<p>After more than 80,000 years, a comet will again become visible from Earth - in a treat for the sky gazers - during two separate phases in the next month.</p>

<p>Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, which is also called Comet A3, will now orbit around the Sun after more than 80,000 years,&nbsp;according to a report published on Earth.com.</p>

<p>The comet has become visible from Earth from September 27 and will appear in the sky before sunrise on October 2.</p>

<p>It is likely to appear like a fuzzy ball with a tail which stretches across the sky.</p>

<p>"C/2023 A3 has an orbital period of approximately 80,000 years, classifying it as a long-period comet. This means its behaviour and appearance can be unpredictable, with potential changes in brightness and tail development as it approaches the sun," said Minjae Kim, a space expert in the University of Warwick's astronomy department, while speaking to Earth.com.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-comet-tsuchinshan-atlas-en-route-to-sun-captured-from-iss-760651">Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS en route to sun captured from ISS</a></p>

<p>"If predictions hold, it could be visible to the naked eye, appearing as a fuzzy star with a tail stretching across the sky.&nbsp;Otherwise, binoculars or a small telescope may reveal more detail in the comet’s structure and tail," Kim explained.</p>

<p>The comet achieved its perihelion on September 27 which means it came to the closest point to the sun and will not go on a trip back towards the outer solar system,&nbsp;as per WKMG.</p>

<p>The comet will also become visible in the middle of October if the comet lives after its trip around the Sun. This is because comets generally break apart as they come closer to the sun.</p>

<p>After the trip, the comet will become visible to the naked eye when it comes closest to Earth and its best visibility is likely to be from October 12 until October 20.</p>

<p>Every night, the comet will move higher up in the sky till it disappears again for the next 80,000 years.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Two black holes caught merging, event to provide insight into galaxy formation&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/two-black-holes-caught-merging-event-to-provide-insight-into-galaxy-formation-wion-originals-761880/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Astronomical app for stargazers Starwalk said that this comet is the "most anticipated comet of the year."</p>

<h2><strong>Here's how you can watch Comet C/2023 A3</strong></h2>

<p>Those who wish to see the comet with the naked eye should check the moon in its waning crescent phase. The comet's position can change as per the moon on different dates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Comet C/2023 A3 is nearly 157.1 million miles away from Earth and is travelling at a speed of around 70km per second (150,000 miles per hour).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After more than 80,000 years, a comet will again become visible from Earth - in a treat for the sky gazers - during two separate phases in the next month. Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, which is also called Comet A3, will now orbit around the Sun after more than 80,000 years, according to a report published on Earth.

After more than 80,000 years, a comet will again become visible from Earth - in a treat for the sky gazers - during two separate phases in the next month. Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, which is also called Comet A3, will now orbit around the Sun after more than 80,000 years, according to a report published on Earth.com. The comet has become visible from Earth from September 27 and will appear in the sky before sunrise on October 2. It is likely to appear like a fuzzy ball with a tail which stretches across the sky. "C/2023 A3 has an orbital period of approximately 80,000 years, classifying it as a long-period comet. This means its behaviour and appearance can be unpredictable, with potential changes in brightness and tail development as it approaches the sun," said Minjae Kim, a space expert in the University of Warwick's astronomy department, while speaking to Earth.com. Also Read: Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS en route to sun captured from ISS "If predictions hold, it could be visible to the naked eye, appearing as a fuzzy star with a tail stretching across the sky. Otherwise, binoculars or a small telescope may reveal more detail in the comet’s structure and tail," Kim explained. The comet achieved its perihelion on September 27 which means it came to the closest point to the sun and will not go on a trip back towards the outer solar system, as per WKMG. The comet will also become visible in the middle of October if the comet lives after its trip around the Sun. This is because comets generally break apart as they come closer to the sun. After the trip, the comet will become visible to the naked eye when it comes closest to Earth and its best visibility is likely to be from October 12 until October 20. Every night, the comet will move higher up in the sky till it disappears again for the next 80,000 years. Watch: Two black holes caught merging, event to provide insight into galaxy formation Astronomical app for stargazers Starwalk said that this comet is the "most anticipated comet of the year." Here's how you can watch Comet C/2023 A3 Those who wish to see the comet with the naked eye should check the moon in its waning crescent phase. The comet's position can change as per the moon on different dates. Comet C/2023 A3 is nearly 157.1 million miles away from Earth and is travelling at a speed of around 70km per second (150,000 miles per hour). (With inputs from agencies)

Comet C/2023 A3 will be visible from Earth after 80,000 years. Here's where to watch it

<p>The COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns had a significant impact on the surface temperature of the Moon, an astonishing study published by Indian scientists in&nbsp;<em>Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society</em> has claimed.</p>

<p>The study, conducted using the data from NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) concluded that an&nbsp;"anomalous" decrease of 8-10º Kelvin (-265ºC to -263ºC)&nbsp;was observed in nighttime surface temperatures on the Moon during the strictest lockdown period from April to May 2020.</p>

<p>"The Moon has possibly experienced the effect of COVID-19 lockdown, visualized as an anomalous decrease in lunar night-time surface temperatures during that period," the study stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers K Durga Prasad and G Ambily attributed the dip in lunar surface temperature to the reduction in Earth's outgoing radiation during the lockdowns. Due to the drastic decrease in human activity during the lockdown, there was a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and aerosols --&nbsp;leading to less heat being trapped and re-emitted by Earth's atmosphere.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chandrayaan-3-pragyan-rover-discovers-ancient-160-km-crater-on-moon-761259"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Chandrayaan-3: Pragyan Rover Discovers Ancient 160 Km Crater On Moon</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Study methodology</strong></h2>

<p>To conduct the study, the scientists&nbsp;elected six distinct sites on the nearside of the Moon with a surface area ranging from 900–2500 square kilometres.&nbsp;The sites were selected based on the following criteria:</p>

<ol>
	<li>The site should be relatively flat</li>
	<li>It should be within an equatorial or mid-latitude region</li>
	<li>The site should be of an optimum size</li>
</ol>

<p>Using the&nbsp;Diviner Lunar Radiometer (DLRE) instrument onboard NASA's LRO, the scientists analysed the surface temperature.&nbsp;Night-time surface temperatures from DLRE for six diverse sites on the Moon were analysed through 2017–2023, covering the periods before, after and during the COVID-19 lockdown, to look for any lockdown-induced subtle signature.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-to-get-a-second-moon-this-fall-here-is-how-to-watch-it-762928"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Earth to get a ‘second moon’ on Sep 29. Here is how to watch it</strong></a></p>

<p>As per the scientists,&nbsp;2020 saw the coldest temperatures across most sites, with a noticeable warming trend in 2021 and 2022, once human activity resumed on Earth.</p>

<p>The study stated that based on the findings, Moon-based&nbsp;observatories can become potential tools for observing Earth's environmental changes, which need to be explored extensively.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns had a significant impact on the surface temperature of the Moon, an astonishing study published by Indian scientists in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society has claimed.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns had a significant impact on the surface temperature of the Moon, an astonishing study published by Indian scientists in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society has claimed. The study, conducted using the data from NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) concluded that an "anomalous" decrease of 8-10º Kelvin (-265ºC to -263ºC) was observed in nighttime surface temperatures on the Moon during the strictest lockdown period from April to May 2020. "The Moon has possibly experienced the effect of COVID-19 lockdown, visualized as an anomalous decrease in lunar night-time surface temperatures during that period," the study stated. Researchers K Durga Prasad and G Ambily attributed the dip in lunar surface temperature to the reduction in Earth's outgoing radiation during the lockdowns. Due to the drastic decrease in human activity during the lockdown, there was a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and aerosols -- leading to less heat being trapped and re-emitted by Earth's atmosphere. Watch | Chandrayaan-3: Pragyan Rover Discovers Ancient 160 Km Crater On Moon × Study methodology To conduct the study, the scientists elected six distinct sites on the nearside of the Moon with a surface area ranging from 900–2500 square kilometres. The sites were selected based on the following criteria: The site should be relatively flat It should be within an equatorial or mid-latitude region The site should be of an optimum size Using the Diviner Lunar Radiometer (DLRE) instrument onboard NASA's LRO, the scientists analysed the surface temperature. Night-time surface temperatures from DLRE for six diverse sites on the Moon were analysed through 2017–2023, covering the periods before, after and during the COVID-19 lockdown, to look for any lockdown-induced subtle signature. Also read | Earth to get a ‘second moon’ on Sep 29. Here is how to watch it As per the scientists, 2020 saw the coldest temperatures across most sites, with a noticeable warming trend in 2021 and 2022, once human activity resumed on Earth. The study stated that based on the findings, Moon-based observatories can become potential tools for observing Earth's environmental changes, which need to be explored extensively. (With inputs from agencies)

Moon's surface cooled down during strict COVID-19 lockdown, Indian study claims

<p>For nearly 40 years the Moon has been thought to be created by debris released when something collided with Earth. However, a new study offers another idea. What if this was not the case and the Moon was an external space body which Earth's gravity happened to catch?</p>

<p>The Apollo missions gave humans access to lunar soil. The astronauts who went to the moon between 1969 and 1972 collected more than 800 pounds of lunar rock and soil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An analysis found that they were similar in composition to what is found on Earth and that our satellite was birthed 60 million years after the solar system formed. Scientists gathered at the Kona Conference in 1984 and concluded that the Moon was formed by a collision with a young Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, two Penn State researchers now say that it is likely the Moon was not born this way. The findings have been published in The Planetary Science Journal by Darren Williams, professor of astronomy and astrophysics at Penn State Behrend, and Michael Zugger, a senior research engineer at the Applied Research Lab at Penn State.</p>

<p>They say that the Moon was once part of a terrestrial binary. When it came too close to Earth, the planet caught one of them and repelled the other rocky object.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/comet-a3-icy-visitor-from-oort-cloud-is-becoming-brighter-here-is-when-to-watch-and-how-762534">Icy visitor from Oort Cloud is becoming brighter. When to watch and how</a></p>

<p>"The Kona Conference set the narrative for 40 years," Williams said. The authors added that this was not the end point and certain troubling points remained.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Why Moon likely came from outside&nbsp;</h2>

<p>One of them is the position of the moon. They say that a moon formed due to a planetary collision and the debris clumping together in a ring should orbit above the planet's equator. However, our moon orbits in a different plane.</p>

<p>"The moon is more in line with the sun than it is with the Earth's equator," Williams said.</p>

<p>Providing their binary-exchange capture theory, the two of them believe Earth's gravity separated the binary and caught one of them. The one it snagged became our moon.</p>

<p>Citing another such instance in the solar system. Williams and Zugger point to Triton, Neptune's largest moon. Current studies say that Triton was pulled into orbit from the Kuiper Belt, where several binaries exist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They added that Moon's orbit started off as an elongated ellipse, rather than a circle. But extreme tides changed its shape&nbsp;over time. The researchers calculated tidal changes and the orbit's size and shape and determined our lunar satellite's orbit contracted over thousands of years and also became more circular.&nbsp;</p>


For nearly 40 years the Moon has been thought to be created by debris released when something collided with Earth. However, a new study offers another idea. What if this was not the case and the Moon was an external space body which Earth's gravity happened to catch?

For nearly 40 years the Moon has been thought to be created by debris released when something collided with Earth. However, a new study offers another idea. What if this was not the case and the Moon was an external space body which Earth's gravity happened to catch? The Apollo missions gave humans access to lunar soil. The astronauts who went to the moon between 1969 and 1972 collected more than 800 pounds of lunar rock and soil. An analysis found that they were similar in composition to what is found on Earth and that our satellite was birthed 60 million years after the solar system formed. Scientists gathered at the Kona Conference in 1984 and concluded that the Moon was formed by a collision with a young Earth. However, two Penn State researchers now say that it is likely the Moon was not born this way. The findings have been published in The Planetary Science Journal by Darren Williams, professor of astronomy and astrophysics at Penn State Behrend, and Michael Zugger, a senior research engineer at the Applied Research Lab at Penn State. They say that the Moon was once part of a terrestrial binary. When it came too close to Earth, the planet caught one of them and repelled the other rocky object. Also Read: Icy visitor from Oort Cloud is becoming brighter. When to watch and how "The Kona Conference set the narrative for 40 years," Williams said. The authors added that this was not the end point and certain troubling points remained. Why Moon likely came from outside One of them is the position of the moon. They say that a moon formed due to a planetary collision and the debris clumping together in a ring should orbit above the planet's equator. However, our moon orbits in a different plane. "The moon is more in line with the sun than it is with the Earth's equator," Williams said. Providing their binary-exchange capture theory, the two of them believe Earth's gravity separated the binary and caught one of them. The one it snagged became our moon. Citing another such instance in the solar system. Williams and Zugger point to Triton, Neptune's largest moon. Current studies say that Triton was pulled into orbit from the Kuiper Belt, where several binaries exist. They added that Moon's orbit started off as an elongated ellipse, rather than a circle. But extreme tides changed its shape over time. The researchers calculated tidal changes and the orbit's size and shape and determined our lunar satellite's orbit contracted over thousands of years and also became more circular.

