Jupiter, the planet named after the Roman king of gods, in a regal manner protects all life on Earth. However, as per a new study, gas giants like our solar system's Jupiter actually wreak havoc on nearby exoplanets.

According to the study published in The Astronomical Journal, small rocky planets like our Earth may be at risk from gas giants like Jupiter.

<h2>'Wrecking balls'</h2>

In our solar system, Jupiter's massive gravitational field protects Earth and other exoplanets from comets and asteroids by deflecting them away.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sun-marks-halloween-with-a-scary-canyon-of-fire-display-nasa-captures-video-watch-654176">Sun marks Halloween with a scary 'canyon of fire' display; NASA captures video. Watch</a>

However, not all exoplanets are as lucky. In other solar systems, the gravitational field of giant planets like Jupiter may put them at risk of getting knocked out of their orbits and the habitable zone altogether.

<h2>How can we conclude this?</h2>

To reach this conclusion, scientists studied HD 141399, a star system that contains not just one but four gas giant planets.&nbsp;

HD 141399 is located some 121 light-years away from our solar system in a constellation called Boötes.

As per Stephen Kane, first author of the paper and an astrophysicist at the University of California – Riverside, HD 141399 is a chaotic place where "It's as if they have four Jupiter(s) acting like wrecking balls, throwing everything out of whack."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/the-mysterious-blobs-remnants-of-ancient-moon-forming-object-present-near-earths-core-654107">A planet crashed into Earth 4.5bn years ago, and so the moon was born</a>

Using computer simulations, the team tried to see if the gas giants would knock out smaller planets and they found that if Earth was part of that system, we would be unlikely to maintain our place in the Goldilocks aka the habitable zone.&nbsp;

"There are only a select few areas where the giants' gravitational pull would not knock a rocky planet out of its orbit and send it flying right out of the zone," explains Kane.&nbsp;

<h2>Chaotic giants: Might is power</h2>

In a second paper, the same team suggests that Jupiter-like gas giants may be agents of chaos.&nbsp;

Forbes reports that located just 30 light-years from Earth is a planet similar in size but an estimated 10 times in mass, and it is causing gravitational chaos, preventing other smaller planets from orbiting in the habitable zone alongside it.

"Our work gives us more reasons to be very grateful for the planetary configuration we have in our solar system," said Kane. The team also cautioned that this finding may be a warning against assuming that all planets found in the habitable zone of a star are capable of hosting life.

(With inputs from agencies)

Jupiter, the planet named after the Roman king of gods, in a regal manner protects all life on Earth. However, as per a new study, gas giants like our solar system's Jupiter actually wreak havoc on nearby exoplanets.

Jupiter, the planet named after the Roman king of gods, in a regal manner protects all life on Earth. However, as per a new study, gas giants like our solar system's Jupiter actually wreak havoc on nearby exoplanets. According to the study published in The Astronomical Journal, small rocky planets like our Earth may be at risk from gas giants like Jupiter. 'Wrecking balls' In our solar system, Jupiter's massive gravitational field protects Earth and other exoplanets from comets and asteroids by deflecting them away. Also read | Sun marks Halloween with a scary 'canyon of fire' display; NASA captures video. Watch However, not all exoplanets are as lucky. In other solar systems, the gravitational field of giant planets like Jupiter may put them at risk of getting knocked out of their orbits and the habitable zone altogether. How can we conclude this? To reach this conclusion, scientists studied HD 141399, a star system that contains not just one but four gas giant planets. HD 141399 is located some 121 light-years away from our solar system in a constellation called Boötes. As per Stephen Kane, first author of the paper and an astrophysicist at the University of California – Riverside, HD 141399 is a chaotic place where "It's as if they have four Jupiter(s) acting like wrecking balls, throwing everything out of whack." Also read | A planet crashed into Earth 4.5bn years ago, and so the moon was born Using computer simulations, the team tried to see if the gas giants would knock out smaller planets and they found that if Earth was part of that system, we would be unlikely to maintain our place in the Goldilocks aka the habitable zone. "There are only a select few areas where the giants' gravitational pull would not knock a rocky planet out of its orbit and send it flying right out of the zone," explains Kane. Chaotic giants: Might is power In a second paper, the same team suggests that Jupiter-like gas giants may be agents of chaos. Forbes reports that located just 30 light-years from Earth is a planet similar in size but an estimated 10 times in mass, and it is causing gravitational chaos, preventing other smaller planets from orbiting in the habitable zone alongside it. "Our work gives us more reasons to be very grateful for the planetary configuration we have in our solar system," said Kane. The team also cautioned that this finding may be a warning against assuming that all planets found in the habitable zone of a star are capable of hosting life. (With inputs from agencies)

'Gods of chaos': Jupiter protects us, but similar gas giants whack other Earth-like planets

James Webb Space Telescope, an extraordinary space telescope&nbsp;by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) gazed at Crab Nebula, revealing stunning details. The Crab Nebula is a supernova remnant, which is located 6,500 light-years away in the constellation Taurus.&nbsp;

It is reported to be an expanding remnant of a star's supernova explosion. The Japanese and Chinese astronomers recorded this violent event nearly 1,000 years ago in 1054 AD. The Crab Nebula has intrigued scientists for years and still draws attention as scientists aim at understanding the conditions, behaviour, and after-effects of supernovae.&nbsp;

On its website, NASA noted that a team led by Tea Temim at Princeton University is searching for answers about the Crab Nebula's origins using James Webb'ss NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera) and MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument).&nbsp;

As quoted by NASA, Temim explained: "Webb's sensitivity and spatial resolution allow us to accurately determine the composition of the ejected material, particularly the content of iron and nickel, which may reveal what type of explosion produced the Crab Nebula."&nbsp;

NASA also released a side-by-side image of the Crab Nebula as seen by the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb to compare the different details.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-launched-mission-to-20000-years-old-supernova-remnant-to-understand-life-cycles-of-stars-652966">NASA launches mission to 20,000-year-old supernova remnant to understand life cycle of stars</a>&nbsp;

<img alt="Crab Nebula" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="09698cb1-1b40-44b2-9da9-a2e60bd58108" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Crab%20Nebula%20%282%29.png" />

Image: Image of Crab Nebula as seen by the Hubble in optical light (left) and James Webb in infrared light (right). Credit: NASA.&nbsp;

The astronomers at the American space agency can now build a more comprehensive understanding of this mysterious supernova remnant by studying the recently collected Webb data. They also consulted the previous observations of the Crab.&nbsp;

In the latest image, the central regions, emission from dust grains (yellow-white and green), have been&nbsp;mapped out by Webb for the first time. The general shape of the Crab Nebula is similar to what Hubble had observed.&nbsp;

"Webb highlights what is known as synchrotron radiation: emission produced from charged particles, like electrons, moving around magnetic field lines at relativistic speeds," NASA said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/where-exactly-on-mars-should-humans-go-nasa-scientists-release-a-map-653058">Where exactly on Mars should humans go? NASA scientists release a map</a>

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It’s Monday. Feeling crabby? 🦀 
 
6,500 light-years away lies the Crab Nebula, the remains of an exploded star. While it is a well-studied target, Webb’s infrared sensitivity and resolution offer new clues into the makeup and origins of this nebula: <a href="https://t.co/FAu0qUTM86">https://t.co/FAu0qUTM86</a> <a href="https://t.co/deG8wKGTQR">pic.twitter.com/deG8wKGTQR</a>
— NASA Webb Telescope (@NASAWebb) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAWebb/status/1718993338362401229?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The pulsar heart of the Crab Nebula can be found by following the wisps that form a bright white dot in the centre and tracing them in a circular pattern resembling ripples.&nbsp;

After that, track the radiation's tiny white ribbons as they extend farther from the core. The nebula is shaped and sculpted by the pulsar's magnetic field, which is indicated by the closely spaced, curved wisps.&nbsp;

The NASA report mentioned that the white material appears to be pinching the nebula's waist as it curves abruptly inward from the filamentary dust cage's edges towards the neutron star's location at the centre, left and right.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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James Webb Space Telescope, an extraordinary space telescope by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) gazed at Crab Nebula, revealing stunning details.

James Webb Space Telescope, an extraordinary space telescope by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) gazed at Crab Nebula, revealing stunning details. The Crab Nebula is a supernova remnant, which is located 6,500 light-years away in the constellation Taurus. It is reported to be an expanding remnant of a star's supernova explosion. The Japanese and Chinese astronomers recorded this violent event nearly 1,000 years ago in 1054 AD. The Crab Nebula has intrigued scientists for years and still draws attention as scientists aim at understanding the conditions, behaviour, and after-effects of supernovae. On its website, NASA noted that a team led by Tea Temim at Princeton University is searching for answers about the Crab Nebula's origins using James Webb'ss NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera) and MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument). As quoted by NASA, Temim explained: "Webb's sensitivity and spatial resolution allow us to accurately determine the composition of the ejected material, particularly the content of iron and nickel, which may reveal what type of explosion produced the Crab Nebula." NASA also released a side-by-side image of the Crab Nebula as seen by the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb to compare the different details. Also read: NASA launches mission to 20,000-year-old supernova remnant to understand life cycle of stars Image: Image of Crab Nebula as seen by the Hubble in optical light (left) and James Webb in infrared light (right). Credit: NASA. The astronomers at the American space agency can now build a more comprehensive understanding of this mysterious supernova remnant by studying the recently collected Webb data. They also consulted the previous observations of the Crab. In the latest image, the central regions, emission from dust grains (yellow-white and green), have been mapped out by Webb for the first time. The general shape of the Crab Nebula is similar to what Hubble had observed. "Webb highlights what is known as synchrotron radiation: emission produced from charged particles, like electrons, moving around magnetic field lines at relativistic speeds," NASA said. Also read: Where exactly on Mars should humans go? NASA scientists release a map It’s Monday. Feeling crabby? 🦀 6,500 light-years away lies the Crab Nebula, the remains of an exploded star. While it is a well-studied target, Webb’s infrared sensitivity and resolution offer new clues into the makeup and origins of this nebula: https://t.co/FAu0qUTM86 pic.twitter.com/deG8wKGTQR — NASA Webb Telescope (@NASAWebb) October 30, 2023 × The pulsar heart of the Crab Nebula can be found by following the wisps that form a bright white dot in the centre and tracing them in a circular pattern resembling ripples. After that, track the radiation's tiny white ribbons as they extend farther from the core. The nebula is shaped and sculpted by the pulsar's magnetic field, which is indicated by the closely spaced, curved wisps. The NASA report mentioned that the white material appears to be pinching the nebula's waist as it curves abruptly inward from the filamentary dust cage's edges towards the neutron star's location at the centre, left and right. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Oh, Crab! James Webb reveals never-before-seen details of Crab Nebula

Mars is a fascinating, exotic territory yet to be properly explored by humanity. While we have sent rovers to the red planet, humans are yet to set foot on the alien land.&nbsp;

Planned future missions to find water ice on the planet aim to rectify that. However, a question that remains to be answered is where exactly on the red planet should they land to do this? A recent map might help mission planners answer this question.

<h2>A treasure map to Mars' water ice</h2>

The Subsurface Water Ice Mapping (SWIM), a NASA-funded project, has released its fourth and the more recent map of the prospective locations of subsurface water ice on Mars. This, as per NASA officials, will help mission planners decide where exactly to send the first humans to Mars.

<img alt="NASA mars ice map" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="57296e9a-4e8a-4f80-8969-fde1b2cd3d8d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20%2834%29.jpg" />

<h5>The blue areas on this map of Mars are regions where NASA missions have detected subsurface water ice (from the equator to 60 degrees north latitude). Scientists can use the map-part of the Subsurface Water Ice Mapping project to decide where the first astronauts to set foot on the Red Planet should land. (Image source:&nbsp;NASA/JPL-Caltech/Planetary Science&nbsp;Institute)</h5>

For this map, scientists used data from instruments abroad in the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. These instruments — Context Camera (CTX) and High Resolution Imaging Experiment (HIRISE) — provided high resolution imagery of the Martian terrain, reports Science Alert.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-curiosity-rover-finds-evidence-mars-was-once-a-planet-of-rivers-651444">Life on Mars? Curiosity rover discovers that it was once a 'planet of rivers'</a>

<h2>Why is this important?</h2>

To put it simply, "The map could help the agency decide where the first astronauts to the Red Planet should land. The more available water, the less missions will need to bring."

As per a statement on the NASA website, ice buried on Mars will be a vital source for humans on Mars, serving both as drinking water and a key ingredient for rocket fuel.

Furthermore, these prospective locations of buried ice could one day help us know more about the red planet. Astronauts or robots could drill ice cores, that could help uncover "the climate history of Mars and exploring potential habitats (past or present) for microbial life."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-perseverance-rover-captures-footage-of-martian-dust-devil-642359">A two-kilometre-tall 'dust devil' has been caught on camera, but not on Earth</a>

While locations with buried ice may be the best locations for landing humans on Mars, scientists don't want astronauts to go to locations that are too chilly. This is because cold will lead to the crew using up "precious energy" to stay warm.

"If you send humans to Mars, you want to get them as close to the equator as you can," said Sydney Do, SWIM's project manager, said in a statement. Hence, as per Sydney, an ideal spot would be a patch that has accessible ice but with as low a latitude as possible. Martian ice maps will help navigate this dilemma and decide on the apt location for human landing.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Mars is a fascinating, exotic territory yet to be properly explored by humanity. While we have sent rovers to the red planet, humans are yet to set foot on the alien land.

Mars is a fascinating, exotic territory yet to be properly explored by humanity. While we have sent rovers to the red planet, humans are yet to set foot on the alien land. Planned future missions to find water ice on the planet aim to rectify that. However, a question that remains to be answered is where exactly on the red planet should they land to do this? A recent map might help mission planners answer this question. A treasure map to Mars' water ice The Subsurface Water Ice Mapping (SWIM), a NASA-funded project, has released its fourth and the more recent map of the prospective locations of subsurface water ice on Mars. This, as per NASA officials, will help mission planners decide where exactly to send the first humans to Mars. The blue areas on this map of Mars are regions where NASA missions have detected subsurface water ice (from the equator to 60 degrees north latitude). Scientists can use the map-part of the Subsurface Water Ice Mapping project to decide where the first astronauts to set foot on the Red Planet should land. (Image source: NASA/JPL-Caltech/Planetary Science Institute) For this map, scientists used data from instruments abroad in the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. These instruments — Context Camera (CTX) and High Resolution Imaging Experiment (HIRISE) — provided high resolution imagery of the Martian terrain, reports Science Alert. Also read | Life on Mars? Curiosity rover discovers that it was once a 'planet of rivers' Why is this important? To put it simply, "The map could help the agency decide where the first astronauts to the Red Planet should land. The more available water, the less missions will need to bring." As per a statement on the NASA website, ice buried on Mars will be a vital source for humans on Mars, serving both as drinking water and a key ingredient for rocket fuel. Furthermore, these prospective locations of buried ice could one day help us know more about the red planet. Astronauts or robots could drill ice cores, that could help uncover "the climate history of Mars and exploring potential habitats (past or present) for microbial life." Also read | A two-kilometre-tall 'dust devil' has been caught on camera, but not on Earth While locations with buried ice may be the best locations for landing humans on Mars, scientists don't want astronauts to go to locations that are too chilly. This is because cold will lead to the crew using up "precious energy" to stay warm. "If you send humans to Mars, you want to get them as close to the equator as you can," said Sydney Do, SWIM's project manager, said in a statement. Hence, as per Sydney, an ideal spot would be a patch that has accessible ice but with as low a latitude as possible. Martian ice maps will help navigate this dilemma and decide on the apt location for human landing. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Where exactly on Mars should humans go? NASA scientists release a map

NASA is gearing up to launch its most ambitious alien world exploration ever: another ocean world. The US space agency in 2027 will launch its only mission to explore such a world.&nbsp;

Using NASA's Dragonfly rotorcraft lander, the mission will explore Saturn's moon Titan "with its dense atmosphere and low gravity," which as per the space agency is "a great place to fly." Here's all you need to know about the upcoming NASA mission to Luna Saturni, or&nbsp;"moon of Saturn".

<h2>Dragonfly</h2>

NASA's Dragonfly is a nuclear-powered, car-sized drone that is "designed to investigate the complex chemistry that is the precursor to life."

The mission, which is expected to last for nearly three years, will study how organic compounds formed, and if Saturn's moon currently has or ever had life.

It will be equipped with cameras, sensors and samplers that will examine Titan's dense, nitrogen-rich atmosphere, which is known to contain organic material that scientists believe may have come in contact with liquid water beneath its organic-rich, icy surface.

Dragonfly is scheduled to launch around 2027, and it is expected to reach Titan by the mid-2030s.&nbsp;

<h2>Will it be able to bear Titan's unique atmosphere?</h2>

To test Dragonfly, mission engineers have already conducted two test campaigns in NASA Langley’s 14-by-22-foot Subsonic Tunnel, and two in the 16-foot Transonic Dynamics Tunnel (TDT).&nbsp;

As per Ken Hibbard, Dragonfly mission systems engineer at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), "All of these tests feed into our Dragonfly Titan simulations and performance predictions".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-curiosity-rover-finds-evidence-mars-was-once-a-planet-of-rivers-651444">Life on Mars? Curiosity rover discovers that it was once a 'planet of rivers'</a>

"With Dragonfly, we're turning science fiction into exploration fact," said Hibbard, as per a statement on the NASA website.

He added that "the mission is coming together piece by piece, and we're excited for every next step toward sending this revolutionary rotorcraft across the skies and surface of Titan."

They've been conducting test campaigns at the NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia. Researchers have made attempts to assess the vehicle's aerodynamic performance in harsh, unique conditions anticipating what Dragonfly will have to face during the various stages of the mission.

Recently, in one of its latest tests, the team behind Dragonfly set up a half-scale lander model of the spacecraft. This was used to test the space vehicle's descent once it arrives on Titan and its flight over the surface.

"We tested conditions across the expected flight envelope at a variety of wind speeds, rotor speeds and flight angles to assess the aerodynamic performance of the vehicle," test lead Bernadine Juliano of the APL said in a statement on NASA's website.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-develop-a-vaccine-for-cocaine-heres-how-it-works-651343">Scientists develop a vaccine for cocaine. Here's how it works</a>

"We completed more than 700 total runs, encompassing over 4,000 individual data points. All test objectives were successfully accomplished, and the data will help increase confidence in our simulation models on Earth before extrapolating to Titan conditions," Juliano said.

<h2>Why is NASA sending Dragonfly to Saturn's moon?</h2>

Titan is the only moon in our solar system that has a thick atmosphere, about four times as dense as Earth's. A celestial body's atmosphere is very important. For example, on Earth it protects us from the Sun's radiation. It also helps maintain and circulate heat and distribute gases that nourish and sustain life.

What's more? Titan's atmosphere is similar to Earth's. While our planet's atmosphere has 78 per cent nitrogen, Titan's is mainly made of nitrogen — about 95 per cent, along with five per cent methane. However, a notable difference is that while Earth's atmosphere has 21 per cent oxygen, Saturn's moon has none.

As per NASA, it only takes methane and nitrogen to "unleash a complex web of organic chemistry that makes Titan unique and interesting to scientists."

Given that microorganisms can survive the most extreme environments imaginable, scientists are yet to rule out the existence of exotic life forms that may survive the liquid methane environment.

Additionally, Titan's terrain as we know it is "eerily" similar to our planet Earth's. However, on closer inspection, "every familiar feature has an exotic trait".

