China plans to land astronauts on the moon before 2030 and add a fourth module to its space station. China and the US are eyeing the same landing sites in the lunar south pole. Watch in for more details!

China plans to put a person on the moon before 2030

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - ICC to issue arrest warrant against Bibi? - China to launch high-stake moon mission - Indian markets open higher - Kenya delays school opening - Ukraine troops retreat in 3 places

China to launch high-stake moon mission | ICC to issue arrest warrant against Netanyahu

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<p>A team of astronomers, who have been trying to track the origin of the near-Earth asteroid Kamo'oalewa, are now proposing a theory which hints that it was most likely part of the Moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mysterious space rock was first discovered in 2016 and was between 130 and 328 feet in diameter.</p>

<p>A research team, headed by Tsinghua University astronomer Yifei Jiao, has hinted that the rock had broken from a geological feature of the Moon known as the Giordano Bruno crater. The crater was named after a 16th-century Italian cosmological theorist.</p>

<p>"We have explored the processes for impact-induced lunar fragments migrating into Earth co-orbital space and presented support for Kamo'oalewa's possible origin from the formation of the Giordano Bruno crater a few million years ago," wrote the researchers, in their&nbsp;paper&nbsp;which was published in the journal&nbsp;Nature Astronomy.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-nasas-juno-spacecraft-spots-lava-lake-on-jovian-moon-io-712875">NASA's Juno spacecraft spots glass-smooth lava lake and a mountain on a moon</a></p>

<p>"This would directly link a specific asteroid in space to its source crater on the Moon and suggests the existence of more small asteroids composed of lunar material yet to be discovered in near-Earth space," the researchers added.</p>

<p>For years, astronomers have remained fascinated by the space rock because it is orbiting the Sun in an Earth-like orbit and is likely to remain stable there for millions of years.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Space rock matches Moon's composition&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to spectrum analysis, the rock also perfectly matches the composition of the Moon.</p>

<p>University of Arizona planetary sciences professor Renu Malhotra, who is also a coauthor of another paper&nbsp;which also suggests&nbsp;that the chunk once belonged to the moon, while speaking to Astronomy, said, "We looked at Kamo’oalewa’s spectrum only because it was in an unusual orbit. If it had been a typical near-Earth asteroid, no one would have thought to find its spectrum and we wouldn’t have known Kamo’oalewa could be a lunar fragment."</p>

<p>With the use of computer models to simulate how Kamo’oalewa would have impacted&nbsp;the Moon's surface, Jiao and his colleagues&nbsp;reached the conclusion&nbsp;that it would have created a crater larger than 12 miles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US government asks NASA to create time zones for the moon</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-government-asks-nasa-to-create-time-zones-for-the-moon-707340/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The Giordano crater - which is spread across 13.6 miles - appeared like the best candidate to the scientists.</p>

<p>The lack of debris further suggested that the space rock is somewhere around ten and 100 million years old, which makes it relatively younger than the Moon.</p>

<p>"It is clear that the largest, youngest craters are more probable sources, as they produce more escaping fragments that&nbsp;still&nbsp;remain in space or the Earth co-orbital region," wrote Jiao and his team, adding that Giordano Bruno "is the only possible source crater satisfying the criterion."</p>


A team of astronomers, who have been trying to track the origin of the near-Earth asteroid Kamo'oalewa, are now proposing a theory which hints that it was most likely part of the Moon.

A team of astronomers, who have been trying to track the origin of the near-Earth asteroid Kamo'oalewa, are now proposing a theory which hints that it was most likely part of the Moon. The mysterious space rock was first discovered in 2016 and was between 130 and 328 feet in diameter. A research team, headed by Tsinghua University astronomer Yifei Jiao, has hinted that the rock had broken from a geological feature of the Moon known as the Giordano Bruno crater. The crater was named after a 16th-century Italian cosmological theorist. "We have explored the processes for impact-induced lunar fragments migrating into Earth co-orbital space and presented support for Kamo'oalewa's possible origin from the formation of the Giordano Bruno crater a few million years ago," wrote the researchers, in their paper which was published in the journal Nature Astronomy. Also Read: NASA's Juno spacecraft spots glass-smooth lava lake and a mountain on a moon "This would directly link a specific asteroid in space to its source crater on the Moon and suggests the existence of more small asteroids composed of lunar material yet to be discovered in near-Earth space," the researchers added. For years, astronomers have remained fascinated by the space rock because it is orbiting the Sun in an Earth-like orbit and is likely to remain stable there for millions of years. Space rock matches Moon's composition According to spectrum analysis, the rock also perfectly matches the composition of the Moon. University of Arizona planetary sciences professor Renu Malhotra, who is also a coauthor of another paper which also suggests that the chunk once belonged to the moon, while speaking to Astronomy, said, "We looked at Kamo’oalewa’s spectrum only because it was in an unusual orbit. If it had been a typical near-Earth asteroid, no one would have thought to find its spectrum and we wouldn’t have known Kamo’oalewa could be a lunar fragment." With the use of computer models to simulate how Kamo’oalewa would have impacted the Moon's surface, Jiao and his colleagues reached the conclusion that it would have created a crater larger than 12 miles. Watch: US government asks NASA to create time zones for the moon The Giordano crater - which is spread across 13.6 miles - appeared like the best candidate to the scientists. The lack of debris further suggested that the space rock is somewhere around ten and 100 million years old, which makes it relatively younger than the Moon. "It is clear that the largest, youngest craters are more probable sources, as they produce more escaping fragments that still remain in space or the Earth co-orbital region," wrote Jiao and his team, adding that Giordano Bruno "is the only possible source crater satisfying the criterion."

