National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

The WOW! Signal, seen as the very first extraterrestrial communication at the time, could soon be solved. Scientists have, for now, partially decoded where it came from and upped its intensity based on further calculations and using data from 1977. According to new research, the WOW! Signal was much more stronger than previously thought. It also seems to have originated from somewhere in the Milky Way. However, researchers are still not sure of the source. The findings are currently available on the preprint server arXiv. The Astrophysical Journal would be peer reviewing it post-submission, providing new insights into the most mysterious signal ever detected from space.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/deep-space-radio-signals-cosmic-mystery-object-pulsar-magnetar-1748517706567">44 minutes apart, 2 minutes every time: Something from deep space is sending signals to Earth</a>&nbsp;Big Ear Observatory in Delaware, Ohio, where the signal was detected by SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) astronomer Jerry R. Ehman, is no longer functioning. However, data on the signal running into thousands of pages was preserved and accessed by the researchers from the Arecibo Wow! (AWOW) project at the Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico. They went through over 75,000 pages of original data, carrying out an in-depth computational analysis for the first time. This threw up some never-before-seen results, particularly on three things about the WOW! Signal - origin, intensity, and frequency.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/move-aside-mars-ceres-was-once-hot-and-alive-and-hosted-life-in-our-solar-system-1755927855284">Move aside Mars, Ceres was once hot and alive, and hosted life in our solar system</a><h2>Fresh details on WOW! Signal</h2>The analysis showed that the WOW! Signal was four times stronger than previous estimates. Also known as flux density, in scientific terms, it stood at 250 Janskys, while till now it was believed to be somewhere between 54 and 212 Janskys. This considerably changes the view on the WOW! Signal and what triggered it. The study led by Abel Méndez also narrowed down the region from which it could have originated. They are sure that the signal did not originate in deep space, and instead came from a source within our galaxy. The source was also spinning much faster than estimated, thus changing its frequency. While earlier estimates put the frequency at &nbsp;1420.4556 MHz, the new findings peg it at 1420.726 MHz. Méndez says even though it looks tiny, it is a huge change. The source would have to be spinning rapidly faster to create that much of a frequency difference, the researchers said.&nbsp;When Ehman detected the WOW! Signal on August 15, 1977, he was caught by surprise and wrote down the word "WOW" next to it, which became the radio signal's namesake. Scientists were intrigued and believed it came from an extraterrestrial source. But the alien theory did not pan out and astronomers have been sure that it was some sort of cosmic phenomenon, such as the sudden brightening of a cold hydrogen cloud. The mystery of the WOW! Signal is yet to be fully unravelled as scientists plan on continuing their research to pinpoint the exact source of the nearly 50-year-old radio signal. &nbsp;

Aliens sent their first hello to Earth in 1977, at least that is what scientists thought when the WOW! Signal was detected. We now know that is not the case, yet the mystery continues. But new research has revealed some fresh, startling details about the signal that hit Earth.

The WOW! Signal, seen as the very first extraterrestrial communication at the time, could soon be solved. Scientists have, for now, partially decoded where it came from and upped its intensity based on further calculations and using data from 1977. According to new research, the WOW! Signal was much more stronger than previously thought. It also seems to have originated from somewhere in the Milky Way. However, researchers are still not sure of the source. The findings are currently available on the preprint server arXiv. The Astrophysical Journal would be peer reviewing it post-submission, providing new insights into the most mysterious signal ever detected from space. Also Read: 44 minutes apart, 2 minutes every time: Something from deep space is sending signals to Earth Big Ear Observatory in Delaware, Ohio, where the signal was detected by SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) astronomer Jerry R. Ehman, is no longer functioning. However, data on the signal running into thousands of pages was preserved and accessed by the researchers from the Arecibo Wow! (AWOW) project at the Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico. They went through over 75,000 pages of original data, carrying out an in-depth computational analysis for the first time. This threw up some never-before-seen results, particularly on three things about the WOW! Signal - origin, intensity, and frequency. Also Read: Move aside Mars, Ceres was once hot and alive, and hosted life in our solar system Fresh details on WOW! Signal The analysis showed that the WOW! Signal was four times stronger than previous estimates. Also known as flux density, in scientific terms, it stood at 250 Janskys, while till now it was believed to be somewhere between 54 and 212 Janskys. This considerably changes the view on the WOW! Signal and what triggered it. The study led by Abel Méndez also narrowed down the region from which it could have originated. They are sure that the signal did not originate in deep space, and instead came from a source within our galaxy. The source was also spinning much faster than estimated, thus changing its frequency. While earlier estimates put the frequency at 1420.4556 MHz, the new findings peg it at 1420.726 MHz. Méndez says even though it looks tiny, it is a huge change. The source would have to be spinning rapidly faster to create that much of a frequency difference, the researchers said. When Ehman detected the WOW! Signal on August 15, 1977, he was caught by surprise and wrote down the word "WOW" next to it, which became the radio signal's namesake. Scientists were intrigued and believed it came from an extraterrestrial source. But the alien theory did not pan out and astronomers have been sure that it was some sort of cosmic phenomenon, such as the sudden brightening of a cold hydrogen cloud. The mystery of the WOW! Signal is yet to be fully unravelled as scientists plan on continuing their research to pinpoint the exact source of the nearly 50-year-old radio signal.

Aliens sent their first hello to Earth in 1977, at least that's what scientists thought when the WOW! Signal was detected. We now know that's not the case, yet the mystery continues. But new research has revealed some fresh, startling details about the signal that hit Earth.

WOW! Signal was faster and stronger: Scientists know where the mysterious wave came from...well, almost

For the second time in as many days, SpaceX has called off the launch of its massive Starship rocket in Texas. The company was forced to stand down once again on Monday (Aug 25) evening, this time due to bad weather. This comes less than 24 hours after a separate launch attempt was scrubbed because of a liquid oxygen leak. Starship, stacked on its Super Heavy booster, towers 397 feet (121 meters) is a behemoth, taller than the Statue of Liberty. It is central to Elon Musk's vision of reusable rockets capable of carrying people to the Moon and Mars. The 403-foot behemoth was supposed to blast off from Starbase in Texas at 7.30 pm local time (0030 GMT) for its tenth test flight.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/is-musk-s-dream-rocket-cursed-space-x-scrubs-megarocket-starship-s-10th-test-amid-string-of-explosions-and-failures-1756083270563">Is Musk's dream rocket cursed? Space X scrubs megarocket Starship's 10th test amid string of explosions and failures</a><h2>Why did SpaceX cancel Starship's latest launch attempt?</h2>On X, the company said that it was “Standing down from today’s flight test attempt due to weather.” It added that the “Starship team is determining the next best available opportunity to fly”.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Standing down from today’s flight test attempt due to weather. Starship team is determining the next best available opportunity to fly&mdash; SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1960130754714935426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>SpaceX's string of failures grows</h2>The latest delay piles onto a string of high-profile failures. Starship's upper stage has exploded in all three of its test flights this year, with debris falling over Caribbean islands in two cases and one stage breaking apart after reaching space. Another blew up on the ground during a June static fire test. So far, the rocket hasn't managed to deliver a payload to orbit or return its upper stage intact. However, Musk remains unfazed. Replying to a user on X on Sunday, Musk predicted, “In about 6 or 7 years, there will be days where Starship launches more than 24 times in 24 hours.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/jd-vance-doesn-t-know-history-us-vp-sparks-backlash-after-claiming-wwii-ended-with-negotiation-while-defending-trump-s-ukraine-plan-1756113223188">JD Vance labelled 'ignoramus' for claiming WWII ended in 'negotiations' while defending Trump</a><h2>Starship: Humanity's dream of reaching Mars</h2>US President Donald Trump's former DOGE chief, Elon Musk, as per AFP, has pegged SpaceX's entire future to the entirely reusable rocket, planning to eventually phase out the workhorse Falcon rockets in favour of Starship. NASA, too, has tapped it for its first crewed lunar mission since Apollo, tentatively set for 2027. Despite the setbacks, SpaceX is sticking to its "fail fast, learn fast" approach, pushing ahead with test after test. The company has managed to successfully catch Starship's massive lower stage booster with "chopstick" launch tower arms three times.Still, critics are starting to wonder if Musk's most ambitious gamble is wobbling."I think there is a lot of pressure on this mission," space analyst Dallas Kasaboski told AFP. "We've had so many tests and it hasn't proven itself reliable -- the successes have not exceeded the failures." Others, like Will Lockett, a former engineer turned commentator, have gone further, questioning whether the whole Starship concept is "fundamentally flawed". &nbsp;

Elon Musk's bad luck continues as megarocket Starship is forced to ground again, this time due to bad weather. Here's all you need to know.

For the second time in as many days, SpaceX has called off the launch of its massive Starship rocket in Texas. The company was forced to stand down once again on Monday (Aug 25) evening, this time due to bad weather. This comes less than 24 hours after a separate launch attempt was scrubbed because of a liquid oxygen leak. Starship, stacked on its Super Heavy booster, towers 397 feet (121 meters) is a behemoth, taller than the Statue of Liberty. It is central to Elon Musk's vision of reusable rockets capable of carrying people to the Moon and Mars. The 403-foot behemoth was supposed to blast off from Starbase in Texas at 7.30 pm local time (0030 GMT) for its tenth test flight. Also read | Is Musk's dream rocket cursed? Space X scrubs megarocket Starship's 10th test amid string of explosions and failures Why did SpaceX cancel Starship's latest launch attempt? On X, the company said that it was “Standing down from today’s flight test attempt due to weather.” It added that the “Starship team is determining the next best available opportunity to fly”.

Elon Musk's bad luck continues as megarocket Starship is forced to ground again, this time due to bad weather. Here's all you need to know.

Elon Musk’s Starship grounded again: SpaceX scraps Texas launch for second time in 2 days

After postponing the launch of its 10th flight test of Starship, Elon Musk’s SpaceX is eyeing another window to launch the world’s biggest rocket on Monday (Aug 25) evening. The space company is developing the 400-foot Starship rocket for a crewed mission to Mars. This comes after the launch was scrubbed just minutes before the rocket was set to take off from the company’s launch pad in South Texas on Sunday (Aug 24).In a post on X, SpaceX wrote, “Standing down from today's tenth flight of Starship to allow time to troubleshoot an issue with ground systems.”<h2>When will Starship’s 10th flight test launch take place?</h2>The launch, which was originally scheduled for Sunday, will now take place on Monday at 6:30 pm CT, according to the official website of SpaceX. The launch attempt will mark a critical milestone in Musk’s Mars ambitions. The company is aiming to recover both the booster and the upper-stage Starship spacecraft in the test flight.<h2>Earlier launches</h2>Two test flights earlier this year ended up exploding following the launch. Three months earlier, Starship and its Super Heavy booster were both lost after lifting off from the company’s Starbase facility in Texas.A week earlier, SpaceX unveiled the redesigned fins to guide the Super Heavy booster back to land. According to the company, the new components are 50 per cent larger and stronger than earlier versions.<h2>Musk’s vision faces setback</h2>Musk’s space company secured a multi-billion-dollar contract with NASA as part of the space agency’s Artemis program, which is aiming to send astronauts to the Moon. However, the failed tests of Starship and other factors have pushed the mission back from December 2025 to September 2026.Meanwhile, Musk said earlier this year that Starship would launch to Mars as early as next year, with the aircraft carrying Tesla’s humanoid robot Optimus.Musk’s ultimate Mars dream involves building a fleet of several thousand Starships that will help establish a self-sufficient human colony on Mars by 2050. &nbsp;

A week earlier, SpaceX unveiled the redesigned fins to guide the Super Heavy booster back to land. According to the company, the new components are 50 per cent larger and stronger than earlier versions.

After postponing the launch of its 10th flight test of Starship, Elon Musk’s SpaceX is eyeing another window to launch the world’s biggest rocket on Monday (Aug 25) evening. The space company is developing the 400-foot Starship rocket for a crewed mission to Mars. This comes after the launch was scrubbed just minutes before the rocket was set to take off from the company’s launch pad in South Texas on Sunday (Aug 24). In a post on X, SpaceX wrote, “Standing down from today's tenth flight of Starship to allow time to troubleshoot an issue with ground systems.” When will Starship’s 10th flight test launch take place? The launch, which was originally scheduled for Sunday, will now take place on Monday at 6:30 pm CT, according to the official website of SpaceX. The launch attempt will mark a critical milestone in Musk’s Mars ambitions. The company is aiming to recover both the booster and the upper-stage Starship spacecraft in the test flight. Earlier launches Two test flights earlier this year ended up exploding following the launch. Three months earlier, Starship and its Super Heavy booster were both lost after lifting off from the company’s Starbase facility in Texas. A week earlier, SpaceX unveiled the redesigned fins to guide the Super Heavy booster back to land. According to the company, the new components are 50 per cent larger and stronger than earlier versions. Musk’s vision faces setback Musk’s space company secured a multi-billion-dollar contract with NASA as part of the space agency’s Artemis program, which is aiming to send astronauts to the Moon. However, the failed tests of Starship and other factors have pushed the mission back from December 2025 to September 2026. Meanwhile, Musk said earlier this year that Starship would launch to Mars as early as next year, with the aircraft carrying Tesla’s humanoid robot Optimus. Musk’s ultimate Mars dream involves building a fleet of several thousand Starships that will help establish a self-sufficient human colony on Mars by 2050.

A week earlier, SpaceX unveiled the redesigned fins to guide the Super Heavy booster back to land. According to the company, the new components are 50 per cent larger and stronger than earlier versions.

Musk’s SpaceX to attempt 10th Starship launch Monday after delay – Check details

There has been massive development in medical sciences over the last few years. Latest in this effort is lab-grown kidneys. Yes, you heard that right. A hospital in Israel has achieved a breakthrough in cultivating kidneys in laboratories and is seeking funds to advance into clinical trials.&nbsp;The hospital, Sheba Medical Centre along with the help of Tel Aviv University, has successfully grown a synthetic 3D organ culture, or organoid, that was the first to survive beyond 34 weeks, reported the South China Morning Post. This development marks a significant milestone in regenerative medicine. Earlier organoids had failed to survive even four weeks, said Benjamin Dekel, director of Sheba's paediatric nephrology unit and Stem Cell Research Institute.&nbsp;Benefits of kidney organoids&nbsp;According to Dekel, kidney organoids help researchers to model kidney diseases making it easy to understand their underlying mechanisms and allow timely interventions. This also minimises the dependency of drug tests being conducted on mice.&nbsp;Dekel further expressed extreme optimism over the research saying, "I'm very, very optimistic about the path forward," and added "It doesn't involve cell transplantation, [but rather] the molecules [the organoid] secretes," can help repair injured kidneys.&nbsp;What's the possibility of clinical application&nbsp;of He also underlined that despite making significant progress, how quickly the research will translate into clinical application will take longer as "translating scientific discoveries into clinical applications takes time".&nbsp;"Once we have a clear understanding of which cells to use, the biomolecules they secrete, and how they aid in kidney repair in adults, we can begin moving towards clinical translation," he added.&nbsp;Hospital seeks funding for further research&nbsp;With the success, the hospital is looking for funding, including from China, to move ahead with the clinical trials.&nbsp;"We have a huge interest in Chinese and Hong Kong biotech companies, and I also think they have an interest in tackling problems such as chronic kidney diseases. We are open to commercialisation," said Dekel on being asked about the funding .&nbsp;According to a study published in the Clinical Kidney Journal, kidney disease in China stands at a whopping 150.5 million cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the projects lead researcher, kidney organoids help researchers to model kidney diseases making it easy to understand their underlying mechanisms and allow timely interventions.