The similarities don't end there. As per NASA, Titan is carved by huge flowing rivers and lakes that, instead of water, hold methane.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-say-a-surprise-layer-of-molten-rock-envelops-marss-liquid-metal-core-651517">Researchers say a surprise layer of molten rock envelops Mars' liquid-metal core</a>

Furthermore, it has rocks that look like ours but are made of water ice that stays frozen because of the celestial body's cold weather.

Previously, using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), a radio telescope observatory in Chile, scientists found C3H2, or cyclopropenylidene in Titan's atmosphere. This carbon-based molecule that has never been identified in any other atmosphere. Scientists believe that the find may be a precursor to more complex compounds that could form or feed possible life on Saturn's moon.

All these things point to the probability that Titan may hold fascinating secrets about alien life forms.

(With inputs from agencies)

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NASA is gearing up to launch its most ambitious alien world exploration ever: another ocean world. The US space agency in 2027 will launch its only mission to explore such a world.

NASA is gearing up to launch its most ambitious alien world exploration ever: another ocean world. The US space agency in 2027 will launch its only mission to explore such a world. Using NASA's Dragonfly rotorcraft lander, the mission will explore Saturn's moon Titan "with its dense atmosphere and low gravity," which as per the space agency is "a great place to fly." Here's all you need to know about the upcoming NASA mission to Luna Saturni, or "moon of Saturn". Dragonfly NASA's Dragonfly is a nuclear-powered, car-sized drone that is "designed to investigate the complex chemistry that is the precursor to life." The mission, which is expected to last for nearly three years, will study how organic compounds formed, and if Saturn's moon currently has or ever had life. It will be equipped with cameras, sensors and samplers that will examine Titan's dense, nitrogen-rich atmosphere, which is known to contain organic material that scientists believe may have come in contact with liquid water beneath its organic-rich, icy surface. Dragonfly is scheduled to launch around 2027, and it is expected to reach Titan by the mid-2030s. Will it be able to bear Titan's unique atmosphere? To test Dragonfly, mission engineers have already conducted two test campaigns in NASA Langley’s 14-by-22-foot Subsonic Tunnel, and two in the 16-foot Transonic Dynamics Tunnel (TDT). As per Ken Hibbard, Dragonfly mission systems engineer at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), "All of these tests feed into our Dragonfly Titan simulations and performance predictions". Also read | Life on Mars? Curiosity rover discovers that it was once a 'planet of rivers' "With Dragonfly, we're turning science fiction into exploration fact," said Hibbard, as per a statement on the NASA website. He added that "the mission is coming together piece by piece, and we're excited for every next step toward sending this revolutionary rotorcraft across the skies and surface of Titan." They've been conducting test campaigns at the NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia. Researchers have made attempts to assess the vehicle's aerodynamic performance in harsh, unique conditions anticipating what Dragonfly will have to face during the various stages of the mission. Recently, in one of its latest tests, the team behind Dragonfly set up a half-scale lander model of the spacecraft. This was used to test the space vehicle's descent once it arrives on Titan and its flight over the surface. "We tested conditions across the expected flight envelope at a variety of wind speeds, rotor speeds and flight angles to assess the aerodynamic performance of the vehicle," test lead Bernadine Juliano of the APL said in a statement on NASA's website. Also read | Scientists develop a vaccine for cocaine. Here's how it works "We completed more than 700 total runs, encompassing over 4,000 individual data points. All test objectives were successfully accomplished, and the data will help increase confidence in our simulation models on Earth before extrapolating to Titan conditions," Juliano said. Why is NASA sending Dragonfly to Saturn's moon? Titan is the only moon in our solar system that has a thick atmosphere, about four times as dense as Earth's. A celestial body's atmosphere is very important. For example, on Earth it protects us from the Sun's radiation. It also helps maintain and circulate heat and distribute gases that nourish and sustain life. What's more? Titan's atmosphere is similar to Earth's. While our planet's atmosphere has 78 per cent nitrogen, Titan's is mainly made of nitrogen — about 95 per cent, along with five per cent methane. However, a notable difference is that while Earth's atmosphere has 21 per cent oxygen, Saturn's moon has none. As per NASA, it only takes methane and nitrogen to "unleash a complex web of organic chemistry that makes Titan unique and interesting to scientists." Given that microorganisms can survive the most extreme environments imaginable, scientists are yet to rule out the existence of exotic life forms that may survive the liquid methane environment. Additionally, Titan's terrain as we know it is "eerily" similar to our planet Earth's. However, on closer inspection, "every familiar feature has an exotic trait". The similarities don't end there. As per NASA, Titan is carved by huge flowing rivers and lakes that, instead of water, hold methane. Also read | Researchers say a surprise layer of molten rock envelops Mars' liquid-metal core Furthermore, it has rocks that look like ours but are made of water ice that stays frozen because of the celestial body's cold weather. Previously, using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), a radio telescope observatory in Chile, scientists found C3H2, or cyclopropenylidene in Titan's atmosphere. This carbon-based molecule that has never been identified in any other atmosphere. Scientists believe that the find may be a precursor to more complex compounds that could form or feed possible life on Saturn's moon. All these things point to the probability that Titan may hold fascinating secrets about alien life forms. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: NASA to send 'nuclear-powered' Dragonfly to Saturn's moon Titan. Here's all you need to know

NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) has found more evidence that points towards the existence of life on Mars… once upon a time.&nbsp;

A team of researchers examining data collected by NASA's curiosity has deduced that the planet in ancient times had a huge network of rivers flowing with life-giving water. They have published their findings&nbsp;in Geophysical Research Letters.

<h2>'Planet of rivers'</h2>

"We're finding evidence that Mars was likely a planet of rivers," said the research's lead author, Benjamin Cardenas, a geoscientist at Penn State University.

Cardenas and his team reached this conclusion after analysing a combination of images from the Curiosity rover, scans of sedimentary rock beneath the Gulf of Mexico on Earth and several computer simulations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-develop-a-vaccine-for-cocaine-heres-how-it-works-651343">Scientists develop a vaccine for cocaine. Here's how it works</a>

Using these, they identified the ancient, eroded remnants of rivers in many Mars craters.

Curiosity rover identified specific landforms called bench-and-nose features; here steep and shallow slopes are called 'benches,' while shortened ridges are called 'noses'.&nbsp;

They form when sedimentary material laid down in channels by rivers is subsequently eroded by prevailing winds. These landforms suggest that rivers were more widespread than thought earlier.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is this important?</h2>

On our planet Earth, rivers are an indispensable source of chemical, nutrient and sediment cycles, all of which are indispensable for life. This fresh discovery provides further proof of ancient rivers and could help in humanity's&nbsp;search for signs of life on the red planet.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-perseverance-rover-captures-footage-of-martian-dust-devil-642359">A two-kilometre-tall 'dust devil' has been caught on camera, but not on Earth</a>

As Cardenas puts it: "Our research indicates that Mars could have had far more rivers than previously believed, which certainly paints a more optimistic view of ancient life on Mars."

"It offers a vision of Mars, where most of the planet once had the right condition for life," he remarked.&nbsp;

<h2>Is the knowledge of Mars rivers new?</h2>

No, it isn't. We have known about Mars' rivers since Mariner 9, the first spacecraft to orbit the red planet, sent back images which were clicked back in 1971. The images showed dried-up river channels and floodplains on Mars's surface.

Mars orbiters and rovers have also identified ridges that were probably formed by sediment in river channels billions of years ago.

Multiple Mars rovers have also found mineralogical evidence, including sulfur-containing compounds like jarosite that form in water.

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) has found more evidence that points towards the existence of life on Mars… once upon a time. A team of researchers examining data collected by NASA's curiosity has deduced that the planet in ancient times had a huge network of rivers flowing with life-giving water.

NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) has found more evidence that points towards the existence of life on Mars… once upon a time. A team of researchers examining data collected by NASA's curiosity has deduced that the planet in ancient times had a huge network of rivers flowing with life-giving water. They have published their findings in Geophysical Research Letters. 'Planet of rivers' "We're finding evidence that Mars was likely a planet of rivers," said the research's lead author, Benjamin Cardenas, a geoscientist at Penn State University. Cardenas and his team reached this conclusion after analysing a combination of images from the Curiosity rover, scans of sedimentary rock beneath the Gulf of Mexico on Earth and several computer simulations. Also read | Scientists develop a vaccine for cocaine. Here's how it works Using these, they identified the ancient, eroded remnants of rivers in many Mars craters. Curiosity rover identified specific landforms called bench-and-nose features; here steep and shallow slopes are called 'benches,' while shortened ridges are called 'noses'. They form when sedimentary material laid down in channels by rivers is subsequently eroded by prevailing winds. These landforms suggest that rivers were more widespread than thought earlier. Why is this important? On our planet Earth, rivers are an indispensable source of chemical, nutrient and sediment cycles, all of which are indispensable for life. This fresh discovery provides further proof of ancient rivers and could help in humanity's search for signs of life on the red planet. Also read | A two-kilometre-tall 'dust devil' has been caught on camera, but not on Earth As Cardenas puts it: "Our research indicates that Mars could have had far more rivers than previously believed, which certainly paints a more optimistic view of ancient life on Mars." "It offers a vision of Mars, where most of the planet once had the right condition for life," he remarked. Is the knowledge of Mars rivers new? No, it isn't. We have known about Mars' rivers since Mariner 9, the first spacecraft to orbit the red planet, sent back images which were clicked back in 1971. The images showed dried-up river channels and floodplains on Mars's surface. Mars orbiters and rovers have also identified ridges that were probably formed by sediment in river channels billions of years ago. Multiple Mars rovers have also found mineralogical evidence, including sulfur-containing compounds like jarosite that form in water. (With inputs from agencies)

Life on Mars? Curiosity rover discovers that it was once a 'planet of rivers'

NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), renowned for its deep space discoveries, has recently unveiled captivating imagery from our very own cosmic neighbourhood, offering novel insights into the intricate dynamics of the gas giant, Jupiter.&nbsp;

Stunning snapshots&nbsp;captured by the JWST in 2022, have unexpectedly exposed a colossal high-speed jet stream swirling across the planet's equator at an astounding speed of approximately 320 mph (515 kph) and spanning over 3,000 miles (4,800 kilometres).

<h2>'That totally surprised us'</h2>

Ricardo Hueso, of the University of the Basque Country, the lead author of the study documenting the findings, expressed his astonishment at the discovery.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-to-delve-deep-into-mysterious-signals-from-hell-like-exoplanet-using-james-webb-telescope-649138">This 'hell-like' exoplanet has been sending mysterious signals. JWST will now help find out why</a>

Joining in the sentiment, Leigh Fletcher from the University of Leicester said, "It’s amazing to me that, after years of tracking Jupiter’s clouds and winds from numerous observatories, we still have more to learn."

The findings have been published in the journal Nature Astronomy.

<h2>Why does a jet stream on Jupiter matter?</h2>

The team explained that the newfound jet stream, exceeding the velocity of a Category 5 hurricane on Earth, promises to provide crucial insights into Jupiter's turbulent atmosphere.&nbsp;

Researchers anticipate that the "crisp" images will help with a comprehensive understanding of the celestial giant's intricate cloud formations and weather patterns.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-unveils-stunning-lunar-shadow-image-from-ring-of-fire-solar-eclipse-649157">NASA unveils stunning lunar shadow image from 'ring of fire' solar eclipse</a>

"We knew the different wavelengths of Webb and Hubble would reveal the three-dimensional structure of storm clouds, but we were also able to use the timing of the data to see how rapidly storms develop," said Michael Wong of the University of California, Berkeley, who led the associated Hubble observations and was a member of the new study.

"Jupiter has a complicated but repeatable pattern of winds and temperatures in its equatorial stratosphere, high above the winds in the clouds and hazes measured at these wavelengths," said Fletcher, adding "If the strength of this new jet is connected to this oscillating stratospheric pattern, we might expect the jet to vary considerably over the next two to four years."

"It'll be really exciting to test this theory in the years to come," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), renowned for its deep space discoveries, has recently unveiled captivating imagery from our very own cosmic neighbourhood, offering novel insights into the intricate dynamics of the gas giant, Jupiter.

NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), renowned for its deep space discoveries, has recently unveiled captivating imagery from our very own cosmic neighbourhood, offering novel insights into the intricate dynamics of the gas giant, Jupiter. Stunning snapshots captured by the JWST in 2022, have unexpectedly exposed a colossal high-speed jet stream swirling across the planet's equator at an astounding speed of approximately 320 mph (515 kph) and spanning over 3,000 miles (4,800 kilometres). 'That totally surprised us' Ricardo Hueso, of the University of the Basque Country, the lead author of the study documenting the findings, expressed his astonishment at the discovery. Also read | This 'hell-like' exoplanet has been sending mysterious signals. JWST will now help find out why Joining in the sentiment, Leigh Fletcher from the University of Leicester said, "It’s amazing to me that, after years of tracking Jupiter’s clouds and winds from numerous observatories, we still have more to learn." The findings have been published in the journal Nature Astronomy. Why does a jet stream on Jupiter matter? The team explained that the newfound jet stream, exceeding the velocity of a Category 5 hurricane on Earth, promises to provide crucial insights into Jupiter's turbulent atmosphere. Researchers anticipate that the "crisp" images will help with a comprehensive understanding of the celestial giant's intricate cloud formations and weather patterns. Also read | NASA unveils stunning lunar shadow image from 'ring of fire' solar eclipse "We knew the different wavelengths of Webb and Hubble would reveal the three-dimensional structure of storm clouds, but we were also able to use the timing of the data to see how rapidly storms develop," said Michael Wong of the University of California, Berkeley, who led the associated Hubble observations and was a member of the new study. "Jupiter has a complicated but repeatable pattern of winds and temperatures in its equatorial stratosphere, high above the winds in the clouds and hazes measured at these wavelengths," said Fletcher, adding "If the strength of this new jet is connected to this oscillating stratospheric pattern, we might expect the jet to vary considerably over the next two to four years." "It'll be really exciting to test this theory in the years to come," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

James Webb Telescope observes jet stream as fast as 'category 5' storms on Jupiter

NASA has released another fascinating image from last week's 'ring of fire' solar eclipse.

The image which was captured by NASA's Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera aboard the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) captured the moment the moon aligned with the sun casting a shadow on Earth.

<h2>A lunar shadow</h2>

As the moon was passing in front of the sun during the annular solar eclipse on October 14, it cast a shadow or an umbra on our planet.&nbsp;

DSCOVR, a joint satellite of NASA, NOAA and US Air Force, managed to capture this "out of the world" display from a unique vantage point of about 1.5 million kilometres from the Earth.

Sharing the "EPIC view" on social media platform X, NASA wrote, "An EPIC view of the annular eclipse."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-to-delve-deep-into-mysterious-signals-from-hell-like-exoplanet-using-james-webb-telescope-649138">Scientists to delve deep into mysterious signals from 'hell-like' exoplanet using James Webb Telescope</a>

"About 1.5 million kilometres from Earth, the shadow, or umbra, from the Moon was seen falling across the southeastern coast of Texas. @nasa's EPIC instrument on the DSCOVR satellite captured this image on Oct. 14."

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An EPIC view of the annular eclipse 😎 
 
About 1.5 million kilometers from Earth, the shadow, or umbra, from the Moon was seen falling across the southeastern coast of Texas. <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nasa</a>'s EPIC instrument on the DSCOVR satellite captured this image on Oct. 14. <a href="https://t.co/WPvQbRAFKN">https://t.co/WPvQbRAFKN</a> <a href="https://t.co/QWBJFqRyBl">pic.twitter.com/QWBJFqRyBl</a>
— NASA Earth (@NASAEarth) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAEarth/status/1714279463234801898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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DSCOVR, as per the NASA website, is "a space weather station that monitors changes in the solar wind, providing space weather alerts and forecasts for geomagnetic storms that could disrupt power grids, satellites, telecommunications, aviation and GPS."

<h2>The solar eclipse</h2>

Along a narrow pathway from the Oregon coast to Central and South America, skygazers witnessed an annular solar eclipse, where the moon blocked all of the sun except for a thin band, a luminous "ring of fire".

To the rest of us, a partial eclipse was visible, one that looked like the moon taking a nibble out of the sun.

A picture of this phenomenon clicked from space was also shared by NASA. That picture from an extraordinary viewpoint in space was clicked by one of the astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS).&nbsp;

The stunning photo depicts the annular eclipse as viewed from the ISS, approximately 260 miles above Earth. You can check it out here.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-shares-amazing-picture-of-solar-eclipse-clicked-from-space-648675">This picture of annular solar eclipse snapped from 260 miles above Earth is quite riveting</a>

<h2>How annual solar eclipses happen</h2>

Annular solar eclipses happen due to the moon's slightly elliptical orbit, and occur when the moon, sun, and Earth align perfectly, but the moon is positioned farthest from Earth, which then results in the solar disk being blocked, albeit incompletely.

(With inputs from agencies)

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NASA has released another fascinating image from last week's 'ring of fire' solar eclipse. The image which was captured by NASA's Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera aboard the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) captured the moment the moon aligned with the sun casting a shadow on Earth.

NASA has released another fascinating image from last week's 'ring of fire' solar eclipse. The image which was captured by NASA's Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera aboard the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) captured the moment the moon aligned with the sun casting a shadow on Earth. A lunar shadow As the moon was passing in front of the sun during the annular solar eclipse on October 14, it cast a shadow or an umbra on our planet. DSCOVR, a joint satellite of NASA, NOAA and US Air Force, managed to capture this "out of the world" display from a unique vantage point of about 1.5 million kilometres from the Earth. Sharing the "EPIC view" on social media platform X, NASA wrote, "An EPIC view of the annular eclipse." Also read | Scientists to delve deep into mysterious signals from 'hell-like' exoplanet using James Webb Telescope "About 1.5 million kilometres from Earth, the shadow, or umbra, from the Moon was seen falling across the southeastern coast of Texas. @nasa's EPIC instrument on the DSCOVR satellite captured this image on Oct. 14." An EPIC view of the annular eclipse 😎 About 1.5 million kilometers from Earth, the shadow, or umbra, from the Moon was seen falling across the southeastern coast of Texas. @nasa's EPIC instrument on the DSCOVR satellite captured this image on Oct. 14. https://t.co/WPvQbRAFKN pic.twitter.com/QWBJFqRyBl — NASA Earth (@NASAEarth) October 17, 2023 × DSCOVR, as per the NASA website, is "a space weather station that monitors changes in the solar wind, providing space weather alerts and forecasts for geomagnetic storms that could disrupt power grids, satellites, telecommunications, aviation and GPS." The solar eclipse Along a narrow pathway from the Oregon coast to Central and South America, skygazers witnessed an annular solar eclipse, where the moon blocked all of the sun except for a thin band, a luminous "ring of fire". To the rest of us, a partial eclipse was visible, one that looked like the moon taking a nibble out of the sun. A picture of this phenomenon clicked from space was also shared by NASA. That picture from an extraordinary viewpoint in space was clicked by one of the astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The stunning photo depicts the annular eclipse as viewed from the ISS, approximately 260 miles above Earth. You can check it out here. Also read | This picture of annular solar eclipse snapped from 260 miles above Earth is quite riveting How annual solar eclipses happen Annular solar eclipses happen due to the moon's slightly elliptical orbit, and occur when the moon, sun, and Earth align perfectly, but the moon is positioned farthest from Earth, which then results in the solar disk being blocked, albeit incompletely. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Epic image captures moon's shadow falling on US during the 'ring of fire' solar eclipse

Super-Earth exoplanet, '55 Cancri e', has long been a source of fascination for astronomers since its discovery in 2004.&nbsp;

Located within&nbsp;relative proximity to Earth, this rocky exoplanet has a mass of around eight times our planet's, and it has been emitting mysterious signals, which have intrigued scientists for nearly two decades.&nbsp;

A recent study has now proposed a solution to the mystery of these signals, and it involves the James Webb Space Telescope — the most powerful and most complex telescope ever launched into space.