Earth snatched Moon from space and did not birth it, study suggests

India's Chandrayaan-3 mission has achieved another remarkable success by discovering a key geological feature on the Moon. Following the successful deployment of its Pragyan rover at the Moon’s south pole in 2023, the mission has now captured images of a buried ancient crater measuring 160 kilometers wide near its landing site. Watch in for more details!

Chandrayaan-3: Pragyan Rover Discovers 160 Km Wide Crater On Moon

India's Chandrayaan-3 mission has achieved another remarkable success by discovering a key geological feature on the Moon. Following the successful deployment of its Pragyan rover at the Moon’s south pole in 2023, the mission has now captured images of a buried ancient crater measuring 160 kilometers wide near its landing site.

Chandrayaan-3: Pragyan Rover Discovers Ancient 160 Km Crater On Moon

We know that asteroids wiped out dinosaurs and changed the face of planet Earth but not all asteroids are that dangerous. Even even if they were to be our planet is far better prepared today. Space agencies track thousands of asteroids and calculate which ones are likely to pose risks to earth. In less than 10 days there is an asteroid that could fly by Planet Earth, some are calling it a second moon but is it really a second moon or a mini Moon? Well, Here's why it is special!

Earth to get a 'mini moon'? Experts believe 2024PT5 could be a piece of the moon

<p>Earth will soon get a second moon, but just for a few weeks. In fact, you might not be able to see it either. Towards the end of September, for less than two months, an asteroid will turn into a moon for our planet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The small asteroid, named 2024 PT5, was discovered on August 7 by the Asteroid Terrestrial-Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS). It is currently on a trajectory where it will get caught by Earth's gravity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Carlos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos, researchers at Spain’s Universidad Complutense de Madrid, made the revelation in a paper published in Research Notes of the AAS.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The duo says that the asteroid will orbit the Earth from September 29 till November 25. After completing nearly one orbit, it will zoom away from us.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first instance of Earth getting two months temporarily. Carlos and Marcos write in the paper that the dual-moon scenario, although rare, has happened before.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Has Earth had two moons before?</strong></h2>

<p>It has happened at least on two occasions in the past. First, in July 2006, when a mini-moon orbited Earth for about a year. Later, another object was discovered that had gotten caught in Earth’s gravitational pull.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/asteroid-nearly-1500-feet-in-size-moving-towards-earth-at-26-times-the-speed-of-sound-758280">Asteroid nearly 1500 feet in size moving towards Earth at 26 times the speed of sound</a></strong></p>

<p>It escaped in 2020. This is not uncommon as scientists say objects can get entangled in the planet's gravity for a short time.</p>

<p>In 2020, a mini-moon was said to be lurking near us, but scientists failed to find conclusive data.</p>

<p>The duo are sure that it is a celestial object and not an artificial body. “The object is unlikely to be artificial as its short-term dynamical evolution closely resembles that of 2022 NX1,” they wrote in the paper, referring to another asteroid that became a mini-moon in 1981, and again in 2022.</p>

<p>Asteroid 2024 PT5 likely originated in the Arjuna asteroid belt, where near-Earth objects with orbits similar to our planet’s live.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A fascinating simulation of the asteroid making its way to Earth and out was shared by amateur astronomer Tony Dunn on X.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Newly-discovered <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/asteroid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#asteroid</a> 2024 PT5 is about to undergo a "mini-moon event" when its geocentric energy becomes negative from September 29 - November 25.<a href="https://t.co/sAo1qSRu3J">https://t.co/sAo1qSRu3J</a> <a href="https://t.co/pVYAmSbkCF">pic.twitter.com/pVYAmSbkCF</a></p>
— Tony Dunn (@tony873004) <a href="https://twitter.com/tony873004/status/1833588006353310110?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The asteroid will return on January 9, 2025, with its next visit not happening until 2055.</p>


Earth will soon get a second moon, but just for a few weeks. In fact, you might not be able to see it either. Towards the end of September, for less than two months, an asteroid will turn into a moon for our planet.

Earth will soon get a second moon, but just for a few weeks. In fact, you might not be able to see it either. Towards the end of September, for less than two months, an asteroid will turn into a moon for our planet. The small asteroid, named 2024 PT5, was discovered on August 7 by the Asteroid Terrestrial-Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS). It is currently on a trajectory where it will get caught by Earth's gravity. Carlos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos, researchers at Spain’s Universidad Complutense de Madrid, made the revelation in a paper published in Research Notes of the AAS. The duo says that the asteroid will orbit the Earth from September 29 till November 25. After completing nearly one orbit, it will zoom away from us. This is not the first instance of Earth getting two months temporarily. Carlos and Marcos write in the paper that the dual-moon scenario, although rare, has happened before. Has Earth had two moons before? It has happened at least on two occasions in the past. First, in July 2006, when a mini-moon orbited Earth for about a year. Later, another object was discovered that had gotten caught in Earth’s gravitational pull. Also Read: Asteroid nearly 1500 feet in size moving towards Earth at 26 times the speed of sound It escaped in 2020. This is not uncommon as scientists say objects can get entangled in the planet's gravity for a short time. In 2020, a mini-moon was said to be lurking near us, but scientists failed to find conclusive data. The duo are sure that it is a celestial object and not an artificial body. “The object is unlikely to be artificial as its short-term dynamical evolution closely resembles that of 2022 NX1,” they wrote in the paper, referring to another asteroid that became a mini-moon in 1981, and again in 2022. Asteroid 2024 PT5 likely originated in the Arjuna asteroid belt, where near-Earth objects with orbits similar to our planet’s live. A fascinating simulation of the asteroid making its way to Earth and out was shared by amateur astronomer Tony Dunn on X. Newly-discovered #asteroid 2024 PT5 is about to undergo a "mini-moon event" when its geocentric energy becomes negative from September 29 - November 25.https://t.co/sAo1qSRu3J pic.twitter.com/pVYAmSbkCF — Tony Dunn (@tony873004) September 10, 2024 × The asteroid will return on January 9, 2025, with its next visit not happening until 2055.

Earth will soon have two moons, just not in the way you think

<p>A "groundbreaking" nuclear power plant is being developed by Russia and China which is expected to support human settlements on the Moon in future.</p>

<p>A new report published by Russian news agency TASS, however, has suggested that India is also likely to become a part of this ambitious project in future.</p>

<p>The project, which has been led by Russia's state nuclear corporation Rosatom, is aimed at establishing a small nuclear reactor on the Moon which is expected to generate nearly half a megawatt of energy.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/historic-first-indias-chandrayaan-3-records-more-than-50-moonquakes-heres-what-it-means-757154">Historic first! India's Chandrayaan-3 records more than 50 moonquakes. Here's what it means</a></p>

<p>Rosatom chief Alexey Likhachev has been quoted by TASS as saying that India and China have been interested in becoming a part of this groundbreaking lunar energy solution.</p>

<p>While addressing the Eastern Economic Forum, Likhachev said, “The new solution that we are asked to implement is the option of a lunar nuclear power plant with an energy capacity of up to half a megawatt.”</p>

<p>“By the way, with the involvement of the international community, our Chinese and Indian partners are very interested in this. We are trying to lay the foundation for several international space projects,” Likhachev added.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's ambitious nuclear lunar mission and its future prospect</strong></h2>

<p>Russia’s space agency Roscosmos had earlier announced in May that they have been working on the nuclear power plant and it is intended to get deployed on the Moon by 2036.</p>

<p>The reactor is set to provide energy for the proposed lunar base on which Russia and China have been working jointly.</p>

<p>The lunar nuclear power plant's construction will be complex. Russia had earlier stated that it would be carried out autonomously and there would be no direct involvement of humans.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;NASA astronaut stuck in space reports ‘strange noises’ coming from Starliner capsule</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-astronaut-stuck-in-space-reports-strange-noises-coming-from-starliner-capsule-755353/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The project's technological solutions are almost near completion and are now set to take a major leap forward in lunar exploration and energy production.</p>

<p>Russia and China have also been working on a joint lunar base known as the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS).</p>

<p>The station is set to become operational between 2035 and 2045 and will be “open to all interested countries and international partners.”</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:909,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2746}"><em bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:909,&quot;w&quot;:182,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2746}">(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A "groundbreaking" nuclear power plant is being developed by Russia and China which is expected to support human settlements on the Moon in future. A new report published by Russian news agency TASS, however, has suggested that India is also likely to become a part of this ambitious project in future.

A "groundbreaking" nuclear power plant is being developed by Russia and China which is expected to support human settlements on the Moon in future. A new report published by Russian news agency TASS, however, has suggested that India is also likely to become a part of this ambitious project in future. The project, which has been led by Russia's state nuclear corporation Rosatom, is aimed at establishing a small nuclear reactor on the Moon which is expected to generate nearly half a megawatt of energy. Also Read: Historic first! India's Chandrayaan-3 records more than 50 moonquakes. Here's what it means Rosatom chief Alexey Likhachev has been quoted by TASS as saying that India and China have been interested in becoming a part of this groundbreaking lunar energy solution. While addressing the Eastern Economic Forum, Likhachev said, “The new solution that we are asked to implement is the option of a lunar nuclear power plant with an energy capacity of up to half a megawatt.” “By the way, with the involvement of the international community, our Chinese and Indian partners are very interested in this. We are trying to lay the foundation for several international space projects,” Likhachev added. Russia's ambitious nuclear lunar mission and its future prospect Russia’s space agency Roscosmos had earlier announced in May that they have been working on the nuclear power plant and it is intended to get deployed on the Moon by 2036. The reactor is set to provide energy for the proposed lunar base on which Russia and China have been working jointly. The lunar nuclear power plant's construction will be complex. Russia had earlier stated that it would be carried out autonomously and there would be no direct involvement of humans. Watch: NASA astronaut stuck in space reports ‘strange noises’ coming from Starliner capsule The project's technological solutions are almost near completion and are now set to take a major leap forward in lunar exploration and energy production. Russia and China have also been working on a joint lunar base known as the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS). The station is set to become operational between 2035 and 2045 and will be “open to all interested countries and international partners.” (With inputs from agencies)

India to be part of 'groundbreaking' lunar nuclear plant set-up with Russia and China? Moscow says...

<p>Moon experienced volcanic eruptions till as recently as 120 million years ago, research has found. The revelation was made following the analysis of a lunar sample collected by the Chang’e‑5 mission. Earlier studies had pegged the timing of volcanic activities from about 4.4 to 2.0 billion years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apollo, Luna, and Chang’e‑5 missions had found widespread basaltic volcanism on the Moon during these times. Turns out they were missing something. The latest study of glass beads has revealed that the Moon was volcanically active for a much longer time than previously suspected. However, these were smaller and localised eruptions that were caused by radioactive elements.</p>

<p>Bi-Wen Wang, Qian W.L. Zhang, and colleagues studied more than 3000 tiny glass beads that were present in a lunar sample collected by Chang’e‑5. They analysed their chemical compositions, physical textures, and sulfur isotopes to divide the beads produced by potential volcanic activity from those produced by meteorite impacts.</p>

<p>Only three of those beads were found to have volcanic origin. Radiometric dating was used to determine the volcanic beads formed 123 ± 15 million years ago. They were found to contain huge amounts of potassium, phosphorus, and rare-earth elements, known as KREEP elements.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-earths-completion-of-full-rotation-captured-in-stunning-timelapse-video-755873">Earth's completion of full rotation captured in stunning timelapse video</a></p>

<p>These elements were responsible for creating small, localised volcanoes on the Moon, the research suggests. KREEP elements are known to produce radioactive heating. When heating occurs in a small area due to KREEP elements, rocks in the Moon’s mantle might melt. This then leads to small amounts of magma erupting to the surface, the researchers suggest.</p>

<h2>Volcanism on Moon</h2>

<p>Moon has been volcanically active for most of its lifetime, The first eruptions happened somewhere around 4.2 billion years ago. Its most intense period was between 3.8 and 3 billion years ago. The Moon no longer has any active volcanoes, however, there is likely an ocean of magma under its surface.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's Chandrayaan-3 mission, which landed on the lunar surface on August 23, 2023, also found evidence of magma on the Moon. The Pragyan rover found anorthosite rocks at a site which scientists believe had an ancient ocean of magma that covered the lunar surface some four billion years ago.&nbsp;</p>


Moon experienced volcanic eruptions till as recently as 120 million years ago, research has found. The revelation was made following the analysis of a lunar sample collected by the Chang’e‑5 mission.