There has been massive development in medical sciences over the last few years. Latest in this effort is lab-grown kidneys. Yes, you heard that right. A hospital in Israel has achieved a breakthrough in cultivating kidneys in laboratories and is seeking funds to advance into clinical trials. The hospital, Sheba Medical Centre along with the help of Tel Aviv University, has successfully grown a synthetic 3D organ culture, or organoid, that was the first to survive beyond 34 weeks, reported the South China Morning Post. This development marks a significant milestone in regenerative medicine. Earlier organoids had failed to survive even four weeks, said Benjamin Dekel, director of Sheba's paediatric nephrology unit and Stem Cell Research Institute. Benefits of kidney organoids According to Dekel, kidney organoids help researchers to model kidney diseases making it easy to understand their underlying mechanisms and allow timely interventions. This also minimises the dependency of drug tests being conducted on mice. Dekel further expressed extreme optimism over the research saying, "I'm very, very optimistic about the path forward," and added "It doesn't involve cell transplantation, [but rather] the molecules [the organoid] secretes," can help repair injured kidneys. What's the possibility of clinical application of He also underlined that despite making significant progress, how quickly the research will translate into clinical application will take longer as "translating scientific discoveries into clinical applications takes time". "Once we have a clear understanding of which cells to use, the biomolecules they secrete, and how they aid in kidney repair in adults, we can begin moving towards clinical translation," he added. Hospital seeks funding for further research With the success, the hospital is looking for funding, including from China, to move ahead with the clinical trials. "We have a huge interest in Chinese and Hong Kong biotech companies, and I also think they have an interest in tackling problems such as chronic kidney diseases. We are open to commercialisation," said Dekel on being asked about the funding . According to a study published in the Clinical Kidney Journal, kidney disease in China stands at a whopping 150.5 million cases.

According to the project's lead researcher, kidney organoids help researchers to model kidney diseases making it easy to understand their underlying mechanisms and allow timely interventions.

Lab-grown kidney survives 34 weeks, Israeli hospital seeks more funding from China

As the roar of aircraft engines fills the skies over Mysore during Dasara 2025's spectacular aeroshow, few spectators will know they are witnessing a tribute to one of India's most overlooked heroes. The thunderous display above is not just entertainment – it's a long-overdue salute to Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, the visionary young royal who literally made India's aviation dreams take flight.<h2>The Man Who Said Yes When Everyone Else Said No</h2>Picture this: It's 1940, and India has no aircraft manufacturing capability. American businessman William Pawley and Indian industrialist Walchand Hirachand have a revolutionary idea – build planes in India. They approach multiple maharajas across the country, seeking support for this ambitious venture.The rulers of Baroda, Gwalior, and Bhavanagar all decline. Even shareholders of established companies reject the proposal as too risky. But when they reach Mysore in October 1940, something extraordinary happens. The 27-year-old Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, who had just ascended the throne barely a month earlier after his uncle Krishna Raja Wadiyar's death, sees what others cannot – the future of Indian aviation.<h2>From Tragedy to Vision in Record Time</h2>The young Maharaja had inherited his throne on September 8, 1940, following his uncle's death on August 3. Within weeks of becoming ruler, he faced a decision that would shape India's industrial future. When Walchand and Pawley landed in Bangalore that October, they found not just a willing partner, but a visionary leader ready to bet his kingdom's resources on an impossible dream.What happened next reads like a business miracle. The project had already received British approval in July 1940 within 72 hours of Pawley's presentation at Simla. But it was the young Maharaja's decisive support that transformed possibility into reality.<h2>The Speed of Royal Vision</h2>The Maharaja didn't just offer symbolic support. He gave 700 acres of prime land absolutely free, invested a massive Rs. 25 lakhs (equivalent to hundreds of crores today), and provided complete governmental backing. The Mysore Government Order No: D 3663-372/10C 216-40-16 dated February 11, 1941, made it official.On December 23, 1940, Hindustan Aircraft Company was incorporated under the Mysore Companies Act. Work began the very next day on December 24. The foundation was laid on January 12, 1941. Within just three weeks, the first building and runway were ready. By August 29, 1941, the company handed over its first Harlow trainer aircraft to the Government of India.This wasn't just fast – it was lightning speed in an era without modern construction equipment or communication technology. The young Maharaja's administration moved with urgency that would make today's startup founders envious.<h2>A Patriot's Sacrifice Over Profit</h2>When Pearl Harbour changed the war's trajectory in December 1941, and attacks on India became a real threat, the Government of India decided to take complete control of the facility. While private investor Walchand made a handsome profit of Rs. 57 lakhs on his Rs. 25 lakh investment, the Maharaja's approach was strikingly different.In April 1942, when GOI bought out Walchand's shares for Rs. 82.11 lakhs, the Maharaja refused to sell his stake. Instead, he handed over complete control to the Government of India until "2 years after end of war," asking only for a modest solatium of Rs. 12.11 lakhs to cover sterilised interest during wartime. His priority wasn't profit – it was national service.The factory became the 84th Air Depot under the United States Army Air Forces, rapidly expanding to become one of the largest aircraft overhaul and repair organisations in the East. From April 1946, Mysore State again became an active partner until the final transition.<h2>The Birth of HAL and a Forgotten Legacy</h2>On October 1, 1964, Hindustan Aircraft Limited merged with Aeronautics India Limited to form Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This merger created one of Asia's largest aerospace companies, but it also buried the memory of its royal founder.Today, HAL operates 11 research centers, 21 manufacturing divisions, and has an annual turnover exceeding $3 billion. Yet when we celebrate HAL as a symbol of Indian aerospace prowess, we rarely remember its origins. HAL's official records acknowledge the company was established "in association with the Kingdom of Mysore," but they fail to properly honour Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar – the visionary who provided the land, investment, and unwavering support that made Indian aviation possible.This historical amnesia is not just unfair – it's a disservice to understanding how modern India was built. The young Maharaja didn't just invest money; he invested faith in India's industrial future when few others dared to dream so big.<h2>The Ultimate Homecoming</h2>The Mysore Dasara 2025 aeroshow is more than a spectacular display of aerobatic skills and modern aircraft. It's the ultimate homecoming celebration – aircraft returning to the skies above the land where Indian aviation was born 84 years ago, and where HAL took its final form 61 years ago in 1964.As we watch pilots perform death-defying stunts and marvel at cutting-edge fighter jets, let's remember the 27-year-old Maharaja who, barely a month into his reign, bet his kingdom's resources on a crazy idea called "manufacturing aircraft in India." His vision soared higher than any plane that flies today.Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar didn't just make India fly – he made India believe it could fly. In a world where profit often trumps patriotism, his story reminds us that true leadership sometimes means choosing national interest over personal gain.That legacy deserves to be remembered, celebrated, and honoured every time an Indian aircraft takes to the skies. The aeroshow over Mysore isn't just about the present – it's a tribute to the past that made our aviation future possible.

Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar didn't just make India fly – he made India believe it could fly. In a world where profit often trumps patriotism, his story reminds us that true leadership sometimes means choosing national interest over personal gain.

As the roar of aircraft engines fills the skies over Mysore during Dasara 2025's spectacular aeroshow, few spectators will know they are witnessing a tribute to one of India's most overlooked heroes. The thunderous display above is not just entertainment – it's a long-overdue salute to Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, the visionary young royal who literally made India's aviation dreams take flight. The Man Who Said Yes When Everyone Else Said No Picture this: It's 1940, and India has no aircraft manufacturing capability. American businessman William Pawley and Indian industrialist Walchand Hirachand have a revolutionary idea – build planes in India. They approach multiple maharajas across the country, seeking support for this ambitious venture. The rulers of Baroda, Gwalior, and Bhavanagar all decline. Even shareholders of established companies reject the proposal as too risky. But when they reach Mysore in October 1940, something extraordinary happens. The 27-year-old Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, who had just ascended the throne barely a month earlier after his uncle Krishna Raja Wadiyar's death, sees what others cannot – the future of Indian aviation. From Tragedy to Vision in Record Time The young Maharaja had inherited his throne on September 8, 1940, following his uncle's death on August 3. Within weeks of becoming ruler, he faced a decision that would shape India's industrial future. When Walchand and Pawley landed in Bangalore that October, they found not just a willing partner, but a visionary leader ready to bet his kingdom's resources on an impossible dream. What happened next reads like a business miracle. The project had already received British approval in July 1940 within 72 hours of Pawley's presentation at Simla. But it was the young Maharaja's decisive support that transformed possibility into reality. The Speed of Royal Vision The Maharaja didn't just offer symbolic support. He gave 700 acres of prime land absolutely free, invested a massive Rs. 25 lakhs (equivalent to hundreds of crores today), and provided complete governmental backing. The Mysore Government Order No: D 3663-372/10C 216-40-16 dated February 11, 1941, made it official. On December 23, 1940, Hindustan Aircraft Company was incorporated under the Mysore Companies Act. Work began the very next day on December 24. The foundation was laid on January 12, 1941. Within just three weeks, the first building and runway were ready. By August 29, 1941, the company handed over its first Harlow trainer aircraft to the Government of India. This wasn't just fast – it was lightning speed in an era without modern construction equipment or communication technology. The young Maharaja's administration moved with urgency that would make today's startup founders envious. A Patriot's Sacrifice Over Profit When Pearl Harbour changed the war's trajectory in December 1941, and attacks on India became a real threat, the Government of India decided to take complete control of the facility. While private investor Walchand made a handsome profit of Rs. 57 lakhs on his Rs. 25 lakh investment, the Maharaja's approach was strikingly different. In April 1942, when GOI bought out Walchand's shares for Rs. 82.11 lakhs, the Maharaja refused to sell his stake. Instead, he handed over complete control to the Government of India until "2 years after end of war," asking only for a modest solatium of Rs. 12.11 lakhs to cover sterilised interest during wartime. His priority wasn't profit – it was national service. The factory became the 84th Air Depot under the United States Army Air Forces, rapidly expanding to become one of the largest aircraft overhaul and repair organisations in the East. From April 1946, Mysore State again became an active partner until the final transition. The Birth of HAL and a Forgotten Legacy On October 1, 1964, Hindustan Aircraft Limited merged with Aeronautics India Limited to form Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This merger created one of Asia's largest aerospace companies, but it also buried the memory of its royal founder. Today, HAL operates 11 research centers, 21 manufacturing divisions, and has an annual turnover exceeding $3 billion. Yet when we celebrate HAL as a symbol of Indian aerospace prowess, we rarely remember its origins. HAL's official records acknowledge the company was established "in association with the Kingdom of Mysore," but they fail to properly honour Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar – the visionary who provided the land, investment, and unwavering support that made Indian aviation possible. This historical amnesia is not just unfair – it's a disservice to understanding how modern India was built. The young Maharaja didn't just invest money; he invested faith in India's industrial future when few others dared to dream so big. The Ultimate Homecoming The Mysore Dasara 2025 aeroshow is more than a spectacular display of aerobatic skills and modern aircraft. It's the ultimate homecoming celebration – aircraft returning to the skies above the land where Indian aviation was born 84 years ago, and where HAL took its final form 61 years ago in 1964. As we watch pilots perform death-defying stunts and marvel at cutting-edge fighter jets, let's remember the 27-year-old Maharaja who, barely a month into his reign, bet his kingdom's resources on a crazy idea called "manufacturing aircraft in India." His vision soared higher than any plane that flies today. Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar didn't just make India fly – he made India believe it could fly. In a world where profit often trumps patriotism, his story reminds us that true leadership sometimes means choosing national interest over personal gain. That legacy deserves to be remembered, celebrated, and honoured every time an Indian aircraft takes to the skies. The aeroshow over Mysore isn't just about the present – it's a tribute to the past that made our aviation future possible.

Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar didn't just make India fly – he made India believe it could fly. In a world where profit often trumps patriotism, his story reminds us that true leadership sometimes means choosing national interest over personal gain.

When Mysore's young maharaja made India fly: The forgotten hero of our aviation story

Harvard scientist Avi Loeb earnestly hopes that the interstellar alien object in the solar system turns out to be a spacecraft sent by extraterrestrial beings. This comes after his very open assertion, backed by evidence, that it is not a natural space rock or comet. He has said that almost everything about 3I/ATLAS points to it being an object designed by someone. Its trajectory, the light it released, and the lack of a tail are signs that it is not a naturally occurring cosmic body. Meanwhile, everyone else is refuting his claims, saying it is impossible that 3I/ATLAS is an alien spacecraft. But Loeb stands steadfast on his observations. In fact, he actually wishes that the interstellar object were an alien probe coming for Earth. In a new blog post, Loeb states that the "mothership" will be a wake-up call for humans busy fighting for land and resources on Earth. He has previously called for world leaders to join hands and work towards a common threat, which 3I/ATLAS could be.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/harvard-scientist-calls-on-world-leaders-to-prepare-common-plan-on-alien-attack-1755064546960">3I/ATLAS and its 'intent': Harvard scientist calls on world leaders to prepare for an alien attack</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientist-claims-mystery-interstellar-object-is-here-to-test-human-intelligence-and-we-have-already-failed-here-s-why-1755585246596">Scientist claims mystery interstellar object is here to test human intelligence, and we have already failed. Here's why</a>&nbsp;<h2>Why humans need alien technology</h2>Loeb says he is aware that "our financial or political systems will respond to such a potential threat in earnest only after our first encounter with alien technology." If the world agrees that 3I/ATLAS is aliens coming to seed Earth and other planets with probes, it "would reset our priorities", Loeb says. "Humanity desperately needs a wakeup call," Loeb wrote, and if his fears about the interstellar visitor turn out to be real, it would reset priorities and humans will be forced to stop focusing on "terrestrial conflicts", and explore what lies "beyond Earth". "With that perspective in mind, would it be better if 3I/ATLAS happens to be a spacecraft?" Loeb, known for his alien theories, asks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/when-will-alien-invasion-on-earth-happen-spacecraft-ship-probe-1754106497174">Scientist reveals HOW and WHEN alien 'mothership' could attack Earth, warns governments to take action</a>&nbsp;The second reason Loeb thinks it is a good idea to encounter alien technology is that stumbling upon it in the way of 3I/ATLAS will save the world millions in research. If an alien spacecraft is coming towards Earth, it would be a treasure trove of technology that humans have yet to create. Accessing the scientific knowledge of another world will fast-forward human technology without adding to the financial burden of funding research to reach there, besides saving time.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientist-claims-interstellar-comet-could-be-alien-technology-1755926067724/embed&nbsp;<h2>Human space travel to Moon, Mars and beyond</h2>The third reason the Harvard scientists want the visitor from outer space to be an alien spaceship is that it would be proof that interstellar travel is possible and inspire humans to undertake the journey themselves one day. Right now, NASA and other space agencies are trying to go as far as Mars. But encountering an alien spaceship will help them go beyond just the red planet. Notably, the Voyager spacecraft are already in deep space, but Loeb seems to be pointing to the fact that humans can visit interstellar space too if we gain access to alien technology.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baba-vanga-predicted-alien-contact-in-2025-interstellar-spaceship-comet-solar-system-1754538939635">Baba Vanga Predicted Alien Contact In 2025. Is Interstellar 'Mothership' Hurtling Towards Earth Them Reaching Out?</a>&nbsp;Loeb argues that if humans are sure that aliens can attack Earth, they would sit up and take the necessary steps to protect the planet. He wrote that setting up "an alert system of monitors and interceptors around the Sun would protect Earth from a global threat by alien technology," besides telling us what lies beyond what we already know.&nbsp;

Are aliens coming to attack Earth with 3I/ATLAS? A Harvard scientist thinks it will be good news for Earth if the interstellar visitor turns out to be an alien spacecraft. He says encountering alien technology will change humanity forever. 