This asteroid orbits the Sun, left a massive crater on Moon, but without ever hitting it

<p>The association between human menstrual cycle and lunar phases goes back several centuries. While a definitive scientific link between the two was missing, a recent study has indicated that the menstrual cycle rhythms are regulated by the body's internal clock. But at the same time, there is a subtle association with the lunar orbital period.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The French and American researchers analysed data from nearly 27,000 menstrual cycles of over 3,000 women across Europe and North America. They discovered patterns referred to as "phase jumps", the way in which the menstrual phases can adjust to align with the body's internal clock.</p>

<p>"If the cycle lengthens, for any reason, this clock-based process adapts to quickly shorten it," neuroscientist Claude Gronfier, from The University of Lyon in France, told BBC Science Focus.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>It simply means that if the Moon did have any role in the length of human menstrual cycles, it would be more of a backseat driver with the body's own internal clock firmly at the wheel, the new study, reported in the Science Alert, suggests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The human body's circadian rhythm, with a period slightly over 24 hours, remains stable regardless of external factors like sunlight exposure. However, disruptions such as jetlag can cause this rhythm to drift out of sync.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/can-stress-have-a-bearing-on-the-menstrual-cycle-expert-explains-586950">Can stress have a bearing on the menstrual cycle? Expert explains</a></strong></p>

<p>The study notably identified a weak yet statistically significant relationship between menstrual and lunar cycles, varying by geographical location.</p>

<p>For instance, menstrual cycles in Europe often began during the waxing crescent phase, whereas in North America, they tended to coincide with the full moon.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Menstruation: Study maps brain changes during periods</strong></p>

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<p>This is also because of the geographical difference in lifestyle variances, such as sleep-wake cycles, between populations on different continents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study, published in Science Advances, suggests that understanding how genes regulate the menstrual cycle's chronobiology could pave the way for novel approaches to treating ovulation disorders. However, the researchers acknowledge the need for larger-scale studies to confirm these findings and explore their clinical applications fully.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the bottom line?</strong></h2>

<p>The study does not produce anything conclusive about Moon's role in determining the human menstrual cycle. But statistically, there is a link between geography as well as the body's internal clock in governing menstrual rhythm.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The association between human menstrual cycle and lunar phases goes back several centuries. While a definitive scientific link between the two was missing, a recent study has indicated that the menstrual cycle rhythms are regulated by the body's internal clock.

The association between human menstrual cycle and lunar phases goes back several centuries. While a definitive scientific link between the two was missing, a recent study has indicated that the menstrual cycle rhythms are regulated by the body's internal clock. But at the same time, there is a subtle association with the lunar orbital period. The French and American researchers analysed data from nearly 27,000 menstrual cycles of over 3,000 women across Europe and North America. They discovered patterns referred to as "phase jumps", the way in which the menstrual phases can adjust to align with the body's internal clock. "If the cycle lengthens, for any reason, this clock-based process adapts to quickly shorten it," neuroscientist Claude Gronfier, from The University of Lyon in France, told BBC Science Focus. What does it mean? It simply means that if the Moon did have any role in the length of human menstrual cycles, it would be more of a backseat driver with the body's own internal clock firmly at the wheel, the new study, reported in the Science Alert, suggests. The human body's circadian rhythm, with a period slightly over 24 hours, remains stable regardless of external factors like sunlight exposure. However, disruptions such as jetlag can cause this rhythm to drift out of sync. Also read | Can stress have a bearing on the menstrual cycle? Expert explains The study notably identified a weak yet statistically significant relationship between menstrual and lunar cycles, varying by geographical location. For instance, menstrual cycles in Europe often began during the waxing crescent phase, whereas in North America, they tended to coincide with the full moon. Also watch | Menstruation: Study maps brain changes during periods × This is also because of the geographical difference in lifestyle variances, such as sleep-wake cycles, between populations on different continents. The study, published in Science Advances, suggests that understanding how genes regulate the menstrual cycle's chronobiology could pave the way for novel approaches to treating ovulation disorders. However, the researchers acknowledge the need for larger-scale studies to confirm these findings and explore their clinical applications fully. What is the bottom line? The study does not produce anything conclusive about Moon's role in determining the human menstrual cycle. But statistically, there is a link between geography as well as the body's internal clock in governing menstrual rhythm. (With inputs from agencies)

New study identifies potential link between Moon's phases and menstrual cycle

<p>Scientists spotted a massive, car-sized asteroid two days before it had an extremely close shave with Earth on Thursday (April 11).&nbsp;</p>

<p>To everyone's relief, the 9.4-foot space rock, although came very close to Earth, made a harmless pass by the planet.</p>

<p>The newly-discovered asteroid 2024 GJ2 is around the size of a car and after it was spotted by astronomers they calculated that the space rock would pass by Earth at a mere distance of 19.3 thousand kilometres from Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is just three per cent of the distance between the Moon and the Earth. According to the European Space Agency (ESA), 2024 GJ2 measures between 2.5 and 5 metres (8.2 and 16 feet).</p>

<p>Its size means that it is an asteroid with a weight class which would have burned up in the atmosphere of the Earth if its orbit intersected with ours more directly.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-blasts-an-asteroid-in-space-it-now-fears-its-debris-may-collide-with-mars-707195">NASA blasted an asteroid in space. It now fears boulders may collide with Mars</a></p>

<p>As per the astronomers, the asteroid made its closest approach at 2:28:42 p.m. EDT, when it was at a distance of 12,298 kilometres from Earth on Thursday (April 11).</p>

<p>The asteroid will not return&nbsp;till 2093, as per the near-Earth Objects Coordination Centre of the ESA. However, at that time, the asteroid will not fly as close as it did this time.</p>

<p>In 2093, asteroid GJ2 is expected to fly as close as 205,947 kilometres from us, which is 10 times farther than the distance at which it flew this time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around 35,000 near-Earth asteroids have been catalogued by NASA to date, although very few of them threaten&nbsp;our planet.</p>

<h2><strong>What are asteroids and how does NASA track them?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the scientists, asteroids are space rocks and some of them are also made of metal and orbit around the Sun.</p>

<p>Some asteroids are tiny and some are as huge as boulders. The asteroids can also fly even hundreds of kilometres across.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These asteroids have remained preserved in the solar system from the time it came into existence some 4.6 billion years ago.</p>

<p>The asteroids can also cause massive damage and hence, the space agencies track them. A range of instruments are used by the US space agency NASA to track the asteroids.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | The impact of NASA asteroid deflection</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-impact-of-nasa-asteroid-deflection-707437/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>NASA has observatories which are equipped with powerful telescopes that are capable of scanning the skies from Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NASA has these observatories at different places across the world such as Mauna Kea Observatory in Hawaii and Lowell Observatory in Arizona.</p>

<p>Similar observatories have also been opened by NASA in space to better understand the asteroids' trajectories properly.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Scientists spotted a massive, car-sized asteroid two days before it had an extremely close shave with Earth on Thursday (April 11). To everyone's relief, the 9.4-foot space rock, although came very close to Earth, made a harmless pass by the planet.