Moon experienced volcanic eruptions till as recently as 120 million years ago, research has found. The revelation was made following the analysis of a lunar sample collected by the Chang’e‑5 mission. Earlier studies had pegged the timing of volcanic activities from about 4.4 to 2.0 billion years ago. Apollo, Luna, and Chang’e‑5 missions had found widespread basaltic volcanism on the Moon during these times. Turns out they were missing something. The latest study of glass beads has revealed that the Moon was volcanically active for a much longer time than previously suspected. However, these were smaller and localised eruptions that were caused by radioactive elements. Bi-Wen Wang, Qian W.L. Zhang, and colleagues studied more than 3000 tiny glass beads that were present in a lunar sample collected by Chang’e‑5. They analysed their chemical compositions, physical textures, and sulfur isotopes to divide the beads produced by potential volcanic activity from those produced by meteorite impacts. Only three of those beads were found to have volcanic origin. Radiometric dating was used to determine the volcanic beads formed 123 ± 15 million years ago. They were found to contain huge amounts of potassium, phosphorus, and rare-earth elements, known as KREEP elements. Also Read: Earth's completion of full rotation captured in stunning timelapse video These elements were responsible for creating small, localised volcanoes on the Moon, the research suggests. KREEP elements are known to produce radioactive heating. When heating occurs in a small area due to KREEP elements, rocks in the Moon’s mantle might melt. This then leads to small amounts of magma erupting to the surface, the researchers suggest. Volcanism on Moon Moon has been volcanically active for most of its lifetime, The first eruptions happened somewhere around 4.2 billion years ago. Its most intense period was between 3.8 and 3 billion years ago. The Moon no longer has any active volcanoes, however, there is likely an ocean of magma under its surface. India's Chandrayaan-3 mission, which landed on the lunar surface on August 23, 2023, also found evidence of magma on the Moon. The Pragyan rover found anorthosite rocks at a site which scientists believe had an ancient ocean of magma that covered the lunar surface some four billion years ago.

Tiny volcanoes continued to erupt on Moon after the bigger ones died down

<p>Kurdish astrophotographer Darya Kawa Mirza claimed to have clicked the clearest photo of the moon which revealed some unprecedented surface details of the natural satellite.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The image, which was captured after four days of continuous observation, showed the topography of the moon in stunning clarity and revealed never-ever-seen features.</p>

<p>The photograph was described by Mirza as the "clearest and sharpest Moon image" ever captured by him after four days of continuous observation and shooting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/time-on-the-moon-moves-faster-than-on-earth-739482">Time on the Moon moves faster than on Earth. This is by how much</a></p>

<p>The final image which emerged was a stunning 159.7 megapixels and the size of the file was 708 gigabytes which stacked more than 81,000 individual images.</p>

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<p>"By merging 4 different moon phases and merging the shadow area, it reveals an interesting topography of the Lunar surface," said Mirza in his post.</p>

<h2><strong>'Clearest' moon picture garners multiple reactions on Reddit&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>After the image of the Moon was shared on social media, the users questioned if the colours in the image were representative of actual metals and minerals on the lunar surface.</p>

<p>"The saturation has been increased to highlight geological differences on the lunar surface. The reddish areas indicate high iron and feldspar content, while the blue-tinted zones have higher titanium content. Instead of viewing the colours as 'real' or 'fake,' it's more accurate to consider them as a tool that simulates what one might see with enhanced detection capabilities," wrote a user.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Scientists find underground caves on moon</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-find-underground-caves-on-moon-741666/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Another user said that people should think like "someone who is colour-blind". Certain colours, like red and green, are not visible to the colour-blind people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the same way, the colours in the Moon's photograph are real but the eyes are not sensitive enough to see them in their natural state.&nbsp;</p>

<p bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:538,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2228}"><em bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:538,&quot;w&quot;:182,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2228}">(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Kurdish astrophotographer Darya Kawa Mirza claimed to have clicked the clearest photo of the moon which revealed some unprecedented surface details of the natural satellite.

Kurdish astrophotographer Darya Kawa Mirza claimed to have clicked the clearest photo of the moon which revealed some unprecedented surface details of the natural satellite. The image, which was captured after four days of continuous observation, showed the topography of the moon in stunning clarity and revealed never-ever-seen features. The photograph was described by Mirza as the "clearest and sharpest Moon image" ever captured by him after four days of continuous observation and shooting. Also Read: Time on the Moon moves faster than on Earth. This is by how much The final image which emerged was a stunning 159.7 megapixels and the size of the file was 708 gigabytes which stacked more than 81,000 individual images. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Darya Kawa Mirza (@daryavaseum) × "By merging 4 different moon phases and merging the shadow area, it reveals an interesting topography of the Lunar surface," said Mirza in his post. 'Clearest' moon picture garners multiple reactions on Reddit After the image of the Moon was shared on social media, the users questioned if the colours in the image were representative of actual metals and minerals on the lunar surface. "The saturation has been increased to highlight geological differences on the lunar surface. The reddish areas indicate high iron and feldspar content, while the blue-tinted zones have higher titanium content. Instead of viewing the colours as 'real' or 'fake,' it's more accurate to consider them as a tool that simulates what one might see with enhanced detection capabilities," wrote a user. Watch: Scientists find underground caves on moon Another user said that people should think like "someone who is colour-blind". Certain colours, like red and green, are not visible to the colour-blind people. In the same way, the colours in the Moon's photograph are real but the eyes are not sensitive enough to see them in their natural state. (With inputs from agencies)

THIS 'clearest' picture of Moon was captured by astrophotographer after four days of observation

<p>The astronaut of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has left the netizens once again mesmerised by capturing the stunning view of the Moon above the Pacific.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US Space Agency's social media, which is filled with fascinating images and videos of space, has once again garnered people's attention on the social media platform.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick, who has been at the International Space Station for the last four months, clicked a mesmerising photo of the moon setting above the Pacific.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The moon setting over the Pacific. Went to the cupola to shoot Tropical Storm Hone near Hawaii but right after we passed by the storm the moon started to set," said Dominick, in the caption of the image of the Moon.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The moon setting over the Pacific.<br />
<br />
Went to the cupola to shoot Tropical Storm Hone near Hawaii but right after we passed by the storm the moon started to set.<br />
<br />
400mm, ISO 500, 1/20000s shutter speed, f2.8, cropped, denoised. <a href="https://t.co/YtboVnRNpF">pic.twitter.com/YtboVnRNpF</a></p>
— Matthew Dominick (@dominickmatthew) <a href="https://twitter.com/dominickmatthew/status/1827491936996921806?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The image, which has gone viral, captured a beautiful view of the Moon with the blue hues in the foreground in the atmosphere of the Earth.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-is-on-alert-as-a-massive-aeroplane-sized-asteroid-closely-approaches-earth-751985">NASA is on alert as a massive aeroplane-sized asteroid closely approaches Earth</a></p>

<p>Speaking about the technical specifics of the breathtaking photo, he said, "400mm, ISO 500, 1/20000s shutter speed, f2.8, cropped, denoised."</p>

<h2><strong>How netizens reacted to the viral image of Moon</strong></h2>

<p>After the photo was shared on social media, it garnered more than four lakh views and five thousand likes.</p>

<p>"This is absolutely mind-boggling," wrote a user. "Great shot!" commented another.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Star Wars vibes," said a person, meanwhile, another added, "This photograph touched my heart."</p>

<p>"And to think it still takes nearly 3 days to arrive to the moon. The vastness of space is so humbling and so beautiful," wrote a user.</p>

<p>"While that moon is beautiful, I was more impressed by those towering clouds near the horizon... How high do they reach!!" wrote a person.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Nasa selects Musk's SpaceX to rescue astronauts marooned in space</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-selects-musks-spacex-to-rescue-astronauts-marooned-in-space-753057/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Dominick's another clicked image of moonrise from a "unique vantage point" had gone viral earlier. A crescent-shaped was visible above the atmosphere of the Earth in the image.</p>

<p>In the caption of the image, the astronaut wrote, "A sliver of a moon rises out of noctilucent clouds and appears to look towards the horizon awaiting the imminent sunrise."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The astronaut of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has left the netizens once again mesmerised by capturing the stunning view of the Moon above the Pacific.

The astronaut of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has left the netizens once again mesmerised by capturing the stunning view of the Moon above the Pacific. The US Space Agency's social media, which is filled with fascinating images and videos of space, has once again garnered people's attention on the social media platform. NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick, who has been at the International Space Station for the last four months, clicked a mesmerising photo of the moon setting above the Pacific. "The moon setting over the Pacific. Went to the cupola to shoot Tropical Storm Hone near Hawaii but right after we passed by the storm the moon started to set," said Dominick, in the caption of the image of the Moon. The moon setting over the Pacific. Went to the cupola to shoot Tropical Storm Hone near Hawaii but right after we passed by the storm the moon started to set. 400mm, ISO 500, 1/20000s shutter speed, f2.8, cropped, denoised. pic.twitter.com/YtboVnRNpF — Matthew Dominick (@dominickmatthew) August 24, 2024 × The image, which has gone viral, captured a beautiful view of the Moon with the blue hues in the foreground in the atmosphere of the Earth. Also Read: NASA is on alert as a massive aeroplane-sized asteroid closely approaches Earth Speaking about the technical specifics of the breathtaking photo, he said, "400mm, ISO 500, 1/20000s shutter speed, f2.8, cropped, denoised." How netizens reacted to the viral image of Moon After the photo was shared on social media, it garnered more than four lakh views and five thousand likes. "This is absolutely mind-boggling," wrote a user. "Great shot!" commented another. "Star Wars vibes," said a person, meanwhile, another added, "This photograph touched my heart." "And to think it still takes nearly 3 days to arrive to the moon. The vastness of space is so humbling and so beautiful," wrote a user. "While that moon is beautiful, I was more impressed by those towering clouds near the horizon... How high do they reach!!" wrote a person. Watch: Nasa selects Musk's SpaceX to rescue astronauts marooned in space Dominick's another clicked image of moonrise from a "unique vantage point" had gone viral earlier. A crescent-shaped was visible above the atmosphere of the Earth in the image. In the caption of the image, the astronaut wrote, "A sliver of a moon rises out of noctilucent clouds and appears to look towards the horizon awaiting the imminent sunrise." (With inputs from agencies)

NASA astronaut captures mesmerising scene of moon setting above the Pacific

<p>In a new study, scientists have suggested that advanced alien civilisations may have been migrating near&nbsp;miniature black holes to fulfil the energy needs of their home planets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There is a possibility that these aliens are capturing the unlimited energy around the black holes and taking it back to their planets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the study, Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb has suggested that these black hole “moons” can be a sign of advanced&nbsp;aliens&nbsp;and can help scientists in understanding the life outside the Solar System.</p>

<p>It is known that black holes emit photons and large sub-atomic particles which are collectively called Hawking Radiation, named after physicist&nbsp;Stephen Hawking.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earths-mantle-is-hosting-strange-black-holes-with-mysterious-waves-heres-what-they-are-753231">Earth's mantle is hosting strange 'black holes' with mysterious waves. Here's what they are</a></p>

<p>Hawking in 1974 suggested that a black hole is able to shine on its own without the need of an external fuel supply.</p>

<p>The new study was published in the journal&nbsp;Research Notes of the American Astronomical Society and it took into consideration the possibility that technologically&nbsp;advanced alien civilisation may have been creating and tapping their own “mini” black hole for fulfilling their energy needs.</p>

<h2><strong>How aliens are extracting energy from black hole 'moons'?</strong></h2>

<p>The momentum of the&nbsp;rotating disc of matter which is around the black hole is likely to have been utilised by the aliens to produce energy in this system, suggested scientists.</p>

<p>According to Dr Loeb, another way could have been to feed matter in the black hole and create Hawking Radiation.</p>

<p>The Harvard scientist suggested that such kinds of black holes should weigh only 100,000 tonnes.</p>

<p>Dr Loeb said that in exchange for the matter thrown inside black holes, they can provide “an endless supply of&nbsp;power”.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Nasa selects Musk's SpaceX to rescue astronauts marooned in space</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-selects-musks-spacex-to-rescue-astronauts-marooned-in-space-753057/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“This black hole system is the most efficient engine I ever thought about. The fuel is converted to energy with perfect efficiency of 100 per cent as the mass falling into the black hole is ultimately coming out as Hawking Radiation,” Dr Loeb said.</p>

<p>“The only other method for converting mass to radiation with this efficiency is matter-antimatter annihilation,” added the Harvard researcher.</p>

<p>Such black hole systems have the capacity to power roaming rogue planets which do not have a star and can otherwise become uninhabitable and frozen.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a new study, scientists have suggested that advanced alien civilisations may have been migrating near miniature black holes to fulfil the energy needs of their home planets.