Harvard scientist Avi Loeb earnestly hopes that the interstellar alien object in the solar system turns out to be a spacecraft sent by extraterrestrial beings. This comes after his very open assertion, backed by evidence, that it is not a natural space rock or comet. He has said that almost everything about 3I/ATLAS points to it being an object designed by someone. Its trajectory, the light it released, and the lack of a tail are signs that it is not a naturally occurring cosmic body. Meanwhile, everyone else is refuting his claims, saying it is impossible that 3I/ATLAS is an alien spacecraft. But Loeb stands steadfast on his observations. In fact, he actually wishes that the interstellar object were an alien probe coming for Earth. In a new blog post, Loeb states that the "mothership" will be a wake-up call for humans busy fighting for land and resources on Earth. He has previously called for world leaders to join hands and work towards a common threat, which 3I/ATLAS could be. Also Read: 3I/ATLAS and its 'intent': Harvard scientist calls on world leaders to prepare for an alien attack Also Read: Scientist claims mystery interstellar object is here to test human intelligence, and we have already failed. Here's why Why humans need alien technology Loeb says he is aware that "our financial or political systems will respond to such a potential threat in earnest only after our first encounter with alien technology." If the world agrees that 3I/ATLAS is aliens coming to seed Earth and other planets with probes, it "would reset our priorities", Loeb says. "Humanity desperately needs a wakeup call," Loeb wrote, and if his fears about the interstellar visitor turn out to be real, it would reset priorities and humans will be forced to stop focusing on "terrestrial conflicts", and explore what lies "beyond Earth". "With that perspective in mind, would it be better if 3I/ATLAS happens to be a spacecraft?" Loeb, known for his alien theories, asks. Also Read: Scientist reveals HOW and WHEN alien 'mothership' could attack Earth, warns governments to take action The second reason Loeb thinks it is a good idea to encounter alien technology is that stumbling upon it in the way of 3I/ATLAS will save the world millions in research. If an alien spacecraft is coming towards Earth, it would be a treasure trove of technology that humans have yet to create. Accessing the scientific knowledge of another world will fast-forward human technology without adding to the financial burden of funding research to reach there, besides saving time. https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientist-claims-interstellar-comet-could-be-alien-technology-1755926067724/embed Human space travel to Moon, Mars and beyond The third reason the Harvard scientists want the visitor from outer space to be an alien spaceship is that it would be proof that interstellar travel is possible and inspire humans to undertake the journey themselves one day. Right now, NASA and other space agencies are trying to go as far as Mars. But encountering an alien spaceship will help them go beyond just the red planet. Notably, the Voyager spacecraft are already in deep space, but Loeb seems to be pointing to the fact that humans can visit interstellar space too if we gain access to alien technology. Also Read: Baba Vanga Predicted Alien Contact In 2025. Is Interstellar 'Mothership' Hurtling Towards Earth Them Reaching Out? Loeb argues that if humans are sure that aliens can attack Earth, they would sit up and take the necessary steps to protect the planet. He wrote that setting up "an alert system of monitors and interceptors around the Sun would protect Earth from a global threat by alien technology," besides telling us what lies beyond what we already know.

Are aliens coming to attack Earth with 3I/ATLAS? A Harvard scientist thinks it will be good news for Earth if the interstellar visitor turns out to be an alien spacecraft. He says encountering alien technology will change humanity forever.&nbsp;

'Wake-up call for humanity’: Scientist wants 3I/ATLAS to be alien spaceship — Here’s why

Gaganyaan, meaning "sky craft" in Sanskrit, represents India's ambitious dream of sending Indian astronauts to space for the first time. This historic mission has taken another significant step forward with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully completing the first Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-01) on August 24, 2025. This crucial test involved an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter carrying a dummy crew capsule weighing approximately 5,000 kg to an altitude of a few kilometers before dropping it into the sea, demonstrating the parachute-based deceleration system that will safely bring Indian astronauts back to Earth.The IADT-01 test was not just ISRO's achievement alone. It showcased the true spirit of collaboration between India's premier institutions – the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Indian Air Force, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Indian Navy, and Indian Coast Guard all worked together to make this test successful. This joint effort highlights how different branches of India's defense and space sectors are united in making the Gaganyaan mission a reality.The parachute system tested in IADT-01 is critical for astronaut safety. When Indian astronauts return from their space journey, they will be travelling at extremely high speeds as they re-enter Earth's atmosphere. The parachute deceleration system must work flawlessly to slow down the crew module and ensure a safe landing. This test validated the entire end-to-end process, from the moment the parachutes deploy to the final touchdown, giving engineers confidence that the system will protect India's future space travellers.The Gaganyaan Programme, approved with a substantial budget of approximately ₹20,193 crore, represents India's first indigenous human spaceflight initiative. The mission aims to send Indian astronauts, called "Gaganyatris," to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), where they will spend several days conducting scientific experiments and demonstrating India's technological capabilities in human spaceflight. The four selected astronauts for this mission are Group Captain Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla, all highly experienced Indian Air Force test pilots. This achievement will place India among the elite group of nations – currently only Russia, the United States, and China – that have independently sent humans to space.The progress made in the Gaganyaan mission has been remarkable across multiple fronts. The Human Rated Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (HLVM3), which will carry Indian astronauts to space, has completed its development and ground testing phases. This powerful rocket has been specially modified to meet the stringent safety standards required for human spaceflight, with additional safety systems and redundancies built in to protect the crew.The Orbital Module, consisting of the Crew Module where astronauts will live and work, and the Service Module that provides power and propulsion, has seen significant advancement. The propulsion systems for both modules have been developed and thoroughly tested. The Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS), which will maintain breathable air, a comfortable temperature, and proper humidity inside the crew module, has been realised in its engineering model form. The ECLSS is essentially the life-giving system that will keep astronauts alive in the harsh environment of space by providing clean air to breathe, removing carbon dioxide, controlling temperature and humidity, and managing water supply. This complex system has been successfully tested and validated in laboratory conditions.Safety remains the top priority for the Gaganyaan mission, and the Crew Escape System (CES) exemplifies this commitment. Five different types of motors have been developed and static tested for this system, which can quickly pull the crew module away from the launch vehicle in case of any emergency during launch. The successful TV-D1 test flight earlier validated this critical safety system, and preparations are now underway for TV-D2, scheduled for the third quarter of 2025.Infrastructure development for Gaganyaan has been extensive. Specialised facilities, including the Orbital Module Preparation Facility, Gaganyaan Control Centre, crew training facility, and modifications to the second launch pad at Sriharikota have all been established. These facilities will support not only the upcoming test flights but also the operational phase of the mission when Indian astronauts finally journey to space.The mission timeline is taking shape with concrete dates. The second test vehicle mission (TV-D2) is planned for the third quarter of 2025, which will further validate the crew escape system. The first unmanned orbital flight under the Gaganyaan mission (G1) is targeted for the fourth quarter of 2025. This will be followed by two more unmanned orbital flights (G2 and G3) in 2026, each testing different aspects of the spacecraft and mission operations before the final crewed flight.Flight operations and communication networks have been carefully planned and established. The ground network configuration has been finalised, and the Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS-1) feeder stations along with terrestrial links are in place. This comprehensive communication network will ensure continuous contact with the spacecraft throughout the mission.Recovery operations after the mission are equally important. Recovery assets have been finalised and detailed recovery plans have been worked out. When Indian astronauts return from space, specialised teams will be ready to quickly locate and recover the crew module, whether it lands on land or water.The Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS) development has been completed, including extensive qualification testing. For the first uncrewed mission (G1), significant hardware realisation has been achieved. The C32-G stage and CES motors are ready, solid rocket boosters have been stacked, and both crew module and service module structures have been realised.The successful completion of IADT-01 brings India one step closer to its dream of independent human spaceflight. This test, combined with all the other technological achievements in the Gaganyaan programme, demonstrates India's growing capabilities in space technology.The recent achievements of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who became the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station in 41 years through the Axiom Mission 4, will prove invaluable to the Gaganyaan programme. Shukla spent about 18 days aboard the ISS conducting scientific experiments and gaining crucial experience in microgravity conditions. ISRO officials have emphasised that his experience in space and the knowledge gained during his mission will be extremely valuable for the Gaganyaan programme planned over the next two years.From the powerful HLVM3 rocket to the sophisticated life support systems, from advanced parachute systems tested at a few kilometers altitude to comprehensive mission control infrastructure, every component is being meticulously tested and validated. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla's pioneering journey to the International Space Station has provided invaluable real-world experience that will directly benefit India's own human spaceflight programme.The Gaganyaan mission represents more than just technological achievement – it embodies India's aspirations to be a leading space-faring nation. When Indian astronauts finally journey to space, they will carry with them the dreams and pride of 1.4 billion Indians. The success of IADT-01 and the steady progress across all mission components show that this dream is rapidly becoming reality. India's space program, which began with humble origins, is now preparing to achieve one of humanity's greatest adventures – sending people safely to space and bringing them home.

ISRO has successfully completed the first Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-01), a crucial test that demonstrates the parachute-based deceleration system that will safely bring Indian astronauts back to Earth.

Gaganyaan, meaning "sky craft" in Sanskrit, represents India's ambitious dream of sending Indian astronauts to space for the first time. This historic mission has taken another significant step forward with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully completing the first Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-01) on August 24, 2025. This crucial test involved an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter carrying a dummy crew capsule weighing approximately 5,000 kg to an altitude of a few kilometers before dropping it into the sea, demonstrating the parachute-based deceleration system that will safely bring Indian astronauts back to Earth. The IADT-01 test was not just ISRO's achievement alone. It showcased the true spirit of collaboration between India's premier institutions – the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Indian Air Force, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Indian Navy, and Indian Coast Guard all worked together to make this test successful. This joint effort highlights how different branches of India's defense and space sectors are united in making the Gaganyaan mission a reality. The parachute system tested in IADT-01 is critical for astronaut safety. When Indian astronauts return from their space journey, they will be travelling at extremely high speeds as they re-enter Earth's atmosphere. The parachute deceleration system must work flawlessly to slow down the crew module and ensure a safe landing. This test validated the entire end-to-end process, from the moment the parachutes deploy to the final touchdown, giving engineers confidence that the system will protect India's future space travellers. The Gaganyaan Programme, approved with a substantial budget of approximately ₹20,193 crore, represents India's first indigenous human spaceflight initiative. The mission aims to send Indian astronauts, called "Gaganyatris," to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), where they will spend several days conducting scientific experiments and demonstrating India's technological capabilities in human spaceflight. The four selected astronauts for this mission are Group Captain Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla, all highly experienced Indian Air Force test pilots. This achievement will place India among the elite group of nations – currently only Russia, the United States, and China – that have independently sent humans to space. The progress made in the Gaganyaan mission has been remarkable across multiple fronts. The Human Rated Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (HLVM3), which will carry Indian astronauts to space, has completed its development and ground testing phases. This powerful rocket has been specially modified to meet the stringent safety standards required for human spaceflight, with additional safety systems and redundancies built in to protect the crew. The Orbital Module, consisting of the Crew Module where astronauts will live and work, and the Service Module that provides power and propulsion, has seen significant advancement. The propulsion systems for both modules have been developed and thoroughly tested. The Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS), which will maintain breathable air, a comfortable temperature, and proper humidity inside the crew module, has been realised in its engineering model form. The ECLSS is essentially the life-giving system that will keep astronauts alive in the harsh environment of space by providing clean air to breathe, removing carbon dioxide, controlling temperature and humidity, and managing water supply. This complex system has been successfully tested and validated in laboratory conditions. Safety remains the top priority for the Gaganyaan mission, and the Crew Escape System (CES) exemplifies this commitment. Five different types of motors have been developed and static tested for this system, which can quickly pull the crew module away from the launch vehicle in case of any emergency during launch. The successful TV-D1 test flight earlier validated this critical safety system, and preparations are now underway for TV-D2, scheduled for the third quarter of 2025. Infrastructure development for Gaganyaan has been extensive. Specialised facilities, including the Orbital Module Preparation Facility, Gaganyaan Control Centre, crew training facility, and modifications to the second launch pad at Sriharikota have all been established. These facilities will support not only the upcoming test flights but also the operational phase of the mission when Indian astronauts finally journey to space. The mission timeline is taking shape with concrete dates. The second test vehicle mission (TV-D2) is planned for the third quarter of 2025, which will further validate the crew escape system. The first unmanned orbital flight under the Gaganyaan mission (G1) is targeted for the fourth quarter of 2025. This will be followed by two more unmanned orbital flights (G2 and G3) in 2026, each testing different aspects of the spacecraft and mission operations before the final crewed flight. Flight operations and communication networks have been carefully planned and established. The ground network configuration has been finalised, and the Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS-1) feeder stations along with terrestrial links are in place. This comprehensive communication network will ensure continuous contact with the spacecraft throughout the mission. Recovery operations after the mission are equally important. Recovery assets have been finalised and detailed recovery plans have been worked out. When Indian astronauts return from space, specialised teams will be ready to quickly locate and recover the crew module, whether it lands on land or water. The Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS) development has been completed, including extensive qualification testing. For the first uncrewed mission (G1), significant hardware realisation has been achieved. The C32-G stage and CES motors are ready, solid rocket boosters have been stacked, and both crew module and service module structures have been realised. The successful completion of IADT-01 brings India one step closer to its dream of independent human spaceflight. This test, combined with all the other technological achievements in the Gaganyaan programme, demonstrates India's growing capabilities in space technology. The recent achievements of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who became the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station in 41 years through the Axiom Mission 4, will prove invaluable to the Gaganyaan programme. Shukla spent about 18 days aboard the ISS conducting scientific experiments and gaining crucial experience in microgravity conditions. ISRO officials have emphasised that his experience in space and the knowledge gained during his mission will be extremely valuable for the Gaganyaan programme planned over the next two years. From the powerful HLVM3 rocket to the sophisticated life support systems, from advanced parachute systems tested at a few kilometers altitude to comprehensive mission control infrastructure, every component is being meticulously tested and validated. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla's pioneering journey to the International Space Station has provided invaluable real-world experience that will directly benefit India's own human spaceflight programme. The Gaganyaan mission represents more than just technological achievement – it embodies India's aspirations to be a leading space-faring nation. When Indian astronauts finally journey to space, they will carry with them the dreams and pride of 1.4 billion Indians. The success of IADT-01 and the steady progress across all mission components show that this dream is rapidly becoming reality. India's space program, which began with humble origins, is now preparing to achieve one of humanity's greatest adventures – sending people safely to space and bringing them home.

ISRO has successfully completed the first Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-01), a crucial test that demonstrates the parachute-based deceleration system that will safely bring Indian astronauts back to Earth.

India’s space dream soars: ISRO’s air drop test success marks Gaganyaan milestone

Elon Musk's SpaceX hit pause on its latest Starship test flight Sunday (Aug 24), scrubbing the much-hyped launch just minutes before liftoff, saying it had things to troubleshoot. The cancellation marked yet another setback for Elon Musk's giant rocket — the one he insists will one day carry people to the Moon and eventually Mars. The 403-foot behemoth was supposed to blast off from Starbase in Texas at 6:30 pm local time (2330 GMT) for its tenth test flight. Musk himself had teased the launch an hour earlier, posting "Starship 10 launching tonight" on X. But despite the rocket already being fuelled, SpaceX abruptly called it off just 15 minutes before launch.<h2>Why was the SpaceX launch cancelled?</h2>On X, the space company said, "Standing down from today's tenth flight of Starship to allow time to troubleshoot an issue with ground systems". However, it did not elaborate on what issue it needed to troubleshoot.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Standing down from today's tenth flight of Starship to allow time to troubleshoot an issue with ground systems— SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1959755893324865963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

For now, the cancelled launch could be rescheduled as early as Monday or Tuesday, according to local road closure notices near Starbase.&nbsp;<h2>SpaceX's string of failures grows</h2>The latest delay piles onto a string of high-profile failures. Starship's upper stage has exploded in all three of its test flights this year, with debris falling over Caribbean islands in two cases and one stage breaking apart after reaching space. Another blew up on the ground during a June static fire test. So far, the rocket hasn't managed to deliver a payload to orbit or return its upper stage intact.That's a problem, because Starship isn't just Musk's passion project — NASA is banking on a version of it to land astronauts on the Moon.<h2>Starship: Humanity's dream of reaching Mars</h2>US President Donald Trump's former DOGE chief Elon Musk, as per AFP, has pegged SpaceX's entire future to the entirely reusable rocket, planning to eventually phase out the workhorse Falcon rockets in favour of Starship.Despite the setbacks, SpaceX is sticking to its "fail fast, learn fast" approach, pushing ahead with test after test. The company has managed to successfully catch Starship's massive lower stage booster with "chopstick" launch tower arms three times.Still, critics are starting to wonder if Musk's most ambitious gamble is wobbling."I think there is a lot of pressure on this mission," space analyst Dallas Kasaboski told AFP. "We've had so many tests and it hasn't proven itself reliable -- the successes have not exceeded the failures." Others, like Will Lockett, a former engineer turned commentator, have gone further, questioning whether the whole Starship concept is "fundamentally flawed".