<h2>Finally, an explanation</h2>

After almost 20 years, scientists may finally have an extraordinary explanation for this celestial phenomenon, reports Live Science.&nbsp;

They speculate that a cyclical interplay of volcanic activity and atmospheric disappearance may be responsible for the planet's peculiar behaviour.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ancient-whispers-scientists-unveil-hidden-sounds-of-pando-the-worlds-largest-tree-649079">Ancient whispers: Scientists unveil hidden sounds of Pando, the 'world's largest tree'</a>

According to the study, 55 Cancri e, located a mere 40 light-years away from our planet, experiences a tumultuous existence.&nbsp;

55 Cancri e is so close to its parent star that the exoplanet orbits it in a mere 17 hours. As per estimates, the planet is nestled really close to its star — less than two per cent of the distance between Earth and Sun (148.98 million km).&nbsp;

Due to this nearness, it endures scorching temperatures, which on its day side exceed 4,400 degrees Fahrenheit (2,427 degrees Celsius), while its night side remains a fiery 2,060 F (1127 C).

<h2>Mysterious signals</h2>

While the extreme conditions have defied explanations, what is more puzzling — as pointed out in a paper accepted in September to the Astrophysical Journal Letters — are the transit signals Earth receives from the planet during its celestial dance with its parent star.&nbsp;

Sometimes, when 55 Cancri e hides behind its star, no discernible light emanates from the planet, while at other times, a distinct visible light signal becomes apparent. In the infrared spectrum, the planet consistently exhibits a signal, albeit with varying intensity.

<h2>What the new study says</h2>

In the new study, researchers postulate that the planet's proximity to its star triggers a cyclical phenomenon that causes periodic outgassing events.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/eight-billion-years-old-mysterious-signals-from-a-distant-galaxy-detected-on-earth-649130">Eight-billion-years-old mysterious signals from a distant galaxy detected on Earth</a>

Extreme heat from its star causes volcanic eruptions and thermal vent activities, which spew carbon-rich elements into the atmosphere, speculate researchers. Due to the planet's extreme heat, these eventually dissipate, leaving the celestial body barren until the outgassing cycle commences once again.

They hypothesise that the delicate balance between the planet's efforts to generate an atmosphere and the relentless onslaught of radiation and solar wind from its star causes a precarious oscillation. The planet's phases, with and without an atmosphere, could explain the irregular transit signals observed over the years.&nbsp;As this hypothesis awaits testing, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) presents a promising opportunity to delve deeper into the enigma of 55 Cancri e.

Super-Earth exoplanet, '55 Cancri e', has long been a source of fascination for astronomers since its discovery in 2004. Located within relative proximity to Earth, this rocky exoplanet has a mass of around eight times our planet's, and it has been emitting mysterious signals, which have intrigued scientists for nearly two decades.

Super-Earth exoplanet, '55 Cancri e', has long been a source of fascination for astronomers since its discovery in 2004. Located within relative proximity to Earth, this rocky exoplanet has a mass of around eight times our planet's, and it has been emitting mysterious signals, which have intrigued scientists for nearly two decades. A recent study has now proposed a solution to the mystery of these signals, and it involves the James Webb Space Telescope — the most powerful and most complex telescope ever launched into space. Finally, an explanation After almost 20 years, scientists may finally have an extraordinary explanation for this celestial phenomenon, reports Live Science. They speculate that a cyclical interplay of volcanic activity and atmospheric disappearance may be responsible for the planet's peculiar behaviour. Also read | Ancient whispers: Scientists unveil hidden sounds of Pando, the 'world's largest tree' According to the study, 55 Cancri e, located a mere 40 light-years away from our planet, experiences a tumultuous existence. 55 Cancri e is so close to its parent star that the exoplanet orbits it in a mere 17 hours. As per estimates, the planet is nestled really close to its star — less than two per cent of the distance between Earth and Sun (148.98 million km). Due to this nearness, it endures scorching temperatures, which on its day side exceed 4,400 degrees Fahrenheit (2,427 degrees Celsius), while its night side remains a fiery 2,060 F (1127 C). Mysterious signals While the extreme conditions have defied explanations, what is more puzzling — as pointed out in a paper accepted in September to the Astrophysical Journal Letters — are the transit signals Earth receives from the planet during its celestial dance with its parent star. Sometimes, when 55 Cancri e hides behind its star, no discernible light emanates from the planet, while at other times, a distinct visible light signal becomes apparent. In the infrared spectrum, the planet consistently exhibits a signal, albeit with varying intensity. What the new study says In the new study, researchers postulate that the planet's proximity to its star triggers a cyclical phenomenon that causes periodic outgassing events. Also read | Eight-billion-years-old mysterious signals from a distant galaxy detected on Earth Extreme heat from its star causes volcanic eruptions and thermal vent activities, which spew carbon-rich elements into the atmosphere, speculate researchers. Due to the planet's extreme heat, these eventually dissipate, leaving the celestial body barren until the outgassing cycle commences once again. They hypothesise that the delicate balance between the planet's efforts to generate an atmosphere and the relentless onslaught of radiation and solar wind from its star causes a precarious oscillation. The planet's phases, with and without an atmosphere, could explain the irregular transit signals observed over the years. As this hypothesis awaits testing, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) presents a promising opportunity to delve deeper into the enigma of 55 Cancri e.

This 'hell-like' exoplanet has been sending mysterious signals. JWST will now help find out why

Last weekend's solar eclipse was a feast for the eyes of many around the globe. But, as it turns out, not all skywatchers who marvelled at the solar eclipse were on this planet. One was up above the Earth.

NASA has released a picture of the October 14&nbsp;solar eclipse, that was clicked by an astronaut from a very unique vantage point.

<h2>The solar eclipse</h2>

Along a narrow pathway from the Oregon coast to Central and South America, skygazers witnessed an annular solar eclipse, where the moon blocked all of the sun except for a thin band, a luminous "ring of fire".

To the rest of us, a partial eclipse was visible, one that looked like the moon taking a nibble out of the sun.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/us-says-over-270-ufo-reports-recorded-were-they-of-foreign-origin-648648">US says over 270 UFO reports recorded. Were they of foreign origin?</a>

This was exactly what was seen by the crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS), and one of the astronauts clicked a celestial picture of it from his extraordinary viewpoint in space.

<h2>Celestial picture</h2>

The picture was captured by NASA astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli, a member of the ISS crew since August.

Moghbeli managed to capture a remarkable photo from the ISS, and it was then shared by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center.

The stunning photo depicts the annular eclipse as viewed from the ISS, approximately 260 miles above Earth.&nbsp;

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The crew aboard the <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a> watched the annular solar eclipse on Oct. 14, from the best seat in the house (260 miles above Earth). As the Moon passed in front of the sun, Expedition 70 Flight Engineer Jasmin Moghbeli captured this photo. 
 
Where did you watch from? 🌑 ☀️ <a href="https://t.co/MM5MopVXYE">pic.twitter.com/MM5MopVXYE</a>
— NASA Marshall (@NASA_Marshall) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA_Marshall/status/1714313728236154972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The tweet highlighted the astronauts' unique vantage point during the celestial event.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/asteroid-alert-apollo-group-space-rock-to-approach-earth-closer-than-the-moon-details-648651">Asteroid alert! Apollo group space rock to approach Earth closer than the Moon | Details</a>

"The crew aboard the @Space_Station watched the annular solar eclipse on Oct. 14, from the best seat in the house (260 miles above Earth). As the moon passed in front of the sun, Expedition 70 Flight Engineer Jasmin Moghbeli captured this photo," said the post, while prompting followers to share their own viewing experiences.

<h2>How annual solar eclipses happen</h2>

Annular solar eclipses happen due to the moon's slightly elliptical orbit, and occur when the moon, sun, and Earth align perfectly, but the moon is positioned farthest from Earth, which then results in the solar disk being blocked, albeit incompletely.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Last weekend's solar eclipse was a feast for the eyes of many around the globe. But, as it turns out, not all skywatchers who marvelled at the solar eclipse were on this planet.

Last weekend's solar eclipse was a feast for the eyes of many around the globe. But, as it turns out, not all skywatchers who marvelled at the solar eclipse were on this planet. One was up above the Earth. NASA has released a picture of the October 14 solar eclipse, that was clicked by an astronaut from a very unique vantage point. The solar eclipse Along a narrow pathway from the Oregon coast to Central and South America, skygazers witnessed an annular solar eclipse, where the moon blocked all of the sun except for a thin band, a luminous "ring of fire". To the rest of us, a partial eclipse was visible, one that looked like the moon taking a nibble out of the sun. Also read | US says over 270 UFO reports recorded. Were they of foreign origin? This was exactly what was seen by the crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS), and one of the astronauts clicked a celestial picture of it from his extraordinary viewpoint in space. Celestial picture The picture was captured by NASA astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli, a member of the ISS crew since August. Moghbeli managed to capture a remarkable photo from the ISS, and it was then shared by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. The stunning photo depicts the annular eclipse as viewed from the ISS, approximately 260 miles above Earth. The crew aboard the @Space_Station watched the annular solar eclipse on Oct. 14, from the best seat in the house (260 miles above Earth). As the Moon passed in front of the sun, Expedition 70 Flight Engineer Jasmin Moghbeli captured this photo. Where did you watch from? 🌑 ☀️ pic.twitter.com/MM5MopVXYE — NASA Marshall (@NASA_Marshall) October 17, 2023 × The tweet highlighted the astronauts' unique vantage point during the celestial event. Also read | Asteroid alert! Apollo group space rock to approach Earth closer than the Moon | Details "The crew aboard the @Space_Station watched the annular solar eclipse on Oct. 14, from the best seat in the house (260 miles above Earth). As the moon passed in front of the sun, Expedition 70 Flight Engineer Jasmin Moghbeli captured this photo," said the post, while prompting followers to share their own viewing experiences. How annual solar eclipses happen Annular solar eclipses happen due to the moon's slightly elliptical orbit, and occur when the moon, sun, and Earth align perfectly, but the moon is positioned farthest from Earth, which then results in the solar disk being blocked, albeit incompletely. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

This picture of annular solar eclipse snapped from 260 miles above Earth is quite riveting

The Sun is the driving force behind all life on earth. From the weather, ocean currents, climate, and seasons, all life depends on the star. What would happen if the star that provides our planet so much life dies?

For the first time, astronomers might have a clue. Here's what will happen.

<h2>A white dwarf</h2>

Scientists have, for the first time, studied a white dwarf - a star just like our sun that has exhausted its hydrogen reserves or nuclear fuel.

Our sun, as per National Geographic, is just an ordinary star; one of about 100 billion in our galaxy, the Milky Way.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/european-space-agency-shares-stunning-visualisation-of-mars-labyrinth-of-night-watch-here-647379">This stunning visualisation of Mars' gigantic 'Labyrinth of Night' will blow your mind</a>

Astronomers studied the stellar remnants that lie at the centre of a cloud of wreckage, gas and dust that astronomers call a planetary nebula.&nbsp;

It is located at around 4,500 light years from Earth, in the open star cluster Messier 37. Astronomers used Gran Telescopio Canarias on the island of La Palma in the Canary Islands to study the cosmic graveyard full of stars, some of them dead.&nbsp;

Studying this white dwarf has provided scientists with vital information on how the once red-hot star died, and also provided insights into how our own solar system could look like in around five billion years.

<h2>From sun to a white dwarf</h2>

A dying sun, as per space.com, runs out of fuel that is intrinsic to its nuclear fusion processes and slowly swells into a red giant. The puffed-out outer layers then swallow inner planets — Earth is an inner planet to the Milky Way's sun.&nbsp;

Then, the star's shell of stellar material spreads out and cools, after which the sun becomes a planetary nebula, and eventually, its core turns into a fading white dwarf.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/humanitys-next-big-catastrophe-could-lie-in-the-sun-predict-scientists-644862">Humanity's next big 'catastrophe' could lie in the Sun, predict scientists</a>

"The more massive a star is, the faster it consumes its nuclear fuel by fusing hydrogen into helium. So its life is shorter, and it evolves into a white dwarf faster," said Klaus Werner, the study team leader and a professor at the University of Tübingen in a statement.

The star they studied as per estimates had a mass equivalent to 2.8 times our Sun. It currently has only about 85 per cent of the mass of Earth's sun left, the rest, about 70 per cent of its original total mass, was lost during its lifetime.

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The Sun is the driving force behind all life on earth. From the weather, ocean currents, climate, and seasons, all life depends on the star. What would happen if the star that provides our planet so much life dies?

The Sun is the driving force behind all life on earth. From the weather, ocean currents, climate, and seasons, all life depends on the star. What would happen if the star that provides our planet so much life dies? For the first time, astronomers might have a clue. Here's what will happen. A white dwarf Scientists have, for the first time, studied a white dwarf - a star just like our sun that has exhausted its hydrogen reserves or nuclear fuel. Our sun, as per National Geographic, is just an ordinary star; one of about 100 billion in our galaxy, the Milky Way. Also read | This stunning visualisation of Mars' gigantic 'Labyrinth of Night' will blow your mind Astronomers studied the stellar remnants that lie at the centre of a cloud of wreckage, gas and dust that astronomers call a planetary nebula. It is located at around 4,500 light years from Earth, in the open star cluster Messier 37. Astronomers used Gran Telescopio Canarias on the island of La Palma in the Canary Islands to study the cosmic graveyard full of stars, some of them dead. Studying this white dwarf has provided scientists with vital information on how the once red-hot star died, and also provided insights into how our own solar system could look like in around five billion years. From sun to a white dwarf A dying sun, as per space.com, runs out of fuel that is intrinsic to its nuclear fusion processes and slowly swells into a red giant. The puffed-out outer layers then swallow inner planets — Earth is an inner planet to the Milky Way's sun. Then, the star's shell of stellar material spreads out and cools, after which the sun becomes a planetary nebula, and eventually, its core turns into a fading white dwarf. Also read | Humanity's next big 'catastrophe' could lie in the Sun, predict scientists "The more massive a star is, the faster it consumes its nuclear fuel by fusing hydrogen into helium. So its life is shorter, and it evolves into a white dwarf faster," said Klaus Werner, the study team leader and a professor at the University of Tübingen in a statement. The star they studied as per estimates had a mass equivalent to 2.8 times our Sun. It currently has only about 85 per cent of the mass of Earth's sun left, the rest, about 70 per cent of its original total mass, was lost during its lifetime. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Earth swallowed whole, sun a lifeless white giant; scientists predict what galaxy will look like in 5bn years

So James Webb Space Telescope has sent another image our way. That it would be mesmerising and breathtaking is a given as all things in space tend to sparkle brilliantly in a way that makes us redefine idea of beauty altogether. But our improved tech and better telescope (a brand new space telescope to start with) gives us unprecedented ability to glean into not only unknown corners of space but also to obtain greater details about celestial bodies in our immediate cosmic neighbourhood.

Take Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) for example. James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) may help us know a thing or two in more detail about it. For the knowledgeable among us, this will open new academic vistas. But even if you are not an astronomer, you can always marvel at the beauty, now enhanced by better images clicked by JWST.

The SMC is a 'satellite galaxy' of Milky Way. NASA has now posted an image of NGC 346 taken by JWST. It Is the brightest and largest star-forming region in the SMC.&nbsp;

The SMC is considered to be a 'primitive' galaxy than the Milky Way because it is believed it has less amount of heavy elements. Cosmic dust is made of heavy elements mainly. And that's why is was believed that NGC 346 would have less amount of cosmic dust.

But the image taken by JWST using its Mini Infrared Instrument (MIRI) reveals presence of the cosmic dust.&nbsp;

Check out the image

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Grim grinning ghosts 👻 
 
Webb captured this spectral view of star-forming region NGC 346 in mid-infrared light. The blue tendrils represent silicates and sooty chemical molecules, while the red glow represents warm dust heated by bright, massive stars: <a href="https://t.co/ExyrIxSiJX">https://t.co/ExyrIxSiJX</a> <a href="https://t.co/0jyav1Du9Q">pic.twitter.com/0jyav1Du9Q</a>
— NASA Webb Telescope (@NASAWebb) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAWebb/status/1711750323381952531?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The blue tendrils in the image above are trace emissions from materials such as dusty silicates and chemical molecules known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The red light visible in the image represents regions of warm dust heated by bigger stars in the region.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-to-unveil-fascinating-bennu-asteroid-sample-to-the-public-645380">NASA to unveil fascinating Bennu asteroid sample to the public</a>

The arc of light in the centre left can be a reflection of light from a star which is near the centre of the arc.

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So James Webb Space Telescope has sent another image our way. That it would be mesmerising and breathtaking is a given as all things in space tend to sparkle brilliantly in a way that makes us redefine idea of beauty altogether.

So James Webb Space Telescope has sent another image our way. That it would be mesmerising and breathtaking is a given as all things in space tend to sparkle brilliantly in a way that makes us redefine idea of beauty altogether. But our improved tech and better telescope (a brand new space telescope to start with) gives us unprecedented ability to glean into not only unknown corners of space but also to obtain greater details about celestial bodies in our immediate cosmic neighbourhood. Take Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) for example. James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) may help us know a thing or two in more detail about it. For the knowledgeable among us, this will open new academic vistas. But even if you are not an astronomer, you can always marvel at the beauty, now enhanced by better images clicked by JWST. The SMC is a 'satellite galaxy' of Milky Way. NASA has now posted an image of NGC 346 taken by JWST. It Is the brightest and largest star-forming region in the SMC. The SMC is considered to be a 'primitive' galaxy than the Milky Way because it is believed it has less amount of heavy elements. Cosmic dust is made of heavy elements mainly. And that's why is was believed that NGC 346 would have less amount of cosmic dust. But the image taken by JWST using its Mini Infrared Instrument (MIRI) reveals presence of the cosmic dust. Check out the image Grim grinning ghosts 👻 Webb captured this spectral view of star-forming region NGC 346 in mid-infrared light. The blue tendrils represent silicates and sooty chemical molecules, while the red glow represents warm dust heated by bright, massive stars: https://t.co/ExyrIxSiJX pic.twitter.com/0jyav1Du9Q — NASA Webb Telescope (@NASAWebb) October 10, 2023 × The blue tendrils in the image above are trace emissions from materials such as dusty silicates and chemical molecules known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The red light visible in the image represents regions of warm dust heated by bigger stars in the region. Also Read | NASA to unveil fascinating Bennu asteroid sample to the public The arc of light in the centre left can be a reflection of light from a star which is near the centre of the arc. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

James Webb telescope clicks a beautiful star-forming region

The researchers at European Space Agency (ESA) have found two Jupiter-sized objects in the most unlikely place in the Universe, a nebula. They use National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to spot the giants. Jupiter is the largest planet in our Solar System.

Finding giant planets in space is not that unique a thing but what's special about this discovery is that the objects have been found inside Orion Nebula. It is the closest star-forming region to us.

It was previously believed that nebulas&nbsp;only formed stars and were not capable of spontaneously forming planet-sized objects. So the present discovery has the potential of upending our thinking about planet formation and the nebulas.&nbsp;

"There's something wrong with either our understanding of planet formation, star formation — or both," said Samuel Pearson, an ESA scientist who worked on the research, in an interview with The New York Times. "They shouldn't exist," he added.