In a new study, scientists have suggested that advanced alien civilisations may have been migrating near miniature black holes to fulfil the energy needs of their home planets. There is a possibility that these aliens are capturing the unlimited energy around the black holes and taking it back to their planets. In the study, Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb has suggested that these black hole “moons” can be a sign of advanced aliens and can help scientists in understanding the life outside the Solar System. It is known that black holes emit photons and large sub-atomic particles which are collectively called Hawking Radiation, named after physicist Stephen Hawking. Also Read: Earth's mantle is hosting strange 'black holes' with mysterious waves. Here's what they are Hawking in 1974 suggested that a black hole is able to shine on its own without the need of an external fuel supply. The new study was published in the journal Research Notes of the American Astronomical Society and it took into consideration the possibility that technologically advanced alien civilisation may have been creating and tapping their own “mini” black hole for fulfilling their energy needs. How aliens are extracting energy from black hole 'moons'? The momentum of the rotating disc of matter which is around the black hole is likely to have been utilised by the aliens to produce energy in this system, suggested scientists. According to Dr Loeb, another way could have been to feed matter in the black hole and create Hawking Radiation. The Harvard scientist suggested that such kinds of black holes should weigh only 100,000 tonnes. Dr Loeb said that in exchange for the matter thrown inside black holes, they can provide “an endless supply of power”. Watch: Nasa selects Musk's SpaceX to rescue astronauts marooned in space “This black hole system is the most efficient engine I ever thought about. The fuel is converted to energy with perfect efficiency of 100 per cent as the mass falling into the black hole is ultimately coming out as Hawking Radiation,” Dr Loeb said. “The only other method for converting mass to radiation with this efficiency is matter-antimatter annihilation,” added the Harvard researcher. Such black hole systems have the capacity to power roaming rogue planets which do not have a star and can otherwise become uninhabitable and frozen. (With inputs from agencies)

Aliens may be exploiting miniature black hole 'moons' for energy: Study

<p>Scientists have been trying to find ways to make the Moon a habitat for humans which has sustainable resources required for life to thrive on it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taking this mammoth task a step ahead, the Chinese scientists are now trying to establish a mechanism to produce water on the Moon using lunar soil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the quest for life on the Moon, water has been the most important component, as it is needed for survival.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indias-chandrayaan-3-sends-home-lunar-bonanza-with-magma-theory-evidence-752146"><strong>&nbsp;</strong>India's Chandrayaan-3 sends home lunar bonanza with magma theory evidence</a></p>

<p>Now, after finding some signs of water, scientists have attempted to produce water which can keep humans alive on the natural satellite.</p>

<p>Professor WANG Junqiang at the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering (NIMTE) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) heads the team of scientists who have developed a way to create water from lunar soil.</p>

<h2><strong>How scientists are extracting drinking water from lunar soil?</strong></h2>

<p>The strategy for large-scale water production on the lunar surface has been created by researchers using a unique chemical reaction between endogenous hydrogen and lunar regolith. This reaction is set to help extract drinking water.</p>

<p>“We used lunar regolith samples brought back by the Chang’E-5 mission in our study, trying to find a way to produce&nbsp;water on the Moon,” said Professor WANG, as he underlined the importance of making use of authentic lunar material to ensure how reliable their experiment is.</p>

<p>In the experiments, it was seen that lunar regolith, when heated above 1,200 K using specially designed concave mirrors, led to the creation of one gramme of molten lunar regolith, which can produce around 51 to 76 mg of water.</p>

<p>According to this, one tonne of lunar regolith can produce more than 50 kg of water, which is equivalent to a hundred 500-ml bottles of drinking water.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Scientists find underground caves on moon</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-find-underground-caves-on-moon-741666/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>These many water bottles can provide drinking water&nbsp;to 50 people for an entire day, which highlights how this can sustain human life on Earth.</p>

<p>The researcher also noted that lunar ilmenite (FeTiO3) is an important mineral for water extraction.</p>

<p>The mineral, which is found abundantly in lunar regolith, was observed to be filled with the highest amount of solar wind-implanted&nbsp;hydrogen.</p>

<p>The scientists generating water using lunar soil can also electrochemically decompose it into hydrogen and oxygen, which can provide both breathable air and renewable energy sources for lunar inhabitants.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists have been trying to find ways to make the Moon a habitat for humans which has sustainable resources required for life to thrive on it. Taking this mammoth task a step ahead, the Chinese scientists are now trying to establish a mechanism to produce water on the Moon using lunar soil.

Scientists have been trying to find ways to make the Moon a habitat for humans which has sustainable resources required for life to thrive on it. Taking this mammoth task a step ahead, the Chinese scientists are now trying to establish a mechanism to produce water on the Moon using lunar soil. In the quest for life on the Moon, water has been the most important component, as it is needed for survival. Also Read: India's Chandrayaan-3 sends home lunar bonanza with magma theory evidence Now, after finding some signs of water, scientists have attempted to produce water which can keep humans alive on the natural satellite. Professor WANG Junqiang at the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering (NIMTE) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) heads the team of scientists who have developed a way to create water from lunar soil. How scientists are extracting drinking water from lunar soil? The strategy for large-scale water production on the lunar surface has been created by researchers using a unique chemical reaction between endogenous hydrogen and lunar regolith. This reaction is set to help extract drinking water. “We used lunar regolith samples brought back by the Chang’E-5 mission in our study, trying to find a way to produce water on the Moon,” said Professor WANG, as he underlined the importance of making use of authentic lunar material to ensure how reliable their experiment is. In the experiments, it was seen that lunar regolith, when heated above 1,200 K using specially designed concave mirrors, led to the creation of one gramme of molten lunar regolith, which can produce around 51 to 76 mg of water. According to this, one tonne of lunar regolith can produce more than 50 kg of water, which is equivalent to a hundred 500-ml bottles of drinking water. Watch: Scientists find underground caves on moon These many water bottles can provide drinking water to 50 people for an entire day, which highlights how this can sustain human life on Earth. The researcher also noted that lunar ilmenite (FeTiO3) is an important mineral for water extraction. The mineral, which is found abundantly in lunar regolith, was observed to be filled with the highest amount of solar wind-implanted hydrogen. The scientists generating water using lunar soil can also electrochemically decompose it into hydrogen and oxygen, which can provide both breathable air and renewable energy sources for lunar inhabitants. (With inputs from agencies)

China is producing drinking water from lunar soil. Can humans turn Moon into a habitat?

<p>Over a billion souls triumphed with joy when the Vikram lander of India's Chandrayaan-3 mission touched down on the lunar surface on August 23, 2023. Hours later, the Pragyan rover rolled out to the lunar surface. A long night began for Pragyan on Moon's subzero temperatures 14 days later.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But before sleeping forever, India's beloved Pragyan, among others, turned a lunar hypothesis into a defining truth.</p>

<p>Pragyan found anorthosite rocks on the moon, which scientists believed were the site of an ancient ocean of magma that covered the lunar surface some four billion years ago. Pragyan has confirmed with ground evidence that this indeed was the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-did-chandrayaan-3-find-on-the-moon-isro-to-reveal-on-space-day-23rd-aug-752035">What did Chandrayaan-3 find on the moon? ISRO to reveal on Space Day 23rd Aug</a></strong></p>

<p>This is the most significant finding by the Chandrayaan-3 thus far, the one that sheds light on the Moon's origins.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It gives more support to the lunar magma ocean hypothesis," Mahesh Anand, a planetary scientist at the Open University in Milton Keynes, UK told Nature where these findings were published.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The moon was born from the remains of a headlong collision between the early Earth and some rogue planetary body billions of years ago. The rocky surface of the Moon was initially molten.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;All about Chandrayaan-3 mission</strong></p>

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<p>The minerals in there slowly crystallised as the lava cooled down to form rocks of various kinds, including ferroan anorthosite.</p>

<p>Over several millennia, the meteorites raining down the Moon beat down these rocks to fine dust. Similar phenomena also occur on the Earth but the Moon's thin atmosphere and lack of volcanic activity expedite this weathering process.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It’s sort of what we expected to be there based on orbital data, but the ground truth is always really good to get," Lindy Elkins-Tanton, a planetary scientist at Arizona State University in Tempe, told Nature.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"To me, it’s a story about the success of the Indian space programme," Elkins-Tanton said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Over a billion souls triumphed with joy when the Vikram lander of India's Chandrayaan-3 mission touched down on the lunar surface on August 23, 2023. Hours later, the Pragyan rover rolled out to the lunar surface.

Over a billion souls triumphed with joy when the Vikram lander of India's Chandrayaan-3 mission touched down on the lunar surface on August 23, 2023. Hours later, the Pragyan rover rolled out to the lunar surface. A long night began for Pragyan on Moon's subzero temperatures 14 days later. But before sleeping forever, India's beloved Pragyan, among others, turned a lunar hypothesis into a defining truth. Pragyan found anorthosite rocks on the moon, which scientists believed were the site of an ancient ocean of magma that covered the lunar surface some four billion years ago. Pragyan has confirmed with ground evidence that this indeed was the case. Also read | What did Chandrayaan-3 find on the moon? ISRO to reveal on Space Day 23rd Aug This is the most significant finding by the Chandrayaan-3 thus far, the one that sheds light on the Moon's origins. "It gives more support to the lunar magma ocean hypothesis," Mahesh Anand, a planetary scientist at the Open University in Milton Keynes, UK told Nature where these findings were published. The moon was born from the remains of a headlong collision between the early Earth and some rogue planetary body billions of years ago. The rocky surface of the Moon was initially molten. Also watch | All about Chandrayaan-3 mission × The minerals in there slowly crystallised as the lava cooled down to form rocks of various kinds, including ferroan anorthosite. Over several millennia, the meteorites raining down the Moon beat down these rocks to fine dust. Similar phenomena also occur on the Earth but the Moon's thin atmosphere and lack of volcanic activity expedite this weathering process. "It’s sort of what we expected to be there based on orbital data, but the ground truth is always really good to get," Lindy Elkins-Tanton, a planetary scientist at Arizona State University in Tempe, told Nature. "To me, it’s a story about the success of the Indian space programme," Elkins-Tanton said. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Chandrayaan-3 sends home lunar bonanza with magma theory evidence

Was the moon once an ocean? Evidence collected by Chandrayaan-3's Pragyan rover has added weight to a long-standing claim about the presence of a magma ocean on the Moon. Gravitas brings you the details

Was the moon once an ocean?

<p>NASA astronauts will soon be able to livestream their movements from the Moon during future Artemis missions and this will be made possible because of laser technology.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The space communication method is being tested by NASA in which they are using a laser beam for connecting astronauts on&nbsp;the moon with ground control on&nbsp;Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the first test, the scientists sent a video of Taters the cat using a laser communications streaming service.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The second round of experiments&nbsp;started in early June in which NASA's Pilatus PC-12&nbsp;plane was featured. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In July, a 4K video on a roundtrip journey from an aircraft to the International Space Station&nbsp;(ISS) was sent.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-plans-to-connect-earth-with-the-moon-through-a-communication-superhighway-742685">China plans to connect Earth with the moon through a communication superhighway</a></p>

<p>Another set of experiments was completed on July 30 and a test run of the so-called High-Rate Delay Tolerant Networking system (HDTN) was completed, as reported by Space.com.</p>

<p>"HDTN has actually broken several world records and achieved some firsts for&nbsp;space&nbsp;in general and the United States," said Rachel Dudukovich, lead engineer for HDTN at NASA Glenn, while speaking to Space.com.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We've demonstrated a secure file transfer from the ISS, which is the first&nbsp;time&nbsp;that's been demonstrated ever. We demonstrated over 900 megabits per second over the laser communications link from ISS, which is also the first time that's ever been demonstrated in space," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>How will this live-streaming technology work?</strong></h2>

<p>In this type of networking, a solar-system-wide internet which is secure, reliable and able to transmit automated data at high data rates will be created.</p>

<p>"We address challenges of the environment such as long delays and disruptions caused by weather; the protocols that we use are specifically designed to meet those needs," said Dudukovich.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Scientists find underground caves on moon</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-find-underground-caves-on-moon-741666/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"What we do is we store data when the link has been disrupted, and once it resumes, then we go ahead and we continue to transmit data. It's a buffering capability, essentially, at high rates," he added.</p>

<p>Along with sending and live-streaming videos and data, the technology will also be able to create a space-wide web which will help the astronauts in space to remain more connected to Earth.</p>

<p>"We have protocols and standards that make a space network act like the internet we all enjoy with our connectivity. When we put these two things together, we can start to provide services to spacecraft," said Daniel Raible, who is an electronics engineer and principal investigator at NASA Glenn, while speaking to Space.com.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


NASA astronauts will soon be able to livestream their movements from the Moon during future Artemis missions and this will be made possible because of laser technology.