The 10th flight of Starship, Elon Musk's dream megarocket, which he claims would one day take humanity to Mars, was cancelled over the need to “troubleshoot” some issues. This follows a string of explosions and failures of the SpaceX rocket. All you need to know. 

Elon Musk's SpaceX hit pause on its latest Starship test flight Sunday (Aug 24), scrubbing the much-hyped launch just minutes before liftoff, saying it had things to troubleshoot. The cancellation marked yet another setback for Elon Musk's giant rocket — the one he insists will one day carry people to the Moon and eventually Mars. The 403-foot behemoth was supposed to blast off from Starbase in Texas at 6:30 pm local time (2330 GMT) for its tenth test flight. Musk himself had teased the launch an hour earlier, posting "Starship 10 launching tonight" on X. But despite the rocket already being fuelled, SpaceX abruptly called it off just 15 minutes before launch. Why was the SpaceX launch cancelled? On X, the space company said, "Standing down from today's tenth flight of Starship to allow time to troubleshoot an issue with ground systems". However, it did not elaborate on what issue it needed to troubleshoot.

The 10th flight of Starship, Elon Musk's dream megarocket, which he claims would one day take humanity to Mars, was cancelled over the need to “troubleshoot” some issues. This follows a string of explosions and failures of the SpaceX rocket. All you need to know.&nbsp;

Is Musk's dream rocket cursed? Space X scrubs megarocket Starship's 10th test amid string of explosions and failures

Scientists have warned that a mysterious space object the size of Manhattan is hurtling towards the Earth, and the danger it poses isn't what you're thinking. According to a new study, the space object may be an alien spacecraft that can attack our planet, possibly in November 2025. The object 3I/ATLAS (previously known as A11pl3Z), as per researchers, may be an alien technology that could launch a surprise attack on our planet. Behind the warning, as one of the authors is Avi Loeb, a prominent Harvard astrophysicist known for his contribution to the research on aliens, his contributions to the search for life "out there" and for his controversial conspiracy theories, including one that posed that the 2017 interstellar object ʻOumuamua might be an artificial probe created by an alien civilisation.<h2>Alien invasion imminent?</h2>As per the study, which is yet to be peer-reviewed, the object's orbit would make it easier for the object (if it is an intelligent alien craft) to approach Earth without being noticed. The team of scientists – Harvard researcher Avi Loeb, Adam Hibberd and Adam Crowl from the Initiative for Interstellar Studies in London – postulate that the object will get closest to the Sun in late November. They say that at its closest, the object would be hidden from Earth's view, which means that it could carry out a secret high-speed manoeuvre.The object was first spotted by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) survey telescope at Río Hurtado, Chile. At 10 to 20 kilometres wide, the object is moving towards our planet at the speed of over 60 kilometres per second.<h2>Can this actually happen?</h2>As per the study authors, the paper is clearly from a hypothetical point of view and not something they necessarily think would happen. They wrote, "This paper is contingent on a remarkable but, as we shall show, testable hypothesis, to which the authors do not necessarily ascribe, yet is certainly worthy of an analysis and a report." However, they also warn that if it were to come true, it would be dire. "The consequences, should the hypothesis turn out to be correct, could potentially be dire for humanity, and would possibly require defensive measures to be undertaken (though these might prove futile)."&nbsp;

The object known as 3I/ATLAS (previously known as A11pl3Z), as per scientists, may be an alien technology that could potentially launch a surprise attack on our planet. 

Scientists have warned that a mysterious space object the size of Manhattan is hurtling towards the Earth, and the danger it poses isn't what you're thinking. According to a new study, the space object may be an alien spacecraft that can attack our planet, possibly in November 2025. The object 3I/ATLAS (previously known as A11pl3Z), as per researchers, may be an alien technology that could launch a surprise attack on our planet. Behind the warning, as one of the authors is Avi Loeb, a prominent Harvard astrophysicist known for his contribution to the research on aliens, his contributions to the search for life "out there" and for his controversial conspiracy theories, including one that posed that the 2017 interstellar object ʻOumuamua might be an artificial probe created by an alien civilisation. Alien invasion imminent? As per the study, which is yet to be peer-reviewed, the object's orbit would make it easier for the object (if it is an intelligent alien craft) to approach Earth without being noticed. The team of scientists – Harvard researcher Avi Loeb, Adam Hibberd and Adam Crowl from the Initiative for Interstellar Studies in London – postulate that the object will get closest to the Sun in late November. They say that at its closest, the object would be hidden from Earth's view, which means that it could carry out a secret high-speed manoeuvre. The object was first spotted by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) survey telescope at Río Hurtado, Chile. At 10 to 20 kilometres wide, the object is moving towards our planet at the speed of over 60 kilometres per second. Can this actually happen? As per the study authors, the paper is clearly from a hypothetical point of view and not something they necessarily think would happen. They wrote, "This paper is contingent on a remarkable but, as we shall show, testable hypothesis, to which the authors do not necessarily ascribe, yet is certainly worthy of an analysis and a report." However, they also warn that if it were to come true, it would be dire. "The consequences, should the hypothesis turn out to be correct, could potentially be dire for humanity, and would possibly require defensive measures to be undertaken (though these might prove futile)."

The object known as 3I/ATLAS (previously known as A11pl3Z), as per scientists, may be alien technology and could potentially launch a surprise attack on our planet.&nbsp;

Alien attack in November? Harvard scientists warn mysterious object hurtling towards Earth

From black holes to dark matter and fast radio bursts, the universe is filled with mysterious objects scientists are still trying to understand. Explore the cosmic phenomenon and objects that defy explanation and could hold the secrets to the origin and fate of the universe.

Fast Radio Bursts, Oumuamua, Dark Matter:  Most mysterious objects in the universe that still baffle scientists

NASA's telescopes, particularly the Hubble Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope, have captured some stunning pictures of galaxies over the years. Here is a curated list of the most beautiful pictures ever captured by NASA.

Most beautiful Galaxies ever captured by NASA telescopes: See pics

A study on rattlesnakes has revealed that urbanisation and human activity are causing these reptiles to inbreed, threatening their existence. Scientists collected over 1,000 eastern massasauga rattlesnakes in Michigan over a period of 15 years. Analyses showed that the snakes were inbreeding, which was leading to problems in their reproduction. Experts say that rattlesnakes only leave their habitat to look for food or a mate. They are born in wetlands and always return to their original place. However, the findings published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science have found that human presence is not letting them reach other places to mate. This is causing them to mate within the group, leading to several issues. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com//science/burmese-python-swallows-a-whole-deer-shattering-beliefs-about-its-last-limits-770654">Burmese python swallows a whole deer shattering beliefs about its last limits</a>&nbsp;Discover Wildlife reported that the rattlesnakes are not travelling between habitats. Human-built infrastructure, like farmlands and roads, has cut through their ranges, and has barriers in their travel. Sarah Fitzpatrick, Michigan State University (MSU) professor and one of the senior authors on the study, said, “They’re very vulnerable to even minor disturbances to their habitat. &nbsp;“Even a single road can isolate populations.” To understand how the isolation was affecting the rattlesnakes, the MSU researchers studied 1,056 individuals collected from two counties in south-west Michigan - Cass and Barry. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/small-boy-bites-into-cobra-snake-and-kills-it-instantly-in-bihar-bettiah-village-1753524071501">Lethal nip: Child bites cobra snake, killing the reptile instantly in Bihar's Bettiah village</a>&nbsp;They extracted the DNA from their blood samples to see how closely any two rattlesnakes were related. They found that several of them were the result of inbreeding, and most such individuals were 13 per cent less likely to give birth to offspring that survived. Such snakes also had a nearly 12 per cent lower annual survival rate compared to healthy, less inbred snakes. “The fact that we’re detecting problems from inbreeding in these populations is concerning, given that many other populations throughout the Midwest are much smaller and even more fragmented," she said.&nbsp;Meaghan Clark, the study's lead author and a former MSU graduate student, says this is a grim scenario for the rattlesnakes, who are already a threatened species. The reptiles are unable to survive because of the inbreeding, and also face reproductive issues. "Inbreeding depression" has been on biologists' list, and they have long suspected that it takes place in the wild, but proving it in the elusive rattlesnakes is tough. &nbsp;

Massasauga rattlesnakes in Michigan were studied over a period of 15 years, and scientists were shocked by the results. The snakes are doing something that is hindering their growth and all because of humans

A study on rattlesnakes has revealed that urbanisation and human activity are causing these reptiles to inbreed, threatening their existence. Scientists collected over 1,000 eastern massasauga rattlesnakes in Michigan over a period of 15 years. Analyses showed that the snakes were inbreeding, which was leading to problems in their reproduction. Experts say that rattlesnakes only leave their habitat to look for food or a mate. They are born in wetlands and always return to their original place. However, the findings published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science have found that human presence is not letting them reach other places to mate. This is causing them to mate within the group, leading to several issues. Also Read: Burmese python swallows a whole deer shattering beliefs about its last limits Discover Wildlife reported that the rattlesnakes are not travelling between habitats. Human-built infrastructure, like farmlands and roads, has cut through their ranges, and has barriers in their travel. Sarah Fitzpatrick, Michigan State University (MSU) professor and one of the senior authors on the study, said, “They’re very vulnerable to even minor disturbances to their habitat. “Even a single road can isolate populations.” To understand how the isolation was affecting the rattlesnakes, the MSU researchers studied 1,056 individuals collected from two counties in south-west Michigan - Cass and Barry. Also Read: Lethal nip: Child bites cobra snake, killing the reptile instantly in Bihar's Bettiah village They extracted the DNA from their blood samples to see how closely any two rattlesnakes were related. They found that several of them were the result of inbreeding, and most such individuals were 13 per cent less likely to give birth to offspring that survived. Such snakes also had a nearly 12 per cent lower annual survival rate compared to healthy, less inbred snakes. “The fact that we’re detecting problems from inbreeding in these populations is concerning, given that many other populations throughout the Midwest are much smaller and even more fragmented," she said. Meaghan Clark, the study's lead author and a former MSU graduate student, says this is a grim scenario for the rattlesnakes, who are already a threatened species. The reptiles are unable to survive because of the inbreeding, and also face reproductive issues. "Inbreeding depression" has been on biologists' list, and they have long suspected that it takes place in the wild, but proving it in the elusive rattlesnakes is tough.

Massasauga rattlesnakes in Michigan were studied over a period of 15 years, and scientists were shocked by the results. The snakes are doing something that is hindering their growth and all because of humans

Study of over 1,000 rattlesnakes throws shocking results as human-linked fears are confirmed

National Space Day: India has achieved several milestones in space ever since the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) was established in 1962. Here are some of the notable missions by the Indian space agency.

National Space Day: Notable achievements of Indian Space Research Organisation

Our solar system was likely once home to life besides the one it hosts on Earth. NASA scientists have found evidence that the dwarf planet Ceres was once home to microbial life. The icy body is believed to be harbouring saltwater lakes and organic carbon molecules under its surface, as shown by previous research. Today, it lacks any nutrients that microbes can utilise for food. But around 2.5 and four billion years ago, radioactivity likely created warm water conditions, or a "buffet," on Ceres that were fit for microbes to thrive. This is the same as on Earth, where the oceans once held much higher concentrations of radioactive isotopes, enabling widespread radiolysis-driven chemistry. The buffet for microbes refers to the presence of Hydrogen, oxidants, organic precursors and stable chemical gradients. These ingredients can support certain metabolic processes in the absence of sunlight. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/stargazing-guide-once-in-multiple-lifetimes-comet-lemmon-is-hurtling-towards-earth-here-s-when-you-can-see-it-1755846815603">Once-in-MULTIPLE-lifetimes comet is hurtling towards Earth. Here's when you can see it</a>&nbsp;Ceres lies between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter, and is barren. NASA's Dawn mission discovered in 2018 that something seemed to be reflecting light off its surface. This was found to be salt that was left behind by the liquid that oozed out of its surface. This was a lightbulb moment as the presence of salt means a saltwater source was present somewhere on the dwarf planet. Ceres is hiding vast reservoirs of brine that are minus 63°C today, too cold to support any form of life. But, NASA simulations show that 500 million to two billion years after Ceres formed, radioactive minerals began to decay inside its rocky interior, which would have produced a steady supply of hot water. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/6-word-message-humans-should-send-interstellar-mothership-as-per-harvard-scientist-1755588175737">A message in Morse: Humans should reach out to interstellar 'mothership', scientist says</a>&nbsp;<h2>Hot water vents trigger life in oceans</h2>The temperatures of the water near the core would have exceeded 270°C, NASA said, which then moved upwards where it mixed with the cold water, creating a stream comprising dissolved minerals and gases. These are known as hot water vents and help microbes and other life forms sustain and thrive on Earth deep inside oceans. If it all transpired in the same way on Ceres as shown by the simulation, then it would have given birth to a type of microbe known as a chemotroph. It is energised by chemical reactions and was capable of surviving on this hot water.&nbsp;Lead researcher of the study, Sam Courville, a PhD candidate at Arizona State University, said, "On Earth, when hot water from deep underground mixes with the ocean, the result is often a buffet for microbes — a feast of chemical energy." He added that determining "whether Ceres’ ocean had an influx of hydrothermal fluid in the past" could have great implications. This discovery shows that is Ceres was capable of triggering life on its own, there could be other planets in the universe capable of a similar feat.&nbsp;

Ceres is the dwarf planet that orbits between Mars and Jupiter and is icy cold today. But 500 million to two billion years after it was born, conditions were ripe for life forms to thrive on Ceres. No sunlight was involved in the process.

Our solar system was likely once home to life besides the one it hosts on Earth. NASA scientists have found evidence that the dwarf planet Ceres was once home to microbial life. The icy body is believed to be harbouring saltwater lakes and organic carbon molecules under its surface, as shown by previous research. Today, it lacks any nutrients that microbes can utilise for food. But around 2.5 and four billion years ago, radioactivity likely created warm water conditions, or a "buffet," on Ceres that were fit for microbes to thrive. This is the same as on Earth, where the oceans once held much higher concentrations of radioactive isotopes, enabling widespread radiolysis-driven chemistry. The buffet for microbes refers to the presence of Hydrogen, oxidants, organic precursors and stable chemical gradients. These ingredients can support certain metabolic processes in the absence of sunlight. Also Read: Once-in-MULTIPLE-lifetimes comet is hurtling towards Earth. Here's when you can see it Ceres lies between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter, and is barren. NASA's Dawn mission discovered in 2018 that something seemed to be reflecting light off its surface. This was found to be salt that was left behind by the liquid that oozed out of its surface. This was a lightbulb moment as the presence of salt means a saltwater source was present somewhere on the dwarf planet. Ceres is hiding vast reservoirs of brine that are minus 63°C today, too cold to support any form of life. But, NASA simulations show that 500 million to two billion years after Ceres formed, radioactive minerals began to decay inside its rocky interior, which would have produced a steady supply of hot water. Also Read: A message in Morse: Humans should reach out to interstellar 'mothership', scientist says Hot water vents trigger life in oceans The temperatures of the water near the core would have exceeded 270°C, NASA said, which then moved upwards where it mixed with the cold water, creating a stream comprising dissolved minerals and gases. These are known as hot water vents and help microbes and other life forms sustain and thrive on Earth deep inside oceans. If it all transpired in the same way on Ceres as shown by the simulation, then it would have given birth to a type of microbe known as a chemotroph. It is energised by chemical reactions and was capable of surviving on this hot water. Lead researcher of the study, Sam Courville, a PhD candidate at Arizona State University, said, "On Earth, when hot water from deep underground mixes with the ocean, the result is often a buffet for microbes — a feast of chemical energy." He added that determining "whether Ceres’ ocean had an influx of hydrothermal fluid in the past" could have great implications. This discovery shows that is Ceres was capable of triggering life on its own, there could be other planets in the universe capable of a similar feat.