Scientists spotted a massive, car-sized asteroid two days before it had an extremely close shave with Earth on Thursday (April 11). To everyone's relief, the 9.4-foot space rock, although came very close to Earth, made a harmless pass by the planet. The newly-discovered asteroid 2024 GJ2 is around the size of a car and after it was spotted by astronomers they calculated that the space rock would pass by Earth at a mere distance of 19.3 thousand kilometres from Earth. This is just three per cent of the distance between the Moon and the Earth. According to the European Space Agency (ESA), 2024 GJ2 measures between 2.5 and 5 metres (8.2 and 16 feet). Its size means that it is an asteroid with a weight class which would have burned up in the atmosphere of the Earth if its orbit intersected with ours more directly. Also Read: NASA blasted an asteroid in space. It now fears boulders may collide with Mars As per the astronomers, the asteroid made its closest approach at 2:28:42 p.m. EDT, when it was at a distance of 12,298 kilometres from Earth on Thursday (April 11). The asteroid will not return till 2093, as per the near-Earth Objects Coordination Centre of the ESA. However, at that time, the asteroid will not fly as close as it did this time. In 2093, asteroid GJ2 is expected to fly as close as 205,947 kilometres from us, which is 10 times farther than the distance at which it flew this time. Around 35,000 near-Earth asteroids have been catalogued by NASA to date, although very few of them threaten our planet. What are asteroids and how does NASA track them? As per the scientists, asteroids are space rocks and some of them are also made of metal and orbit around the Sun. Some asteroids are tiny and some are as huge as boulders. The asteroids can also fly even hundreds of kilometres across. These asteroids have remained preserved in the solar system from the time it came into existence some 4.6 billion years ago. The asteroids can also cause massive damage and hence, the space agencies track them. A range of instruments are used by the US space agency NASA to track the asteroids. Watch: Gravitas | The impact of NASA asteroid deflection NASA has observatories which are equipped with powerful telescopes that are capable of scanning the skies from Earth. NASA has these observatories at different places across the world such as Mauna Kea Observatory in Hawaii and Lowell Observatory in Arizona. Similar observatories have also been opened by NASA in space to better understand the asteroids' trajectories properly. (With inputs from agencies)

Car-sized asteroid comes eerily close to Earth, much closer than even the Moon

<p><strong>Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 live Moon Sighting Date Timein India, UAE, Pakistan, Dubai, Saudi Arabia:</strong> This vibrant and deeply meaningful festival, marking the end of Ramadan, a month-long journey of fasting and spiritual reflection, ignites the hearts of millions worldwide. On this auspicious day, Muslims gather for special prayers at mosques, expressing gratitude to Allah for the strength and guidance received during Ramadan. Families and friends come together to share festive meals, exchange gifts&nbsp;and extend warm wishes of peace and happiness. Eid-ul-Fitr symbolises unity, compassion&nbsp;and the spirit of giving, as Muslims reach out to those less fortunate, offering charity and support. It is a time of spiritual renewal, forgiveness&nbsp;and rejoicing in the blessings bestowed upon all.</p>

<p>Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/eid-ul-fitr-2024-crescent-not-seen-in-saudi-arabia-eid-now-on-wednesday-709157">Eid-ul-Fitr 2024: Shawwal moon not sighted in Saudi Arabia; Eid on Wednesday</a></p>

<h2><strong>Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 moon sighting date time in UAE</strong></h2>

<p>The festival of Eid will be celebrated on April 10 in countries such as, Qatar and UAE after the Shawwal crescent moon was&nbsp;not sighted.</p>

<h2><strong>Eid-ul-Fitr&nbsp;2024 moon sighting time in India</strong></h2>

<p>In India, the date of Eid-ul-Fitr is anticipated to be either April 10 or April 11. It depends upon the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon. If the moon is observed on April 9, Eid-ul-Fitr&nbsp; 2024 will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10. However, if the moon remains unseen on that day, the celebration will take place on Thursday, April 11.</p>

<h2><strong>Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 moon sighting in US</strong></h2>

<p>If the moon is seen on April 9, Eid-Ul-Fitr 2024 will fall on Wednesday, April 10. Alternatively, if the crescent moon remains unseen today, Eid-Ul-Fitr will be observed on April 11, which is Thursday.</p>

<h2><strong>Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 moon sighting in Canada</strong></h2>

<p>In Canada, the anticipated sighting of the Shawwal crescent for Eid-ul-Fitr is on Tuesday, April 9. If the crescent remains unseen on that day, Eid will be observed on Wednesday, April 10, 2024.</p>

<h2><strong>Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 moon sighting time in Saudi Arabia&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The holiday of Eid-ul-Fitr is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, April 10, as announced in Saudi Arabia, the spiritual heartland of Islam.</p>

<p>Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/total-solar-eclipse-2024-biden-issues-safety-reminder-takes-a-dig-at-trump-709146">Total Solar Eclipse 2024: Biden issues safety reminder, takes a dig at Trump</a></p>

<h2><strong>Eid-ul-Fitr&nbsp;2024: Shawwal crescent moon sighting LIVE in Pakistan</strong></h2>

<p>In Pakistan, the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is set to gather on Tuesday evening to witness the Shawwal moon, aligning with the forecast from the Meteorological Department. According to the prediction, there is a possibility that Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated&nbsp;on April 10, as the sighting of the Shawwal moon is expected on April 9.</p>

<h2><strong>Eid 2024&nbsp;Wishes&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>1. Eid Mubarak: May this Eid-ul-Fitr bring you and your loved ones abundant joy, peace, and prosperity. Eid Mubarak!</p>

<p>2. Wishing you a blessed Eid-ul-Fitr filled with happiness, laughter, and cherished moments with family and friends. Eid Mubarak!</p>

<p>3. On this auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, may Allah's blessings illuminate your path, and may your life be filled with love, success, and contentment. Eid Mubarak!</p>

<p>4. As we bid farewell to Ramadan, may your heart be filled with gratitude and your home with warmth and harmony. Eid Mubarak to you and your family!</p>

<p>5. Sending you heartfelt wishes for a joyful Eid-ul-Fitr! May this special day bring you closer to your loved ones and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. Eid Mubarak!</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 live Moon Sighting Date Timein India, UAE, Pakistan, Dubai, Saudi Arabia: This vibrant and deeply meaningful festival, marking the end of Ramadan, a month-long journey of fasting and spiritual reflection, ignites the hearts of millions worldwide.

Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 live Moon Sighting Date Timein India, UAE, Pakistan, Dubai, Saudi Arabia: This vibrant and deeply meaningful festival, marking the end of Ramadan, a month-long journey of fasting and spiritual reflection, ignites the hearts of millions worldwide. On this auspicious day, Muslims gather for special prayers at mosques, expressing gratitude to Allah for the strength and guidance received during Ramadan. Families and friends come together to share festive meals, exchange gifts and extend warm wishes of peace and happiness. Eid-ul-Fitr symbolises unity, compassion and the spirit of giving, as Muslims reach out to those less fortunate, offering charity and support. It is a time of spiritual renewal, forgiveness and rejoicing in the blessings bestowed upon all. Also read| Eid-ul-Fitr 2024: Shawwal moon not sighted in Saudi Arabia; Eid on Wednesday Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 moon sighting date time in UAE The festival of Eid will be celebrated on April 10 in countries such as, Qatar and UAE after the Shawwal crescent moon was not sighted. Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 moon sighting time in India In India, the date of Eid-ul-Fitr is anticipated to be either April 10 or April 11. It depends upon the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon. If the moon is observed on April 9, Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10. However, if the moon remains unseen on that day, the celebration will take place on Thursday, April 11. Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 moon sighting in US If the moon is seen on April 9, Eid-Ul-Fitr 2024 will fall on Wednesday, April 10. Alternatively, if the crescent moon remains unseen today, Eid-Ul-Fitr will be observed on April 11, which is Thursday. Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 moon sighting in Canada In Canada, the anticipated sighting of the Shawwal crescent for Eid-ul-Fitr is on Tuesday, April 9. If the crescent remains unseen on that day, Eid will be observed on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 moon sighting time in Saudi Arabia The holiday of Eid-ul-Fitr is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, April 10, as announced in Saudi Arabia, the spiritual heartland of Islam. Also read| Total Solar Eclipse 2024: Biden issues safety reminder, takes a dig at Trump Eid-ul-Fitr 2024: Shawwal crescent moon sighting LIVE in Pakistan In Pakistan, the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is set to gather on Tuesday evening to witness the Shawwal moon, aligning with the forecast from the Meteorological Department. According to the prediction, there is a possibility that Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on April 10, as the sighting of the Shawwal moon is expected on April 9. Eid 2024 Wishes 1. Eid Mubarak: May this Eid-ul-Fitr bring you and your loved ones abundant joy, peace, and prosperity. Eid Mubarak! 2. Wishing you a blessed Eid-ul-Fitr filled with happiness, laughter, and cherished moments with family and friends. Eid Mubarak! 3. On this auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, may Allah's blessings illuminate your path, and may your life be filled with love, success, and contentment. Eid Mubarak! 4. As we bid farewell to Ramadan, may your heart be filled with gratitude and your home with warmth and harmony. Eid Mubarak to you and your family! 5. Sending you heartfelt wishes for a joyful Eid-ul-Fitr! May this special day bring you closer to your loved ones and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. Eid Mubarak! (With inputs from agencies)

Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 Live Moon Sighting: Check Date Time in Saudi Arabia, India, Dubai, UAE, USA, UK, Pakistan

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidvW0YBhtCk3dN" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on Friday (Apr 5) released images of a mysterious silver surfboard-shaped object&nbsp;which was orbiting the Moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The identity of the object, which was captured by NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) last month, has now been revealed. LRO has been circling and studying the Moon for 15 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The curious souls might think it's an Unidentified flying object (UFO), but it's not.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/moon-once-literally-turned-itself-inside-out-scientists-wonder-how-709404">Moon once 'literally turned itself inside out'. Scientists wonder 'how'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>NASA revealed that LRO last month captured several images of Korea Aerospace Research Institute's Danuri lunar orbiter, which may appear to be mysterious unless explained.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NASA said that the two spacecraft zipped past each other in opposite directions between March 5 and 6, 2024. Both spacecraft were travelling in nearly parallel orbits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Danuri is Korea's first spacecraft on the Moon and has been in lunar orbit since December 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/crushed-and-grounded-to-dust-a-violent-end-awaits-our-solar-system-709327">A violent end awaits our solar system as all planets will be 'crushed' to dust one day</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>NASA said in its reports that the LRO operations team at Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland needed "exquisite timing" in pointing LROC to the right place at the right time to catch a glimpse of Danuri.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The task, however, was not easy because of the fast relative velocities between the two spacecraft, which is about 11,500 kilometres per hour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The American space agency said that LRO's narrow-angle camera captured the images during three orbits that happened to be close enough to Danuri’s to grab the images.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To be clear, the Danuri orbiter is not a weirdly thin load of pixels—it's a fairly normal-looking orbiter. But the terrific speeds involved mean that it's smeared on the LRO's camera detector.<br />
<br />
Here it is in "unsmeared" form, by the LRO team: <a href="https://t.co/qrcXH428CP">pic.twitter.com/qrcXH428CP</a></p>
— Paul Byrne (@ThePlanetaryGuy) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThePlanetaryGuy/status/1776303112883507357?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">I pronađemo. Orbiter 'Danuri', Južna Koreja, na 8 km ispod LRO <a href="https://t.co/S2IfS1GYpk">pic.twitter.com/S2IfS1GYpk</a></p>
— Underdog (@BLANKTIPLER) <a href="https://twitter.com/BLANKTIPLER/status/1776496012476981532?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Darkness blankets Niagara falls during solar eclipse</strong></p>

