Cookie Policy
Effective Date: May 12, 2026
1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit a website. Similar technologies include localStorage and sessionStorage (browser-side storage used by web applications). We use a combination of these to make Human Spaceflight Analog Connect work properly.
2. What We Use & Why
We use only the following categories of cookies and storage:
Strictly Necessary (Always Active)
These are essential for the platform to function. They cannot be disabled.
| Name | Provider | Purpose | Duration | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firebase Authentication Token | Google Firebase | Keeps you logged in. Stores your authentication session securely. | Session / up to 1 hour (auto-refreshed while active) | Cookie / IndexedDB |
| impersonatedUserType | Human Spaceflight Analog Connect | Admin-only: temporarily stores admin impersonation state for UI testing. | Session (cleared on logout) | sessionStorage |
Functional
These improve your experience but are not strictly required.
| Name | Provider | Purpose | Duration | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| next-auth / __Secure-* cookies | Next.js / Vercel | Used by the Next.js framework for routing and server-side state. | Session | Cookie |
3. Third-Party Services
Some cookies are set by Google Firebase, which we use for authentication, database, and file storage. Google's use of data is governed by their Privacy Policy.
When you use Sign in with Google, Google may set its own cookies as part of their OAuth authentication flow. These are subject to Google's Cookie Policy.
4. Your Choices
Because we only use strictly necessary cookies, a cookie consent banner is not required in most jurisdictions. However, you can control cookies through your browser settings:
Note: Blocking essential cookies will prevent you from logging in or using authenticated features of the platform.
5. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy when we introduce new features or third-party integrations. The Effective Date at the top of this page will be updated, and significant changes will be communicated to registered users.
6. Contact
Questions about our use of cookies? privacy@astronautconnect.com
Also see our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.