 hours before flight departure. Travelers must present paper copies; digital copies aren’t accepted. Children 5 and younger are exempt. You may be required to show proof of health insurance.

Ethiopia

Known for its surreal landscapes and ancient culture, Ethiopia requires arriving US citizens to have a medical certificate with a negative Covid-19 RT PCR test before boarding their flight that’s no more than 120 hours old. In addition, Ethiopia requires a seven-day quarantine.

French Polynesia

US travelers are welcome to the islands of Tahiti and Bora Bora. French Polynesia requires a negative Covid-19 test result within 72 hours of departure, to be presented before boarding. You will also be provided with a self-test kit to take on your fourth day. You must fill out an online ETIS form before you go.

Ghana

A West African cultural jewel, Ghana is open to US travelers. You must have a negative Covid-19 PCR test result that’s 72 hours old or less. Arriving passengers then must take a second test that costs $150. There’s also a temperature screening.

Grenada

UPDATE: This Caribbean island is welcoming US visitors, but they must do the following: Present a negative Covid-19 PCR test result within 72 hours of departure; apply for travel authorization with the Ministry of Health; have a minimum seven-day reservation at an approved hotel for quarantine; and take a second test to be allowed to move about or remain at the hotel for the rest of the vacation. Details: Grenada’s Ministry of Health | US Embassy page.

Guatemala

Antigua, Guatemala, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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All people 10 and older entering Guatemala by air and land must have a negative Covid-19 PCR test result taken 96 hours or less upon arrival. No quarantine. Travelers who have been to the UK or South Africa may be denied entry.

Honduras

Travel to Honduras is permitted with a negative result from a Covid-19 PCR or rapid test. You must also fill out an online precheck form. Travelers who have been to the UK or South Africa are restricted.

Ireland

UPDATE: US travelers are still allowed to visit Ireland, but recent restrictions on movement could make it a very limited vacation. New requirement: You must present a negative Covid-19 PCR test result taken within the previous 72 hours to enter; you can take a second test after five days. If it’s negative, restrictions are relaxed. Additional info: Irish government travel page.

Jamaica

Jamaica requires completion of an online travel authorization form and the possibility of being tested upon arrival. All passengers arriving from the United States 12 or older are required to upload negative Covid-19 test results to get travel authorization. The test date must be within less than 10 days of arrival. Read the website’s requirements closely; it has explicit instructions on taking tests and where you can go. More details: US Embassy in Jamaica.

Kenya

Three giraffes graze with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background. Kenya is open to US travelers who have proof of a negative Covid-19 test.

Courtesy shutterstock

Home to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya is open to US travelers with a negative Covid-19 test result taken 96 hours or less upon arrival and who pass a strict health screening. No quarantine. Outgoing visitors must comply with the Trusted Travel initiative.

The Maldives

The Maldives has reopened to all international tourists. All arriving tourists age 1 or older must have a negative result for a PCR Covid-19 test taken within 96 hours of arrival. There is no mandatory quarantine. See the Maldives’ official tourism website for details.

Malta

Travelers wishing to sidestep the EU travel ban and who are willing to quarantine can visit Malta. Passengers who transit via a “safe corridor country” that allows US visitors may enter Malta after they’ve been in that country for 14 days. For example, US travelers can stay 14 days in Turkey and then be eligible to enter Malta. All passengers must fill out Public Health Travel Declaration and the Passenger Locator forms before departure.

Mexico

San Ildefonso Cathedral in Mérida, Mexico, is one of the oldest churches in Latin America

Shutterstock

Though the land border between the United States and Mexico remains closed through at least February 21, US travelers can still fly to Mexico. No testing requirements are in place, but the State Department lists numerous states to avoid because of crime. You can expect temperature checks and other screenings upon arrival.

Montenegro

Montenegro welcomes Americans with a negative Covid-19 PCR test result or a positive coronavirus antibody test result, neither older than 72 hours. Travelers 5 and younger do not have to show test results. No quarantine with a negative result, according to the US Embassy in Montenegro.

Morocco

UPDATE: This North Africa favorite is open to specific US travelers only. You must have reservations with a Moroccan hotel or travel agency or be invited by a Moroccan company, the US Embassy in Morocco says. A printed, negative Covid-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours before departure is required to enter. Expect a health screening. No mandatory quarantines are in place, but local curfews are.