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<p>LRO was launched in 2009 and has collected crucial data with its seven powerful instruments. It has emerged as an invaluable contribution to the study of the Moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Although LRO's camera exposure time was very short, only 0.338 milliseconds, Danuri still appears smeared to 10 times its size in the opposite direction of travel because of the relative high travel velocities between the two spacecraft," NASA said in its report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on Friday (Apr 5) released images of a mysterious silver surfboard-shaped object which was orbiting the Moon.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on Friday (Apr 5) released images of a mysterious silver surfboard-shaped object which was orbiting the Moon. The identity of the object, which was captured by NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) last month, has now been revealed. LRO has been circling and studying the Moon for 15 years. The curious souls might think it's an Unidentified flying object (UFO), but it's not. Also read: Moon once 'literally turned itself inside out'. Scientists wonder 'how' NASA revealed that LRO last month captured several images of Korea Aerospace Research Institute's Danuri lunar orbiter, which may appear to be mysterious unless explained. NASA said that the two spacecraft zipped past each other in opposite directions between March 5 and 6, 2024. Both spacecraft were travelling in nearly parallel orbits. Danuri is Korea's first spacecraft on the Moon and has been in lunar orbit since December 2022. Also read: A violent end awaits our solar system as all planets will be 'crushed' to dust one day NASA said in its reports that the LRO operations team at Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland needed "exquisite timing" in pointing LROC to the right place at the right time to catch a glimpse of Danuri. The task, however, was not easy because of the fast relative velocities between the two spacecraft, which is about 11,500 kilometres per hour. The American space agency said that LRO's narrow-angle camera captured the images during three orbits that happened to be close enough to Danuri’s to grab the images. To be clear, the Danuri orbiter is not a weirdly thin load of pixels—it's a fairly normal-looking orbiter. But the terrific speeds involved mean that it's smeared on the LRO's camera detector. Here it is in "unsmeared" form, by the LRO team: pic.twitter.com/qrcXH428CP — Paul Byrne (@ThePlanetaryGuy) April 5, 2024 × I pronađemo. Orbiter 'Danuri', Južna Koreja, na 8 km ispod LRO pic.twitter.com/S2IfS1GYpk — Underdog (@BLANKTIPLER) April 6, 2024 × Watch: Darkness blankets Niagara falls during solar eclipse × LRO was launched in 2009 and has collected crucial data with its seven powerful instruments. It has emerged as an invaluable contribution to the study of the Moon. "Although LRO's camera exposure time was very short, only 0.338 milliseconds, Danuri still appears smeared to 10 times its size in the opposite direction of travel because of the relative high travel velocities between the two spacecraft," NASA said in its report. (With inputs from agencies)

A mysterious silver object has been orbiting the Moon for 15 years. What is it?

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuiddy0ik6zWt065" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>United States Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, told a group of high school students in Houston that the Moon is a "planet" that is "made up mostly of gases."</p>

<p>While addressing the Booker T Washington High School students on the sports field ahead of Monday's solar eclipse, Jackson Lee said, "You've heard the word 'full moon.' Sometimes, you need to take the opportunity just to come out and see a full moon is that complete-rounded circle, which is made up mostly of gases. And that's why the question is: Why or how could we as humans live on the Moon? Are the gases such that we could do that?"</p>

<p>She made several false statements that shocked the teenagers, Fox News reported. She added, "The Sun is a mighty powerful heat, but it's almost impossible to go near the sun. The Moon is more manageable."</p>

<p>In another statement, Jackson Lee misinformed the students about solar eclipses. She said, "What you will see today will be the closest distance that the Moon has ever been in the last 20 years, which means that's why they will shut the light down because they will be close to the Earth, which is an amazing experience. You will be able to tell because there will be complete darkness." She posted the video clip of her speech on&nbsp;her X account.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-oldest-human-is-124-years-old-and-currently-lives-in-peru-claims-peruvian-authorities-709735">World's oldest human is 124 years old and currently lives in Peru, claim Peruvian authorities</a></p>

<p>As the students moved to the sports field to watch the astronomical spectacle, Jackson Lee struggled to put the eclipse glasses on her face. She also expressed the desire to be one of the first people to live and survive on the Moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, the US representative turned to X after RNC Research shared her video. She wrote, "Obviously, I misspoke and meant to say the sun, but as usual, Republicans are focused on stupid things instead of stuff that really matters. What can I say though, foolish thinkers lust for stupidity."</p>

<p>Jackson Lee said Republicans should focus on prenatal care, affordable housing and reducing student loan debt.</p>

<p>"Also, I care more about these children who would not have experienced the eclipse in this enthusiastic manner," she added. "And I care more about protecting the rights of women and children than engaging in this kind of senseless dialogue."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


United States Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, told a group of high school students in Houston that the Moon is a "planet" that is "made up mostly of gases.

United States Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, told a group of high school students in Houston that the Moon is a "planet" that is "made up mostly of gases." While addressing the Booker T Washington High School students on the sports field ahead of Monday's solar eclipse, Jackson Lee said, "You've heard the word 'full moon.' Sometimes, you need to take the opportunity just to come out and see a full moon is that complete-rounded circle, which is made up mostly of gases. And that's why the question is: Why or how could we as humans live on the Moon? Are the gases such that we could do that?" She made several false statements that shocked the teenagers, Fox News reported. She added, "The Sun is a mighty powerful heat, but it's almost impossible to go near the sun. The Moon is more manageable." In another statement, Jackson Lee misinformed the students about solar eclipses. She said, "What you will see today will be the closest distance that the Moon has ever been in the last 20 years, which means that's why they will shut the light down because they will be close to the Earth, which is an amazing experience. You will be able to tell because there will be complete darkness." She posted the video clip of her speech on her X account. ALSO READ | World's oldest human is 124 years old and currently lives in Peru, claim Peruvian authorities As the students moved to the sports field to watch the astronomical spectacle, Jackson Lee struggled to put the eclipse glasses on her face. She also expressed the desire to be one of the first people to live and survive on the Moon. On Tuesday, the US representative turned to X after RNC Research shared her video. She wrote, "Obviously, I misspoke and meant to say the sun, but as usual, Republicans are focused on stupid things instead of stuff that really matters. What can I say though, foolish thinkers lust for stupidity." Jackson Lee said Republicans should focus on prenatal care, affordable housing and reducing student loan debt. "Also, I care more about these children who would not have experienced the eclipse in this enthusiastic manner," she added. "And I care more about protecting the rights of women and children than engaging in this kind of senseless dialogue." (With inputs from agencies)