Pearson was quoted by The New York Times.

These Jupiter-sized objects have been named Jupiter Mass Binary Objects, or JuMBOs. The objects are not large enough to be stars and aren't technically planets since they don't revolve around any star.

"Most of us don't have time to get wrapped up in this debate about what is a planet and what isn't a planet," Professor Mark McCaughrean, a senior adviser for science and exploration at the ESA, told The Guardian.

McCaughrean was quoted by The Guardian.

He has co-authored a research paper which is still to be peer-reviewed. In his paper, McCaughrean says that the JuMBOs are about a million years old. When compared to the age of the Universe, these objects are young.

It has been estimated that surface temperatures of JuMBOs is around 1000 degrees Celsius. The JuMBOs differ from planet in a way that they are not able to maintain steady temperature as they don't receive energy from their host stars.

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The researchers at European Space Agency (ESA) have found two Jupiter-sized objects in the most unlikely place in the Universe, a nebula. They use National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to spot the giants.

The researchers at European Space Agency (ESA) have found two Jupiter-sized objects in the most unlikely place in the Universe, a nebula. They use National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to spot the giants. Jupiter is the largest planet in our Solar System. Finding giant planets in space is not that unique a thing but what's special about this discovery is that the objects have been found inside Orion Nebula. It is the closest star-forming region to us. It was previously believed that nebulas only formed stars and were not capable of spontaneously forming planet-sized objects. So the present discovery has the potential of upending our thinking about planet formation and the nebulas. "There's something wrong with either our understanding of planet formation, star formation — or both," said Samuel Pearson, an ESA scientist who worked on the research, in an interview with The New York Times. "They shouldn't exist," he added. Pearson was quoted by The New York Times. These Jupiter-sized objects have been named Jupiter Mass Binary Objects, or JuMBOs. The objects are not large enough to be stars and aren't technically planets since they don't revolve around any star. "Most of us don't have time to get wrapped up in this debate about what is a planet and what isn't a planet," Professor Mark McCaughrean, a senior adviser for science and exploration at the ESA, told The Guardian. McCaughrean was quoted by The Guardian. He has co-authored a research paper which is still to be peer-reviewed. In his paper, McCaughrean says that the JuMBOs are about a million years old. When compared to the age of the Universe, these objects are young. It has been estimated that surface temperatures of JuMBOs is around 1000 degrees Celsius. The JuMBOs differ from planet in a way that they are not able to maintain steady temperature as they don't receive energy from their host stars. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

JWST spots Jupiter-like objects that can upend our understanding of nebulas

The latest observations of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope have hinted at the presence of a building block of life – carbon – inside the global ocean on Europa, one of the icy moons of Jupiter. 
 
The James Webb Space Telescope was used by two independent teams of astronomers to observe the frozen surface of Europa. Each analysis of the detections of the space observatory revealed the presence of abundant carbon dioxide within a specific area of the frigid terrain.

The two studies described the findings which were published in the journal Science on September 21. 
 
“On Earth, life likes chemical diversity — the more diversity, the better. We’re carbon-based life. Understanding the chemistry of Europa’s ocean will help us determine whether it’s hostile to life as we know it, or if it might be a good place for life,” stated Geronimo Villanueva, lead author of the first study and planetary scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Centre in Greenbelt, Maryland, in a statement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/amateur-japanese-astronomer-captures-bright-flash-in-jupiters-atmosphere-636502">Amateur Japanese astronomer captures bright flash in Jupiter's atmosphere</a>

Apart from Earth, Europa is among the several ocean worlds present in our solar system where scientists feel life could exist. 
 
Europa has a thick ice shell beneath which a subsurface global ocean exists, which may contain twice the amount of water present on the oceans of the planet. 
 
However environments, which are suitable for the existence of life, require more than water: an energy source and a supply of organic molecules, according to NASA. 
 
After Webb's data revealed that carbon is present on Europa’s surface, an analysis was conducted by the researchers to understand if it was delivered by meteorites, or if it originated from the internal ocean.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: A chunk of asteroid is coming to earth

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In the observations, carbon dioxide was seen concentrated in a region of “chaos terrain” on Europa known as Tara Regio. The geologically young area is filled with ice which has been resurfaced and disrupted, which further suggests that the material was exchanged between the surface and the ocean.

<h2>Carbon dioxide is not stable on Europa's surface</h2>

Carbon dioxide is not stable on the surface of Europa, which further led the two teams to the same conclusion, that it originated from the ocean. 
 
“We now think that we have observational evidence that the carbon we see on Europa’s surface came from the ocean. That’s not a trivial thing. Carbon is a biologically essential element,” stated Samantha Trumbo, lead author of the second study and a 51 Pegasi B Fellow at Cornell University, in a statement. 
 
The Hubble Space Telescope had earlier spotted ocean-derived salt in the same region. “We think this implies that the carbon probably has its ultimate origin in the internal ocean,” said Trumbo.

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The latest observations of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope have hinted at the presence of a building block of life – carbon – inside the global ocean on Europa, one of the icy moons of Jupiter.

The latest observations of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope have hinted at the presence of a building block of life – carbon – inside the global ocean on Europa, one of the icy moons of Jupiter. The James Webb Space Telescope was used by two independent teams of astronomers to observe the frozen surface of Europa. Each analysis of the detections of the space observatory revealed the presence of abundant carbon dioxide within a specific area of the frigid terrain. The two studies described the findings which were published in the journal Science on September 21. “On Earth, life likes chemical diversity — the more diversity, the better. We’re carbon-based life. Understanding the chemistry of Europa’s ocean will help us determine whether it’s hostile to life as we know it, or if it might be a good place for life,” stated Geronimo Villanueva, lead author of the first study and planetary scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Centre in Greenbelt, Maryland, in a statement. ALSO READ | Amateur Japanese astronomer captures bright flash in Jupiter's atmosphere Apart from Earth, Europa is among the several ocean worlds present in our solar system where scientists feel life could exist. Europa has a thick ice shell beneath which a subsurface global ocean exists, which may contain twice the amount of water present on the oceans of the planet. However environments, which are suitable for the existence of life, require more than water: an energy source and a supply of organic molecules, according to NASA. After Webb's data revealed that carbon is present on Europa’s surface, an analysis was conducted by the researchers to understand if it was delivered by meteorites, or if it originated from the internal ocean. WATCH | Gravitas: A chunk of asteroid is coming to earth In the observations, carbon dioxide was seen concentrated in a region of “chaos terrain” on Europa known as Tara Regio. The geologically young area is filled with ice which has been resurfaced and disrupted, which further suggests that the material was exchanged between the surface and the ocean. Carbon dioxide is not stable on Europa's surface Carbon dioxide is not stable on the surface of Europa, which further led the two teams to the same conclusion, that it originated from the ocean. “We now think that we have observational evidence that the carbon we see on Europa’s surface came from the ocean. That’s not a trivial thing. Carbon is a biologically essential element,” stated Samantha Trumbo, lead author of the second study and a 51 Pegasi B Fellow at Cornell University, in a statement. The Hubble Space Telescope had earlier spotted ocean-derived salt in the same region. “We think this implies that the carbon probably has its ultimate origin in the internal ocean,” said Trumbo. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Life on Jupiter's moon? NASA's James Webb spots a building blocks on Europa

In the vast expanse of space, astronauts aboard the Russian space station Mir in 1988 encountered an unexpected and curious visitor.

Cosmonauts aboard the space station realised that something, maybe an alien intruder, was blanketing a station window from the outside.

This intruder turned to be fungi, something that is anything but alien to us, yet in space it was an unwanted stowaway that had hitched a ride to the cosmos. Its vehicle of choice: the cosmonauts themselves.&nbsp;

Here's why scientists don't hate this piggyback passenger:

<h2>Adaptation and survival</h2>

The fungi managed to adapt to the harsh space environment so well that not only did it survive, but it thrived on windows, control panels, air conditioners, and cable insulators.&nbsp;

It even managed to infiltrate the crew's food and water supply.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-rare-stunning-electric-blue-coloured-tarantula-species-in-thailands-lush-jungles-640279">Scientists discover rare, stunning electric blue coloured Tarantula species in Thailand's lush jungles</a>

While this incident marked the first time fungi were found causing significant damage to a space station, it wouldn't be the last.

As insidious as it may sound, in the grand cosmic journey, space travellers are never truly alone. Rather than fear this reality, scientists are embracing it.&nbsp;

A team affiliated with the European Space Agency (ESA) has, as per Space.com, now embarked on hypergravity experiments with fungi. They want to unlock the secrets of fungi's survival in space's unforgiving conditions.

<h2>Why are scientists excited about fungi?</h2>

Understanding how fungi thrived in harsh space environments could pave the way for using it in the construction of off-world settlements and potentially incorporating them into space medications.

As per the report, spacefaring fungal species are like interstellar sleuths, lying dormant during launch and space travel before they "activate" to form thick, living mats in various regions of the space station.&nbsp;

These mats pose threats to astronaut health and jeopardise vital station components, including electronics and plumbing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isro-to-work-with-nasa-and-manage-traffic-around-aditya-l1s-destination-640261">ISRO to work with NASA and manage traffic around Aditya-L1's destination&nbsp;</a>

Even though since the 1988 incident, diligent efforts have been made to establish robust cleaning routines for eradicating fungi from station walls and equipment before they wreak havoc, it survives.

Scientists realised that studying fungal growth and behaviour in microgravity, particularly their adaptability in repairing DNA damage caused by space radiation, can actually be really helpful for long-term space missions.&nbsp;

As André Antunes, a researcher at Macau University of Science and Technology in China, noted, "We are never going to be able to get rid of fungi entirely as we venture into space, so we need to understand them."&nbsp;

<h2>Research with fungi</h2>

In 2016, researchers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory conducted research by launching fungi, specifically Aspergillus nidulans, to the International Space Station (ISS).&nbsp;The experiment aimed to investigate how the ISS environment induced the fungus to produce molecules not typically found on Earth.&nbsp;

Similar investigations into fungal behaviour are currently underway on Earth, with the ESA studying fungal colony growth in "hypergravity" conditions, where artificially created gravity up to 20 times Earth's force was employed.&nbsp;

This two-week research effort, conducted at ESA's space technology and development centre in the Netherlands, sought to understand how fully grown fungal species respond to stress-inducing conditions.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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In the vast expanse of space, astronauts aboard the Russian space station Mir in 1988 encountered an unexpected and curious visitor. Cosmonauts aboard the space station realised that something, maybe an alien intruder, was blanketing a station window from the outside.

In the vast expanse of space, astronauts aboard the Russian space station Mir in 1988 encountered an unexpected and curious visitor. Cosmonauts aboard the space station realised that something, maybe an alien intruder, was blanketing a station window from the outside. This intruder turned to be fungi, something that is anything but alien to us, yet in space it was an unwanted stowaway that had hitched a ride to the cosmos. Its vehicle of choice: the cosmonauts themselves. Here's why scientists don't hate this piggyback passenger: Adaptation and survival The fungi managed to adapt to the harsh space environment so well that not only did it survive, but it thrived on windows, control panels, air conditioners, and cable insulators. It even managed to infiltrate the crew's food and water supply. Also read | Scientists discover rare, stunning electric blue coloured Tarantula species in Thailand's lush jungles While this incident marked the first time fungi were found causing significant damage to a space station, it wouldn't be the last. As insidious as it may sound, in the grand cosmic journey, space travellers are never truly alone. Rather than fear this reality, scientists are embracing it. A team affiliated with the European Space Agency (ESA) has, as per Space.com, now embarked on hypergravity experiments with fungi. They want to unlock the secrets of fungi's survival in space's unforgiving conditions. Why are scientists excited about fungi? Understanding how fungi thrived in harsh space environments could pave the way for using it in the construction of off-world settlements and potentially incorporating them into space medications. As per the report, spacefaring fungal species are like interstellar sleuths, lying dormant during launch and space travel before they "activate" to form thick, living mats in various regions of the space station. These mats pose threats to astronaut health and jeopardise vital station components, including electronics and plumbing. Also read | ISRO to work with NASA and manage traffic around Aditya-L1's destination Even though since the 1988 incident, diligent efforts have been made to establish robust cleaning routines for eradicating fungi from station walls and equipment before they wreak havoc, it survives. Scientists realised that studying fungal growth and behaviour in microgravity, particularly their adaptability in repairing DNA damage caused by space radiation, can actually be really helpful for long-term space missions. As André Antunes, a researcher at Macau University of Science and Technology in China, noted, "We are never going to be able to get rid of fungi entirely as we venture into space, so we need to understand them." Research with fungi In 2016, researchers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory conducted research by launching fungi, specifically Aspergillus nidulans, to the International Space Station (ISS). The experiment aimed to investigate how the ISS environment induced the fungus to produce molecules not typically found on Earth. Similar investigations into fungal behaviour are currently underway on Earth, with the ESA studying fungal colony growth in "hypergravity" conditions, where artificially created gravity up to 20 times Earth's force was employed. This two-week research effort, conducted at ESA's space technology and development centre in the Netherlands, sought to understand how fully grown fungal species respond to stress-inducing conditions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Fungi's cosmic journey: From unwanted space stowaway to scientific fascination for its resilience

UFOs (Unidentified Flying Objects), or UAPs (Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena) as they are now known, have for decades been a subject of curiosity for humans. Do aliens exist? Are the frequent alien vehicle "sightings" real or not? These questions have long been a head-scratcher.&nbsp;

On Thursday (September 14th), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) may provide us with answers to these questions.

Here's all you need to know.

<h2>A report unveiled</h2>

Back in 2022, NASA commissioned a study team to investigate reports of UAPs.&nbsp;

As per the space agency's website, the study team was commissioned "to examine UAP from a scientific perspective and create a roadmap for how to use data and the tools of science to move our understanding of UAP forward."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chandrayaan-3-landing-site-shiv-shakti-captured-by-south-koreas-dnauri-lunar-orbiter-635725">Chandrayaan-3 landing site 'Shiv Shakti' captured by South Korea's Danuri lunar orbiter</a>

In a statement released&nbsp;last year before the commencement of the study, NASA's Thomas Zurbuchen had stated: "We have the tools and team who can help us improve our understanding of the unknown. That's the very definition of what science is. That's what we do."

The highly anticipated findings of the team of 16 community experts with expertise in diverse areas on matters relevant to potential methods of study for unidentified anomalous phenomena will be unveiled on Thursday (September 14th) at 10 am EDT (14:00 pm GMT or 19:30 pm IST).

The report will be live-streamed across various NASA channels, including its official app, website, television and social media. You can join the telecast here:

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<h2>Why is this important?</h2>

Apart from the curiosity humanity maintains about life "out there," the importance of this report stems from the fact that UAPs aren't that well-documented.

This limited availability of well-documented observations of UAPs — which are usually defined as objects in the sky that do not align with known natural phenomena or conventional aircraft, and may or may not have extraterrestrial origins — makes it extremely challenging to draw scientific conclusions about their origin or nature.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/archaeologists-angry-over-ancient-human-relative-remains-sent-to-edge-of-outer-space-report-635530">Some fossils of ancient human relatives have been sent to outer space &amp; archaeologists are not happy</a>

With these report's&nbsp;findings that do not merely rely on "grainy footage of UAPs," humanity should have a better understanding that can help guide our future analysis of extraterrestrial objects.

In an update meeting held in May, Daniel Evans, the NASA official in charge of the study, said: "The primary objective of this incredible team of experts is not to go back and look at grainy footage of UAPs but rather to give us a roadmap to guide us for future analysis."

(With inputs from agencies)

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UFOs (Unidentified Flying Objects), or UAPs (Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena) as they are now known, have for decades been a subject of curiosity for humans. Do aliens exist?

UFOs (Unidentified Flying Objects), or UAPs (Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena) as they are now known, have for decades been a subject of curiosity for humans. Do aliens exist? Are the frequent alien vehicle "sightings" real or not? These questions have long been a head-scratcher. On Thursday (September 14th), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) may provide us with answers to these questions. Here's all you need to know. A report unveiled Back in 2022, NASA commissioned a study team to investigate reports of UAPs. As per the space agency's website, the study team was commissioned "to examine UAP from a scientific perspective and create a roadmap for how to use data and the tools of science to move our understanding of UAP forward." Also read | Chandrayaan-3 landing site 'Shiv Shakti' captured by South Korea's Danuri lunar orbiter In a statement released last year before the commencement of the study, NASA's Thomas Zurbuchen had stated: "We have the tools and team who can help us improve our understanding of the unknown. That's the very definition of what science is. That's what we do." The highly anticipated findings of the team of 16 community experts with expertise in diverse areas on matters relevant to potential methods of study for unidentified anomalous phenomena will be unveiled on Thursday (September 14th) at 10 am EDT (14:00 pm GMT or 19:30 pm IST). The report will be live-streamed across various NASA channels, including its official app, website, television and social media. You can join the telecast here: × Why is this important? Apart from the curiosity humanity maintains about life "out there," the importance of this report stems from the fact that UAPs aren't that well-documented. This limited availability of well-documented observations of UAPs — which are usually defined as objects in the sky that do not align with known natural phenomena or conventional aircraft, and may or may not have extraterrestrial origins — makes it extremely challenging to draw scientific conclusions about their origin or nature. Also read | Some fossils of ancient human relatives have been sent to outer space & archaeologists are not happy With these report's findings that do not merely rely on "grainy footage of UAPs," humanity should have a better understanding that can help guide our future analysis of extraterrestrial objects. In an update meeting held in May, Daniel Evans, the NASA official in charge of the study, said: "The primary objective of this incredible team of experts is not to go back and look at grainy footage of UAPs but rather to give us a roadmap to guide us for future analysis." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

The truth about UFOs: NASA to unveil important report on UAPs. Here's how you can watch it live

James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), humanity's most powerful 'eye in the sky' yet is casting a fresh look at the Universe we've gazed at for centuries. It may seem to us that it is clicking pictures that we have already clicked. But these seemingly repeat pictures are literally in fresh 'light'.

Among the latest to hit our ever-busy social media timelines is an infrared pic of the 'Whirlpool Galaxy'. This galaxy is also known as M51 or NGC 5194.&nbsp;

The galaxy has been clicked before of course. The trusty, old Hubble Space Telescope has captured the marvellous glory of the galaxy before this. But the JWST has captured the latest image in infrared light.

Watch | Chandrayaan-3: Why is Pragyan rover hunting for hydrogen near Moon's south pole?

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The Whirlpool Galaxy, as its name suggests, resembles a whirlpool. Just like flow of water when it is exiting a bathtub. The latest image has been taken by NIRCam and MIRI instruments of James Webb Space Telescope.&nbsp;

The NASA image shows the warm dust that is concentrated along the galaxy's spiral arms. It is visible as dark red spots.

The bright areas along the arms are where the stars are forming. These regions lead to blue and white central ones.

The areas with orange and yellow areas represent regions of ionized gas which are created by recently formed star clusters.

Additionally, the image reveals cavernous black 'bubbles' through which we can see through the galaxy and can even witness stars that are shining behind it.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isros-latest-video-shows-chandrayaan-3-rover-pragyan-frolicking-in-the-yards-of-chandamama-watch-630900">Chandrayaan-3 rover Pragyan 'frolicking in the yards of Chandamama'. Watch!</a>

The Whirlpool Galaxy is 31 million light-years away from us and lies in the Constellation Canes Venatici.

James Webb telescope is observing M51 galaxy as part of a series of observations called Feedback in Emerging extrAgalactic Star clusTers, or FEAST.