Ceres is the dwarf planet that orbits between Mars and Jupiter and is icy cold today. But 500 million to two billion years after it was born, conditions were ripe for life forms to thrive on Ceres. No sunlight was involved in the process.

Move aside Mars, Ceres was once hot and alive, and hosted life in our solar system

<h2>A Day Born from Historic Achievement</h2>On August 23, 2025, India celebrates its second National Space Day with unprecedented enthusiasm and national pride. This special day, established to commemorate one of India's greatest technological achievements, carries deep significance that extends far beyond the realm of space exploration.The story begins on August 23, 2023, when India scripted history at the Moon's South Pole. On this remarkable day, the Vikram Lander of the Chandrayaan-3 mission achieved a safe and soft landing at what is now called 'Shiv Shakti Point,' while the Pragyan Rover rolled onto the lunar surface. With this singular achievement, India became the fourth country to successfully land on the Moon and the first to conquer the challenging terrain near the Moon's South Pole.Recognising the monumental significance of this achievement, the Government of India declared August 23 as National Space Day, creating an annual celebration that honours India's space accomplishments while inspiring future generations to reach for the stars.<h2>The 2025 Theme: A Bridge Through Time</h2>This year's theme, "Bridging the Past and Future: Honoring Traditional Astronomy and Showcasing Modern Space Achievements," perfectly captures the essence of India's space journey. The theme acknowledges that India's fascination with celestial bodies is not new—it dates back thousands of years to ancient astronomers like Aryabhata, Brahmagupta, and Bhaskara, who made groundbreaking contributions to understanding the cosmos.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-left-my-laptop-mid-air-assuming-it-will-float-shubhanshu-shukla-on-relearning-the-effect-of-gravity-1755779392691">'Left my laptop mid-air assuming it would float': Shubhanshu Shukla</a>Today, this ancient wisdom merges seamlessly with cutting-edge technology as ISRO continues to push boundaries in space exploration. The 2025 celebrations will highlight this beautiful continuity, showing how traditional astronomical knowledge laid the foundation for modern achievements like Chandrayaan-3, Mangalyaan, and the upcoming Gaganyaan mission.<h2>Students at the Heart of Celebration</h2>National Space Day 2025 places students firmly at the center of all activities. The day is designed to spark curiosity and inspire young minds through science fairs, planetarium shows, competitions, and interactive sessions with ISRO scientists. These activities aim to transform space science from a distant dream into an achievable career path for India's youth.The celebrations will demonstrate how space technology directly benefits ordinary people through initiatives like SVAMITVA land-mapping using satellite images, disaster warning systems, real-time weather forecasts, telecommunication services in remote villages, and precision farming techniques that support agricultural development and rural prosperity.<h2>From Fishing Village to Lunar Success: The ISRO Story</h2>The foundation of India's space achievements was laid in 1962 when scientist Vikram Sarabhai chose Thumba, a humble fishing village near Thiruvananthapuram, to build India's first rocket station. This strategic location near the geomagnetic equator proved perfect for launching rockets. From that modest beginning, ISRO has evolved into one of the world's most respected space agencies, completing 100 successful launches and earning global recognition for achieving remarkable results with limited resources.What makes ISRO's journey truly extraordinary is how space technology has quietly integrated into daily Indian life. Every phone call, weather forecast, GPS navigation, and disaster warning system relies on ISRO's satellites working tirelessly 36,000 kilometres above Earth. The INSAT communication satellites ensure connectivity across the vast Indian subcontinent, while NavIC—India's indigenous GPS system—helps everything from food delivery to precision agriculture.<h2>The Chandrayaan-3 Triumph</h2>The Chandrayaan-3 mission stands as a testament to ISRO's ability to learn from setbacks and achieve excellence. Following the lessons learned from Chandrayaan-2, this mission successfully demonstrated India's capability to safely land and operate a rover on the lunar surface. Launched by the LVM3 rocket from Sriharikota, the spacecraft carried the Lander and Rover to a 100-kilometer lunar orbit via a propulsion module, which also housed the SHAPE (Spectro-polarimetry of Habitable Planet Earth) instrument for studying Earth's characteristics from lunar orbit.The success of Chandrayaan-3 proved that smart engineering, careful planning, and determination could overcome any challenge. It showed the world that India's space program had matured into a reliable, cost-effective, and technically sophisticated operation capable of the most complex missions.<h2>Vision for the Future: Bold Space Goals</h2>During a recent meeting with astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, who became the first Indian to visit the International Space Station on the Axiom-4 mission, Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined ambitious goals for India's space program. The Prime Minister emphasised the need to train and prepare 40-50 astronauts for future space missions, recognising that India's space ambitions require a substantial human spaceflight capability.Shukla's 20-day space journey and his experiences living on the ISS have provided invaluable insights for India's upcoming missions. ISRO chief V. Narayanan confirmed that the mission was a "100% success," generating nearly 12,000 pages of detailed records that will prove extremely valuable for the Gaganyaan mission planned for mid-2027.The roadmap ahead is clear and ambitious: India plans its first human spaceflight in 2027, aims to establish a space station by 2035, and intends to send an Indian astronaut to the Moon by 2040. These goals reflect not just technological ambition but a commitment to establishing India as a leading spacefaring nation.<h2>Space Technology for the Common Good</h2>National Space Day 2025 will showcase how space technology serves humanity. ISRO's satellites provide early warnings for cyclones, preventing disasters like the 2004 tsunami that cost thousands of lives due to lack of timely alerts. Today, these satellites maintain 24/7 vigilance over India's coasts and weather patterns.The cost-effectiveness of India's space program has made it globally competitive. The Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) reached Mars for just ₹450 crores—less than the budget of many commercial films—proving that excellence doesn't require excessive expenditure. This approach has made ISRO a preferred launch partner for many countries, earning foreign exchange while demonstrating that space technology can be accessible and affordable.<h2>Learning from Challenges</h2>ISRO's journey includes both triumphs and setbacks. Early GSLV rocket failures, the heartbreak of Chandrayaan-2's lander crash, and recent mission challenges have all contributed to the organization's growth. Each failure provided valuable lessons that strengthened subsequent missions. The successful Chandrayaan-3 landing exemplified how ISRO transforms setbacks into stepping stones for greater achievements.<h2>Human Stories Behind the Success</h2>Behind every ISRO mission are ordinary Indians achieving extraordinary results. Scientists like Ritu Karidhal, who helped guide Mangalyaan to Mars, and M. Vanitha, who led Chandrayaan-2, represent the talent and dedication that drives India's space program. The recent SpaDeX mission, featuring the complex orbital docking of two Indian satellites, was achieved by engineers who grew up in regular Indian families, studied in Indian institutions, and nurtured dreams of touching the sky.<h2>Inspiring Future Generations</h2>The true measure of ISRO's success lies not just in missions completed but in dreams planted in young minds across the country. When children in remote villages look up at the night sky and imagine building rockets, when girls from small towns decide to become space scientists, ISRO's mission reaches its highest fulfilment.National Space Day 2025 will celebrate these dreams while showcasing the practical benefits of space exploration. The Ministries of Science &amp; Technology and Culture are collaborating to create exhibits, educational content, and outreach programs that blend traditional astronomical wisdom with modern innovations, ensuring that India's space heritage continues to inspire future generations.<h2>A Shared Victory for Humanity</h2>As astronaut Prashant Balakrishnan Nair, who trained as backup for the ISS mission, eloquently stated, space achievements belong to all humanity. Referring to the concept of "one single consciousness," he emphasized that while individual astronauts undertake the physical journey, their accomplishments represent shared victories for all Indians and humanity as a whole.Shubhanshu Shukla's experience reinforced this perspective. Looking down at Earth from space, he observed the unity of our planet—India appeared beautiful, but national borders disappeared, leaving him with a profound sense of Earth's oneness and humanity's shared destiny.<h2>Looking to the Stars and Beyond</h2>As India prepares for its biggest space challenge yet—sending humans into space through the Gaganyaan mission—National Space Day 2025 carries the hopes and dreams of 1.4 billion Indians. From a fishing village in Kerala to the south pole of the Moon, ISRO has demonstrated that with determination, innovation, and intelligent planning, India can achieve any goal it sets.The theme "Bridging the Past and Future" perfectly encapsulates this journey. Ancient Indian astronomers mapped the heavens with remarkable precision, laying the intellectual foundation for today's space missions. Modern ISRO scientists continue this tradition, using advanced technology to explore new frontiers while remaining connected to the wisdom of their predecessors.National Space Day 2025 will be more than a celebration—it will be a declaration that the stars are no longer the limit but merely the beginning of India's cosmic journey. As students participate in science fairs, interact with scientists, and dream of their own space missions, they carry forward a legacy that spans millennia, bridging ancient astronomical wisdom with tomorrow's space achievements.The fishing village of Thumba may have provided ISRO's humble beginnings, but the destination has always been the infinite expanse of space, where Indian ingenuity continues to shine as brightly as the stars themselves.

Celebrating India's journey from ancient astronomy to lunar triumph

A Day Born from Historic Achievement On August 23, 2025, India celebrates its second National Space Day with unprecedented enthusiasm and national pride. This special day, established to commemorate one of India's greatest technological achievements, carries deep significance that extends far beyond the realm of space exploration. The story begins on August 23, 2023, when India scripted history at the Moon's South Pole. On this remarkable day, the Vikram Lander of the Chandrayaan-3 mission achieved a safe and soft landing at what is now called 'Shiv Shakti Point,' while the Pragyan Rover rolled onto the lunar surface. With this singular achievement, India became the fourth country to successfully land on the Moon and the first to conquer the challenging terrain near the Moon's South Pole. Recognising the monumental significance of this achievement, the Government of India declared August 23 as National Space Day, creating an annual celebration that honours India's space accomplishments while inspiring future generations to reach for the stars. The 2025 Theme: A Bridge Through Time This year's theme, "Bridging the Past and Future: Honoring Traditional Astronomy and Showcasing Modern Space Achievements," perfectly captures the essence of India's space journey. The theme acknowledges that India's fascination with celestial bodies is not new—it dates back thousands of years to ancient astronomers like Aryabhata, Brahmagupta, and Bhaskara, who made groundbreaking contributions to understanding the cosmos. Also read | 'Left my laptop mid-air assuming it would float': Shubhanshu Shukla Today, this ancient wisdom merges seamlessly with cutting-edge technology as ISRO continues to push boundaries in space exploration. The 2025 celebrations will highlight this beautiful continuity, showing how traditional astronomical knowledge laid the foundation for modern achievements like Chandrayaan-3, Mangalyaan, and the upcoming Gaganyaan mission. Students at the Heart of Celebration National Space Day 2025 places students firmly at the center of all activities. The day is designed to spark curiosity and inspire young minds through science fairs, planetarium shows, competitions, and interactive sessions with ISRO scientists. These activities aim to transform space science from a distant dream into an achievable career path for India's youth. The celebrations will demonstrate how space technology directly benefits ordinary people through initiatives like SVAMITVA land-mapping using satellite images, disaster warning systems, real-time weather forecasts, telecommunication services in remote villages, and precision farming techniques that support agricultural development and rural prosperity. From Fishing Village to Lunar Success: The ISRO Story The foundation of India's space achievements was laid in 1962 when scientist Vikram Sarabhai chose Thumba, a humble fishing village near Thiruvananthapuram, to build India's first rocket station. This strategic location near the geomagnetic equator proved perfect for launching rockets. From that modest beginning, ISRO has evolved into one of the world's most respected space agencies, completing 100 successful launches and earning global recognition for achieving remarkable results with limited resources. What makes ISRO's journey truly extraordinary is how space technology has quietly integrated into daily Indian life. Every phone call, weather forecast, GPS navigation, and disaster warning system relies on ISRO's satellites working tirelessly 36,000 kilometres above Earth. The INSAT communication satellites ensure connectivity across the vast Indian subcontinent, while NavIC—India's indigenous GPS system—helps everything from food delivery to precision agriculture. The Chandrayaan-3 Triumph The Chandrayaan-3 mission stands as a testament to ISRO's ability to learn from setbacks and achieve excellence. Following the lessons learned from Chandrayaan-2, this mission successfully demonstrated India's capability to safely land and operate a rover on the lunar surface. Launched by the LVM3 rocket from Sriharikota, the spacecraft carried the Lander and Rover to a 100-kilometer lunar orbit via a propulsion module, which also housed the SHAPE (Spectro-polarimetry of Habitable Planet Earth) instrument for studying Earth's characteristics from lunar orbit. The success of Chandrayaan-3 proved that smart engineering, careful planning, and determination could overcome any challenge. It showed the world that India's space program had matured into a reliable, cost-effective, and technically sophisticated operation capable of the most complex missions. Vision for the Future: Bold Space Goals During a recent meeting with astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, who became the first Indian to visit the International Space Station on the Axiom-4 mission, Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined ambitious goals for India's space program. The Prime Minister emphasised the need to train and prepare 40-50 astronauts for future space missions, recognising that India's space ambitions require a substantial human spaceflight capability. Shukla's 20-day space journey and his experiences living on the ISS have provided invaluable insights for India's upcoming missions. ISRO chief V. Narayanan confirmed that the mission was a "100% success," generating nearly 12,000 pages of detailed records that will prove extremely valuable for the Gaganyaan mission planned for mid-2027. The roadmap ahead is clear and ambitious: India plans its first human spaceflight in 2027, aims to establish a space station by 2035, and intends to send an Indian astronaut to the Moon by 2040. These goals reflect not just technological ambition but a commitment to establishing India as a leading spacefaring nation. Space Technology for the Common Good National Space Day 2025 will showcase how space technology serves humanity. ISRO's satellites provide early warnings for cyclones, preventing disasters like the 2004 tsunami that cost thousands of lives due to lack of timely alerts. Today, these satellites maintain 24/7 vigilance over India's coasts and weather patterns. The cost-effectiveness of India's space program has made it globally competitive. The Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) reached Mars for just ₹450 crores—less than the budget of many commercial films—proving that excellence doesn't require excessive expenditure. This approach has made ISRO a preferred launch partner for many countries, earning foreign exchange while demonstrating that space technology can be accessible and affordable. Learning from Challenges ISRO's journey includes both triumphs and setbacks. Early GSLV rocket failures, the heartbreak of Chandrayaan-2's lander crash, and recent mission challenges have all contributed to the organization's growth. Each failure provided valuable lessons that strengthened subsequent missions. The successful Chandrayaan-3 landing exemplified how ISRO transforms setbacks into stepping stones for greater achievements. Human Stories Behind the Success Behind every ISRO mission are ordinary Indians achieving extraordinary results. Scientists like Ritu Karidhal, who helped guide Mangalyaan to Mars, and M. Vanitha, who led Chandrayaan-2, represent the talent and dedication that drives India's space program. The recent SpaDeX mission, featuring the complex orbital docking of two Indian satellites, was achieved by engineers who grew up in regular Indian families, studied in Indian institutions, and nurtured dreams of touching the sky. Inspiring Future Generations The true measure of ISRO's success lies not just in missions completed but in dreams planted in young minds across the country. When children in remote villages look up at the night sky and imagine building rockets, when girls from small towns decide to become space scientists, ISRO's mission reaches its highest fulfilment. National Space Day 2025 will celebrate these dreams while showcasing the practical benefits of space exploration. The Ministries of Science & Technology and Culture are collaborating to create exhibits, educational content, and outreach programs that blend traditional astronomical wisdom with modern innovations, ensuring that India's space heritage continues to inspire future generations. A Shared Victory for Humanity As astronaut Prashant Balakrishnan Nair, who trained as backup for the ISS mission, eloquently stated, space achievements belong to all humanity. Referring to the concept of "one single consciousness," he emphasized that while individual astronauts undertake the physical journey, their accomplishments represent shared victories for all Indians and humanity as a whole. Shubhanshu Shukla's experience reinforced this perspective. Looking down at Earth from space, he observed the unity of our planet—India appeared beautiful, but national borders disappeared, leaving him with a profound sense of Earth's oneness and humanity's shared destiny. Looking to the Stars and Beyond As India prepares for its biggest space challenge yet—sending humans into space through the Gaganyaan mission—National Space Day 2025 carries the hopes and dreams of 1.4 billion Indians. From a fishing village in Kerala to the south pole of the Moon, ISRO has demonstrated that with determination, innovation, and intelligent planning, India can achieve any goal it sets. The theme "Bridging the Past and Future" perfectly encapsulates this journey. Ancient Indian astronomers mapped the heavens with remarkable precision, laying the intellectual foundation for today's space missions. Modern ISRO scientists continue this tradition, using advanced technology to explore new frontiers while remaining connected to the wisdom of their predecessors. National Space Day 2025 will be more than a celebration—it will be a declaration that the stars are no longer the limit but merely the beginning of India's cosmic journey. As students participate in science fairs, interact with scientists, and dream of their own space missions, they carry forward a legacy that spans millennia, bridging ancient astronomical wisdom with tomorrow's space achievements. The fishing village of Thumba may have provided ISRO's humble beginnings, but the destination has always been the infinite expanse of space, where Indian ingenuity continues to shine as brightly as the stars themselves.