US Rep Sheila Jackson Lee calls the Moon a ‘planet made up mostly of gases’

<p>A recent study has revealed a bizarre situation in which our Moon had once completely turned itself inside out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A new paper was published by a team of scientists from the University of Arizona Lunar and Planetary Laboratory on the evolution of the lunar interior.</p>

<p>In the paper, they emphasised the ancient lunar interior's instability. The paper, which was published in the journal Nature Geoscience, spoke in detail about how the Moon had evolved in a chaotic manner.</p>

<p>In a press statement, study co-author and LPL associate professor Jeff Andrews-Hanna said, “Our moon literally turned itself inside out. But there has been little physical evidence to shed light on the exact sequence of events during this critical phase of lunar history, and there is a lot of disagreement in the details of what went down – literally.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/people-on-earth-will-soon-be-able-to-calculate-moon-standard-time-heres-how-707126">Earthlings will soon be able to calculate what time it is on the Moon. Here's how</a></p>

<h2><strong>How was the Moon formed?</strong></h2>

<p>Scientists have estimated that the moon was formed roughly 4.5 billion years ago when a small planet smashed into Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Because of the impact, the molten rock spread into space and slowly started orbiting around our planet. Through time, the rock solidified and formed our Moon.</p>

<p>In the lunar rock samples which were collected by the Apollo astronauts, new information has been provided about the ancient history of the Moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, in the satellite observations, it was found that the volcanic rocks were prominent on the nearside of the Moon.</p>

<p>A new model created by the researchers of the University of Arizona has explained why this is the case.</p>

<p>When the Moon was first formed, it was most likely covered by a global magma ocean. Once the molten rock cooled, it formed the mantle and the outer crust of the Moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US government asks NASA to create time zones for the moon</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-government-asks-nasa-to-create-time-zones-for-the-moon-707340/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The computer models showed how the magma which was under the crust had crystallised into dense minerals, which included ilmenite and contained titanium and iron.</p>

<p>“Because these heavy minerals are denser than the mantle underneath, it creates a gravitational instability, and you would expect this layer to sink deeper into the moon’s interior,” explained Weigang Liang, who headed the research as part of his doctoral work at LPL.</p>

<p>Later, the dense material sank in the interior of the Moon and melted and mixed with the mantle. Eventually, it came back to the surface through the titanium-rich lava which flows visibly on the surface.</p>

<p>The scientists, in their research, found that the gravity field of the Moon can be used to map the distribution of remnants of ilmenite, which were formed after the dense material sank in the lunar mantle.</p>

<p>The observations made by NASA’s Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory (GRAIL) lunar satellite were used by the scientists.</p>

<p>“Our analyses show that the models and data are telling one remarkably consistent story. Ilmenite materials migrated to the near side and sunk into the interior in sheetlike cascades, leaving behind a vestige that causes anomalies in the moon’s gravity field, as seen by [NASA’s] GRAIL," Liang said,&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the basis of their research, the scientists have estimated that the ilmenite-rich layer may have sunk more than 4.22 billion years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A recent study has revealed a bizarre situation in which our Moon had once completely turned itself inside out. A new paper was published by a team of scientists from the University of Arizona Lunar and Planetary Laboratory on the evolution of the lunar interior.

A recent study has revealed a bizarre situation in which our Moon had once completely turned itself inside out. A new paper was published by a team of scientists from the University of Arizona Lunar and Planetary Laboratory on the evolution of the lunar interior. In the paper, they emphasised the ancient lunar interior's instability. The paper, which was published in the journal Nature Geoscience, spoke in detail about how the Moon had evolved in a chaotic manner. In a press statement, study co-author and LPL associate professor Jeff Andrews-Hanna said, “Our moon literally turned itself inside out. But there has been little physical evidence to shed light on the exact sequence of events during this critical phase of lunar history, and there is a lot of disagreement in the details of what went down – literally.” Also Read: Earthlings will soon be able to calculate what time it is on the Moon. Here's how How was the Moon formed? Scientists have estimated that the moon was formed roughly 4.5 billion years ago when a small planet smashed into Earth. Because of the impact, the molten rock spread into space and slowly started orbiting around our planet. Through time, the rock solidified and formed our Moon. In the lunar rock samples which were collected by the Apollo astronauts, new information has been provided about the ancient history of the Moon. Later, in the satellite observations, it was found that the volcanic rocks were prominent on the nearside of the Moon. A new model created by the researchers of the University of Arizona has explained why this is the case. When the Moon was first formed, it was most likely covered by a global magma ocean. Once the molten rock cooled, it formed the mantle and the outer crust of the Moon. Watch: US government asks NASA to create time zones for the moon The computer models showed how the magma which was under the crust had crystallised into dense minerals, which included ilmenite and contained titanium and iron. “Because these heavy minerals are denser than the mantle underneath, it creates a gravitational instability, and you would expect this layer to sink deeper into the moon’s interior,” explained Weigang Liang, who headed the research as part of his doctoral work at LPL. Later, the dense material sank in the interior of the Moon and melted and mixed with the mantle. Eventually, it came back to the surface through the titanium-rich lava which flows visibly on the surface. The scientists, in their research, found that the gravity field of the Moon can be used to map the distribution of remnants of ilmenite, which were formed after the dense material sank in the lunar mantle. The observations made by NASA’s Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory (GRAIL) lunar satellite were used by the scientists. “Our analyses show that the models and data are telling one remarkably consistent story. Ilmenite materials migrated to the near side and sunk into the interior in sheetlike cascades, leaving behind a vestige that causes anomalies in the moon’s gravity field, as seen by [NASA’s] GRAIL," Liang said, On the basis of their research, the scientists have estimated that the ilmenite-rich layer may have sunk more than 4.22 billion years ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Moon once 'literally turned itself inside out'. Scientists wonder 'how'