NASA astronauts will soon be able to livestream their movements from the Moon during future Artemis missions and this will be made possible because of laser technology. The space communication method is being tested by NASA in which they are using a laser beam for connecting astronauts on the moon with ground control on Earth. In the first test, the scientists sent a video of Taters the cat using a laser communications streaming service. The second round of experiments started in early June in which NASA's Pilatus PC-12 plane was featured. In July, a 4K video on a roundtrip journey from an aircraft to the International Space Station (ISS) was sent. Also Read: China plans to connect Earth with the moon through a communication superhighway Another set of experiments was completed on July 30 and a test run of the so-called High-Rate Delay Tolerant Networking system (HDTN) was completed, as reported by Space.com. "HDTN has actually broken several world records and achieved some firsts for space in general and the United States," said Rachel Dudukovich, lead engineer for HDTN at NASA Glenn, while speaking to Space.com. “We've demonstrated a secure file transfer from the ISS, which is the first time that's been demonstrated ever. We demonstrated over 900 megabits per second over the laser communications link from ISS, which is also the first time that's ever been demonstrated in space," he added. How will this live-streaming technology work? In this type of networking, a solar-system-wide internet which is secure, reliable and able to transmit automated data at high data rates will be created. "We address challenges of the environment such as long delays and disruptions caused by weather; the protocols that we use are specifically designed to meet those needs," said Dudukovich. Watch: Scientists find underground caves on moon "What we do is we store data when the link has been disrupted, and once it resumes, then we go ahead and we continue to transmit data. It's a buffering capability, essentially, at high rates," he added. Along with sending and live-streaming videos and data, the technology will also be able to create a space-wide web which will help the astronauts in space to remain more connected to Earth. "We have protocols and standards that make a space network act like the internet we all enjoy with our connectivity. When we put these two things together, we can start to provide services to spacecraft," said Daniel Raible, who is an electronics engineer and principal investigator at NASA Glenn, while speaking to Space.com. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA astronauts to start livestream from Moon. Here's how it will work

NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick shared a mesmerizing time lapse video from the International Space Station, which captures the moon setting against a backdrop of vibrant red and green auroras.

Astronaut records Moon setting behind Earth amid auroras

<p>The Earth has been hit by strong geomagnetic storms which have led to the formation of mesmerising auroras that are&nbsp;making our planet appear like never before in space.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Capturing a stunning moment from this spectacular phase, NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick posted a timelapse video in which the Moon is seen setting behind the Earth which is dazzling with vibrant red and green auroras.</p>

<p>The moment was captured by the astronaut from the International Space Station (ISS).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Timelapse of the moon setting into streams of red and green aurora followed by a sunrise lighting up Soyuz with a light blue.<br />
<br />
The aurora have been amazing the past few days. Great timing for trying out a new lens that recently arrived on Cygnus.<br />
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15mm, T1.8, 1/3s exposure,… <a href="https://t.co/otFv5pZ6vd">pic.twitter.com/otFv5pZ6vd</a></p>
— Matthew Dominick (@dominickmatthew) <a href="https://twitter.com/dominickmatthew/status/1823081465753825718?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The timelapse video, which left audiences mesmerised worldwide, also showed a beautiful sunrise because of which the Soyuz spacecraft illuminated with a light blue hue.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-mesmerising-perseid-meteor-shower-and-magical-auroras-fill-night-sky-749367">Watch: Mesmerising Perseid meteor shower and magical auroras fill night sky</a></p>

<p>Dominick wrote regarding the experience on social media platform X and said that the display of "amazing" auroras was the perfect opportunity to test the new lens sent by the Cygnus cargo spacecraft.</p>

<h2><strong>Solar eruptions trigger auroras across the globe</strong></h2>

<p>The astronaut captured breathtaking visuals because auroras filled the sky across the globe after getting triggered by multiple solar eruptions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The geomagnetic storms are the result of the charged particles which get ejected from the sun and interact with the atmosphere of the Earth. These particles were intense and created the northern and southern lights.</p>

<p>The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has said that the geomagnetic storms are likely to continue which will ensure more celestial spectacle for skygazers.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Sunita Williams could have to stay in space till 2025</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sunita-williams-could-have-to-stay-in-space-till-2025-748334/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>This solar activity took place because of increased solar flares and coronal mass ejections. They are known to cause disruptions in satellite communications and power grids.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such solar activities also pave the way for the creation of auroras in regions far from the poles.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Earth has been hit by strong geomagnetic storms which have led to the formation of mesmerising auroras that are making our planet appear like never before in space.

The Earth has been hit by strong geomagnetic storms which have led to the formation of mesmerising auroras that are making our planet appear like never before in space. Capturing a stunning moment from this spectacular phase, NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick posted a timelapse video in which the Moon is seen setting behind the Earth which is dazzling with vibrant red and green auroras. The moment was captured by the astronaut from the International Space Station (ISS). Timelapse of the moon setting into streams of red and green aurora followed by a sunrise lighting up Soyuz with a light blue. The aurora have been amazing the past few days. Great timing for trying out a new lens that recently arrived on Cygnus. 15mm, T1.8, 1/3s exposure,… pic.twitter.com/otFv5pZ6vd — Matthew Dominick (@dominickmatthew) August 12, 2024 × The timelapse video, which left audiences mesmerised worldwide, also showed a beautiful sunrise because of which the Soyuz spacecraft illuminated with a light blue hue. Also Read: Watch: Mesmerising Perseid meteor shower and magical auroras fill night sky Dominick wrote regarding the experience on social media platform X and said that the display of "amazing" auroras was the perfect opportunity to test the new lens sent by the Cygnus cargo spacecraft. Solar eruptions trigger auroras across the globe The astronaut captured breathtaking visuals because auroras filled the sky across the globe after getting triggered by multiple solar eruptions. The geomagnetic storms are the result of the charged particles which get ejected from the sun and interact with the atmosphere of the Earth. These particles were intense and created the northern and southern lights. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has said that the geomagnetic storms are likely to continue which will ensure more celestial spectacle for skygazers. Watch: Sunita Williams could have to stay in space till 2025 This solar activity took place because of increased solar flares and coronal mass ejections. They are known to cause disruptions in satellite communications and power grids. Such solar activities also pave the way for the creation of auroras in regions far from the poles. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: NASA astronaut captures mesmerising setting of Moon behind Earth amid auroras

<p>The Gaia telescope of the European Space Agency has spotted 352 asteroids around potential moons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the scientists, these asteroids did not have any companions and hence were what is known as "binary asteroids".</p>

<p>Because of the ultra-accurate astrometric data of the telescope, the scientists were able to find signs of tiny rocks flying around huge asteroids.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the ESA, this also proves the ability of Gaia to conduct 'blind' searches for finding unknown candidates and work like an asteroid explorer.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-issues-sudden-alert-as-massive-asteroid-rushes-to-come-too-close-to-earth-at-scary-speed-749113">NASA issues sudden alert as massive asteroid rushes to come too close to Earth at scary speed</a></p>

<p>After the findings are confirmed, the 352 binary asteroid candidates will be added to the list.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scientists are interested in binary asteroids because they have clues about the ancient universe and help astronomers study how various bodies were formed in space.</p>

<h2>Why are binary asteroids important for scientists?</h2>

<p>The study's lead author, Luana Liberato, said that it is difficult to find the binary asteroids because of their small size and huge distance.</p>

<p>“Binary asteroids are difficult to find as they are mostly so small and far away from us,” Liberato said.</p>

<p>"Despite us expecting just under one-sixth of asteroids to have a companion, so far we have only found 500 of the million known asteroids to be in binary systems. But this discovery shows that there are many asteroid moons out there just waiting to be found," said Liberato who is also an astronomer&nbsp;at France's Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur.</p>

<p>Since 2013, Gaia has been an asteroid explorer and has all-sky scanning capabilities, because of which it has made various remarkable asteroid&nbsp;discoveries.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Earth slows down by 1.33 milliseconds</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/earth-slows-down-by-133-milliseconds-741345/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>By studying these moon-asteroid pairs, scientists can improve their knowledge of the gravitational interactions that influence their stability and orbits.</p>

<p>“Binary asteroids have attracted the attention of the scientific community due to their interesting properties and the significant impact they have on our understanding of the solar system,” the study authors stated.</p>

<p>“Unlike single asteroids, binary systems offer unique insights into many fundamental processes, including the formation and evolution of planetary bodies, collision dynamics, and gravitational interactions," they added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Gaia telescope of the European Space Agency has spotted 352 asteroids around potential moons. According to the scientists, these asteroids did not have any companions and hence were what is known as "binary asteroids".

The Gaia telescope of the European Space Agency has spotted 352 asteroids around potential moons. According to the scientists, these asteroids did not have any companions and hence were what is known as "binary asteroids". Because of the ultra-accurate astrometric data of the telescope, the scientists were able to find signs of tiny rocks flying around huge asteroids. According to the ESA, this also proves the ability of Gaia to conduct 'blind' searches for finding unknown candidates and work like an asteroid explorer. Also Read: NASA issues sudden alert as massive asteroid rushes to come too close to Earth at scary speed After the findings are confirmed, the 352 binary asteroid candidates will be added to the list. Scientists are interested in binary asteroids because they have clues about the ancient universe and help astronomers study how various bodies were formed in space. Why are binary asteroids important for scientists? The study's lead author, Luana Liberato, said that it is difficult to find the binary asteroids because of their small size and huge distance. “Binary asteroids are difficult to find as they are mostly so small and far away from us,” Liberato said. "Despite us expecting just under one-sixth of asteroids to have a companion, so far we have only found 500 of the million known asteroids to be in binary systems. But this discovery shows that there are many asteroid moons out there just waiting to be found," said Liberato who is also an astronomer at France's Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur. Since 2013, Gaia has been an asteroid explorer and has all-sky scanning capabilities, because of which it has made various remarkable asteroid discoveries. Watch: Earth slows down by 1.33 milliseconds By studying these moon-asteroid pairs, scientists can improve their knowledge of the gravitational interactions that influence their stability and orbits. “Binary asteroids have attracted the attention of the scientific community due to their interesting properties and the significant impact they have on our understanding of the solar system,” the study authors stated. “Unlike single asteroids, binary systems offer unique insights into many fundamental processes, including the formation and evolution of planetary bodies, collision dynamics, and gravitational interactions," they added. (With inputs from agencies)

ESA's Gaia telescope detects 352 asteroids hovering around elusive moons

<p>The JUICE mission of the European Space Agency is set to complete a new manoeuvre and break two records.</p>

<p>This is the first time the spacecraft will use two objects to carry out a gravity assist maneuver,&nbsp;and for the first time, it will also attempt Lunar-Earth flyby.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Lunar-Earth Gravity Assist (LEGA) is likely to save JUICE many propellants, which the mission will use at a later stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-issues-sudden-alert-as-massive-asteroid-rushes-to-come-too-close-to-earth-at-scary-speed-749113">NASA issues sudden alert as massive asteroid rushes to come too close to Earth at scary speed</a></p>

<p>This is a tough manoeuvre which was first planned 15 years ago and for this, the spacecraft should be launched at a precise second so that it is able to find the Earth and the Moon in the correct position.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How ESA's JUICE mission will fly by the Moon and Earth?</strong></h2>

<p>The spacecraft will first go around the Moon at 21:16 UTC on Monday evening (August 19) while losing some of its speed.</p>

<p>After 25 hours, it is expected to approach Earth. Because of Earth, it will slow down further and go towards Venus, however, there will be no room for errors.</p>

<p>“It’s like passing through a very narrow corridor, very, very quickly: pushing the accelerator to the maximum when the margin at the side of the road is just millimetres," said Spacecraft Operations Manager, Ignacio Tanco, in a&nbsp;statement.</p>

<p>“It’s a very important mission because we want to find out whether there are habitable places inside the icy moons, so Europa, Ganymede, or Callisto. That’s the main question of the mission,” said Dr Olivier Witasse, who is a planetary scientist working on the scientific aspects of the mission,&nbsp;while speaking to IFLScience.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Earth slows down by 1.33 milliseconds</strong></p>

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<p>According to the team, the fuel saved in this manoeuvre will help the JUICE mission orbit at nearly 200 kilometres (120 miles) from the surface of Jupiter's moon Ganymede because of which the spacecraft will be able to make precise observations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the help of the flyby, the spacecraft will get in the right orbit and speed will make sure that the instruments are working well. This means that the scientists will be able to test a whole set of instruments during the flyby.</p>

<p>“This could not be done in the lab. This will be an excellent test to check the performance of the radar in the context of the full spacecraft operating,”&nbsp;said Nicolas Altobelli, planetary scientist with ESA, while speaking at a press conference.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The JUICE mission of the European Space Agency is set to complete a new manoeuvre and break two records. This is the first time the spacecraft will use two objects to carry out a gravity assist maneuver, and for the first time, it will also attempt Lunar-Earth flyby.