Celebrating India's journey from ancient astronomy to lunar triumph

When dreams touch the sky: National Space Day 2025 and India's unstoppable space spirit

Archaeologists in Ethiopia have discovered proof of a new branch of humanity that was previously unknown. Fossilised teeth recovered from the Ledi-Geraru archaeological site in the Afar Region are believed to be 2.8 to 2.6 million years old. The same place had earlier revealed the oldest known human jawbone. A total of 13 teeth were found belonging to at least two early hominin lineages - Australopithecus and the genus Homo, including modern humans (Homo sapiens). The teeth in the first group are different from the known genus, which suggests that there was a new species which scientists don't know about. The researchers wrote in the study published in Nature, "These specimens suggest that Australopithecus and early Homo existed as two non-robust lineages in the Afar Region before 2.5 million years ago." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientist-finds-earliest-evidence-that-rig-veda-verses-influenced-civilisations-outside-india-1755591662063">Scientist finds earliest evidence that Rig Veda verses influenced civilisations outside India</a>&nbsp;According to the study, between three million and 2.5 million years ago, eastern Africa was home to at least four different hominin lineages - early Homo, A. garhi, the newly identified Australopithecus found in Ledi-Geraru, and Paranthropus. The discovery of this unknown and unnamed species of humans changes the assumption about evolution being linear. Earlier, man was believed to have evolved from an ape to a human in a straight manner. However, now scientists say that evolution likely has several branches, and most of them went extinct. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-stumble-upon-a-20-7-feet-long-anaconda-on-tv-show-could-24-foot-creatures-be-next-1755517634345">Scientists stumble upon a 20.7 feet green anaconda on TV show. Could 24 foot creatures be next?</a>&nbsp;<h2>How did different human species live together?</h2>The teeth are covered by volcanic ash layers, and analysing them showed the ages of the teeth found. Ten teeth belong to Australopithecus and are about 2.63 million years old, two of Homo’s teeth are about 2.59 million years old, and another is about 2.78 million years old. The discovery of a mix of teeth fossils belonging to different species poses the question of how these groups co-existed. Typically, chimpanzees and gorillas live in different areas. To understand whether the species peacefully co-existed or fought for resources, the researchers plan on studying the enamel. This would reveal what the groups ate, and whether they were fighting for the same things or living in separate ecological environments. &nbsp;

Ethiopian archaeologists have discovered a new species of hominins that lived alongside early Homo ancestors. Fossilised teeth believed to be 2.8 to 2.6 million years old show that two groups existed side by side.

Archaeologists in Ethiopia have discovered proof of a new branch of humanity that was previously unknown. Fossilised teeth recovered from the Ledi-Geraru archaeological site in the Afar Region are believed to be 2.8 to 2.6 million years old. The same place had earlier revealed the oldest known human jawbone. A total of 13 teeth were found belonging to at least two early hominin lineages - Australopithecus and the genus Homo, including modern humans (Homo sapiens). The teeth in the first group are different from the known genus, which suggests that there was a new species which scientists don't know about. The researchers wrote in the study published in Nature, "These specimens suggest that Australopithecus and early Homo existed as two non-robust lineages in the Afar Region before 2.5 million years ago." Also Read: Scientist finds earliest evidence that Rig Veda verses influenced civilisations outside India According to the study, between three million and 2.5 million years ago, eastern Africa was home to at least four different hominin lineages - early Homo, A. garhi, the newly identified Australopithecus found in Ledi-Geraru, and Paranthropus. The discovery of this unknown and unnamed species of humans changes the assumption about evolution being linear. Earlier, man was believed to have evolved from an ape to a human in a straight manner. However, now scientists say that evolution likely has several branches, and most of them went extinct. Also Read: Scientists stumble upon a 20.7 feet green anaconda on TV show. Could 24 foot creatures be next? How did different human species live together? The teeth are covered by volcanic ash layers, and analysing them showed the ages of the teeth found. Ten teeth belong to Australopithecus and are about 2.63 million years old, two of Homo’s teeth are about 2.59 million years old, and another is about 2.78 million years old. The discovery of a mix of teeth fossils belonging to different species poses the question of how these groups co-existed. Typically, chimpanzees and gorillas live in different areas. To understand whether the species peacefully co-existed or fought for resources, the researchers plan on studying the enamel. This would reveal what the groups ate, and whether they were fighting for the same things or living in separate ecological environments.

Ethiopian archaeologists have discovered a new species of hominins that lived alongside early Homo ancestors. Fossilised teeth believed to be 2.8 to 2.6 million years old show that two groups existed side by side.

2.8-million-year-old teeth reveal a new branch of humanity in Ethiopia

In Europe, a phrase was prominent in the market when Hop Shoots touched the price of 1 lakh per kilo, as costly as gold. When it comes to expensive foods, Hop Shoots are in the league of white truffles, saffron, Kobe beef, beluga caviar, Matsutake Mushrooms and Kopi Luwak coffee. These young and tender spring vegetables are the most expensive in the world, priced at Rs 85,000- Rs 1,00,000 per kilo; it is a gourmet delight.&nbsp;<h2>What are Hop Shoots?</h2>Hop Shoots are the young and tender tips of Humulus lupulus, commonly known as the Hop plant. Hops are widely cultivated for making beer, while the shoots themselves are incredibly rare and tricky to harvest. Their scarcity is multiplied by the scarcity and labour required to farm them. They appear only in early spring and grow wildly, making it extremely hard for a farmer to gather even a small bundle.&nbsp;<h2>Why are hop shoots so costly?&nbsp;</h2>Hop Shoots are prized by top chefs and restaurants across Europe due to their unique, slightly bitter, asparagus-like taste. They are often used in gourmet salads, soups, risottos and pickles. These vegetables elevate any dish in a fine dining hall to a luxurious level. &nbsp;Apart from the taste, they are known for their nutritional benefits. Hop Shoots are usually rich in antioxidants, antibacterial, and even anti-cancer. Studies suggest they boost immunity and support overall health, making them a powerhouse of wellness.&nbsp;At approximately 85,000 per kilo, Hop Shoots are a symbol of luxury, rarity and exclusivity of taste. In 2021, a farmer in Bihar gained headlines by cultivating Hop Shoots. Hop shoots farming in India is gaining traction, although it's a relatively new endeavour.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Discover the world's costliest vegetable, Hop Shoots and find out what makes it costly and why it is favoured by top chefs across continents. 

In Europe, a phrase was prominent in the market when Hop Shoots touched the price of 1 lakh per kilo, as costly as gold. When it comes to expensive foods, Hop Shoots are in the league of white truffles, saffron, Kobe beef, beluga caviar, Matsutake Mushrooms and Kopi Luwak coffee. These young and tender spring vegetables are the most expensive in the world, priced at Rs 85,000- Rs 1,00,000 per kilo; it is a gourmet delight. What are Hop Shoots? Hop Shoots are the young and tender tips of Humulus lupulus, commonly known as the Hop plant. Hops are widely cultivated for making beer, while the shoots themselves are incredibly rare and tricky to harvest. Their scarcity is multiplied by the scarcity and labour required to farm them. They appear only in early spring and grow wildly, making it extremely hard for a farmer to gather even a small bundle. Why are hop shoots so costly? Hop Shoots are prized by top chefs and restaurants across Europe due to their unique, slightly bitter, asparagus-like taste. They are often used in gourmet salads, soups, risottos and pickles. These vegetables elevate any dish in a fine dining hall to a luxurious level. Apart from the taste, they are known for their nutritional benefits. Hop Shoots are usually rich in antioxidants, antibacterial, and even anti-cancer. Studies suggest they boost immunity and support overall health, making them a powerhouse of wellness. At approximately 85,000 per kilo, Hop Shoots are a symbol of luxury, rarity and exclusivity of taste. In 2021, a farmer in Bihar gained headlines by cultivating Hop Shoots. Hop shoots farming in India is gaining traction, although it's a relatively new endeavour.

Discover the world's costliest vegetable, Hop Shoots and find out what makes it costly and why it is favoured by top chefs across continents.&nbsp;

Hop shoots- The luxury vegetable so pricy its compared to gold, why is it so rare?

A comet is fast approaching Earth and can easily be termed not "once-in-a-lifetime", but once in "multiple" lifetimes. Its last visit to Earth was in the year 629, which makes it a must-watch for stargazing enthusiasts. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-comets-are-racing-towards-earth-when-to-see-them-perihelion-distance-and-other-details-1755841480222">Comet C/2025 A6 (Lemmon)</a> is an iconic comet of sorts since it pays us a rare visit. It was discovered by scientists using the telescope at Mt. Lemmon, Arizona, on January 3, 2025. Since then, multiple observations have been made to study its point of origin, components and trajectory. Scientists have determined that it is not a new comet and has been to the solar system before. Its orbit shows that it orbits the sun in 1,396 years, which means its previous trip to our system and near Earth was in the year 629. Stargazing enthusiasts would not want to miss it since its next visit will happen in the year 3421.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/6-word-message-humans-should-send-interstellar-mothership-as-per-harvard-scientist-1755588175737">A message in Morse: Humans should reach out to interstellar 'mothership', scientist says</a><h2>When will Comet Lemmon reach Earth?</h2>Comet C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) is currently in the constellation of Gemini, around 346,951,344.8 kilometres from Earth. It is racing towards the inner solar system and will reach perihelion, or closest point to the Sun, on November 8, 2025. But before that, it will pass by our planet on October 21. The best way to view it would be from a place where there is the least light pollution. The good news is that it is brightening as it approaches us. Also, it is in the sunset sky, which will make spotting it easier. Astronomers observing the comet have reported that it has brightened quickly over the last month, having moved rapidly to magnitude 11 from 16.5. A lower score denotes that the comet is getting brighter. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientist-claims-mystery-interstellar-object-is-here-to-test-human-intelligence-and-we-have-already-failed-here-s-why-1755585246596">Scientist claims mystery interstellar object is here to test human intelligence, and we have already failed. Here's why</a><h2>How bright will Comet Lemmon be, and how to see it?</h2>Assuming that Comet Lemmon will continue with the pattern, it might reach a magnitude of 4 or 5 by the time it comes near Earth, according to Japanese comet expert Seiichi Yoshida. At this scale, people in the darker areas might not even be able to see it with the naked eye. However, comets can quickly change how they present, with explosions sometimes occurring on them. Remember the devil comet? Researchers will continue to keep a watch on the comet to see how it behaves in the coming weeks. If it even reaches a magnitude 7.5, a small telescope might be all you need to see the wandering visitor.

Stargazing guide: Comet Lemmon is back after 1,396 years. Astronomy enthusiasts will have the opportunity to see a comet that last visited us in the year 629. Comet C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) will next visit Earth in the year 3421. Comet Lemmon: closest point to Earth, date, how to see it and other details

A comet is fast approaching Earth and can easily be termed not "once-in-a-lifetime", but once in "multiple" lifetimes. Its last visit to Earth was in the year 629, which makes it a must-watch for stargazing enthusiasts. Comet C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) is an iconic comet of sorts since it pays us a rare visit. It was discovered by scientists using the telescope at Mt. Lemmon, Arizona, on January 3, 2025. Since then, multiple observations have been made to study its point of origin, components and trajectory. Scientists have determined that it is not a new comet and has been to the solar system before. Its orbit shows that it orbits the sun in 1,396 years, which means its previous trip to our system and near Earth was in the year 629. Stargazing enthusiasts would not want to miss it since its next visit will happen in the year 3421. Also Read: A message in Morse: Humans should reach out to interstellar 'mothership', scientist says When will Comet Lemmon reach Earth? Comet C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) is currently in the constellation of Gemini, around 346,951,344.8 kilometres from Earth. It is racing towards the inner solar system and will reach perihelion, or closest point to the Sun, on November 8, 2025. But before that, it will pass by our planet on October 21. The best way to view it would be from a place where there is the least light pollution. The good news is that it is brightening as it approaches us. Also, it is in the sunset sky, which will make spotting it easier. Astronomers observing the comet have reported that it has brightened quickly over the last month, having moved rapidly to magnitude 11 from 16.5. A lower score denotes that the comet is getting brighter. Also Read: Scientist claims mystery interstellar object is here to test human intelligence, and we have already failed. Here's why How bright will Comet Lemmon be, and how to see it? Assuming that Comet Lemmon will continue with the pattern, it might reach a magnitude of 4 or 5 by the time it comes near Earth, according to Japanese comet expert Seiichi Yoshida. At this scale, people in the darker areas might not even be able to see it with the naked eye. However, comets can quickly change how they present, with explosions sometimes occurring on them. Remember the devil comet? Researchers will continue to keep a watch on the comet to see how it behaves in the coming weeks. If it even reaches a magnitude 7.5, a small telescope might be all you need to see the wandering visitor.

Details about Comet Lemmon: C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) is fast approaching Earth. Stargazers are in for a treat as this comet is visiting us after 1,396 years, and won't be here again until the year 3421. When will Comet Lemmon be closest to Earth, and how can you see it?