<p>In a stunning discovery, the astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) were able to see a third world being formed around the infant star PDS 70&nbsp;400 light-years away from Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The creation of the "third world" was captured under the MIRI mid-infrared Disk Survey (MINDS) project. Two planets taking shape in a disk of gas and dust had already been discovered some time back.</p>

<p>The scientists, with the help of JWST's Near Infrared Camera (NIRCam), also noticed a large spiral stream of material which was enhancing the growth of an already discovered planet PDS 70C.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PDS 70C, a giant planet, is surrounded by its own disk of material and the spiral stream is&nbsp;feeding it as well which will soon result in the the birth of its moons.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-blasts-an-asteroid-in-space-it-now-fears-its-debris-may-collide-with-mars-707195">NASA blasted an asteroid in space. It now fears boulders may collide with Mars</a></p>

<p>Speaking to Space.com, MINDS team member and KU Leuven and the University of Liege postdoctoral researcher Valentin Christiaens said, "We found new evidence for the presence of a third planet in the system, which was proposed based on VLT observations."</p>

<p>"Furthermore, the new infrared measurements we obtained for the two known protoplanets suggest the presence of heated material around them — which may be the building blocks for moons forming around them," added Christiaens.</p>

<h2><strong>Astronomers' tryst with PDS 70 system&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The astronomers have used various telescopes, which include the ground-based Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) and the VLT, for studying the PDS 70 system.</p>

<p>The astronomers have remained fascinated about the system since the protostar and its protoplanetary disk are likely no older than 5.5 million years.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"PDS 70 is special, as it is the only protoplanetary disk so far where all astronomers agree that we have found forming planets caught in the act," said Christiaens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Detailed study of this system has thus allowed us to learn a lot about planet formation," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;NASA's Dart mission asteroid: Asteroid Dimorphos debris may rain on Mars</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasas-dart-mission-asteroid-asteroid-dimorphos-debris-may-rain-on-mars-707482/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The researchers are not much aware of the potential third planet's properties. If the planet gets confirmed, it will be named PDS 70D and will remain shrouded in a vast amount of dust.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What is interesting is that this separation places it near 1:2:4 mean-motion resonance with planets PDS 70B and PDS 70C. This means its orbit would be almost exactly twice as short as B and four times shorter than planet C, respectively," said Christiaens said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is a situation we know in the solar system with the three innermost Galilean moons of Jupiter: Io, Europa, and Ganymede," the astronomer said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


In a stunning discovery, the astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) were able to see a third world being formed around the infant star PDS 70 400 light-years away from Earth.

In a stunning discovery, the astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) were able to see a third world being formed around the infant star PDS 70 400 light-years away from Earth. The creation of the "third world" was captured under the MIRI mid-infrared Disk Survey (MINDS) project. Two planets taking shape in a disk of gas and dust had already been discovered some time back. The scientists, with the help of JWST's Near Infrared Camera (NIRCam), also noticed a large spiral stream of material which was enhancing the growth of an already discovered planet PDS 70C. PDS 70C, a giant planet, is surrounded by its own disk of material and the spiral stream is feeding it as well which will soon result in the the birth of its moons. Also Read: NASA blasted an asteroid in space. It now fears boulders may collide with Mars Speaking to Space.com, MINDS team member and KU Leuven and the University of Liege postdoctoral researcher Valentin Christiaens said, "We found new evidence for the presence of a third planet in the system, which was proposed based on VLT observations." "Furthermore, the new infrared measurements we obtained for the two known protoplanets suggest the presence of heated material around them — which may be the building blocks for moons forming around them," added Christiaens. Astronomers' tryst with PDS 70 system The astronomers have used various telescopes, which include the ground-based Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) and the VLT, for studying the PDS 70 system. The astronomers have remained fascinated about the system since the protostar and its protoplanetary disk are likely no older than 5.5 million years. "PDS 70 is special, as it is the only protoplanetary disk so far where all astronomers agree that we have found forming planets caught in the act," said Christiaens. "Detailed study of this system has thus allowed us to learn a lot about planet formation," he added. Watch: NASA's Dart mission asteroid: Asteroid Dimorphos debris may rain on Mars The researchers are not much aware of the potential third planet's properties. If the planet gets confirmed, it will be named PDS 70D and will remain shrouded in a vast amount of dust. "What is interesting is that this separation places it near 1:2:4 mean-motion resonance with planets PDS 70B and PDS 70C. This means its orbit would be almost exactly twice as short as B and four times shorter than planet C, respectively," said Christiaens said. "This is a situation we know in the solar system with the three innermost Galilean moons of Jupiter: Io, Europa, and Ganymede," the astronomer said. (With inputs from agencies)

James Webb captures creation of 'third world' and birth of potential moons 400 light-years away

Standard time is the synchronisation of clocks within a geographical region to a single time standard. UTC is the time standard commonly used on the Earth. Now, the White House wants NASA to figure out how to tell time on the moon as well.

Why is NASA creating a time standard for the moon?

The White House is making a new strategic move to spearhead space convenience to this end it has issued a directive asking it to create a unified time standard for celestial bodies notably the moon.

US government asks NASA to create time zones for the moon

<p><strong>Moon Standard Time:</strong> The daunting task of setting up a standard time zone on the Moon has been given to the space agency NASA by the White House with the hope that people on Earth will be able to tell what time it is on the Moon.</p>

<p>The space agency was sent a memo by the head of the US Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) on Tuesday (April 2) in which they were asked to work in coordination with other US agencies and international agencies for setting up a moon-centric time reference system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NASA has been given time till the end of 2026 to set up what is known as Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How different is the moon's time zone from that of Earth?</strong></h2>

<p>The time zone on the Moon won't be very similar to the standard time zones we have on Earth. Actually, Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC) will be an entire frame of time covering all the regions on the Moon.</p>

<p>Since the gravity on the moon is less, time shifts a bit quickly - 58.7 microseconds every day – in comparison to Earth.</p>

<p>Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC) will also provide scientists with a time-keeping benchmark for lunar satellites and spacecraft that require extreme precision for their missions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/greenery-on-moon-soon-nasa-to-put-plants-on-lunar-surface-by-2026-706920">Greenery on Moon soon? NASA to put plants on lunar surface by 2026</a></p>