According to the European Space Agency (ESA), the FEAST observations were designed to "shed light on the interplay between stellar feedback and star formation in environments outside of our own galaxy, the Milky Way."

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James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), humanity's most powerful 'eye in the sky' yet is casting a fresh look at the Universe we've gazed at for centuries. It may seem to us that it is clicking pictures that we have already clicked.

James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), humanity's most powerful 'eye in the sky' yet is casting a fresh look at the Universe we've gazed at for centuries. It may seem to us that it is clicking pictures that we have already clicked. But these seemingly repeat pictures are literally in fresh 'light'. Among the latest to hit our ever-busy social media timelines is an infrared pic of the 'Whirlpool Galaxy'. This galaxy is also known as M51 or NGC 5194. The galaxy has been clicked before of course. The trusty, old Hubble Space Telescope has captured the marvellous glory of the galaxy before this. But the JWST has captured the latest image in infrared light. Watch | Chandrayaan-3: Why is Pragyan rover hunting for hydrogen near Moon's south pole? × The Whirlpool Galaxy, as its name suggests, resembles a whirlpool. Just like flow of water when it is exiting a bathtub. The latest image has been taken by NIRCam and MIRI instruments of James Webb Space Telescope. The NASA image shows the warm dust that is concentrated along the galaxy's spiral arms. It is visible as dark red spots. The bright areas along the arms are where the stars are forming. These regions lead to blue and white central ones. The areas with orange and yellow areas represent regions of ionized gas which are created by recently formed star clusters. Additionally, the image reveals cavernous black 'bubbles' through which we can see through the galaxy and can even witness stars that are shining behind it. Also Read | Chandrayaan-3 rover Pragyan 'frolicking in the yards of Chandamama'. Watch! The Whirlpool Galaxy is 31 million light-years away from us and lies in the Constellation Canes Venatici. James Webb telescope is observing M51 galaxy as part of a series of observations called Feedback in Emerging extrAgalactic Star clusTers, or FEAST. According to the European Space Agency (ESA), the FEAST observations were designed to "shed light on the interplay between stellar feedback and star formation in environments outside of our own galaxy, the Milky Way." You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

NASA's James Webb telescope clicks brilliant new image of Whirlpool Galaxy

The launch of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has helped scientists unravel the myriad mysteries of the universe. Astronomers have been able&nbsp;to witness some of the rare cosmological events that shape the understanding of the cosmos.

Now, thanks to JWST, astronomers have been able to establish one of the earlier galaxies known in the universe.

Called the Maisie's Galaxy, it is said to have formed about 390 million years after the Big Bang. For reference, the universe as a whole is about 13.77 billion years old.

Maisie’s Galaxy was named after the daughter of the project’s principal investigator, Steven Finkelstein, an astronomer at the University of Texas at Austin.

The image was first taken in June 2022 as part of the Cosmic Evolution Early Release Science Survey (CEERS), and it was recently confirmed that the galaxy that was detected last summer is in fact among the earliest ever found.

“The exciting thing about Maisie's galaxy is that it was one of the first distant galaxies identified by JWST, and of that set, it's the first to actually be spectroscopically confirmed," Steven Finkelstein said.

It is touted to be one of the four earliest confirmed galaxies observed.

The latest analysis was led by Pablo Arrabal Haro, a postdoctoral research associate at the National Science Foundation's National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory.

<h2>Astronomers&nbsp;evaluating 10 other galaxies </h2>

The CEERS team is currently evaluating about 10 other galaxies that might be from an era even earlier than Maisie's.

It is not easy to determine the timeframe of galaxies in the early universe as it is expanding at an accelerating rate.

Most objects that are outside of our galaxy appear to be receding and take&nbsp;a bit of time to figure out.

Hence to calculate&nbsp;how old it is, astronomers&nbsp;measure its redshift—the amount that its colour has been shifted due to its motion away from us.

Since we live in an expanding universe, the farther back in time we look, the higher an object's redshift.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-share-first-images-of-aditya-l1-satellite-ahead-of-indias-first-ever-mission-to-study-the-sun-625203">ISRO shares first images of Aditya-L1 satellite ahead of India's first-ever mission to study the Sun</a>

The estimates of redshifts were based on photometry, the brightness of light in images using a small number of wide-frequency filters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/supermassive-black-holes-may-solve-the-puzzle-of-gravitational-waves-625043">Supermassive black holes may solve the puzzle of gravitational waves</a>

Those estimates were made using data collected by CEERS during its originally allotted time for the telescope's first observing season.

"This was a kind of weird case," Finkelstein said. "Of the many tens of high redshift candidates that have been observed spectroscopically, this is the only instance of the true redshift being much less than our initial guess."

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The launch of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has helped scientists unravel the myriad mysteries of the universe. Astronomers have been able to witness some of the rare cosmological events that shape the understanding of the cosmos.

The launch of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has helped scientists unravel the myriad mysteries of the universe. Astronomers have been able to witness some of the rare cosmological events that shape the understanding of the cosmos. Now, thanks to JWST, astronomers have been able to establish one of the earlier galaxies known in the universe. Called the Maisie's Galaxy, it is said to have formed about 390 million years after the Big Bang. For reference, the universe as a whole is about 13.77 billion years old. Maisie’s Galaxy was named after the daughter of the project’s principal investigator, Steven Finkelstein, an astronomer at the University of Texas at Austin. The image was first taken in June 2022 as part of the Cosmic Evolution Early Release Science Survey (CEERS), and it was recently confirmed that the galaxy that was detected last summer is in fact among the earliest ever found. “The exciting thing about Maisie's galaxy is that it was one of the first distant galaxies identified by JWST, and of that set, it's the first to actually be spectroscopically confirmed," Steven Finkelstein said. It is touted to be one of the four earliest confirmed galaxies observed. The latest analysis was led by Pablo Arrabal Haro, a postdoctoral research associate at the National Science Foundation's National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory. Astronomers evaluating 10 other galaxies The CEERS team is currently evaluating about 10 other galaxies that might be from an era even earlier than Maisie's. It is not easy to determine the timeframe of galaxies in the early universe as it is expanding at an accelerating rate. Most objects that are outside of our galaxy appear to be receding and take a bit of time to figure out. Hence to calculate how old it is, astronomers measure its redshift—the amount that its colour has been shifted due to its motion away from us. Since we live in an expanding universe, the farther back in time we look, the higher an object's redshift. Also read | ISRO shares first images of Aditya-L1 satellite ahead of India's first-ever mission to study the Sun The estimates of redshifts were based on photometry, the brightness of light in images using a small number of wide-frequency filters. Also read | Supermassive black holes may solve the puzzle of gravitational waves Those estimates were made using data collected by CEERS during its originally allotted time for the telescope's first observing season. "This was a kind of weird case," Finkelstein said. "Of the many tens of high redshift candidates that have been observed spectroscopically, this is the only instance of the true redshift being much less than our initial guess." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

It’s official! Maisie's Galaxy is one of the earliest known galaxies

Amidst fears that the Voyager 2 is lost forever, NASA, after days of nerve-wracking silence, has finally heard a "heartbeat signal" from the almost five-decades-old space probe.

Just two weeks back, flight controllers accidentally sent a wrong command that tilted&nbsp;the spacecraft's antenna away from the Earth and severed contact. This situation, as per the news agency AFP, was not expected to be resolved until the spacecraft conducted an automated re-orientation manoeuvre on October 15.&nbsp;

<h2>Everything can change in a "heartbeat"</h2>

As the space agency actively searched for any stray signals from Voyager 2, NASA's Deep Space Network, which is an international array of giant radio antennas, picked up a "heartbeat signal," that signals that the 46-year-old spacecraft is operating and is well, project manager Suzanne Dodd told AFP.

The last-ditch effort to establish contact "was successful in that we see the 'heartbeat' signal from the spacecraft," said Dodd, adding "So we know the spacecraft is alive and operating. This buoyed our spirits."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/one-wrong-command-and-nasas-voyager-2-goes-dark-in-intersteller-space-621337">One wrong command and NASA's Voyager 2 goes dark in interstellar space</a>

She said that the team is "now generating a new command to attempt to point the spacecraft antenna towards Earth."

However, as per her,&nbsp;there is only a "low probability" it will work, but given that the automated re-orientation manoeuvre is months away, the NASA team will continue its attempts to rectify the situation.

<h2>Voyager 2 and human history</h2>

The probe was launched in 1977 to explore the outer planets and serve as a beacon of humanity to life "out there". Its current position, as per AFP, is "well beyond our solar system" at more than 12.3 billion miles or 19.9 kilometres from Earth.

Before leaving our solar system, Voyager 2 explored Jupiter and Saturn and also achieved the feat of becoming the only spacecraft (so far) to visit Uranus and Neptune.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-mysterious-planet-may-be-lurking-around-in-our-solar-system-621243">A mysterious planet may be lurking around in our solar system</a>

The spacecraft and its predecessor, the Voyager 1 — which was humankind's first spacecraft to enter the interstellar medium and is currently some 15 billion miles from Earth — carry "Golden Records", which convey humanity's story to the extraterrestrial world.

Both aircraft carry 12-inch, gold-plated copper disks which have on them encoded images of life on Earth, and music and sounds that can be played using an included stylus.&nbsp;

Alongside this, they carry a map of our solar system, a piece of uranium that serves as a radioactive clock allowing recipients to date the spaceship's launch, and symbolic instructions that convey how to play the record.

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Amidst fears that the Voyager 2 is lost forever, NASA, after days of nerve-wracking silence, has finally heard a "heartbeat signal" from the almost five-decades-old space probe.

Amidst fears that the Voyager 2 is lost forever, NASA, after days of nerve-wracking silence, has finally heard a "heartbeat signal" from the almost five-decades-old space probe. Just two weeks back, flight controllers accidentally sent a wrong command that tilted the spacecraft's antenna away from the Earth and severed contact. This situation, as per the news agency AFP, was not expected to be resolved until the spacecraft conducted an automated re-orientation manoeuvre on October 15. Everything can change in a "heartbeat" As the space agency actively searched for any stray signals from Voyager 2, NASA's Deep Space Network, which is an international array of giant radio antennas, picked up a "heartbeat signal," that signals that the 46-year-old spacecraft is operating and is well, project manager Suzanne Dodd told AFP. The last-ditch effort to establish contact "was successful in that we see the 'heartbeat' signal from the spacecraft," said Dodd, adding "So we know the spacecraft is alive and operating. This buoyed our spirits." Also read | One wrong command and NASA's Voyager 2 goes dark in interstellar space She said that the team is "now generating a new command to attempt to point the spacecraft antenna towards Earth." However, as per her, there is only a "low probability" it will work, but given that the automated re-orientation manoeuvre is months away, the NASA team will continue its attempts to rectify the situation. Voyager 2 and human history The probe was launched in 1977 to explore the outer planets and serve as a beacon of humanity to life "out there". Its current position, as per AFP, is "well beyond our solar system" at more than 12.3 billion miles or 19.9 kilometres from Earth. Before leaving our solar system, Voyager 2 explored Jupiter and Saturn and also achieved the feat of becoming the only spacecraft (so far) to visit Uranus and Neptune. Also read | A mysterious planet may be lurking around in our solar system The spacecraft and its predecessor, the Voyager 1 — which was humankind's first spacecraft to enter the interstellar medium and is currently some 15 billion miles from Earth — carry "Golden Records", which convey humanity's story to the extraterrestrial world. Both aircraft carry 12-inch, gold-plated copper disks which have on them encoded images of life on Earth, and music and sounds that can be played using an included stylus. Alongside this, they carry a map of our solar system, a piece of uranium that serves as a radioactive clock allowing recipients to date the spaceship's launch, and symbolic instructions that convey how to play the record. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

After nerve-wracking silence, NASA finally hears 'heartbeat' of Voyager 2

The James Webb Space Telescope has detected the presence of water in the inner disk around a young star where giant planets have already formed further away. According to a report by Nature on Monday (July 24), this research took place within the MINDS collaboration.

The James Webb Space Telescope has detected the presence of water in the inner disk around a young star where giant planets have already formed further away. According to a report by Nature on Monday (July 24), this research took place within the MINDS collaboration. This is the first sighting of water at a stage when the disk has already lost most of its material. And as per a report by Radboud University, any rocky planet arising in the inner disk would benefit from a significant local water reservoir and increases the likelihood of ‘habitability’ at a later stage. "Terrestrial and sub-Neptune planets are expected to form in the inner (less than 10 AU) regions of protoplanetary disks," the Nature report on Monday said, adding, water plays an important role in their formation but it is unclear whether water molecules are formed in situ or transported from the outer disk. Observations detect water near centre of inner disk The observations with the Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI) aboard the James Webb Space Telescope detected water near the centre of the disk, close to its parent star PDS 70, which is approximately 370 light years away from Earth. This is the region in the solar system where rocky planets orbit the sun. Analysis showed that the water is hot vapour at a temperature of no less than 230 degrees Celsius. Thomas Henning, the co-author of the paper, said that the discovery is exciting as it involves the region where rocky planets like Earth normally form. Previous studies found no water in the central regions of disks that evolved similarly. “The inner edges of evolved and low-dust disks may not be as dry as we previously thought. If this is true, many terrestrial planets arising in these zones could well be born with a key ingredient that makes life possible,” Rens Waters from Radboud University, who is also the co-author of the study, said. The MINDS collaboration is probing investigating different scenarios to explain their findings. Astronomer Giulia Perotti, who is the lead author of the research, said, "We may now have found evidence that water could also serve as one of the first ingredients of rocky planets and be available immediately after their birth." Till now, no planets have so far been found near the centre of the PDS 70 disk. Astronomers earlier discovered two gas giants further away: PDS 70 b and c. And as they grew, these planets accumulated dust and gas as they orbited their parent star, creating a wide ring-shaped gap containing almost no observable material. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Webb Telescope detects presence of water in inner disk around young star: Research

In a remarkable display of science and engineering, the Mars Express orbiter has clicked remarkable pictures across a gulf of some 300 million kilometres. At first glance, the view might not look like much, just a fuzzy, out-of-focus image. But, it is the Earth and the Moon captured from a distance of roughly 186.4 million miles and a reminder of our collective duty to preserve the "pale blue dot."

<h2>A blob and another blob</h2>

The sequence of four images showcases a fuzzy grey scene with a white blob representing the Sun and a fainter, smaller blob depicting Earth and the Moon as they move across the sky.

These images, as per Science Alert, were captured by the super-resolution channel of Mars Express's High-Resolution Stereo Camera on 15, 21, and 27 May, and 2 June 2023 and were taken to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Mars Express.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hubble-telescope-captures-spiral-galaxy-right-after-supernova-explosion-616311">Hubble telescope captures spiral galaxy right after Supernova explosion</a>

Evoking the iconic "Pale Blue Dot" image captured by Voyager 1 in 1990, the significance of these snapshots goes beyond their visual appeal.

<h2>The significance of these images</h2>

Astronomer Jorge Hernández Bernal of the University of the Basque Country and Sorbonne University emphasised the relevance of these images in the context of the worsening climate and ecological crisis. He said that they "wanted to bring Carl Sagan's reflections back to the present day, in which the worsening climate and ecological crisis make them more valid than ever."

"In these simple snapshots from Mars Express, Earth has the equivalent size as an ant seen from a distance of 100 metres, and we are all in there. Even though we have seen images like these before, it is still humbling to pause and think: we need to look after the pale blue dot, there is no planet B."

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You’re on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mars</a>, looking back home to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Earth?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Earth</a>. How do you feel? 
 
These simple images of the Moon orbiting Earth by <a href="https://twitter.com/esa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@esa</a> Mars Express might be similar to what you’d see through binoculars as a human traveller to Mars 
 
🔗<a href="https://t.co/74Hkwenp0e">https://t.co/74Hkwenp0e</a> <a href="https://t.co/fRhTdKXfLF">pic.twitter.com/fRhTdKXfLF</a>
— ESA Science (@esascience) <a href="https://twitter.com/esascience/status/1679054874971893760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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As per the Mars Express team, while these images hold no scientific value, they seized the opportunity to capture these snapshots.

<h2>"That's home. That's us": Carl Sagan</h2>

In his 1994 book 'Pale Blue Dot', talking about an image of Earth captured by Voyager 1 in 1990, Sagan wrote "That's here. That's home. That's us. On it everyone you love, everyone you know, everyone you ever heard of, every human being who ever was, lived out their lives."

"The aggregate of our joy and suffering, thousands of confident religions, ideologies, and economic doctrines, every hunter and forager, every hero and coward, every creator and destroyer of civilisation, every king and peasant, every young couple in love, every mother and father, hopeful child, inventor and explorer, every teacher of morals, every corrupt politician, every 'superstar,' every 'supreme leader,' every saint and sinner in the history of our species lived there – on a mote of dust suspended in a sunbeam."

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a remarkable display of science and engineering, the Mars Express orbiter has clicked remarkable pictures across a gulf of some 300 million kilometres. At first glance, the view might not look like much, just a fuzzy, out-of-focus image.

In a remarkable display of science and engineering, the Mars Express orbiter has clicked remarkable pictures across a gulf of some 300 million kilometres. At first glance, the view might not look like much, just a fuzzy, out-of-focus image. But, it is the Earth and the Moon captured from a distance of roughly 186.4 million miles and a reminder of our collective duty to preserve the "pale blue dot." A blob and another blob The sequence of four images showcases a fuzzy grey scene with a white blob representing the Sun and a fainter, smaller blob depicting Earth and the Moon as they move across the sky. These images, as per Science Alert, were captured by the super-resolution channel of Mars Express's High-Resolution Stereo Camera on 15, 21, and 27 May, and 2 June 2023 and were taken to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Mars Express. Also read | Hubble telescope captures spiral galaxy right after Supernova explosion Evoking the iconic "Pale Blue Dot" image captured by Voyager 1 in 1990, the significance of these snapshots goes beyond their visual appeal. The significance of these images Astronomer Jorge Hernández Bernal of the University of the Basque Country and Sorbonne University emphasised the relevance of these images in the context of the worsening climate and ecological crisis. He said that they "wanted to bring Carl Sagan's reflections back to the present day, in which the worsening climate and ecological crisis make them more valid than ever." "In these simple snapshots from Mars Express, Earth has the equivalent size as an ant seen from a distance of 100 metres, and we are all in there. Even though we have seen images like these before, it is still humbling to pause and think: we need to look after the pale blue dot, there is no planet B." You’re on #Mars, looking back home to #Earth. How do you feel? These simple images of the Moon orbiting Earth by @esa Mars Express might be similar to what you’d see through binoculars as a human traveller to Mars 🔗https://t.co/74Hkwenp0e pic.twitter.com/fRhTdKXfLF — ESA Science (@esascience) July 12, 2023 × Also read | Watch | Spectacular video of Chandrayaan-3 lift-off recorded from plane goes viral As per the Mars Express team, while these images hold no scientific value, they seized the opportunity to capture these snapshots. "That's home. That's us": Carl Sagan In his 1994 book 'Pale Blue Dot', talking about an image of Earth captured by Voyager 1 in 1990, Sagan wrote "That's here. That's home. That's us. On it everyone you love, everyone you know, everyone you ever heard of, every human being who ever was, lived out their lives." "The aggregate of our joy and suffering, thousands of confident religions, ideologies, and economic doctrines, every hunter and forager, every hero and coward, every creator and destroyer of civilisation, every king and peasant, every young couple in love, every mother and father, hopeful child, inventor and explorer, every teacher of morals, every corrupt politician, every 'superstar,' every 'supreme leader,' every saint and sinner in the history of our species lived there – on a mote of dust suspended in a sunbeam." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Martian perspective: Mars Express celebrates 20th anniversary with mysterious space pics. Check them out!