Stargazing JACKPOT: Once-in-MULTIPLE-lifetimes comet is hurtling towards Earth. Here's when you can see it

Back in 2015, a grave digger in Peru stumbled onto something straight out of science fiction — a stash of strange mummified bodies hidden in a cave. What made them instantly infamous? Each had just three fingers and three toes. Since then, the so-called alien mummies of Nazca have been at the centre of wild debates. Were they extraterrestrials? A lost human species? Or just an elaborate scam cooked up to fool the world? Now, nearly a decade later, the mystery refuses to die. About two dozen of the remains are under serious scientific examination.<h2>Aliens, humans, or something in between?</h2>According to researchers, the mummies still have preserved tissue, muscles, and even organs. One appears to have been pregnant when she died. Podcast host Jesse Michels, who runs American Alchemy, recently visited the site. His verdict: "I found no evidence that they are not from Earth". Instead, he floated a new theory — they could be a long-lost subterranean species.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-attack-in-november-harvard-scientist-flags-mysterious-object-hurtling-towards-earth-1753526257304">Alien attack in November? Harvard scientists warn mysterious object hurtling towards Earth</a><h2>A genetic twist</h2>So what explains the eerie three-fingered look? A bioinformatics expert dug into the publicly available DNA and found a mutation in a gene called Gli3 — the same gene linked to polydactyly, a condition that causes humans to have extra or oddly shaped digits.Alaina Hardie, who studied the genetic data, admitted she set out to debunk the mutation theory, but instead found evidence pointing toward it. "I found a list of 50 genes involved in the pathway," said Hardie, as quoted by the Express. "There is a mutation in one of those genes, called Gli3, that is associated with polydactyly," she added. Ancient Peruvian remains have shown signs of the same condition before, adds the report.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-something-we-wouldn-t-want-to-meet-stephen-hawking-s-terrifying-warning-about-beings-from-other-worlds-resurfaces-amid-alien-attack-fears-1754293769816">Stephen Hawking’s terrifying alien attack warning resurfaces amid 'mothership' UFO fears: It is 'something we wouldn't want to meet'</a>One of the tested specimens, a headless humanoid nicknamed "Victoria," turned out to have DNA of human origins, even if she looked anything but. Michels also pointed to examples like a tribe in Zimbabwe with "ectrodactyly", or "Ostrich Foot Syndrome," where central digits are missing. "There are these mutations rendered adaptive in certain environments and persist over time," he explained. “So it could be just that, which would be remarkable all on its own.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexican-congress-deems-three-fingered-mummies-real-but-refrains-from-confirming-alien-origins-656555">Mexican congress deems three-fingered mummies 'real,' but refrains from confirming alien origins</a><h2>Human… or hybrid?</h2>But not everyone is convinced. José Zace of the Mexican Navy’s medical division, who is part of the team examining the so-called alien mummies, said tests showed 70 per cent of the DNA matches humans — the other 30 per cent, he claims, is "completely different."Dr David Ruiz Vela meanwhile, suggested they might even be hybrids, with traits pointing to natural interbreeding between early human and primate groups in Asia and Africa thousands of years ago.That's why Michels wants biotech giant Colossal Biosciences — famous for resurrecting the dire wolf — to run their advanced DNA tests on the mummies. "If the (Peru) government won't allow a top American biotech company to use their proprietary ancient DNA testing techniques on these mummies, then I don't know what else you need to understand their position on the subject," he told the Daily Mail.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/its-all-in-the-name-astronomers-clash-over-renaming-galaxies-for-a-more-inclusive-cosmos-659401/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/its-all-in-the-name-astronomers-clash-over-renaming-galaxies-for-a-more-inclusive-cosmos-659401/embed</a>So what are they? Humans with rare mutations? Primitive hybrids? Or the remains of something alien? Whatever the answer, Peru's "alien" mystery is far from buried.

Scientists have made a new shocking revelation about Peru’s Nazca “alien mummies” — three-fingered, three-toed remains found in 2015. Are they humans with rare mutations? Primitive hybrids? Or the remains of something alien? 

Back in 2015, a grave digger in Peru stumbled onto something straight out of science fiction — a stash of strange mummified bodies hidden in a cave. What made them instantly infamous? Each had just three fingers and three toes. Since then, the so-called alien mummies of Nazca have been at the centre of wild debates. Were they extraterrestrials? A lost human species? Or just an elaborate scam cooked up to fool the world? Now, nearly a decade later, the mystery refuses to die. About two dozen of the remains are under serious scientific examination. Aliens, humans, or something in between? According to researchers, the mummies still have preserved tissue, muscles, and even organs. One appears to have been pregnant when she died. Podcast host Jesse Michels, who runs American Alchemy, recently visited the site. His verdict: "I found no evidence that they are not from Earth". Instead, he floated a new theory — they could be a long-lost subterranean species. Also read | Alien attack in November? Harvard scientists warn mysterious object hurtling towards Earth A genetic twist So what explains the eerie three-fingered look? A bioinformatics expert dug into the publicly available DNA and found a mutation in a gene called Gli3 — the same gene linked to polydactyly, a condition that causes humans to have extra or oddly shaped digits. Alaina Hardie, who studied the genetic data, admitted she set out to debunk the mutation theory, but instead found evidence pointing toward it. "I found a list of 50 genes involved in the pathway," said Hardie, as quoted by the Express. "There is a mutation in one of those genes, called Gli3, that is associated with polydactyly," she added. Ancient Peruvian remains have shown signs of the same condition before, adds the report. Also read | Stephen Hawking’s terrifying alien attack warning resurfaces amid 'mothership' UFO fears: It is 'something we wouldn't want to meet' One of the tested specimens, a headless humanoid nicknamed "Victoria," turned out to have DNA of human origins, even if she looked anything but. Michels also pointed to examples like a tribe in Zimbabwe with "ectrodactyly", or "Ostrich Foot Syndrome," where central digits are missing. "There are these mutations rendered adaptive in certain environments and persist over time," he explained. “So it could be just that, which would be remarkable all on its own.” Also read | Mexican congress deems three-fingered mummies 'real,' but refrains from confirming alien origins Human… or hybrid? But not everyone is convinced. José Zace of the Mexican Navy’s medical division, who is part of the team examining the so-called alien mummies, said tests showed 70 per cent of the DNA matches humans — the other 30 per cent, he claims, is "completely different." Dr David Ruiz Vela meanwhile, suggested they might even be hybrids, with traits pointing to natural interbreeding between early human and primate groups in Asia and Africa thousands of years ago. That's why Michels wants biotech giant Colossal Biosciences — famous for resurrecting the dire wolf — to run their advanced DNA tests on the mummies. "If the (Peru) government won't allow a top American biotech company to use their proprietary ancient DNA testing techniques on these mummies, then I don't know what else you need to understand their position on the subject," he told the Daily Mail. https://www.wionews.com/videos/its-all-in-the-name-astronomers-clash-over-renaming-galaxies-for-a-more-inclusive-cosmos-659401/embed So what are they? Humans with rare mutations? Primitive hybrids? Or the remains of something alien? Whatever the answer, Peru's "alien" mystery is far from buried.

Scientists have made a new shocking revelation about Peru’s Nazca “alien mummies” — three-fingered, three-toed remains found in 2015. Are they humans with rare mutations? Primitive hybrids? Or the remains of something alien?&nbsp;

Peru's 'alien mummies' mystery deepens: Scientists say they’re human…but not entirely - All you need to know

Scientists have issued a dire warning about the West Antarctic Ice Sheet that is on the verge of collapsing. According to a study, the ice mass that covers around 760,000 square miles of area is weakening, and if it completely melts, the sea levels could rise to such catastrophic levels that several cities across the world will fully submerge. Researchers from the Australian National University warned that the carbon dioxide (CO2) levels will spell doom for many coastal areas. Their analysis shows that when the ice sheet collapses, sea levels could rise by more than 9.8ft. Dr Nerilie Abram, the lead author of the study, said, "Rapid change has already been detected across Antarctica's ice, oceans and ecosystems, and this is set to worsen with every fraction of a degree of global warming." The destruction would be so massive, that it would affect several generations to come. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-detect-signs-that-mammoth-rivers-flowed-in-antarctica-80-million-years-ago-1752831341102">Scientists detect signs that mammoth rivers flowed in Antarctica 80 million years ago</a>&nbsp;The researchers set off to understand the consequences if the West Antarctic Ice Sheet collapsed. This led to chilling findings that could prove catastrophic for the world. Besides the direct effects, a gamut of "knock–on effects" would be felt, "including making the floating ice shelves around Antarctica more susceptible to wave–driven collapse," Dr Abram said. "The decline in Antarctic sea ice and the slowdown of deep circulation in the Southern Ocean are showing worrying signs of being more susceptible to a warming climate than previously thought," he said, raising concern that a grave scenario could be unfolding. The changes in the amount of solar heat being retained in the climate system will make the Antarctic region even warmer, according to the study. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/uttarkashi-cloudburst-what-is-it-why-is-it-frequent-and-devastating-than-ever-climate-change-link-you-should-know-uttarakhand-himachal-rains-weather-1754464386746">What is a cloudburst and why are they more frequent and devastating than ever?</a>&nbsp;The effects will be felt in Antarctica itself, where the wildlife and ocean ecosystems will take a massive hit, Professor Matthew England, co–author of the study, said. Emperor penguins can go extinct since their "chicks depend on a stable sea ice habitat prior to growing their waterproof feathers." The chicks have been affected by early sea ice breakout events in the past as well. Entire colonies of penguin chicks have been lost around the Antarctic coast, and multiple breeding events have failed in the last decade, England said. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/511-billion-barrels-of-oil-discovered-in-antarctica-can-trigger-world-war-1752036274384">511 billion barrels of oil discovered in Antarctica can trigger World War. Here's how</a>&nbsp;<h2>Which cities in the world will submerge if sea level rises?</h2> If the sea level does rise by 9.8 ft in the future, hundreds of coastal cities around the world will go underwater. Climate Central's Coastal Risk Screening Tool is a platform that can tell exactly which places will be flooded entirely if the warning issued by the researchers comes true. In the UK, the east coast would be worst affected. Hull, Skegness and Grimsby would go under, while parts of London would also be hit. The West Coast cities can also be submerged in this scenario. In Europe, major parts of the Netherlands, Venice, Montpellier, and southern Denmark will go underwater. In the US, &nbsp;the Southern states are likely to be affected. &nbsp;New Orleans in Louisiana, Galveston in Texas and the Everglades in Florida will bear the brunt. &nbsp;

Antarctica: Scientists have warned that a global catastrophe is on the horizon as the West Antarctic Ice Sheet weakens. One of the largest ice masses in the world can collapse and raise sea levels by over 9 feet, submerging entire cities across the world.

Scientists have issued a dire warning about the West Antarctic Ice Sheet that is on the verge of collapsing. According to a study, the ice mass that covers around 760,000 square miles of area is weakening, and if it completely melts, the sea levels could rise to such catastrophic levels that several cities across the world will fully submerge. Researchers from the Australian National University warned that the carbon dioxide (CO2) levels will spell doom for many coastal areas. Their analysis shows that when the ice sheet collapses, sea levels could rise by more than 9.8ft. Dr Nerilie Abram, the lead author of the study, said, "Rapid change has already been detected across Antarctica's ice, oceans and ecosystems, and this is set to worsen with every fraction of a degree of global warming." The destruction would be so massive, that it would affect several generations to come. Also Read: Scientists detect signs that mammoth rivers flowed in Antarctica 80 million years ago The researchers set off to understand the consequences if the West Antarctic Ice Sheet collapsed. This led to chilling findings that could prove catastrophic for the world. Besides the direct effects, a gamut of "knock–on effects" would be felt, "including making the floating ice shelves around Antarctica more susceptible to wave–driven collapse," Dr Abram said. "The decline in Antarctic sea ice and the slowdown of deep circulation in the Southern Ocean are showing worrying signs of being more susceptible to a warming climate than previously thought," he said, raising concern that a grave scenario could be unfolding. The changes in the amount of solar heat being retained in the climate system will make the Antarctic region even warmer, according to the study. Also Read: What is a cloudburst and why are they more frequent and devastating than ever? The effects will be felt in Antarctica itself, where the wildlife and ocean ecosystems will take a massive hit, Professor Matthew England, co–author of the study, said. Emperor penguins can go extinct since their "chicks depend on a stable sea ice habitat prior to growing their waterproof feathers." The chicks have been affected by early sea ice breakout events in the past as well. Entire colonies of penguin chicks have been lost around the Antarctic coast, and multiple breeding events have failed in the last decade, England said. Also Read: 511 billion barrels of oil discovered in Antarctica can trigger World War. Here's how Which cities in the world will submerge if sea level rises? If the sea level does rise by 9.8 ft in the future, hundreds of coastal cities around the world will go underwater. Climate Central's Coastal Risk Screening Tool is a platform that can tell exactly which places will be flooded entirely if the warning issued by the researchers comes true. In the UK, the east coast would be worst affected. Hull, Skegness and Grimsby would go under, while parts of London would also be hit. The West Coast cities can also be submerged in this scenario. In Europe, major parts of the Netherlands, Venice, Montpellier, and southern Denmark will go underwater. In the US, the Southern states are likely to be affected. New Orleans in Louisiana, Galveston in Texas and the Everglades in Florida will bear the brunt.

Antarctica: Scientists have warned that a global catastrophe is on the horizon as the West Antarctic Ice Sheet weakens. One of the largest ice masses in the world can collapse and raise sea levels by over 9 feet, submerging entire cities across the world.

Scientists issue ominous warning as West Antarctic Ice Sheet weakens. Extinction risk for...

The Three-Body Problem is a real challenge in astrodynamics. It describes the complex gravitational interactions between three celestial bodies, making precise orbital calculations difficult. For mission planners, this problem is both a source of complexity and an opportunity: if navigated carefully, it can allow spacecraft to enter stable orbits with significantly reduced fuel requirements.&nbsp;<h2>Using moons for gravity assists</h2>&nbsp;A recent study by researchers at the Beijing Institute of Technology, published in Acta Astronautica, explores how spacecraft could leverage gravity assists from planetary moons to enter more efficient orbits. Traditional gravity assists are used to increase a spacecraft's speed by slingshotting around a planet. This research, however, demonstrates that the same technique can be used to slow a spacecraft down, reducing the energy, and therefore fuel, required to achieve a stable orbit around a planet.&nbsp;Large planets with multiple moons, such as Jupiter, are ideal candidates. The study simulated a flyby of Callisto, one of Jupiter’s four major Galilean moons, and found a measurable decrease in fuel consumption needed to achieve a stable orbit within the Jovian system. While missions like the Jupiter Icy Moon Explorer (JUICE) cannot retroactively benefit, future missions could see substantial savings.&nbsp;<h2>Weak stability boundaries and trajectory mapping</h2>&nbsp;The study also highlights the use of weak stability boundaries (WSBs), regions in space where the gravitational pulls from two bodies nearly cancel out. WSBs allow a spacecraft to transition from an escape trajectory to a stable orbit with minimal energy expenditure. To identify these regions, scientists employ Poincaré Mapping, which records the position and velocity of an object at regular intervals across a mathematical plane. Simulating enough points can reveal pathways to stable trajectories.The presence of moons increases the number of potential WSBs. For instance, Jupiter’s 97 moons provide multiple opportunities for gravity-assisted orbit insertion, giving mission designers greater flexibility and reducing overall mission cost.&nbsp;<h2>Future prospects</h2>&nbsp;Beyond fuel savings, moon-assisted trajectories could have other applications. Past research suggests that certain planetary systems, such as Neptune and Triton, could theoretically capture interstellar objects if conditions align perfectly. While this is largely serendipitous, controlled moon flybys remain within human reach, offering predictable reductions in fuel requirements and enabling more ambitious interplanetary missions.&nbsp;This research opens new avenues in astrodynamics, presenting both a practical tool for future spacecraft and a rich area for theoretical exploration. By harnessing the gravitational interplay of moons and planets, scientists can design more efficient, cost-effective missions, extending humanity’s reach into the solar system.&nbsp;

This research, however, demonstrates that the same technique can be used to slow a spacecraft down, reducing the energy, and therefore fuel, required to achieve a stable orbit around a planet.