Namibia

US citizens can visit the desert nation of Namibia, which requires a negative Covid-19 PCR test result that’s not older than seven days. If the test is older than seven days, you’ll be tested and placed in quarantine at your own expense as you await the results.

Nicaragua

Home to volcanoes and beaches, Nicaragua is open. You must have a negative result from a Covid-19 PCR or serology test. No time frame is provided for how recent it must be.

North Macedonia

Panama

A Covid-19 PCR or antigen test with a negative result, taken 48 hours or less before arrival time, is required to visit Panama. If the test results are older than 48 hours, you must take a rapid Covid-19 test at the airport. Read the government’s detailed requirements here. You must also fill out an online health affidavit.

Peru

Rwanda

UPDATE: Visitors to Rwanda must present a negative Covid-19 PCR test result, taken within 120 hours of departure. They also must take a second test upon arrival, shelter in a hotel and receive their results within a day. The national parks are open, including primate tracking. To enter a park, you must have a negative test result less than 72 hours old. Additional info: US Embassy in Rwanda.

Senegal

Senegal is known for it music, but beaches such as Saly are a draw as well.

GEORGES GOBET/AFP/Getty Images

Senegal, known for its beaches and music, is allowing US tourists to visit. To enter, all people 2 and older must present an original Covid-19 PCR test certificate with a negative result that was taken five days or less before arrival. There’s no quarantine.

Serbia

Serbia had been one of the easiest countries to visit with no testing requirements, but that changed on December 21. Now, US citizens need to provide a negative Covid-19 PCR test result taken within the previous 48 hours or a negative antigen test.

South Africa

One of the most popular destinations in Africa has reopened to US citizens. South Africa requires a negative Covid-19 PCR and/or serology test result taken within 72 hours of departure. Keep in mind a Covid-19 variant has been discovered in South Africa — check reports closely before you make plans.

South Korea

As of January 8, US visitors to South Korea must provide a negative Covid-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of departure. US travelers must also quarantine for 14 days upon arrival even with a negative test. You must also submit to health screenings.

Sri Lanka

The hilly interior of Sri Lanka is best explored by the charming trains which climb through countryside covered with tea plantations.

NEW: The tropical island off India’s southeastern coast has opened back up to all nations. You must have a negative result from a Covid-19 test to enter and stay at least 14 days at an approved hotel or resort. Click on the CNN Travel article below for all the details. Also, find more information at Sri Lanka Tourism.

St. Barts

The island of St. Barts is open. Visitors 10 and older are required to show a negative Covid-19 PCR test result, taken within 72 hours of arrival or a negative antigen test taken within two days of arrival. Those staying longer than a week will need to pay about $150 for an additional test on their eighth day. Find out more here.

St. Kitts and Nevis

UPDATE: This Caribbean island federation reopened on October 31. You must fill out a Travel Authorization Form before arrival and upload a negative Covid-19 PCR test result taken 72 hours or less before you start your trip. You must stay on approved hotel property for your first seven days. You must take another test on day 7 of your visit if you’re staying longer. If it’s negative, you can move about on a limited basis. For stays of 14 days or longer, a third test is required. Additional information: US Embassy.

St. Lucia

Pigeon Beach in St. Lucia awaits if you meet the requirements.

DANIEL SLIM/AFP via Getty Images

US citizens 5 and older traveling to St. Lucia must provide a negative Covid-19 PCR test, taken within seven days of arrival. Visitors must also complete a travel registration form and arrive with a printed copy. You must have confirmed reservations at a Covid-certified property for the duration of the trip.

St. Maarten

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Tanzania

A favorite for safaris and beaches, Tanzania is open to tourists. Incoming passengers are required to fill out a health surveillance form and have a health screening. You might also have to take a Covid-19 test if the airline you’re flying with requires it.

Turkey

UPDATE: Turkey has started requiring that US citizens and all other visitors must have a negative Covid-19 test result taken 72 hours or less before their flight to enter. Previously, Turkey did not require a test. This will be in effect until March 1. Passengers must fill out an information form and prepare to be checked for coronavirus symptoms.