The powerful new eye of NASA is likely to have captured the dark matter in the universe. 
 
Three candidates of fabled “dark stars” have been spotted by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) that are likely to power the particles of annihilating dark matter, as per the new peer-reviewed research. 
 
"Discovering a new type of star is pretty interesting all by itself, but discovering it's dark matter that’s powering this — that would be huge," stated study co-author Katherine Freese, who is also director of the Weinberg Institute for Theoretical Physics at the University of Texas, Austin, in a statement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-witness-time-dilation-in-early-universe-claims-new-research-611767">Scientists witness 'time dilation' in early universe, claims new research</a>

It is believed that dark matter constitutes most of the universe's material, however, conventional telescopes cannot see it. Humans can chart its presence with the help of gravitational effects like when a massive galaxy passes from the front of a distant star and the light gets magnified. 
 
Dark stars can be fuelled by dark matter's particles just like "normal" matter power the "normal" stars like our sun. According to researchers, if the dark stars actually exist they may be the key to understanding how the universe got its light.

<h2>Darks stars among the first things to exist within universe</h2>

For 15 years, scientists have been speculating that "dark stars" were among the first things ever produced by our universe, when it was only 700 million years old. 
 
The observations of James Webb suggest that the three distant objects, which existed in the earliest phase of the universe, match the key requirements of dark stars. The spotted objects are luminous, but too cool for fusion to take place, the paper stated in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

WATCH |&nbsp;Europe's Euclid space telescope launched on mission to explore 'dark universe'

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"There are a set of undetermined parameters that control the formation and evolution of a dark star, and ultimately, its observable properties," the authors stated in the study. However, they emphasised that "plausible values" have been used by them for the energy of particles of dark matter in creating models for such theoretical objects. 
 
The three candidates of dark stars, known as JADES-GS-z13-0, JADES-GS-z12-0, and JADES-GS-z11-0, can become the target of future observations that the James Webb telescope makes, to look for "dips or excess of light intensity in certain frequency bands" that may be similar with other predictions made for the energy of dark stars.

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The powerful new eye of NASA is likely to have captured the dark matter in the universe. Three candidates of fabled “dark stars” have been spotted by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) that are likely to power the particles of annihilating dark matter, as per the new peer-reviewed research.

The powerful new eye of NASA is likely to have captured the dark matter in the universe. Three candidates of fabled “dark stars” have been spotted by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) that are likely to power the particles of annihilating dark matter, as per the new peer-reviewed research. "Discovering a new type of star is pretty interesting all by itself, but discovering it's dark matter that’s powering this — that would be huge," stated study co-author Katherine Freese, who is also director of the Weinberg Institute for Theoretical Physics at the University of Texas, Austin, in a statement. ALSO READ | Scientists witness 'time dilation' in early universe, claims new research It is believed that dark matter constitutes most of the universe's material, however, conventional telescopes cannot see it. Humans can chart its presence with the help of gravitational effects like when a massive galaxy passes from the front of a distant star and the light gets magnified. Dark stars can be fuelled by dark matter's particles just like "normal" matter power the "normal" stars like our sun. According to researchers, if the dark stars actually exist they may be the key to understanding how the universe got its light. Darks stars among the first things to exist within universe For 15 years, scientists have been speculating that "dark stars" were among the first things ever produced by our universe, when it was only 700 million years old. The observations of James Webb suggest that the three distant objects, which existed in the earliest phase of the universe, match the key requirements of dark stars. The spotted objects are luminous, but too cool for fusion to take place, the paper stated in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. WATCH | Europe's Euclid space telescope launched on mission to explore 'dark universe' "There are a set of undetermined parameters that control the formation and evolution of a dark star, and ultimately, its observable properties," the authors stated in the study. However, they emphasised that "plausible values" have been used by them for the energy of particles of dark matter in creating models for such theoretical objects. The three candidates of dark stars, known as JADES-GS-z13-0, JADES-GS-z12-0, and JADES-GS-z11-0, can become the target of future observations that the James Webb telescope makes, to look for "dips or excess of light intensity in certain frequency bands" that may be similar with other predictions made for the energy of dark stars. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

James Webb spots three candidates suspected to be fabled 'dark stars'

Scientists have proposed a reset of the lunar clock after re-evaluating impact craters on the moon's surface, indicating that certain features, such as the iconic "Man in the Moon" formation, could be 200 million years older than previously believed.

<h2>How would this clock reset impact everything we know about the moon?</h2>

As per a report in Space.com, the new dating system has implications on humanity’s understanding of the evolution of the lunar surface. It will also shed light on the early history of the solar system, that is characterised by heavenly bodies like the moon and Earth being subjected to intense bombardment by space rocks.

The research involved a reassessment of two methods of dating the lunar surface: counting the number of impact craters caused by space rocks and analysing moon rocks collected by the Apollo missions.

While traditionally, these methods have yielded different results, particularly for the ages of heavily cratered and mountainous lunar highlands, to “reconcile” the differences, the researchers correlated individually dated Apollo samples with the number of craters in their respective areas.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/crispr-gene-editing-offers-promising-solution-to-reduce-environmental-impact-of-paper-industry-report-615749">CRISPR gene editing offers promising solution to reduce environmental impact of paper industry: Report</a>

Professor Stephanie Werner of the University of Oslo explained their methodology during a talk at the Goldschmidt Geochemistry Conference in Lyon.

As per Werney, "It was decided that we had to reconcile these differences, and that meant correlating individually dated Apollo samples to the number of craters in the sample site surrounding area — in effect, resetting the crater clock."

"We also correlated them against spectroscopy data from various moon missions, especially the Indian Chandrayaan-1, to be sure which Apollo sample belongs to the surface in which we counted craters," she added.

The study was presented at the Goldschmidt Conference in Lyon, France, and has been accepted for publication in the Planetary Science Journal.

<h2>What will be affected by this clock reset?</h2>

As per the team, this reset will not change the estimate of the moon’s age — around 4.53 billion years. However, it does change the age of all the areas of the lunar surface, and not in a uniform manner. This will mean that the older regions experience the most significant shifts in age.

For instance, the Imbrium Basin, created by a massive asteroid impact, was previously estimated to be around 3.9 billion years old. The revised dating places the impact and the basin's formation approximately 4.1 billion years ago.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chandrayaan-3-launch-isro-chief-says-if-all-goes-well-lunar-landing-on-august-23-615106">Chandrayaan-3 launch: ISRO chief says if all goes well, lunar landing on August 23</a>

"This is an important difference. It allows us to push back in time an intense period of bombardment from space, which we now know took place before extensive volcanic activity that formed the 'Man in the moon' patterns — the mare volcanic plains, including Mare Imbrium," said Werner.

"As this happened on the moon, the Earth was almost certain to have also suffered this earlier bombardment too."

However, unlike Moon, the Earth, has a masked impact record due to geological processes like tectonic plate movement.

Thankfully, the moon's geologically inactive nature has preserved the record of impacts on its surface, which makes it an invaluable source for studying the effects of space rock bombardment minus the influence of geological churning.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Scientists have proposed a reset of the lunar clock after re-evaluating impact craters on the moon's surface, indicating that certain features, such as the iconic "Man in the Moon" formation, could be 200 million years older than previously believed.

Scientists have proposed a reset of the lunar clock after re-evaluating impact craters on the moon's surface, indicating that certain features, such as the iconic "Man in the Moon" formation, could be 200 million years older than previously believed. How would this clock reset impact everything we know about the moon? As per a report in Space.com, the new dating system has implications on humanity’s understanding of the evolution of the lunar surface. It will also shed light on the early history of the solar system, that is characterised by heavenly bodies like the moon and Earth being subjected to intense bombardment by space rocks. The research involved a reassessment of two methods of dating the lunar surface: counting the number of impact craters caused by space rocks and analysing moon rocks collected by the Apollo missions. While traditionally, these methods have yielded different results, particularly for the ages of heavily cratered and mountainous lunar highlands, to “reconcile” the differences, the researchers correlated individually dated Apollo samples with the number of craters in their respective areas. Also read | CRISPR gene editing offers promising solution to reduce environmental impact of paper industry: Report Professor Stephanie Werner of the University of Oslo explained their methodology during a talk at the Goldschmidt Geochemistry Conference in Lyon. As per Werney, "It was decided that we had to reconcile these differences, and that meant correlating individually dated Apollo samples to the number of craters in the sample site surrounding area — in effect, resetting the crater clock." "We also correlated them against spectroscopy data from various moon missions, especially the Indian Chandrayaan-1, to be sure which Apollo sample belongs to the surface in which we counted craters," she added. The study was presented at the Goldschmidt Conference in Lyon, France, and has been accepted for publication in the Planetary Science Journal. What will be affected by this clock reset? As per the team, this reset will not change the estimate of the moon’s age — around 4.53 billion years. However, it does change the age of all the areas of the lunar surface, and not in a uniform manner. This will mean that the older regions experience the most significant shifts in age. For instance, the Imbrium Basin, created by a massive asteroid impact, was previously estimated to be around 3.9 billion years old. The revised dating places the impact and the basin's formation approximately 4.1 billion years ago. Also read | Chandrayaan-3 launch: ISRO chief says if all goes well, lunar landing on August 23 "This is an important difference. It allows us to push back in time an intense period of bombardment from space, which we now know took place before extensive volcanic activity that formed the 'Man in the moon' patterns — the mare volcanic plains, including Mare Imbrium," said Werner. "As this happened on the moon, the Earth was almost certain to have also suffered this earlier bombardment too." However, unlike Moon, the Earth, has a masked impact record due to geological processes like tectonic plate movement. Thankfully, the moon's geologically inactive nature has preserved the record of impacts on its surface, which makes it an invaluable source for studying the effects of space rock bombardment minus the influence of geological churning. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Lunar clock reset: 'Man in the Moon' could be 200 million years older than previously thought

NASA marked the completion of one year of humanity's 'eye in the sky' James Webb Space Telescope by posting a spectacular new image of birth of Sun-like stars. The image&nbsp;is of the Rho Ophiuchi cloud complex. It is the nearest stellar nursery to Earth.

The Rho Ophiuchi cloud complex is 390 light-years away from us. This enables us to take a crisp close-up. And James Webb Space Telescope, the most powerful orbital observatory ever built, is much more than being just up to the job.

"In just one year, the James Webb Space Telescope has transformed humanity's view of the cosmos, peering into dust clouds and seeing light from faraway corners of the universe for the very first time," said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson as quoted by the AFP.

"Every new image is a new discovery, empowering scientists around the globe to ask and answer questions they once could never dream of."

The image clicked by James Webb Space Telescope shows around 50 young stars. These stars are similar in mass to our Sun or are smaller. Some of them are showing signature shadows of circumstellar disks. This is a sign that planets may eventually form around them.

<h2>Huge hydrogen jets</h2>

The image shows huge jets of hydrogen which are horizontal in the upper third of the image, and vertical on the right.

"These occur when a star first bursts through its natal envelope of cosmic dust, shooting out a pair of opposing jets into space like a newborn first stretching her arms out into the world," the US space agency said in a statement.

"At the bottom of the image, you can see a young star that's energetic enough that it's blowing a bubble in the cloud of dust and gas from which it was born," Christine Chen, an astronomer at the Space Telescope Science Institute, which operates Webb, told AFP.

She added that the young star is doing so through a combination of its light and a solar wind linked to it.

There is a lot of gas and dust in the intersteller medium. This eventually provides raw material for new star and planets.

"Webb's image of Rho Ophiuchi allows us to witness a very brief period in the stellar life cycle with new clarity. Our own Sun experienced a phase like this, long ago, and now we have the technology to see the beginning of another star's story," said Webb project scientist Klaus Pontoppidan as quoted by AFP.

James Webb telescope was launched in December 2021. The first full colour picture clicked by the telescope was revealed by US President Biden on July 11, 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

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NASA marked the completion of one year of humanity's 'eye in the sky' James Webb Space Telescope by posting a spectacular new image of birth of Sun-like stars. The image is of the Rho Ophiuchi cloud complex.

NASA marked the completion of one year of humanity's 'eye in the sky' James Webb Space Telescope by posting a spectacular new image of birth of Sun-like stars. The image is of the Rho Ophiuchi cloud complex. It is the nearest stellar nursery to Earth. The Rho Ophiuchi cloud complex is 390 light-years away from us. This enables us to take a crisp close-up. And James Webb Space Telescope, the most powerful orbital observatory ever built, is much more than being just up to the job. "In just one year, the James Webb Space Telescope has transformed humanity's view of the cosmos, peering into dust clouds and seeing light from faraway corners of the universe for the very first time," said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson as quoted by the AFP. "Every new image is a new discovery, empowering scientists around the globe to ask and answer questions they once could never dream of." The image clicked by James Webb Space Telescope shows around 50 young stars. These stars are similar in mass to our Sun or are smaller. Some of them are showing signature shadows of circumstellar disks. This is a sign that planets may eventually form around them. Huge hydrogen jets The image shows huge jets of hydrogen which are horizontal in the upper third of the image, and vertical on the right. "These occur when a star first bursts through its natal envelope of cosmic dust, shooting out a pair of opposing jets into space like a newborn first stretching her arms out into the world," the US space agency said in a statement. "At the bottom of the image, you can see a young star that's energetic enough that it's blowing a bubble in the cloud of dust and gas from which it was born," Christine Chen, an astronomer at the Space Telescope Science Institute, which operates Webb, told AFP. She added that the young star is doing so through a combination of its light and a solar wind linked to it. There is a lot of gas and dust in the intersteller medium. This eventually provides raw material for new star and planets. "Webb's image of Rho Ophiuchi allows us to witness a very brief period in the stellar life cycle with new clarity. Our own Sun experienced a phase like this, long ago, and now we have the technology to see the beginning of another star's story," said Webb project scientist Klaus Pontoppidan as quoted by AFP. James Webb telescope was launched in December 2021. The first full colour picture clicked by the telescope was revealed by US President Biden on July 11, 2022. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

NASA marks one year of Webb telescope, posts picture of stars being born

James Webb Space Telescope of space agency NASA has discovered the most distant supermassive black hole to date, which appears to be active, said the agency on Thursday. 
 
The galaxy, which is called CEERS 1019, has lived for more than 570 million years after the big bang, and the black hole present in it is less massive compared to any other yet discovered in the early universe. 
 
Meanwhile, 11 galaxies which existed when the universe had lived for only 470 to 675 million years have also been identified by the James Webb telescope, stated NASA. 
 
The black hole found inside CEERS 1019 shares similarities with the one present at the centre of the Milky Way galaxy, which is 4.6 million times greater than the mass of the sun, NASA added. The newly-discovered black hole is also not as bright as the massive behemoths which have been detected previously.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/blackhole-caught-gobbling-up-celestial-matter-leaving-astronomers-in-awe-613049">Blackhole caught gobbling up celestial matter leaving astronomers in awe</a>

"Researchers have long known that there must be lower-mass black holes in the early universe. Webb is the first observatory that can capture them so clearly," stated Dale Kocevski of Colby College in Waterville. 
 
NASA stated that the black hole, though smaller, existed so many years back that astronomers are finding it difficult to explain how it was formed after the universe began.

<h2>James Webb verifying galaxies with precision</h2>

The James Webb telescope helps scientists find and verify theories using more precise information, in comparison to other telescopes. According to NASA, researchers can see how much gas is being ingested by the black hole and determine the star-formation rate of its galaxy. 
 
Astronomer at the University of Texas at Austin Steven Finkelstein said, "Until now, research about objects in the early universe was largely theoretical. With Webb, not only can we see black holes and galaxies at extreme distances, we can now start to accurately measure them. That's the tremendous power of this telescope."

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Caption: James Webb captures galaxy&nbsp;CEERS 1019. Source: NASA 
 
Visually, the CEERS 1019 appears as three bright clumps and not as a single circular disk. "We're not used to seeing so much structure in images at these distances," stated CEERS team member Jeyhan Kartaltepe of the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York. 
 
"A galaxy merger could be partly responsible for fueling the activity in this galaxy's black hole, and that could also lead to increased star formation,” he added.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Scientists reveal the sound of a super massive black hole

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The capability of the James Webb telescope is expected to provide a large amount of data to the scientists for exploring the galaxies and black holes. 
 
"This set, along with other distant galaxies we may identify in the future, might change our understanding of star formation and galaxy evolution throughout cosmic history," stated Seiji Fujimoto of the University of Texas.

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James Webb Space Telescope of space agency NASA has discovered the most distant supermassive black hole to date, which appears to be active, said the agency on Thursday.

James Webb Space Telescope of space agency NASA has discovered the most distant supermassive black hole to date, which appears to be active, said the agency on Thursday. The galaxy, which is called CEERS 1019, has lived for more than 570 million years after the big bang, and the black hole present in it is less massive compared to any other yet discovered in the early universe. Meanwhile, 11 galaxies which existed when the universe had lived for only 470 to 675 million years have also been identified by the James Webb telescope, stated NASA. The black hole found inside CEERS 1019 shares similarities with the one present at the centre of the Milky Way galaxy, which is 4.6 million times greater than the mass of the sun, NASA added. The newly-discovered black hole is also not as bright as the massive behemoths which have been detected previously. ALSO READ | Blackhole caught gobbling up celestial matter leaving astronomers in awe "Researchers have long known that there must be lower-mass black holes in the early universe. Webb is the first observatory that can capture them so clearly," stated Dale Kocevski of Colby College in Waterville. NASA stated that the black hole, though smaller, existed so many years back that astronomers are finding it difficult to explain how it was formed after the universe began. James Webb verifying galaxies with precision The James Webb telescope helps scientists find and verify theories using more precise information, in comparison to other telescopes. According to NASA, researchers can see how much gas is being ingested by the black hole and determine the star-formation rate of its galaxy. Astronomer at the University of Texas at Austin Steven Finkelstein said, "Until now, research about objects in the early universe was largely theoretical. With Webb, not only can we see black holes and galaxies at extreme distances, we can now start to accurately measure them. That's the tremendous power of this telescope." Caption: James Webb captures galaxy CEERS 1019. Source: NASA Visually, the CEERS 1019 appears as three bright clumps and not as a single circular disk. "We're not used to seeing so much structure in images at these distances," stated CEERS team member Jeyhan Kartaltepe of the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York. "A galaxy merger could be partly responsible for fueling the activity in this galaxy's black hole, and that could also lead to increased star formation,” he added. WATCH | Gravitas: Scientists reveal the sound of a super massive black hole The capability of the James Webb telescope is expected to provide a large amount of data to the scientists for exploring the galaxies and black holes. "This set, along with other distant galaxies we may identify in the future, might change our understanding of star formation and galaxy evolution throughout cosmic history," stated Seiji Fujimoto of the University of Texas. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

NASA's James Webb discovers most distant supermassive black hole to date

A newly discovered exoplanet called LP 890-9c, located 98 light-years away from Earth, could provide insights into how habitable planets like Earth can transform into inhospitable worlds like Venus.&nbsp;

The exoplanet orbits a small and cool red dwarf star, and its position near the inner edge of the star's habitable zone makes it an intriguing candidate for study.