The JUICE mission of the European Space Agency is set to complete a new manoeuvre and break two records. This is the first time the spacecraft will use two objects to carry out a gravity assist maneuver, and for the first time, it will also attempt Lunar-Earth flyby. The Lunar-Earth Gravity Assist (LEGA) is likely to save JUICE many propellants, which the mission will use at a later stage. Also Read: NASA issues sudden alert as massive asteroid rushes to come too close to Earth at scary speed This is a tough manoeuvre which was first planned 15 years ago and for this, the spacecraft should be launched at a precise second so that it is able to find the Earth and the Moon in the correct position. How ESA's JUICE mission will fly by the Moon and Earth? The spacecraft will first go around the Moon at 21:16 UTC on Monday evening (August 19) while losing some of its speed. After 25 hours, it is expected to approach Earth. Because of Earth, it will slow down further and go towards Venus, however, there will be no room for errors. “It’s like passing through a very narrow corridor, very, very quickly: pushing the accelerator to the maximum when the margin at the side of the road is just millimetres," said Spacecraft Operations Manager, Ignacio Tanco, in a statement. “It’s a very important mission because we want to find out whether there are habitable places inside the icy moons, so Europa, Ganymede, or Callisto. That’s the main question of the mission,” said Dr Olivier Witasse, who is a planetary scientist working on the scientific aspects of the mission, while speaking to IFLScience. Watch: Earth slows down by 1.33 milliseconds According to the team, the fuel saved in this manoeuvre will help the JUICE mission orbit at nearly 200 kilometres (120 miles) from the surface of Jupiter's moon Ganymede because of which the spacecraft will be able to make precise observations. With the help of the flyby, the spacecraft will get in the right orbit and speed will make sure that the instruments are working well. This means that the scientists will be able to test a whole set of instruments during the flyby. “This could not be done in the lab. This will be an excellent test to check the performance of the radar in the context of the full spacecraft operating,” said Nicolas Altobelli, planetary scientist with ESA, while speaking at a press conference. (With inputs from agencies)

ESA's JUICE mission is set to attempt first-ever Lunar-Earth flyby. Here's how it will impact planet

<p>Human beings are looking at the Moon with a lot of hope. They want to build a base on the Moon, set up railway tracks and use it as a bumping point to go to Mars. Now another fascinating idea surrounding our satellite is in the works. Scientists are planning to save endangered animals and other species by sending them to the Moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They want to create a “biorepository” on the Moon which will include frozen biological material of different species. Under the plan, liquid nitrogen will be used to cryogenically freeze DNA, seeds, spores and even cells or tissues.&nbsp;These frozen materials will be then transported to the Moon aboard a rocket ship where they will be placed at its north and south poles. The temperatures in these regions are around -180 degrees to -230 degrees Celsius. This will ensure the material remains frozen until man finds a way to revive these species.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Worryingly, over one&nbsp;million species are currently at risk of extinction, and this plan, at least in theory, provides a way to save these species.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why Moon and not Earth?</strong></h2>

<p>The Moon scores over Earth for saving these specimens primarily because of its temperature. A life bank on the moon wouldn't need artificial cooling techniques to be implemented as the lunar poles are extremely cold with a freezing temperature of -410°F (-246°C). On Earth, such methods would require a huge investment, whereas on the Moon, once the specimens are transported, no extra costs would be incurred.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/continents-have-been-mysteriously-rising-for-years-now-scientists-now-know-why-748286">Continents have been mysteriously rising for years now. Scientists now know why</a></strong></p>

<p>The Moon is also a safe spot considering it doesn't experience any natural disasters. Besides, the lack of human control of any form means there won't be any uproar about who owns the specimen. There would also be no risk of contamination and degradation. Thick layers of lunar regolith will also ensure protection against radiation.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH:&nbsp;Moon Drifting Away From Earth Approximately 3.8 Centimeter Per Year - Study</strong></p>

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<p>The idea also fits into the long-term plan of humans to colonise the Moon and move beyond it. Cryopreservation methods will become more advanced in the process, and the effects of cosmic radiation on biological materials will also become known. These things will help humans devise methods and technology that can help in space travel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As part of the project, scientists have frozen fin samples from the starry goby fish. The fins are helping scientists understand the challenges they might face to preserve life in the harsh conditions of space. Later, these frozen specimens will travel to the International Space Station (ISS) and face the harsh conditions of space first-hand.&nbsp;</p>


Human beings are looking at the Moon with a lot of hope. They want to build a base on the Moon, set up railway tracks and use it as a bumping point to go to Mars.

Human beings are looking at the Moon with a lot of hope. They want to build a base on the Moon, set up railway tracks and use it as a bumping point to go to Mars. Now another fascinating idea surrounding our satellite is in the works. Scientists are planning to save endangered animals and other species by sending them to the Moon. They want to create a “biorepository” on the Moon which will include frozen biological material of different species. Under the plan, liquid nitrogen will be used to cryogenically freeze DNA, seeds, spores and even cells or tissues. These frozen materials will be then transported to the Moon aboard a rocket ship where they will be placed at its north and south poles. The temperatures in these regions are around -180 degrees to -230 degrees Celsius. This will ensure the material remains frozen until man finds a way to revive these species. Worryingly, over one million species are currently at risk of extinction, and this plan, at least in theory, provides a way to save these species. Why Moon and not Earth? The Moon scores over Earth for saving these specimens primarily because of its temperature. A life bank on the moon wouldn't need artificial cooling techniques to be implemented as the lunar poles are extremely cold with a freezing temperature of -410°F (-246°C). On Earth, such methods would require a huge investment, whereas on the Moon, once the specimens are transported, no extra costs would be incurred. Also Read: Continents have been mysteriously rising for years now. Scientists now know why The Moon is also a safe spot considering it doesn't experience any natural disasters. Besides, the lack of human control of any form means there won't be any uproar about who owns the specimen. There would also be no risk of contamination and degradation. Thick layers of lunar regolith will also ensure protection against radiation. WATCH: Moon Drifting Away From Earth Approximately 3.8 Centimeter Per Year - Study × The idea also fits into the long-term plan of humans to colonise the Moon and move beyond it. Cryopreservation methods will become more advanced in the process, and the effects of cosmic radiation on biological materials will also become known. These things will help humans devise methods and technology that can help in space travel. As part of the project, scientists have frozen fin samples from the starry goby fish. The fins are helping scientists understand the challenges they might face to preserve life in the harsh conditions of space. Later, these frozen specimens will travel to the International Space Station (ISS) and face the harsh conditions of space first-hand.

Moon can save the dying species on Earth. Here's how

<p>NASA has been planning to set up a lighthouse on the lunar surface which will guide the astronauts and robots who will soon be exploring the Moon.</p>

<p>NASA scientists have tested a technology which is expected to work as a 'lighthouse' on the Moon and provide them with real-time data of astronauts and robotic explorers.</p>

<p>According to the space agency, the scientists successfully tested an autonomous navigation system called Lunar Node 1 (LN-1) demonstrator on Odysseus - which is the lander of Intuitive Machines that touched down on the south pole of the Moon on February 22.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">For 30 total minutes in February, <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASA</a> lit a beacon on the Moon! 🌙<br />
<br />
NASA’s Lunar Node-1 experiment successfully demonstrated a new navigation and positioning system that will change how we explore the Moon.<br />
<br />
More on this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NASAMarshall?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NASAMarshall</a> tech HERE &gt;&gt; <a href="https://t.co/ohWfdnjiHN">https://t.co/ohWfdnjiHN</a> <a href="https://t.co/tkG5qpwrTr">pic.twitter.com/tkG5qpwrTr</a></p>
— NASA Marshall (@NASA_Marshall) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA_Marshall/status/1768351393738375341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to NASA, the system - which was tested onboard Odysseus can link orbiters, landers, and astronauts on the Moon and helps in digitally verifying the position of every explorer in relation to other ground stations, networked spacecraft and rovers on the move.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/moon-is-going-far-away-from-the-earth-will-it-disappear-soon-from-night-sky-746236">Moon is going far away from the Earth. Will it disappear soon from night sky?</a></p>

<p>Scientists believe that this lighthouse will make it safer for explorers to visit the Moon and set up sustainable lunar bases.</p>

<p>The impact crater named Malapert A was used for the landing of Odysseus close to the lunar south pole.</p>

<h2><strong>Here's how the lighthouse on Moon will help scientists in future</strong></h2>

<p>The space agency said that Lunar Node-1 can also be used to augment navigation and communication relays and surface nodes as well as provide increased robustness as well as capability to various users in orbit and on the surface.</p>

<p>“We’ve lit a temporary beacon on the lunar shore,” said Evan Anzalone, LN-1 principal investigator at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Centre, in an official&nbsp;statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Now, we seek to deliver a sustainable local network – a series of lighthouses that point the way for spacecraft and ground crews to safely, confidently spread out and explore," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Moon Drifting Away From Earth Approximately 3.8 Centimeter Per Year - Study</strong></p>

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<p>The scientists tested the LN-1 for two 15-minute transmissions from the surface. The data from the transmissions was collected using the Deep Space Network, which is the giant radio antenna array used for deep-space communication.&nbsp;</p>

<p>LN-1's initial plan was to transmit data till Odysseus was powered down by the scientists on February 29, however, the duration was cut short because of the tilted orientation of the lander.</p>

<p>During the translunar journey of Odysseus, daily tests were carried out on the LN-1 beacon by the Marshall team.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


NASA has been planning to set up a lighthouse on the lunar surface which will guide the astronauts and robots who will soon be exploring the Moon. NASA scientists have tested a technology which is expected to work as a 'lighthouse' on the Moon and provide them with real-time data of astronauts and robotic explorers.

NASA has been planning to set up a lighthouse on the lunar surface which will guide the astronauts and robots who will soon be exploring the Moon. NASA scientists have tested a technology which is expected to work as a 'lighthouse' on the Moon and provide them with real-time data of astronauts and robotic explorers. According to the space agency, the scientists successfully tested an autonomous navigation system called Lunar Node 1 (LN-1) demonstrator on Odysseus - which is the lander of Intuitive Machines that touched down on the south pole of the Moon on February 22. For 30 total minutes in February, @NASA lit a beacon on the Moon! 🌙 NASA’s Lunar Node-1 experiment successfully demonstrated a new navigation and positioning system that will change how we explore the Moon. More on this #NASAMarshall tech HERE >> https://t.co/ohWfdnjiHN pic.twitter.com/tkG5qpwrTr — NASA Marshall (@NASA_Marshall) March 14, 2024 × According to NASA, the system - which was tested onboard Odysseus can link orbiters, landers, and astronauts on the Moon and helps in digitally verifying the position of every explorer in relation to other ground stations, networked spacecraft and rovers on the move. Also Read: Moon is going far away from the Earth. Will it disappear soon from night sky? Scientists believe that this lighthouse will make it safer for explorers to visit the Moon and set up sustainable lunar bases. The impact crater named Malapert A was used for the landing of Odysseus close to the lunar south pole. Here's how the lighthouse on Moon will help scientists in future The space agency said that Lunar Node-1 can also be used to augment navigation and communication relays and surface nodes as well as provide increased robustness as well as capability to various users in orbit and on the surface. “We’ve lit a temporary beacon on the lunar shore,” said Evan Anzalone, LN-1 principal investigator at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Centre, in an official statement. “Now, we seek to deliver a sustainable local network – a series of lighthouses that point the way for spacecraft and ground crews to safely, confidently spread out and explore," he added. Watch: Moon Drifting Away From Earth Approximately 3.8 Centimeter Per Year - Study The scientists tested the LN-1 for two 15-minute transmissions from the surface. The data from the transmissions was collected using the Deep Space Network, which is the giant radio antenna array used for deep-space communication. LN-1's initial plan was to transmit data till Odysseus was powered down by the scientists on February 29, however, the duration was cut short because of the tilted orientation of the lander. During the translunar journey of Odysseus, daily tests were carried out on the LN-1 beacon by the Marshall team. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA to set up lighthouse on Moon. Here's how it will help astronauts and robots