Turks and Caicos

Visitors to the Turks and Caicos must fill out a travel authorization form and provide a negative Covid-19 test result taken within five days of arrival. Children 9 and younger are exempt. Travelers must complete an online health questionnaire and carry travel medical insurance to cover any Covid-19-related costs.

Uganda

This lush nation in Central Africa is open to US tourists who have a negative Covid-19 test result taken no more than 120 hours before departure. Read more here.

United Arab Emirates

The UAE has recently relaxed entry requirements. Tourist visas for US citizens are being issued at the Abu Dhabi and Dubai airports. Travelers 12 and older must present a negative Covid-19 PCR test result within 96 hours of departure. Even with a negative test, you might still need to quarantine (depending on the emirate) and take a follow-up test. Check here for updates and details.

United Kingdom

UPDATE: Technically, US travelers may still travel to the United Kingdom. But travel for leisure is being highly discouraged because of the new coronavirus variant. You should closely follow news reports and watch for updates on the US Embassy link here before making any plans. If you still choose to go, you must have a negative Covid-19 test result taken 72 hours before departure to enter and quarantine for 10 days. Also note that rules may vary between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Click this link for more details on this rapidly changing situation.

Zambia

Known for Victoria Falls and wildlife, Zambia is allowing all international travelers to enter. You’ll need a negative Covid-19 test result taken at least 14 days before arrival. There’s also a mandatory 14-day quarantine.

Recently removed from the list

The following countries had been allowing US citizens to enter but are closed again or removed by CNN Travel for other reasons: Croatia (no Americans allowed to enter until at least January 30) | Belarus (because of mass protests) | Haiti (CNN has been unable to confirm important details on quarantining).

Omitted countries

CNN Travel has omitted certain open countries if they had very limited numbers of US travelers before the pandemic; have ongoing or recent armed conflicts, terrorism or rampant crime and unrest; or have entry requirements so extensive and complicated that they put the country out of reach of almost all US citizens. However, you can click here to check for the status and entry requirements of any country in the world.

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Business

Southwest Airlines announces daily flight destinations out of Santa Barbara, including Vegas

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SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Southwest Airlines has announced the destinations they will be flying to out of Santa Barbara Airport, including several daily flights to Las Vegas.

Southwest will begin service out of SBA on April 12, 2021. The initial schedule includes three daily departures to Las Vegas, one daily flight to Denver and one daily flight to Oakland.

“Obviously all strong markets in their own right, but they’re also major connecting points within the Southwest network,” said airport spokeswoman Deanna Zachrisson, who says Santa Barbara passengers will now have access to 50 other Southwest destinations via the new connections.

“We know we’ve been an attractive market for Southwest, but it took the shake-up of the industry as the result of the COVID-19 pandemic to provide the impetus to enter the market,” said Airport Director Henry Thompson in a statement. “Whatever the reason, it’s our region that stands to benefit.”

Southwest’s network and notoriety for low fares and no baggage fees make it a popular airline.

“They just have such a large, loyal customer base,” Zachrisson said. “And that’s one of the reasons why we pursued them for so long.”

The airport staff and other local organizations have courted the airline for at least five years.

Tourism group Visit Santa Barbara has been actively involved in those conversations. The organization is now committing $250,000 to support the new flights, including marketing campaigns to attract visitors in each of the new Southwest destination cities.

Once leisure travel is deemed safe once again, the new airlines could help galvanize a significant rebound for Santa Barbara’s hospitality industry and broader economy overall.

“Obviously this is important for our very critical tourism industry, for meetings and conferences industry, for weddings,” said Kathy Janega-Dykes, president and CEO of Visit Santa Barbara. “The easier it is for people to get here, the more likely they are to consider a visit, and become, certainly, a repeat visitor.

“We also know that air passengers stay in the region longer than those that arrive by car or train. They also tend to spend more money in our community… And the pandemic has certainly illuminated how essential tourism is to our local community.”

Southwest flies with Boeing 737-700 and 737-800 aircraft for all its destinations and will do so out of Santa Barbara as well.

The new flights are currently bookable on Southwest’s website. Introductory fares start as low as $39 one way to Las Vegas.

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