The Three-Body Problem is a real challenge in astrodynamics. It describes the complex gravitational interactions between three celestial bodies, making precise orbital calculations difficult. For mission planners, this problem is both a source of complexity and an opportunity: if navigated carefully, it can allow spacecraft to enter stable orbits with significantly reduced fuel requirements. Using moons for gravity assists A recent study by researchers at the Beijing Institute of Technology, published in Acta Astronautica, explores how spacecraft could leverage gravity assists from planetary moons to enter more efficient orbits. Traditional gravity assists are used to increase a spacecraft's speed by slingshotting around a planet. This research, however, demonstrates that the same technique can be used to slow a spacecraft down, reducing the energy, and therefore fuel, required to achieve a stable orbit around a planet. Large planets with multiple moons, such as Jupiter, are ideal candidates. The study simulated a flyby of Callisto, one of Jupiter’s four major Galilean moons, and found a measurable decrease in fuel consumption needed to achieve a stable orbit within the Jovian system. While missions like the Jupiter Icy Moon Explorer (JUICE) cannot retroactively benefit, future missions could see substantial savings. Weak stability boundaries and trajectory mapping The study also highlights the use of weak stability boundaries (WSBs), regions in space where the gravitational pulls from two bodies nearly cancel out. WSBs allow a spacecraft to transition from an escape trajectory to a stable orbit with minimal energy expenditure. To identify these regions, scientists employ Poincaré Mapping, which records the position and velocity of an object at regular intervals across a mathematical plane. Simulating enough points can reveal pathways to stable trajectories. The presence of moons increases the number of potential WSBs. For instance, Jupiter’s 97 moons provide multiple opportunities for gravity-assisted orbit insertion, giving mission designers greater flexibility and reducing overall mission cost. Future prospects Beyond fuel savings, moon-assisted trajectories could have other applications. Past research suggests that certain planetary systems, such as Neptune and Triton, could theoretically capture interstellar objects if conditions align perfectly. While this is largely serendipitous, controlled moon flybys remain within human reach, offering predictable reductions in fuel requirements and enabling more ambitious interplanetary missions. This research opens new avenues in astrodynamics, presenting both a practical tool for future spacecraft and a rich area for theoretical exploration. By harnessing the gravitational interplay of moons and planets, scientists can design more efficient, cost-effective missions, extending humanity’s reach into the solar system.

This research, however, demonstrates that the same technique can be used to slow a spacecraft down, reducing the energy, and therefore fuel, required to achieve a stable orbit around a planet.

Moon flybys could slash space mission fuel costs by millions, scientists reveal

The X-37B space plane goes on secretive missions for days to carry out tests and experiments for the US Space Force. It is set to be launched again this week from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre near Cape Canaveral. Its launch and landing techniques are quite unique.

What is the X-37B 'secretive' space plane that US Space Force launches this week?

Where do interstellar objects come from? Scientists have revealed where Oumuamua, 2I/Borisov, and 3I/Atlas originated in space, and also their age. One of them is almost as old as Earth. Where are they headed?

Where did interstellar objects 1I/'Oumuamua, 2I/Borisov, and 3I/Atlas come from? And where are they going?

Mosquitoes are among the world's deadliest animals, with some species having earned this title by transmitting life-threatening diseases that kill millions every year. From Aedes aegypti to Anopheles, here are the top 5 World's deadliest Mosquitoes

Aedes aegypti to Anopheles: The world's deadliest mosquitoes

A Black Moon is set to rise in the night sky this weekend, and has led people to ask whether the rare astronomical event is linked to bad occurrences or any doomsday prophecies. A passage from the Bible supposedly references a Black Moon, apparently hinting that it is an ominous sign for the world. Mark 13:24 warns, "The sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light." This is exactly what happens when the Black Moon rises - it is dark and you cannot see it. However, whether the passage can be linked to an ominous occurrence isn't clear. Unlike Blue Moon or Pink Moon, which are simply full moons without the colours mentioned next to their names, a "Black Moon" is, in fact, black. According to NASA, it is simply "a second new moon that happens in one calendar month." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/unusually-large-orange-full-moon-greets-earthlings-why-was-the-moon-orange-1752290985842">Unusually large orange full moon greets Earthlings. Why was the moon orange?</a><h2>Reason for a Black Moon and can we see it?&nbsp;</h2>NASA explains the reason behind the moon being invisible to humans on Earth in this scenario. According to the space agency, only the far side of the moon is illuminated by sunlight at this time, while the side facing Earth remains dark. This is why it cannot be seen at this time. Experts say that while rare, a second new moon in the same month can happen if the first one occurs at the beginning of the month. In fact, "Black Moon" is not even an official name assigned to it. Explaining the cycle of a new moon, NASA says that it takes 29.5 days for the moon to shift from a new moon to a full moon. The former has absolutely no illumination as seen from Earth, while a full moon is known for being fully bright. The cycle repeats, and it returns to a new moon. The time period is shorter than the average calendar month, which sometimes allows for two new moons in the same month. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/asteroid-2024-yr4-moon-earth-collision-2032-space-rock-1749628743606">What will happen on Dec 22, 2032? Not good things for our Moon, as scientists await major event</a>Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/total-solar-eclipse-2027-six-minutes-darkness-which-countries-cities-india-1752728414715"> 6-minute total solar eclipse will plunge major parts of world into darkness. Is your city on the list?</a><h2>Black Moon meaning in astrology</h2> Astronomers are clear that it is a cosmic event with a scientific explanation and does not pose any reason for worry. However, in astrology, a Black Moon holds significance. According to some astrology textbooks, the Black Moon signifies a powerful reset. It states that it is the best time to set goals and intentions, manifest dreams and embrace change. It is also the time to reflect on oneself, connect within and keep what you need and release the rest.&nbsp;<h2>When will the Black Moon rise?</h2>The Black Moon will rise on August 22 and will reach its peak at around 12 am ET in the Western Hemisphere. In other parts of the world, the cosmic wonder will happen on Saturday. However, there is nothing to really see since the moon won't be visible.&nbsp;<h2>When is the next Black Moon?</h2>The next Black Moon is scheduled to happen on August 20, 2028. It typically occurs once every 33 months.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Black Moon rises: The rare astronomical event occurs once every 33 months. It is set to peak on August 22 this year. Some people are wondering whether it is linked to any ominous warnings. What does astrology say about the Black Moon?

A Black Moon is set to rise in the night sky this weekend, and has led people to ask whether the rare astronomical event is linked to bad occurrences or any doomsday prophecies. A passage from the Bible supposedly references a Black Moon, apparently hinting that it is an ominous sign for the world. Mark 13:24 warns, "The sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light." This is exactly what happens when the Black Moon rises - it is dark and you cannot see it. However, whether the passage can be linked to an ominous occurrence isn't clear. Unlike Blue Moon or Pink Moon, which are simply full moons without the colours mentioned next to their names, a "Black Moon" is, in fact, black. According to NASA, it is simply "a second new moon that happens in one calendar month." Also Read: Unusually large orange full moon greets Earthlings. Why was the moon orange? Reason for a Black Moon and can we see it? NASA explains the reason behind the moon being invisible to humans on Earth in this scenario. According to the space agency, only the far side of the moon is illuminated by sunlight at this time, while the side facing Earth remains dark. This is why it cannot be seen at this time. Experts say that while rare, a second new moon in the same month can happen if the first one occurs at the beginning of the month. In fact, "Black Moon" is not even an official name assigned to it. Explaining the cycle of a new moon, NASA says that it takes 29.5 days for the moon to shift from a new moon to a full moon. The former has absolutely no illumination as seen from Earth, while a full moon is known for being fully bright. The cycle repeats, and it returns to a new moon. The time period is shorter than the average calendar month, which sometimes allows for two new moons in the same month. Also Read: What will happen on Dec 22, 2032? Not good things for our Moon, as scientists await major event Also Read: 6-minute total solar eclipse will plunge major parts of world into darkness. Is your city on the list? Black Moon meaning in astrology Astronomers are clear that it is a cosmic event with a scientific explanation and does not pose any reason for worry. However, in astrology, a Black Moon holds significance. According to some astrology textbooks, the Black Moon signifies a powerful reset. It states that it is the best time to set goals and intentions, manifest dreams and embrace change. It is also the time to reflect on oneself, connect within and keep what you need and release the rest. When will the Black Moon rise? The Black Moon will rise on August 22 and will reach its peak at around 12 am ET in the Western Hemisphere. In other parts of the world, the cosmic wonder will happen on Saturday. However, there is nothing to really see since the moon won't be visible. When is the next Black Moon? The next Black Moon is scheduled to happen on August 20, 2028. It typically occurs once every 33 months.

Black Moon rises: The rare astronomical event occurs once every 33 months. It is set to peak on August 22 this year. Some people are wondering whether it is linked to any ominous warnings. What does astrology say about the Black Moon?

Black Moon astrological meaning: A powerful reset and a time to manifest dreams

On the vast ice sheets of Earth's North pole, Russian Space agency Roscosmos has tested space rovers that are meant to potentially traverse icy space bodies such as the shadowed regions on Earth's moon, polar regions of Mars, among others. This experiment was carried out during the North Polar expedition undertaken by the Russian Nuclear Power agency Rosatom's Nuclear-powered icebreaker ship “50 years of Victory.”&nbsp;"Russian Space Agency Roscosmos is working with Russian Nuclear Agency Rosatom. We will be testing prototypes of various technologies, including robotic rovers that can operate on icy planets. We will also explore and study the possibility of human spaceflight over the earth's polar regions," Andrei Babkin, test cosmonaut, Deputy Commander of the Roscosmos Cosmonaut Team, told WION's Sidharth MP in Murmansk.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Russia's Nuclear agency Rosatom,&nbsp; Russian robotic rovers are being tested for the first time ever in the harsh conditions of the North Pole.&nbsp;From Murmansk in Northwestern Russia, the 160-meter-long vessel set sail for the North pole in the second week of August and reached there this week. Nuclear icebreakers are unique ships that are meant to traverse the icy Arctic ocean, cut a passage through the ice and clear a path for commercial shipping. Russia's Atomflot (Atomic Fleet) is the world's only operator of such Nuclear-powered icebreakers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read More |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/3-years-after-its-debut-india-s-sslv-rocket-doesn-t-have-a-market-1754661417923"> 3 years after its debut, India’s SSLV rocket doesn’t have a market?</a>&nbsp;The North Polar expedition, titled "Icebreaker of Knowledge", ferried over 60 high-school students from 21 nations. These students were selected on the basis on competitions conducted in their respective nations. The students hail from India,&nbsp;Brazil, Bolivia, Egypt, Indonesia, China, among others.&nbsp;This expedition marks the 80th anniversary of Russia's nuclear industry and the 500th anniversary since the beginning of the development of the Northern Sea Route, a short Europe-Asia shipping route via Russia's frozen Arctic region.&nbsp;&nbsp;Indian student Aayush Goyal is among those participating in the Russian North Polar expedition. "Feels like I'm on top of the world... this is something no movie can capture... In terms of science, it provides experience and exposure, it'll give me the motivation and fire to pursue it more," he told WION. Russian and foreign scientists, engineers, specialists in the nuclear and space industries, are also part of the expedition.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Roscosmos and Rosatom tested space rovers on the North Pole’s ice aboard the nuclear icebreaker “50 Years of Victory.” The “Icebreaker of Knowledge” expedition included 60+ students from 21 countries, marking Russia’s nuclear industry anniversary and advancing tech for icy space exploration.

On the vast ice sheets of Earth's North pole, Russian Space agency Roscosmos has tested space rovers that are meant to potentially traverse icy space bodies such as the shadowed regions on Earth's moon, polar regions of Mars, among others. This experiment was carried out during the North Polar expedition undertaken by the Russian Nuclear Power agency Rosatom's Nuclear-powered icebreaker ship “50 years of Victory.” "Russian Space Agency Roscosmos is working with Russian Nuclear Agency Rosatom. We will be testing prototypes of various technologies, including robotic rovers that can operate on icy planets. We will also explore and study the possibility of human spaceflight over the earth's polar regions," Andrei Babkin, test cosmonaut, Deputy Commander of the Roscosmos Cosmonaut Team, told WION's Sidharth MP in Murmansk. According to Russia's Nuclear agency Rosatom, Russian robotic rovers are being tested for the first time ever in the harsh conditions of the North Pole. From Murmansk in Northwestern Russia, the 160-meter-long vessel set sail for the North pole in the second week of August and reached there this week. Nuclear icebreakers are unique ships that are meant to traverse the icy Arctic ocean, cut a passage through the ice and clear a path for commercial shipping. Russia's Atomflot (Atomic Fleet) is the world's only operator of such Nuclear-powered icebreakers. Read More | 3 years after its debut, India’s SSLV rocket doesn’t have a market? The North Polar expedition, titled "Icebreaker of Knowledge", ferried over 60 high-school students from 21 nations. These students were selected on the basis on competitions conducted in their respective nations. The students hail from India, Brazil, Bolivia, Egypt, Indonesia, China, among others. This expedition marks the 80th anniversary of Russia's nuclear industry and the 500th anniversary since the beginning of the development of the Northern Sea Route, a short Europe-Asia shipping route via Russia's frozen Arctic region. Indian student Aayush Goyal is among those participating in the Russian North Polar expedition. "Feels like I'm on top of the world... this is something no movie can capture... In terms of science, it provides experience and exposure, it'll give me the motivation and fire to pursue it more," he told WION. Russian and foreign scientists, engineers, specialists in the nuclear and space industries, are also part of the expedition.

Roscosmos and Rosatom tested space rovers on the North Pole’s ice aboard the nuclear icebreaker “50 Years of Victory.” The “Icebreaker of Knowledge” expedition included 60+ students from 21 countries, marking Russia’s nuclear industry anniversary and advancing tech for icy space exploration.

Exclusive: Russia tests space rover on North Polar ice sheet

science

Science, News on Science, stories on Science, articles on Science, Science stories at Wion, Science news, Science latest news

science

WOW! Signal was faster and stronger: Scientists know where the mysterious wave came from...well, almost

Elon Musk’s Starship grounded again: SpaceX scraps launch for second day

Musk’s SpaceX to attempt 10th Starship launch Monday after delay – Check details

Lab-grown kidney survives 34 weeks, Israeli hospital seeks funding from China

When Mysore' young maharaja made India fly: Forgotten hero of our aviation story

Wake-up call for humanity: Scientist says he wants 3I/ATLAS to be alien ship

Indian space dream soars: ISRO air drop test success marks Gaganyaan milestone

Is Musk's dream rocket cursed? Space X scrubs megarocket Starship's 10th test

Alien attack in Nov? Scientists warn mysterious object hurtling towards Earth

Most mysterious objects in the universe that still baffle scientists

Most beautiful Galaxies ever captured by NASA telescopes: See pics

Study of over 1,000 rattlesnakes throws results confirming human-linked fears

National Space Day: Notable achievements of Indian Space Research Organisation

Move aside Mars, Ceres was once hot and alive, and hosted life in our solar system

When dreams touch the sky: National Space Day and India's unstoppable spirit

2.8-million-year-old teeth reveal a new branch of humanity in Ethiopia

Hop shoots- The vegetable so pricy its compared to gold, why is it so rare?

Once-in-MULTIPLE-lifetimes comet is hurtling towards Earth. Details

Scientists say Peru's 'alien mummies' are human… but not entirely - Details here

Scientists issue ominous warning as West Antarctic Ice Sheet weakens

Moon flybys could slash space mission fuel costs by millions, scientists reveal

What is X-37B 'secretive' space plane that US Space Force launches this week?

Where did interstellar objects come from? And where are they going?

Aedes aegypti to Anopheles: The world's deadliest Mosquitoes

Black Moon astrological meaning: A powerful reset and a time to manifest dreams

Exclusive: Russia tests space rover on North Polar ice sheet