<p>Scientists have stumbled upon a "wonder material" in the soil of the Moon which is known as graphene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers have found that there are few layers of graphene flakes present on the moon soil which occur naturally. Graphene refers to the organised and layered structure of carbon atoms.</p>

<p>A group of researchers - which included Professors Meng Zou and Wei Zhang, senior engineer Xiujuan Li from&nbsp;Jilin University, and Wencai Ren from the&nbsp;Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Metal Research - led the study.</p>

<h2><strong>How did scientists find graphene in lunar soil?</strong></h2>

<p>The scientists started studying a 2.9 x 1.6 mm, olive-shaped speck of lunar soil which was brought to Earth in 2020 by Chang’e 5 mission.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/moon-is-going-far-away-from-the-earth-will-it-disappear-soon-from-night-sky-746236">Moon is going far away from the Earth. Will it disappear soon from night sky?</a></p>

<p>The researchers analysed the minuscule piece for only the hunt for Graphene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is known that Graphene is a unique substance which is filled with carbon atoms arranged in a thin and layered structure. Because of this, graphene has unique properties which makes it a super material in the field of electrics, optics and mechanics.</p>

<p>These properties and shapes of such graphene structures are formed because of their formation process, which paints a beautiful trail in the cosmos.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the use of a specialised spectrometer, the scientists found a particular iron compound inside a carbon-rich section of the lunar sample. which stated that it is linked with the formation of graphene.</p>

<h2><strong>Why is graphene discovery on the Moon important?</strong></h2>

<p>The finding of graphene in lunar soil shows that the geological history&nbsp;of the Moon may have undergone a paradigm shift.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Moon Drifting Away From Earth Approximately 3.8 Centimeter Per Year - Study</strong></p>

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<p>The properties of graphene, like exceptional conductivity and strength, are expected to have implications on the development of lunar technologies.</p>

<p>The researchers are now trying to understand how they can use this material for constructing lightweight and durable structures on the Moon and also design advanced electronics which can operate in extreme lunar conditions.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists have stumbled upon a "wonder material" in the soil of the Moon which is known as graphene. The researchers have found that there are few layers of graphene flakes present on the moon soil which occur naturally.

Scientists have stumbled upon a "wonder material" in the soil of the Moon which is known as graphene. The researchers have found that there are few layers of graphene flakes present on the moon soil which occur naturally. Graphene refers to the organised and layered structure of carbon atoms. A group of researchers - which included Professors Meng Zou and Wei Zhang, senior engineer Xiujuan Li from Jilin University, and Wencai Ren from the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Metal Research - led the study. How did scientists find graphene in lunar soil? The scientists started studying a 2.9 x 1.6 mm, olive-shaped speck of lunar soil which was brought to Earth in 2020 by Chang’e 5 mission. Also Read: Moon is going far away from the Earth. Will it disappear soon from night sky? The researchers analysed the minuscule piece for only the hunt for Graphene. It is known that Graphene is a unique substance which is filled with carbon atoms arranged in a thin and layered structure. Because of this, graphene has unique properties which makes it a super material in the field of electrics, optics and mechanics. These properties and shapes of such graphene structures are formed because of their formation process, which paints a beautiful trail in the cosmos. With the use of a specialised spectrometer, the scientists found a particular iron compound inside a carbon-rich section of the lunar sample. which stated that it is linked with the formation of graphene. Why is graphene discovery on the Moon important? The finding of graphene in lunar soil shows that the geological history of the Moon may have undergone a paradigm shift. Watch: Moon Drifting Away From Earth Approximately 3.8 Centimeter Per Year - Study The properties of graphene, like exceptional conductivity and strength, are expected to have implications on the development of lunar technologies. The researchers are now trying to understand how they can use this material for constructing lightweight and durable structures on the Moon and also design advanced electronics which can operate in extreme lunar conditions. (With inputs from agencies)

Moon has graphene in its soil. Here's all about this 'wonder material'

<p>The thin and elusive atmosphere of the Moon has puzzled astronomers for centuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There is a definite lack of breathable air on the satellite, however, it does have a thin film of atoms that are found skittering along its craggy surface.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In scientific terms, this is called an “exosphere” which is a tenuous atmosphere that has been a topic of intrigue for all astronomers since it was first found in the 1980s.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/moon-is-going-far-away-from-the-earth-will-it-disappear-soon-from-night-sky-746236">Moon is going far away from the Earth. Will it disappear soon from night sky?</a></p>

<p>Assistant professor in MIT’s&nbsp;Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences Nicole Nie said that unique insights have now been found in the atmosphere of the Moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study was carried out by Nie along with her team at the University of Chicago&nbsp;and NASA&nbsp;Goddard Space Flight Centre.</p>

<h2><strong>Here's what scientists found about Moon's elusive atmosphere&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The team of scientists in the research found that the atmosphere of the Moon has undergone a bombarding of the meteorites which has led to the phenomenon known as "impact vaporization."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In this process, the impact kicks up the lunar soil and leads to the vaporising materials which either escape to space or remain in a suspended position in the atmosphere of the moon which renews its exosphere.</p>

<p>"We give a definitive answer that meteorite impact vaporisation is the dominant process that creates the lunar atmosphere," said team leader Nicole Nie, an assistant professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT),&nbsp;in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The&nbsp;moon is close to 4.5 billion years old, and through that time, the surface has been continuously bombarded by meteorites. We show that eventually, a thin atmosphere reaches a steady state because it's being continuously replenished by&nbsp;small impacts all over the moon," Nie said</p>

<p>"With impact vaporisation, most of the atoms would stay in the lunar atmosphere, whereas with ion sputtering, a lot of atoms would be ejected into space," she added.</p>

<h2><strong>Here's how the study opens avenues for exploration of Moon's atmosphere&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Commenting on the study, lunar soils researcher at Cambridge University Justin Hu said, "The discovery of such a subtle effect is remarkable, thanks to the innovative idea of combining potassium and rubidium isotope measurements along with careful, quantitative modelling."</p>

<p>&nbsp;"This discovery goes beyond understanding the&nbsp;moon's history, as such processes could occur and might be more significant on other moons and asteroids, which are the focus of many planned return missions," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Moon Drifting Away From Earth Approximately 3.8 Centimeter Per Year - Study</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/moon-drifting-away-from-earth-approximately-38-centimeter-per-year-study-746720/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The groundbreaking study has now opened a new avenue of astronomy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Without these Apollo samples, we would not be able to get precise data and measure quantitatively to understand things in more detail,” Nie said.</p>

<p>“It’s important for us to bring samples back from the moon and other&nbsp;planetary bodies, so we can draw clearer pictures of the solar system’s formation and evolution," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The thin and elusive atmosphere of the Moon has puzzled astronomers for centuries. There is a definite lack of breathable air on the satellite, however, it does have a thin film of atoms that are found skittering along its craggy surface.

The thin and elusive atmosphere of the Moon has puzzled astronomers for centuries. There is a definite lack of breathable air on the satellite, however, it does have a thin film of atoms that are found skittering along its craggy surface. In scientific terms, this is called an “exosphere” which is a tenuous atmosphere that has been a topic of intrigue for all astronomers since it was first found in the 1980s. Also Read: Moon is going far away from the Earth. Will it disappear soon from night sky? Assistant professor in MIT’s Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences Nicole Nie said that unique insights have now been found in the atmosphere of the Moon. The study was carried out by Nie along with her team at the University of Chicago and NASA Goddard Space Flight Centre. Here's what scientists found about Moon's elusive atmosphere The team of scientists in the research found that the atmosphere of the Moon has undergone a bombarding of the meteorites which has led to the phenomenon known as "impact vaporization." In this process, the impact kicks up the lunar soil and leads to the vaporising materials which either escape to space or remain in a suspended position in the atmosphere of the moon which renews its exosphere. "We give a definitive answer that meteorite impact vaporisation is the dominant process that creates the lunar atmosphere," said team leader Nicole Nie, an assistant professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), in a statement. "The moon is close to 4.5 billion years old, and through that time, the surface has been continuously bombarded by meteorites. We show that eventually, a thin atmosphere reaches a steady state because it's being continuously replenished by small impacts all over the moon," Nie said "With impact vaporisation, most of the atoms would stay in the lunar atmosphere, whereas with ion sputtering, a lot of atoms would be ejected into space," she added. Here's how the study opens avenues for exploration of Moon's atmosphere Commenting on the study, lunar soils researcher at Cambridge University Justin Hu said, "The discovery of such a subtle effect is remarkable, thanks to the innovative idea of combining potassium and rubidium isotope measurements along with careful, quantitative modelling." "This discovery goes beyond understanding the moon's history, as such processes could occur and might be more significant on other moons and asteroids, which are the focus of many planned return missions," he added. Watch: Moon Drifting Away From Earth Approximately 3.8 Centimeter Per Year - Study The groundbreaking study has now opened a new avenue of astronomy. “Without these Apollo samples, we would not be able to get precise data and measure quantitatively to understand things in more detail,” Nie said. “It’s important for us to bring samples back from the moon and other planetary bodies, so we can draw clearer pictures of the solar system’s formation and evolution," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Bombarding of asteroids may have made Moon's atmosphere elusive, almost non-existent': Study

#Gravitas | Studies indicate that the Moon has been drifting away from Earth at a rate of 3.8 centimetres per year. This phenomenon could impact length of days on our planet, resulting in Earth days lasting 25 hours.

Moon Drifting Away From Earth Approximately 3.8 Centimeter Per Year - Study

An international team of scientists has raised concerns that threats like climate change and habitat loss due to human activities have far outpaced humanity's ability to protect the many species on the verge of extinction. They suggest that the solution to this massive problem may lie outside our planet…on the moon, to be exact

How lunar craters could rescue earth's genes

<p>A team of Swiss researchers have proposed using an autonomous, robotic hydraulic excavator for building a dry stone wall which will work as a blast shield and protect the launch pad on the moon.</p>

<p>The excavator will be using the in situ materials and the rocks from the lunar surface will be collected for making the ringed wall, which will have a radius of between 50 and 100 metres.</p>

<p>The scientists don't plan to adopt the costly practice of transferring the building material from&nbsp;Earth&nbsp;to&nbsp;the moon.</p>

<p>"The robot would be used to both collect the boulders as well as to construct the wall," said study lead author Jonas Walther, while speaking to Space.com.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/moon-is-going-far-away-from-the-earth-will-it-disappear-soon-from-night-sky-746236">Moon is going far away from the Earth. Will it disappear soon from night sky?</a></p>

<p>The research was conducted by Walther for his master's thesis at ETH Zürich. Walther is now working with the Swiss company Venturi Lab which has been working with other companies on lunar rover design.</p>

<h2><strong>Lunar infrastructure - a quintessential step for humans in future?</strong></h2>

<p>According to scientists, the lunar infrastructure will be required if humans someday permanently settle on the moon to protect them from the exhaust and debris from rockets which are landing or taking off.</p>

<p>Gas, small particles and dust from rocket exhaust can prove to be hazardous, which was demonstrated when the&nbsp;Surveyor 3&nbsp;probe was brought back by the&nbsp;Apollo 12&nbsp;crew from the Oceanus Procellarum and the scientists found that it suffered damage by dust blown away by the Lunar Module Intrepid.</p>

<p>The scientists also fear that the rocket exhaust from&nbsp;SpaceX's giant&nbsp;Starship&nbsp;vehicle - through which astronauts will be sent on NASA's&nbsp;Artemis 3 mission - will harm the lunar environment in the area of hundreds of metres and extend it into kilometres.</p>

<p>Hence, they feel there is a need to set up a blast shield to protect any future ground infrastructure.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;NASA's Ranger 7 Photographed the Moon, 60 Years Ago</strong></p>

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<p>"Some dry stone walls on Earth have endured for thousands of years," said Walther, while speaking about how strong it is.</p>

<p>However, scientists feel that such shields won't have to last on the lunar surface for a very long time and the vastly reduced weathering on the moon means that the wall will only have to resist the blasts of rockets taking off or landing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the estimate of the weather team, the blast shield will have to face pressure from gases released by SpaceX's Starship rockets, which will be 1,135 Pascals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A team of Swiss researchers have proposed using an autonomous, robotic hydraulic excavator for building a dry stone wall which will work as a blast shield and protect the launch pad on the moon.