<h2>SPECULOOS-2c: Venus-like or Earth-like exoplanet</h2>

The exoplanet LP 890-9c or SPECULOOS-2c was discovered back in September 2022. As per Space.com, the planet has a diameter greater than Earth by about 40 per cent. Just like our planet orbits the Sun, this small and cool planet also orbits its star — every 8.5 Earth days at a distance of 1.7 million miles or 2.8 million kilometres.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/previously-undocumented-effect-of-ivf-uncovered-helps-1-in-5-women-conceive-naturally-second-time-around-606828">Previously undocumented effect of IVF uncovered; helps 1-in-5 women conceive naturally second time around</a>

"LP 890-9 c lies very close to the inner edge of the conservative habitable zone (HZ)". However, despite the exoplanet's proximity to its star, the planet is cool. In comparison, Earth is 152.07 million kilometres away from the sun.&nbsp;

This as per researchers, means that even close to a star, a planet's temperatures can be mild.

<h2>LP 890-9c, Venus and habitable planets</h2>

Using the exoplanet as a model, a research team led by Lisa Kaltenegger from the Carl Sagan Institute at Cornell University has modelled the possible climatic and atmospheric states of LP 890-9c and explored how the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) could distinguish between them.&nbsp;

LP 890-9c's location in its planetary system is similar to Venus' position in our solar system, with both planets positioned at the inner edge of the habitable zone.

While Venus became an inhospitable world due to a runaway greenhouse effect, not all planets in similar positions will necessarily follow the same path.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/research-suggests-ai-can-predict-political-views-based-on-facial-analysis-raising-privacy-concerns-607232">Research suggests AI can predict political views based on facial analysis, raising privacy concerns</a>

Venus lacks a magnetic field, which allowed the solar wind to strip away its water molecules. However, if LP 890-9c possesses a strong magnetic field, it may be able to retain water vapour in its atmosphere and maintain habitability.

"Looking at this planet will tell us what's happening on the inner edge of the habitable zone — how long a rocky planet can maintain habitability when it starts to get hot," said Kaltenegger in a statement.

The team developed models of LP 890-9c based on measured parameters such as mass and radius. The models also considered factors such as chemical composition, surface temperature, atmospheric pressure, cloud cover, and more.&nbsp;

Five different models were created, ranging from an Earth-like planet but hotter, to varying degrees of atmospheric water vapour and greenhouse effects, culminating in a model resembling Venus.

"This planet is the first target where we can test these different scenarios," said Kaltenegger.&nbsp;

"If it's still a hotter Earth — hot, but with liquid water and conditions for life — then the inner edge of the habitable zone (around all stars) could be teeming with life," speculated the researcher.

<h2>James Webb Telescope and the search for habitable planets</h2>

Another study led by Jonathan Gomez Barrientos from the California Institute of Technology suggests that the JWST could observe LP 890-9c for a few transits across its host star to determine the planet's atmospheric composition.&nbsp;

This could provide insights into whether the planet has a steamy, water-rich atmosphere similar to Earth, or if it is more akin to Venus.

The observations and analysis of LP 890-9c could shed light on the inner edge of habitable zones around stars and the longevity of rocky planets in such regions. Even if LP 890-9c proves too hot for life, studying its evolution and fate can provide valuable information about Earth's own future as our sun continues to evolve and grow brighter.

As per Kaltenegger, "It will teach us something fundamental about how rocky planets evolve with increasing starlight and about what will one day happen to us and Earth."

The research findings were published in two papers in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.

A newly discovered exoplanet called LP 890-9c, located 98 light-years away from Earth, could provide insights into how habitable planets like Earth can transform into inhospitable worlds like Venus.

A newly discovered exoplanet called LP 890-9c, located 98 light-years away from Earth, could provide insights into how habitable planets like Earth can transform into inhospitable worlds like Venus. The exoplanet orbits a small and cool red dwarf star, and its position near the inner edge of the star's habitable zone makes it an intriguing candidate for study. SPECULOOS-2c: Venus-like or Earth-like exoplanet The exoplanet LP 890-9c or SPECULOOS-2c was discovered back in September 2022. As per Space.com, the planet has a diameter greater than Earth by about 40 per cent. Just like our planet orbits the Sun, this small and cool planet also orbits its star — every 8.5 Earth days at a distance of 1.7 million miles or 2.8 million kilometres. Also read | Previously undocumented effect of IVF uncovered; helps 1-in-5 women conceive naturally second time around "LP 890-9 c lies very close to the inner edge of the conservative habitable zone (HZ)". However, despite the exoplanet's proximity to its star, the planet is cool. In comparison, Earth is 152.07 million kilometres away from the sun. This as per researchers, means that even close to a star, a planet's temperatures can be mild. LP 890-9c, Venus and habitable planets Using the exoplanet as a model, a research team led by Lisa Kaltenegger from the Carl Sagan Institute at Cornell University has modelled the possible climatic and atmospheric states of LP 890-9c and explored how the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) could distinguish between them. LP 890-9c's location in its planetary system is similar to Venus' position in our solar system, with both planets positioned at the inner edge of the habitable zone. While Venus became an inhospitable world due to a runaway greenhouse effect, not all planets in similar positions will necessarily follow the same path. Also read | Research suggests AI can predict political views based on facial analysis, raising privacy concerns Venus lacks a magnetic field, which allowed the solar wind to strip away its water molecules. However, if LP 890-9c possesses a strong magnetic field, it may be able to retain water vapour in its atmosphere and maintain habitability. "Looking at this planet will tell us what's happening on the inner edge of the habitable zone — how long a rocky planet can maintain habitability when it starts to get hot," said Kaltenegger in a statement. The team developed models of LP 890-9c based on measured parameters such as mass and radius. The models also considered factors such as chemical composition, surface temperature, atmospheric pressure, cloud cover, and more. Five different models were created, ranging from an Earth-like planet but hotter, to varying degrees of atmospheric water vapour and greenhouse effects, culminating in a model resembling Venus. "This planet is the first target where we can test these different scenarios," said Kaltenegger. "If it's still a hotter Earth — hot, but with liquid water and conditions for life — then the inner edge of the habitable zone (around all stars) could be teeming with life," speculated the researcher. James Webb Telescope and the search for habitable planets Another study led by Jonathan Gomez Barrientos from the California Institute of Technology suggests that the JWST could observe LP 890-9c for a few transits across its host star to determine the planet's atmospheric composition. This could provide insights into whether the planet has a steamy, water-rich atmosphere similar to Earth, or if it is more akin to Venus. The observations and analysis of LP 890-9c could shed light on the inner edge of habitable zones around stars and the longevity of rocky planets in such regions. Even if LP 890-9c proves too hot for life, studying its evolution and fate can provide valuable information about Earth's own future as our sun continues to evolve and grow brighter. As per Kaltenegger, "It will teach us something fundamental about how rocky planets evolve with increasing starlight and about what will one day happen to us and Earth." The research findings were published in two papers in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.

How did Earth-like Venus turn inhospitable? NASA's James Webb Space Telescope could help decipher secret

Space is astounding. Every day, scientists make amazing, momentous discoveries that leave us the ones stuck on Earth a little more in awe. One such latest discovery has been made on Saturn's icy moon Enceladus. NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has glimpsed the moon spraying a "huge plume" of watery vapour far into space. Researchers believe that this plume very likely contains chemical components necessary for life.&nbsp;

The eruption was detected by the James Webb Space Telescope in November 2022 and was presented at a conference at the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore on May 17.

As per Nature.com, Sara Faggi, a planetary astronomer at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, said the plume is "immense".&nbsp;

She said that a comprehensive research paper on this significant event is currently pending.&nbsp;

<h2>Is this the first time scientists spotted these water spouts?</h2>

This may come as a surprise, but this isn't actually the first time scientists have seen Enceladus spouting water into space.&nbsp;

However, the JWST's wider perspective and higher sensitivity have added to the amazement. It revealed that the jets of vapour extend much deeper into space than previously thought, surpassing the moon's own span multiple times. Enceladus has a diameter of approximately 313 miles (504 kilometres).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-a-first-nasa-finds-strong-cyclone-swirling-on-north-pole-of-uranus-597230">In a first, NASA finds strong cyclone swirling on north pole of Uranus</a>

<h2>When did scientists first observe Enceladus' watery eruptions?</h2>

As per Space.com, the original discovery of Enceladus' watery eruptions dates back to 2005 when NASA's Cassini spacecraft observed icy particles being propelled through large cracks on the moon's surface known as "tiger stripes."&nbsp;

The intensity of these blasts is so powerful that the ejected material forms one of Saturn's rings.

<h2>What is so special about water being spouted into space?</h2>

Analysis of the jets revealed the presence of methane, carbon dioxide, and ammonia—organic molecules that contain the necessary building blocks for life.

In fact, researchers proposed in a study published last year in The Planetary Science Journal that some of these gases might be produced by life itself, emanating from deep within Enceladus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/stars-to-become-invisible-in-two-decades-due-to-light-pollution-warn-scientists-597456">Stars to become invisible in two decades due to light pollution, warn scientists</a>

Additionally, the water on Enceladus supports the possibility of life. While the moon is covered in a thick layer of water ice, measurements of its rotation indicate the presence of a vast hidden ocean beneath the frozen surface.

Scientists believe that the water jets detected by the JWST and Cassini originate from hydrothermal vents on the ocean floor. This hypothesis is supported by the presence of silica in the vapour plumes — a common component of planetary crusts.

<h2>Missions to find alien life on Saturn's icy moon Enceladus</h2>

To gain confirmation of the alien life and more, NASA scientists are currently discussing future missions to Enceladus to search for signs of life.&nbsp;

One proposed mission is the Enceladus Orbilander, which would orbit the moon for about six months, traversing through its watery plumes and collecting samples. The spacecraft would then transform into a lander and descend onto the icy moon's surface, equipped with instruments to weigh, and analyse molecules, and even a DNA sequencer and microscope. Cameras, radio sounders, and lasers would remotely explore the moon's surface.

Another mission concept involves deploying an autonomous "snake robot" called the Exobiology Extant Life Surveyor into the submerged depths of Enceladus. This robot, equipped with cameras and lidar, would navigate the unknown environment of Enceladus' ocean floor in search of signs of life.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Space is astounding. Every day, scientists make amazing, momentous discoveries that leave us the ones stuck on Earth a little more in awe. One such latest discovery has been made on Saturn's icy moon Enceladus.

Space is astounding. Every day, scientists make amazing, momentous discoveries that leave us the ones stuck on Earth a little more in awe. One such latest discovery has been made on Saturn's icy moon Enceladus. NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has glimpsed the moon spraying a "huge plume" of watery vapour far into space. Researchers believe that this plume very likely contains chemical components necessary for life. The eruption was detected by the James Webb Space Telescope in November 2022 and was presented at a conference at the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore on May 17. As per Nature.com, Sara Faggi, a planetary astronomer at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, said the plume is "immense". She said that a comprehensive research paper on this significant event is currently pending. Is this the first time scientists spotted these water spouts? This may come as a surprise, but this isn't actually the first time scientists have seen Enceladus spouting water into space. However, the JWST's wider perspective and higher sensitivity have added to the amazement. It revealed that the jets of vapour extend much deeper into space than previously thought, surpassing the moon's own span multiple times. Enceladus has a diameter of approximately 313 miles (504 kilometres). Also read | In a first, NASA finds strong cyclone swirling on north pole of Uranus When did scientists first observe Enceladus' watery eruptions? As per Space.com, the original discovery of Enceladus' watery eruptions dates back to 2005 when NASA's Cassini spacecraft observed icy particles being propelled through large cracks on the moon's surface known as "tiger stripes." The intensity of these blasts is so powerful that the ejected material forms one of Saturn's rings. What is so special about water being spouted into space? Analysis of the jets revealed the presence of methane, carbon dioxide, and ammonia—organic molecules that contain the necessary building blocks for life. In fact, researchers proposed in a study published last year in The Planetary Science Journal that some of these gases might be produced by life itself, emanating from deep within Enceladus. Also read | Stars to become invisible in two decades due to light pollution, warn scientists Additionally, the water on Enceladus supports the possibility of life. While the moon is covered in a thick layer of water ice, measurements of its rotation indicate the presence of a vast hidden ocean beneath the frozen surface. Scientists believe that the water jets detected by the JWST and Cassini originate from hydrothermal vents on the ocean floor. This hypothesis is supported by the presence of silica in the vapour plumes — a common component of planetary crusts. Missions to find alien life on Saturn's icy moon Enceladus To gain confirmation of the alien life and more, NASA scientists are currently discussing future missions to Enceladus to search for signs of life. One proposed mission is the Enceladus Orbilander, which would orbit the moon for about six months, traversing through its watery plumes and collecting samples. The spacecraft would then transform into a lander and descend onto the icy moon's surface, equipped with instruments to weigh, and analyse molecules, and even a DNA sequencer and microscope. Cameras, radio sounders, and lasers would remotely explore the moon's surface. Another mission concept involves deploying an autonomous "snake robot" called the Exobiology Extant Life Surveyor into the submerged depths of Enceladus. This robot, equipped with cameras and lidar, would navigate the unknown environment of Enceladus' ocean floor in search of signs of life. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NASA's James Webb Telescope spots Saturn's moon blasting 'huge plumes' of life-containing water into space

A supermassive black hole was found by astronomers at the heart of an ancient galaxy which is five times bigger than the expected size, on the basis of the number of stars it contains. 
 
The immense black hole was spotted by researchers in a galaxy called GS-9209, which lies 25 billion light-years away from Earth, making it one of the farthest to have been discovered and recorded. 
 
The team of astronomers at Edinburgh University, with the use of the James Webb space telescope (JWST), observed the galaxy and revealed fresh information about its history and composition. 
 
Dr Adam Carnall, who headed the team, said that the telescope, which is the most powerful ever built, helped them see how galaxies were growing more “larger and earlier” than what astronomers expected in the universe's first billion years.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/extraordinary-event-astronomers-witness-largest-cosmic-explosion-in-space-591670">'Extraordinary event': Astronomers witness largest cosmic explosion in space</a>

“This work gives us our first really detailed look at the properties of these early galaxies, charting in detail the history of GS-9209, which managed to form as many stars as our own Milky Way in just 800mn years after the big bang,” he stated. 
 
Carnall added the “very massive black hole” spotted at the centre of GS-9209 was a “big surprise” that appeared to be supporting the theory that such enormous black holes stopped the formation of stars in early galaxies. 
 
“The evidence we see for the supermassive black hole was really unexpected,” Carnall said. “This is the kind of detail we’d never have been able to see without JWST,” he added.

<h2>GS-9209 galaxy is&nbsp;one-tenth of Milky Way in size</h2>

Edinburgh's former PhD student and now a professor of observational cosmology at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, Karina Caputi, had discovered the GS-9209 galaxy in 2004. 
 
While GS-9209 contains around as many stars as are present in our home galaxy along with a combined mass which is equivalent to 40 billion suns, the galaxy's size is only one-tenth of the Milky Way.

WATCH |&nbsp;How our sun will swallow the earth

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The galaxy is one of the earliest known examples of the ones that have stopped forming stars, stated the researchers. 
 
“The fact (that the black hole) is so massive, means it must have been very active in the past, with lots of gas falling in, which would have shone extremely brightly as a quasar,” said Carnall said. “All that energy spewing out from the black hole in the centre of the galaxy would have seriously disrupted the whole galaxy, stopping gas from collapsing to form new stars,” he added.

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A supermassive black hole was found by astronomers at the heart of an ancient galaxy which is five times bigger than the expected size, on the basis of the number of stars it contains.

A supermassive black hole was found by astronomers at the heart of an ancient galaxy which is five times bigger than the expected size, on the basis of the number of stars it contains. The immense black hole was spotted by researchers in a galaxy called GS-9209, which lies 25 billion light-years away from Earth, making it one of the farthest to have been discovered and recorded. The team of astronomers at Edinburgh University, with the use of the James Webb space telescope (JWST), observed the galaxy and revealed fresh information about its history and composition. Dr Adam Carnall, who headed the team, said that the telescope, which is the most powerful ever built, helped them see how galaxies were growing more “larger and earlier” than what astronomers expected in the universe's first billion years. ALSO READ | 'Extraordinary event': Astronomers witness largest cosmic explosion in space “This work gives us our first really detailed look at the properties of these early galaxies, charting in detail the history of GS-9209, which managed to form as many stars as our own Milky Way in just 800mn years after the big bang,” he stated. Carnall added the “very massive black hole” spotted at the centre of GS-9209 was a “big surprise” that appeared to be supporting the theory that such enormous black holes stopped the formation of stars in early galaxies. “The evidence we see for the supermassive black hole was really unexpected,” Carnall said. “This is the kind of detail we’d never have been able to see without JWST,” he added. GS-9209 galaxy is one-tenth of Milky Way in size Edinburgh's former PhD student and now a professor of observational cosmology at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, Karina Caputi, had discovered the GS-9209 galaxy in 2004. While GS-9209 contains around as many stars as are present in our home galaxy along with a combined mass which is equivalent to 40 billion suns, the galaxy's size is only one-tenth of the Milky Way. WATCH | How our sun will swallow the earth The galaxy is one of the earliest known examples of the ones that have stopped forming stars, stated the researchers. “The fact (that the black hole) is so massive, means it must have been very active in the past, with lots of gas falling in, which would have shone extremely brightly as a quasar,” said Carnall said. “All that energy spewing out from the black hole in the centre of the galaxy would have seriously disrupted the whole galaxy, stopping gas from collapsing to form new stars,” he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Astronomers discover supermassive black hole at the heart of ancient galaxy

Astronomers have observed a rare comet in our solar system, using the James Webb Space Telescope as they stumbled upon a new cosmic mystery while making a long-sought scientific breakthrough.&nbsp;

Scientists have been studying the origins of Earth's abundant water and according to new observation, the chemical compound was discovered for the first time in a main belt comet&nbsp;or a com(et located in the main asteroid belt between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter).&nbsp;

The astronomers used various observing methods for 15 years before making the finding.&nbsp;

They have detected gas - especially water vapour - near a comet in the main asteroid belt for the first time using Webb's NIRSpec (Near-Infrared Spectrograph).

It indicates that water ice from the primordial solar system can be retained in that region.&nbsp;But they came across a mystery as well, as unlike other comets, Comet 238P/Read had no detectable carbon dioxide.&nbsp;

As quoted by NASA, Stefanie Milam, who is Webb's deputy project scientist for planetary science and a co-author on the study reporting the finding, said: "Our water-soaked world, teeming with life and unique in the universe as far as we know, is something of a mystery – we're not sure how all this water got here."&nbsp;

"Understanding the history of water distribution in the solar system will help us to understand other planetary systems, and if they could be on their way to hosting an Earth-like planet," she added.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Will exploding stars trigger an extinction-level event on Earth?&nbsp;

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Comet Read is a main belt comet, which is an object that lives in the main asteroid belt but has a halo, or coma, and tail like a comet. Comet Read was one of the first three comets used to establish the category of main belt comets, which is a relatively new classification.&nbsp;

Previously, it was believed that the comets live in the Kuiper Belt and Oort Cloud, beyond Neptune's orbit, where their ices might be kept away from the Sun.&nbsp;

<h2>Missing carbon dioxide is a mystery</h2>

Meanwhile, the absence of carbon dioxide came as a bigger surprise as it typically accounts for around 10 per cent of the volatile material in a comet that can be easily vaporised by the Sun's radiation.&nbsp;

Scientists think that the Comet Read may have possessed carbon dioxide when it formed, but it has since lost it due to heated temperatures.&nbsp;

As quoted by NASA, astronomer Michael Kelley of the University of Maryland, lead author of the study, said: "Being in the asteroid belt for a long time could do it – carbon dioxide vaporizes more easily than water ice, and could percolate out over billions of years."&nbsp;

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Astronomers have observed a rare comet in our solar system, using the James Webb Space Telescope as they stumbled upon a new cosmic mystery while making a long-sought scientific breakthrough.