A team of Swiss researchers have proposed using an autonomous, robotic hydraulic excavator for building a dry stone wall which will work as a blast shield and protect the launch pad on the moon. The excavator will be using the in situ materials and the rocks from the lunar surface will be collected for making the ringed wall, which will have a radius of between 50 and 100 metres. The scientists don't plan to adopt the costly practice of transferring the building material from Earth to the moon. "The robot would be used to both collect the boulders as well as to construct the wall," said study lead author Jonas Walther, while speaking to Space.com. Also Read: Moon is going far away from the Earth. Will it disappear soon from night sky? The research was conducted by Walther for his master's thesis at ETH Zürich. Walther is now working with the Swiss company Venturi Lab which has been working with other companies on lunar rover design. Lunar infrastructure - a quintessential step for humans in future? According to scientists, the lunar infrastructure will be required if humans someday permanently settle on the moon to protect them from the exhaust and debris from rockets which are landing or taking off. Gas, small particles and dust from rocket exhaust can prove to be hazardous, which was demonstrated when the Surveyor 3 probe was brought back by the Apollo 12 crew from the Oceanus Procellarum and the scientists found that it suffered damage by dust blown away by the Lunar Module Intrepid. The scientists also fear that the rocket exhaust from SpaceX's giant Starship vehicle - through which astronauts will be sent on NASA's Artemis 3 mission - will harm the lunar environment in the area of hundreds of metres and extend it into kilometres. Hence, they feel there is a need to set up a blast shield to protect any future ground infrastructure. Watch: NASA's Ranger 7 Photographed the Moon, 60 Years Ago "Some dry stone walls on Earth have endured for thousands of years," said Walther, while speaking about how strong it is. However, scientists feel that such shields won't have to last on the lunar surface for a very long time and the vastly reduced weathering on the moon means that the wall will only have to resist the blasts of rockets taking off or landing. According to the estimate of the weather team, the blast shield will have to face pressure from gases released by SpaceX's Starship rockets, which will be 1,135 Pascals. (With inputs from agencies)

Humans are now planning to build stone walls on Moon using robots. Here's why

<p>The skies will witness a rare celestial event on August 14 when Mars and&nbsp;Jupiter&nbsp;will align with each other in conjunction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the breathtaking event, the two planets will be only a third of a degree apart, which is less than the width of a full Moon, according to NASA.</p>

<p>No special equipment will be required for the observers to see both&nbsp;Mars&nbsp;and Jupiter in the eastern direction for nearly an hour before sunrise on August 14.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nearly-a-trillion-earth-like-planets-exist-in-universe-nasa-on-hunt-to-find-if-we-are-not-alone-731671">Are we alone in the cosmos? NASA chief says a trillion Earth-like planets are out there</a></p>

<p>At the end of the sunrise, the conjunction of Jupiter and Mars will be joined by the Moon, which will appear next to Jupiter and above Mars, adding to the celestial spectacle. This conjunction will also be visible on August 27 for an hour before sunrise.</p>

<h2><strong>Why does a planetary conjunction occur?</strong></h2>

<p>A planetary conjunction happens in the sky when two planets get positioned very closely from the perspective of Earth. This occurs because the planets align along the same line of sight, even though they are at a distance of millions of kilometres in space.</p>

<p>From the viewpoint of astronomical events, August has been an important day. The&nbsp;Perseid meteor shower is likely to peak on August 11 and allow viewers to see around 50 to 70 meteors per hour.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Mercury's Diamonds: What lies beneath the planet's crust?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Generally, the Perseid meteor shower peaks in mid-August after emerging from the constellation Perseus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NASA said that the origin of the Perseid meteors lies in the comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle - which completes one orbit of the Sun every 133 years.</p>

<p>When Earth crosses the debris trail, the rocks strike the atmosphere of the planet and a meteor shower happens.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The skies will witness a rare celestial event on August 14 when Mars and Jupiter will align with each other in conjunction. In the breathtaking event, the two planets will be only a third of a degree apart, which is less than the width of a full Moon, according to NASA.

The skies will witness a rare celestial event on August 14 when Mars and Jupiter will align with each other in conjunction. In the breathtaking event, the two planets will be only a third of a degree apart, which is less than the width of a full Moon, according to NASA. No special equipment will be required for the observers to see both Mars and Jupiter in the eastern direction for nearly an hour before sunrise on August 14. Also Read: Are we alone in the cosmos? NASA chief says a trillion Earth-like planets are out there At the end of the sunrise, the conjunction of Jupiter and Mars will be joined by the Moon, which will appear next to Jupiter and above Mars, adding to the celestial spectacle. This conjunction will also be visible on August 27 for an hour before sunrise. Why does a planetary conjunction occur? A planetary conjunction happens in the sky when two planets get positioned very closely from the perspective of Earth. This occurs because the planets align along the same line of sight, even though they are at a distance of millions of kilometres in space. From the viewpoint of astronomical events, August has been an important day. The Perseid meteor shower is likely to peak on August 11 and allow viewers to see around 50 to 70 meteors per hour. Watch: Mercury's Diamonds: What lies beneath the planet's crust? Generally, the Perseid meteor shower peaks in mid-August after emerging from the constellation Perseus. NASA said that the origin of the Perseid meteors lies in the comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle - which completes one orbit of the Sun every 133 years. When Earth crosses the debris trail, the rocks strike the atmosphere of the planet and a meteor shower happens. (With inputs from agencies)

Jupiter is set to align with Mars in rare conjunction. Here's how you can watch it

<p>It is normal for Earthlings to expect the Moon to shine high in the night sky but what if it disappears after drifting away from the Earth?&nbsp;</p>

<p>A new study has found that the Moon is slowly moving away from the Earth and it is likely to change the relationship between the planet and its only natural satellite.</p>

<h2><strong>How is the drifting of the Moon impacting Earth?</strong></h2>

<p>According to scientists, the drifting of the Moon has been impacting the length of days on Earth, although at a very slow rate.</p>

<p>As the Moon continues to move away from the Earth in a span of millions of years, it is making an average day's length longer.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/moon-vaults-scientist-suggest-ultimate-backup-plan-to-save-earths-endangered-animals-746222">Lunar lifeboats: Scientist suggest ultimate backup plan to save Earth's endangered animals</a></p>

<p>A team at the University of Wisconsin-Madison carried out a study in which they focused on how rocks were formed 90 million years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In this study, the scientists analysed the interactions of Earth with the Moon nearly 1.4 billion years ago.</p>

<p>It was found that the Moon is going 3.82 centimetres away from Earth every year. This will eventually lead to Earth days extending to 25 hours after 200 million years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Earth slows down by 1.33 milliseconds</strong></p>

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<p>Professor of geoscience at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Stephen Meyers said, “As the moon moves away, the Earth is like a spinning figure skater who slows down as they stretch their arms out.”</p>

<p>“One of our ambitions was to use astrochronology to tell time in the most distant past, to develop very ancient geological time scales," he added.</p>

<p>“We want to be able to study rocks that are billions of years old in a way that is comparable to how we study modern geologic processes," Meyers said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


It is normal for Earthlings to expect the Moon to shine high in the night sky but what if it disappears after drifting away from the Earth? A new study has found that the Moon is slowly moving away from the Earth and it is likely to change the relationship between the planet and its only natural satellite.

It is normal for Earthlings to expect the Moon to shine high in the night sky but what if it disappears after drifting away from the Earth? A new study has found that the Moon is slowly moving away from the Earth and it is likely to change the relationship between the planet and its only natural satellite. How is the drifting of the Moon impacting Earth? According to scientists, the drifting of the Moon has been impacting the length of days on Earth, although at a very slow rate. As the Moon continues to move away from the Earth in a span of millions of years, it is making an average day's length longer. Also Read: Lunar lifeboats: Scientist suggest ultimate backup plan to save Earth's endangered animals A team at the University of Wisconsin-Madison carried out a study in which they focused on how rocks were formed 90 million years ago. In this study, the scientists analysed the interactions of Earth with the Moon nearly 1.4 billion years ago. It was found that the Moon is going 3.82 centimetres away from Earth every year. This will eventually lead to Earth days extending to 25 hours after 200 million years. Watch: Earth slows down by 1.33 milliseconds Professor of geoscience at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Stephen Meyers said, “As the moon moves away, the Earth is like a spinning figure skater who slows down as they stretch their arms out.” “One of our ambitions was to use astrochronology to tell time in the most distant past, to develop very ancient geological time scales," he added. “We want to be able to study rocks that are billions of years old in a way that is comparable to how we study modern geologic processes," Meyers said. (With inputs from agencies)

Moon is going far away from the Earth. Will it disappear soon from night sky?

Long before Apollo astronauts set foot on the Moon, the lunar surface was a mystery. It all changed after NASA's Ranger 7 sent the first images of the lunar surface. The mission marked a turning point in America’s lunar exploration program.

NASA's Ranger 7 Photographed the Moon, 60 Years Ago

<p>Delta Aquariids, the annual meteor showers that light up the sky from July to August, will peak on Tuesday (Jul&nbsp;30). The celestial event in which two meteor showers - Delta Aquariids and Presteids - become clearly visible in the sky and eventually come together has been going on since July and will end in August.</p>

<h2>What is the best time to watch Delta Aquariid meteor shower?</h2>

<p>This year, the whole meteor shower phenomenon runs from around July 18 to August 21.</p>

<p>The Delta Aquariid meteor shower has been happening through late July but is expected to peak at 15:16 UTC on Tuesday (Jul&nbsp;30). The most visible period for this is mid-evening to early morning. The best time to watch is before the moon rises. The Delta Aquariid meteor shower will eventually converge with the Perseids meteor shower in August.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fleeting-meteors-auroras-feature-in-a-mesmerising-timelapse-video-shot-by-iss-astronaut-744706">Fleeting meteors, auroras feature in a mesmerising timelapse video shot by ISS astronaut</a></strong></p>

<p>At its peak, the Delta Aquariids meteor shower can reveal up to 20 meteors if the sky is dark and not cloudy, and not affected by moonlight.</p>

<p>It is most visible in the southern hemisphere, including the southern US. In the UK, the shooting stars will be most visible post-midnight on Tuesday, with the best visibility expected an hour or two after midnight.</p>

<h2>What is a meteor shower? Origins of Delta Acuariids meteor&nbsp;</h2>

<p>A meteor shower happens when dust particles left behind comets pass over the earth. These are very small particles and gases that produce light when vapourise in the atmosphere.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;NASA's rover uncovers startling finds on Mars</strong></p>

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<p>The Delta Aquariids, which gained its name from Aquarius, shooting stars are believed to have originated from the comet 96P/Machholz though it is not fully established.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Up to 20 'shooting stars' can be seen per hour at the peak of Delta Aquariids.</p>

<h2><strong>How to watch?</strong></h2>

<p>In places where it's likely to be visible, the best way to watch a meteor shower is through the naked eye, and not telescopes. But one has to 'practice' looking into the dark sky, as the eye takes up to 10 minutes to get adjusted to it. &nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Delta Aquariids, the annual meteor showers that light up the sky from July to August, will peak on Tuesday (Jul 30). The celestial event in which two meteor showers - Delta Aquariids and Presteids - become clearly visible in the sky and eventually come together has been going on since July and will end in August.

Delta Aquariids, the annual meteor showers that light up the sky from July to August, will peak on Tuesday (Jul 30). The celestial event in which two meteor showers - Delta Aquariids and Presteids - become clearly visible in the sky and eventually come together has been going on since July and will end in August. What is the best time to watch Delta Aquariid meteor shower? This year, the whole meteor shower phenomenon runs from around July 18 to August 21. The Delta Aquariid meteor shower has been happening through late July but is expected to peak at 15:16 UTC on Tuesday (Jul 30). The most visible period for this is mid-evening to early morning. The best time to watch is before the moon rises. The Delta Aquariid meteor shower will eventually converge with the Perseids meteor shower in August. Also read | Fleeting meteors, auroras feature in a mesmerising timelapse video shot by ISS astronaut At its peak, the Delta Aquariids meteor shower can reveal up to 20 meteors if the sky is dark and not cloudy, and not affected by moonlight. It is most visible in the southern hemisphere, including the southern US. In the UK, the shooting stars will be most visible post-midnight on Tuesday, with the best visibility expected an hour or two after midnight. What is a meteor shower? Origins of Delta Acuariids meteor A meteor shower happens when dust particles left behind comets pass over the earth. These are very small particles and gases that produce light when vapourise in the atmosphere. Also watch | NASA's rover uncovers startling finds on Mars × The Delta Aquariids, which gained its name from Aquarius, shooting stars are believed to have originated from the comet 96P/Machholz though it is not fully established. Up to 20 'shooting stars' can be seen per hour at the peak of Delta Aquariids. How to watch? In places where it's likely to be visible, the best way to watch a meteor shower is through the naked eye, and not telescopes. But one has to 'practice' looking into the dark sky, as the eye takes up to 10 minutes to get adjusted to it. (With inputs from agencies)

Delta Aquariids meteor shower to peak this week. How, when and where to watch celestial event

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