Astronomers have observed a rare comet in our solar system, using the James Webb Space Telescope as they stumbled upon a new cosmic mystery while making a long-sought scientific breakthrough. Scientists have been studying the origins of Earth's abundant water and according to new observation, the chemical compound was discovered for the first time in a main belt comet or a com(et located in the main asteroid belt between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter). The astronomers used various observing methods for 15 years before making the finding. They have detected gas - especially water vapour - near a comet in the main asteroid belt for the first time using Webb's NIRSpec (Near-Infrared Spectrograph). It indicates that water ice from the primordial solar system can be retained in that region. But they came across a mystery as well, as unlike other comets, Comet 238P/Read had no detectable carbon dioxide. As quoted by NASA, Stefanie Milam, who is Webb's deputy project scientist for planetary science and a co-author on the study reporting the finding, said: "Our water-soaked world, teeming with life and unique in the universe as far as we know, is something of a mystery – we're not sure how all this water got here." "Understanding the history of water distribution in the solar system will help us to understand other planetary systems, and if they could be on their way to hosting an Earth-like planet," she added. WATCH | Will exploding stars trigger an extinction-level event on Earth? × Comet Read is a main belt comet, which is an object that lives in the main asteroid belt but has a halo, or coma, and tail like a comet. Comet Read was one of the first three comets used to establish the category of main belt comets, which is a relatively new classification. Previously, it was believed that the comets live in the Kuiper Belt and Oort Cloud, beyond Neptune's orbit, where their ices might be kept away from the Sun. Missing carbon dioxide is a mystery Meanwhile, the absence of carbon dioxide came as a bigger surprise as it typically accounts for around 10 per cent of the volatile material in a comet that can be easily vaporised by the Sun's radiation. Scientists think that the Comet Read may have possessed carbon dioxide when it formed, but it has since lost it due to heated temperatures. As quoted by NASA, astronomer Michael Kelley of the University of Maryland, lead author of the study, said: "Being in the asteroid belt for a long time could do it – carbon dioxide vaporizes more easily than water ice, and could percolate out over billions of years." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Water and a new mystery in main-belt comet stun astronomers

All of us know about the asteroid belt in our Solar System. The asteroid belt is a collection of millions of space rocks, some of which are still a mystery to us. It is also said that asteroids are mini-planets which couldn't make the cut to join the elite league of main planets in our solar system. Who knows what mysteries lie&nbsp;hidden in the asteroid belt!

Now, James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has snapped a picture of a solar system. To the surprise of scientists, the solar system shows the presence of three asteroid belts. Two are in the inner system, while the third is farther out. With this pic, JWST has clicked the first asteroid belt ever seen outside our solar system.

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(Image: NASA)

The solar system is being formed around the young star Fomalhaut. It is 25 light-years away from us. Though this distance appears huge, it is nothing when compared on a cosmic scale. The three asteroid belts are extending out to 14 billion miles (23 billion kilometres) around the star. This is 150 times the distance between Earth and the Sun.

Hubble Space Telescope, JWST's predecessor, had clicked the outer asteroid belt before. But JWST's powerful ability to take images in Infrared light has meant that we can now glean deeper into the Fomalhaut solar system.&nbsp;

"Where Webb really excels is that we're able to physically resolve the thermal glow from dust in those inner regions. So you can see inner belts that we could never see before," Schuyler Wolff, an astronomer at the University of Arizona who worked on the research, said, as quoted on the NASA website.&nbsp;

Fomalhaut can be located by the naked eye as it is the brightest star in the southern constellation Piscis Austrinus.

According to NASA, the asteroid belts around Fomalhaut are likely to have been carved out of gravitational fields of planets we haven't yet been able to see.

Asteroid belts are often affected by the gravity of planets in a particular star system. For example, the massive gravitational force exerted by Jupiter, the biggest planet in our solar system, keeps the asteroids in their particular orbit and largely locked in space.

“The belts around Fomalhaut are kind of a mystery novel: Where are the planets?” said George Rieke, another team member and US science lead for Webb’s Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI), which made these observations. “I think it's not a very big leap to say there's probably a really interesting planetary system around the star.”

“We definitely didn't expect the more complex structure with the second intermediate belt and then the broader asteroid belt,” added Wolff. “That structure is very exciting because any time an astronomer sees a gap and rings in a disk, they say, ‘There could be an embedded planet shaping the rings!’”

Rieke was quoted by NASA.

The results of the research by the team have been published in the journal Nature Astronomy.

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&nbsp;

All of us know about the asteroid belt in our Solar System. The asteroid belt is a collection of millions of space rocks, some of which are still a mystery to us.

All of us know about the asteroid belt in our Solar System. The asteroid belt is a collection of millions of space rocks, some of which are still a mystery to us. It is also said that asteroids are mini-planets which couldn't make the cut to join the elite league of main planets in our solar system. Who knows what mysteries lie hidden in the asteroid belt! Now, James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has snapped a picture of a solar system. To the surprise of scientists, the solar system shows the presence of three asteroid belts. Two are in the inner system, while the third is farther out. With this pic, JWST has clicked the first asteroid belt ever seen outside our solar system. (Image: NASA) The solar system is being formed around the young star Fomalhaut. It is 25 light-years away from us. Though this distance appears huge, it is nothing when compared on a cosmic scale. The three asteroid belts are extending out to 14 billion miles (23 billion kilometres) around the star. This is 150 times the distance between Earth and the Sun. Hubble Space Telescope, JWST's predecessor, had clicked the outer asteroid belt before. But JWST's powerful ability to take images in Infrared light has meant that we can now glean deeper into the Fomalhaut solar system. "Where Webb really excels is that we're able to physically resolve the thermal glow from dust in those inner regions. So you can see inner belts that we could never see before," Schuyler Wolff, an astronomer at the University of Arizona who worked on the research, said, as quoted on the NASA website. Fomalhaut can be located by the naked eye as it is the brightest star in the southern constellation Piscis Austrinus. According to NASA, the asteroid belts around Fomalhaut are likely to have been carved out of gravitational fields of planets we haven't yet been able to see. Asteroid belts are often affected by the gravity of planets in a particular star system. For example, the massive gravitational force exerted by Jupiter, the biggest planet in our solar system, keeps the asteroids in their particular orbit and largely locked in space. “The belts around Fomalhaut are kind of a mystery novel: Where are the planets?” said George Rieke, another team member and US science lead for Webb’s Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI), which made these observations. “I think it's not a very big leap to say there's probably a really interesting planetary system around the star.” “We definitely didn't expect the more complex structure with the second intermediate belt and then the broader asteroid belt,” added Wolff. “That structure is very exciting because any time an astronomer sees a gap and rings in a disk, they say, ‘There could be an embedded planet shaping the rings!’” Rieke was quoted by NASA. The results of the research by the team have been published in the journal Nature Astronomy. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

NASA's James Webb telescope clicks first asteroid belt ever seen outside solar system

Space is a dream for many, the prospect of travelling to the stars is a fantasy. When you imagine that amazing journey what comes to your mind? A high-tech rocket, and you strapped into a huge space suit? Not to burst your bubble, but a French startup called Space Perspective is developing a luxury tourism experience that will take passengers to the edge of space aboard a giant balloon.

As per space.com, the France-based startup called Zephalto has partnered with the French space agency the Centre national d'études spatiales (CNES), for this "high-altitude stratospheric balloon flights."&nbsp;

The huge balloon would reportedly be filled with hydrogen or helium and will ascend around 25 kilometres (or 15.5 miles) high into the atmosphere and will offer passengers a "unique view" of the world below.

As per a Bloomberg report, while the flights are scheduled to begin by 2025, the company has started booking reservations for an $11,000 (€120,000) deposit.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-transmission-likely-to-happen-in-60-years-claim-scientists-589815">Alien transmission likely to happen in next 60 years, claim scientists</a>

The balloon has enough space to carry six passengers and two pilots and will liftoff from the French spaceport as per space.com.

However, the company hopes to expand its access worldwide and is planning to expand its access worldwide by establishing spaceports on different continents.&nbsp;

The company reportedly is aiming to make its space tourism experience available to a wider audience and become a global player in the industry and even has a global map on its website featuring "next opening" pins for its spaceports located in populated areas around the world.&nbsp;

The company plans to offer the experience at $132,000 per person (or €120,000), to "eat lunch at the edge of space," wherein it will offer passengers "fine French cuisine," which means it'll offer a "Michelin-star calibre dining experience with a window-seat view of the cosmos."

On top of that, there will be wi-fi which the passengers can use to post their space pics before even landing on the Earth.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/just-three-planets-down-from-earth-this-icy-alien-planets-moons-may-be-hiding-oceans-of-salty-water-589855">Just three planets down from Earth, this icy alien planet's moons may be hiding oceans of salty water</a>

The flight will consist of three parts, with the first part being a one-and-a-half-hour ascent to an altitude of 25 kilometres. The second part of the flight will be three hours long and will include wining, dining, and sightseeing for passengers to enjoy the breathtaking view. The final part of the flight will be an hour-and-a-half-long descent back to Earth.&nbsp;

Space Perspective believes that its experience will appeal to wealthy travellers who are looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure. The company sees its balloon-based approach as a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to rocket-based space tourism.

To ensure the safety of its passengers, Space Perspective is working closely with regulatory agencies and aerospace experts to design and test the spacecraft and its systems. The company's management team includes experienced professionals from the aerospace industry, including former NASA astronaut Mark Kelly.

Space Perspective faces competition from other companies, such as Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic, that are also developing space tourism experiences. However, the company believes that its balloon-based approach and focus on luxury will set it apart in the market.

Zephalto has conducted three piloted test flights of its stratospheric balloon as part of its development process. However, none of these test flights have&nbsp;reached the altitude that the company plans to take regular passengers. Before the company can begin operating commercially, it needs to obtain certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) as a commercial airliner. But once it receives certification, the company plans to operate up to 60 flights per year.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Space is a dream for many, the prospect of travelling to the stars is a fantasy. When you imagine that amazing journey what comes to your mind? A high-tech rocket, and you strapped into a huge space suit?

Space is a dream for many, the prospect of travelling to the stars is a fantasy. When you imagine that amazing journey what comes to your mind? A high-tech rocket, and you strapped into a huge space suit? Not to burst your bubble, but a French startup called Space Perspective is developing a luxury tourism experience that will take passengers to the edge of space aboard a giant balloon. As per space.com, the France-based startup called Zephalto has partnered with the French space agency the Centre national d'études spatiales (CNES), for this "high-altitude stratospheric balloon flights." The huge balloon would reportedly be filled with hydrogen or helium and will ascend around 25 kilometres (or 15.5 miles) high into the atmosphere and will offer passengers a "unique view" of the world below. As per a Bloomberg report, while the flights are scheduled to begin by 2025, the company has started booking reservations for an $11,000 (€120,000) deposit. Also read | Alien transmission likely to happen in next 60 years, claim scientists The balloon has enough space to carry six passengers and two pilots and will liftoff from the French spaceport as per space.com. However, the company hopes to expand its access worldwide and is planning to expand its access worldwide by establishing spaceports on different continents. The company reportedly is aiming to make its space tourism experience available to a wider audience and become a global player in the industry and even has a global map on its website featuring "next opening" pins for its spaceports located in populated areas around the world. The company plans to offer the experience at $132,000 per person (or €120,000), to "eat lunch at the edge of space," wherein it will offer passengers "fine French cuisine," which means it'll offer a "Michelin-star calibre dining experience with a window-seat view of the cosmos." On top of that, there will be wi-fi which the passengers can use to post their space pics before even landing on the Earth. Also read | Just three planets down from Earth, this icy alien planet's moons may be hiding oceans of salty water The flight will consist of three parts, with the first part being a one-and-a-half-hour ascent to an altitude of 25 kilometres. The second part of the flight will be three hours long and will include wining, dining, and sightseeing for passengers to enjoy the breathtaking view. The final part of the flight will be an hour-and-a-half-long descent back to Earth. Space Perspective believes that its experience will appeal to wealthy travellers who are looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure. The company sees its balloon-based approach as a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to rocket-based space tourism. To ensure the safety of its passengers, Space Perspective is working closely with regulatory agencies and aerospace experts to design and test the spacecraft and its systems. The company's management team includes experienced professionals from the aerospace industry, including former NASA astronaut Mark Kelly. Space Perspective faces competition from other companies, such as Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic, that are also developing space tourism experiences. However, the company believes that its balloon-based approach and focus on luxury will set it apart in the market. Zephalto has conducted three piloted test flights of its stratospheric balloon as part of its development process. However, none of these test flights have reached the altitude that the company plans to take regular passengers. Before the company can begin operating commercially, it needs to obtain certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) as a commercial airliner. But once it receives certification, the company plans to operate up to 60 flights per year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French startup will take people to space in a balloon. Here's how

Uranus — the seventh planet from Sun — has not just one, two or three moons, but a total of 27 moons. New research suggests&nbsp;that four of its moons&nbsp;may be hiding oceans beneath their icy exteriors.&nbsp;

These four moons, namely Miranda, Ariel, Umbriel, and Titania, are over 1500 km in diameter and have been studied extensively by scientists.&nbsp;

However, a fresh look at 40-year-old data sent to Earth by NASA's Voyager 2 spacecraft indicates that the four moons may have oceans buried kilometres deep under their surface.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sun-like-star-swallows-entire-planet-gives-glimpse-of-earths-fate-to-astronomers-589358">Sun-like star swallows entire planet, gives glimpse of Earth’s fate to astronomers</a>

Of these, Titania and Oberon, which orbit the farthest from Uranus, may have oceans buried some 50 kilometres (30 metres) deep. Oceans on Ariel and Umbriel, on the other hand, may be closer to the surface at 30 kilometres (19 miles) deep.

These astonishing findings were shared in a new study published in the Journal of Geophysical Research in December 2022.

Talking to Space.com, Julie Castillo-Rogez, a planetary scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California and the lead author of this study said: "Finding oceans in the Uranian moons would increase the prospect that [...] ocean worlds are frequent in our solar system, and maybe — by extension — in other solar systems."

The new research can help explain how even in the frigid outer reaches of the solar system, persistent internal heat and a few chemicals can make the Uranian&nbsp;moons watery worlds.

As per the researchers, early in their histories, Uranus' five largest moons — namely Titania, Oberon, Ariel, Umbriel and Miranda — had substantial oceans that ran deep, ranging from 100 km to 150 km (62 miles to 90 miles).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/saturns-vanishing-rings-further-its-cosmic-identity-crisis-589384">Saturn’s mesmerising rings vanishing, further aggravate its cosmic identity crisis</a>

"If the moons had benefited from long-term heating from their planet, then they could have maintained a thick ocean," said Castillo-Rogez.

Europa, a moon of Jupiter, and Enceladus, a moon of Saturn, both have significant subsurface oceans. The gravitational pull of their respective host planets causes these moons to experience deformation in their interiors and icy crusts, a phenomenon known as tidal flexing.&nbsp;

This process generates heat, which as per scientists, may be responsible for maintaining the subsurface water on these moons in a liquid, potentially life-supporting state.

However, Uranus has weaker tidal forces than Jupiter or Saturn, which means that the oceans on its four largest moons are "mostly frozen by now," according to Castillo-Rogez.

To gain a better understanding of the evolution of Uranus's largest moons, her team created a model using data collected from NASA missions that investigated other celestial bodies with subsurface oceans. The team examined findings from the Cassini mission, which studied Saturn's moon Enceladus, the Dawn mission, which explored the dwarf planet Ceres, and the New Horizons mission, which flew by Pluto and its largest moon Charon in 2015.&nbsp;

By analysing data from these missions, the team was able to construct a model of how the moons of Uranus may have formed and evolved over time.

The model created by the team reveals&nbsp;that the Uranian moons likely hold "thin oceans with high salt concentrations". This is likely due to limited internal heat left over from their births and considerable ammonia. The chemical is antifreeze in nature which helps keep water in its liquid form even in very low temperatures.

The researchers also suggest that the subsurface oceans could be habitable environments for microbial life that are adapted to living in extreme environments. They estimate that oceans would contain around 150 grams of salt per litre.&nbsp;Earth's Great Salt Lake in Utah has twice the salt volume but still boasts of life in and around it.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Uranus — the seventh planet from Sun — has not just one, two or three moons, but a total of 27 moons. New research suggests that four of its moons may be hiding oceans beneath their icy exteriors.

Uranus — the seventh planet from Sun — has not just one, two or three moons, but a total of 27 moons. New research suggests that four of its moons may be hiding oceans beneath their icy exteriors. These four moons, namely Miranda, Ariel, Umbriel, and Titania, are over 1500 km in diameter and have been studied extensively by scientists. However, a fresh look at 40-year-old data sent to Earth by NASA's Voyager 2 spacecraft indicates that the four moons may have oceans buried kilometres deep under their surface. Also read | Sun-like star swallows entire planet, gives glimpse of Earth’s fate to astronomers Of these, Titania and Oberon, which orbit the farthest from Uranus, may have oceans buried some 50 kilometres (30 metres) deep. Oceans on Ariel and Umbriel, on the other hand, may be closer to the surface at 30 kilometres (19 miles) deep. These astonishing findings were shared in a new study published in the Journal of Geophysical Research in December 2022. Talking to Space.com, Julie Castillo-Rogez, a planetary scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California and the lead author of this study said: "Finding oceans in the Uranian moons would increase the prospect that [...] ocean worlds are frequent in our solar system, and maybe — by extension — in other solar systems." The new research can help explain how even in the frigid outer reaches of the solar system, persistent internal heat and a few chemicals can make the Uranian moons watery worlds. As per the researchers, early in their histories, Uranus' five largest moons — namely Titania, Oberon, Ariel, Umbriel and Miranda — had substantial oceans that ran deep, ranging from 100 km to 150 km (62 miles to 90 miles). Also read | Saturn’s mesmerising rings vanishing, further aggravate its cosmic identity crisis "If the moons had benefited from long-term heating from their planet, then they could have maintained a thick ocean," said Castillo-Rogez. Europa, a moon of Jupiter, and Enceladus, a moon of Saturn, both have significant subsurface oceans. The gravitational pull of their respective host planets causes these moons to experience deformation in their interiors and icy crusts, a phenomenon known as tidal flexing. This process generates heat, which as per scientists, may be responsible for maintaining the subsurface water on these moons in a liquid, potentially life-supporting state. However, Uranus has weaker tidal forces than Jupiter or Saturn, which means that the oceans on its four largest moons are "mostly frozen by now," according to Castillo-Rogez. To gain a better understanding of the evolution of Uranus's largest moons, her team created a model using data collected from NASA missions that investigated other celestial bodies with subsurface oceans. The team examined findings from the Cassini mission, which studied Saturn's moon Enceladus, the Dawn mission, which explored the dwarf planet Ceres, and the New Horizons mission, which flew by Pluto and its largest moon Charon in 2015. By analysing data from these missions, the team was able to construct a model of how the moons of Uranus may have formed and evolved over time. The model created by the team reveals that the Uranian moons likely hold "thin oceans with high salt concentrations". This is likely due to limited internal heat left over from their births and considerable ammonia. The chemical is antifreeze in nature which helps keep water in its liquid form even in very low temperatures. The researchers also suggest that the subsurface oceans could be habitable environments for microbial life that are adapted to living in extreme environments. They estimate that oceans would contain around 150 grams of salt per litre. Earth's Great Salt Lake in Utah has twice the salt volume but still boasts of life in and around it. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Just three planets down from Earth, this icy alien planet's moons may be hiding oceans of salty water