<p>“An atomic clock on the moon will tick at a different rate than a clock on Earth,” said Kevin Coggins, a top communications and navigation official at NASA.</p>

<p>“It makes sense that when you go to another body, like the moon or Mars, that each one gets its own heartbeat," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Why is&nbsp;Moon Standard Time important?</strong></h2>

<p>In September 2026, NASA is planning to send its astronaut missions to the moon through its Artemis programme. They will also establish a scientific lunar base which can help set the stage for future missions to Mars.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Various spacecraft, companies and countries are part of the effort.</p>

<p>Speaking to Reuters, an OSTP official said that without a unified lunar time standard, the scientists will find it challenging to ensure that secured data transfers are taking place between spacecraft. It will also be difficult to synchronise communications among Earth, lunar satellites, bases and astronauts.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Pluto: Should 'Pluto' be a planet again? The debate rages on</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pluto-should-pluto-be-a-planet-again-the-debate-rages-on-706731/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>According to the official, the discrepancies in time can also result in errors in mapping the moon and locating positions on or orbiting around the natural satellite.</p>

<p>“Imagine if the world wasn’t syncing their clocks to the same time, how disruptive that might be and how challenging everyday things become,” said the official.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Moon Standard Time: The daunting task of setting up a standard time zone on the Moon has been given to the space agency NASA by the White House with the hope that people on Earth will be able to tell what time it is on the Moon.

Moon Standard Time: The daunting task of setting up a standard time zone on the Moon has been given to the space agency NASA by the White House with the hope that people on Earth will be able to tell what time it is on the Moon. The space agency was sent a memo by the head of the US Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) on Tuesday (April 2) in which they were asked to work in coordination with other US agencies and international agencies for setting up a moon-centric time reference system. NASA has been given time till the end of 2026 to set up what is known as Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC). How different is the moon's time zone from that of Earth? The time zone on the Moon won't be very similar to the standard time zones we have on Earth. Actually, Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC) will be an entire frame of time covering all the regions on the Moon. Since the gravity on the moon is less, time shifts a bit quickly - 58.7 microseconds every day – in comparison to Earth. Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC) will also provide scientists with a time-keeping benchmark for lunar satellites and spacecraft that require extreme precision for their missions. Also Read: Greenery on Moon soon? NASA to put plants on lunar surface by 2026 “An atomic clock on the moon will tick at a different rate than a clock on Earth,” said Kevin Coggins, a top communications and navigation official at NASA. “It makes sense that when you go to another body, like the moon or Mars, that each one gets its own heartbeat," he added. Why is Moon Standard Time important? In September 2026, NASA is planning to send its astronaut missions to the moon through its Artemis programme. They will also establish a scientific lunar base which can help set the stage for future missions to Mars. Various spacecraft, companies and countries are part of the effort. Speaking to Reuters, an OSTP official said that without a unified lunar time standard, the scientists will find it challenging to ensure that secured data transfers are taking place between spacecraft. It will also be difficult to synchronise communications among Earth, lunar satellites, bases and astronauts. Watch: Pluto: Should 'Pluto' be a planet again? The debate rages on According to the official, the discrepancies in time can also result in errors in mapping the moon and locating positions on or orbiting around the natural satellite. “Imagine if the world wasn’t syncing their clocks to the same time, how disruptive that might be and how challenging everyday things become,” said the official. (With inputs from agencies)

Earthlings will soon be able to calculate what time it is on the Moon. Here's how

<p>The green existence of plants of all kinds — herbs, shrubs and trees — have facilitated the way humanity has come to define the nature of life on our planet Earth. Can you imagine humanity's existence on Earth without trees?</p>

<p>It is this defining nature of humanity's existence on Earth that is pushing the scientists to explore if or not plants can be grown on our nearest celestial object, our Earth's own Moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Artemis III mission of NASA will also take the technology to grow plants on the lunar surface.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ambitious project, scheduled for launch in 2026, will also take with it the LEAF, which stands for Lunar Effects on Agricultural Flora (LEAF). The mission will test growing plants in a mini lunar greenhouse. The LEAF project, if successful, will mark a brand new chapter in the history of space exploration.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>NASA Artemis III mission: About 'LEAF' project</strong></h2>

<p>LEAF has been developed by Colorado-based Space Lab Technologies. It is among three experiments chosen by NASA to be sent to Moon during the mission's 2026 leg.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>LEAF on Moon: Which plants will be on lunar surface?</strong></h2>

<p>The plants include thale cress, duckweed, and <em>Brassica rapa</em>. They will be put in a protected growth chamber in order to ensure that their existence and subsequent growth is not impacted by the conditions on and beyond the lunar surface.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>NASA has dubbed it as an important step to solve the defining challenge in lunar and interplanetary exploration within and beyond our Solar System.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>But why only these plants?</strong></h2>

<p>Yes, NASA isn't taking a mango or apple plantlet on Moon. There's a reason for it. Over the course of evolution of life forms on our planet, the conventional crop plants — just like humans — have become exclusive to Earth due to special life-supporting conditions available on our planet blue.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-artemis-moon-missions-to-face-further-delays-due-to-spacecraft-issues-678152">NASA's Artemis moon missions to face further delays due to spacecraft issues</a></strong></p>

<p>But among the selected hoard of plants, for instance, duckweed is a miracle plant that is resistant to most challenges. It carries a greater protein content than most food crops and is dubbed as the desired food crop for future space colonies.</p>

<p>The <em>Brassica rapa</em> is a fast-growing cousin of cabbage and broccoli and has a higher chance than ever of successful space habitats away from Earth.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;NASA's Artemis mission to take an international astronaut to Lunar Space</strong></p>

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<p>Experiments conducted on the International Space Station have already provided a foundation for this cutting-edge mission.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The green existence of plants of all kinds — herbs, shrubs and trees — have facilitated the way humanity has come to define the nature of life on our planet Earth.

The green existence of plants of all kinds — herbs, shrubs and trees — have facilitated the way humanity has come to define the nature of life on our planet Earth. Can you imagine humanity's existence on Earth without trees? It is this defining nature of humanity's existence on Earth that is pushing the scientists to explore if or not plants can be grown on our nearest celestial object, our Earth's own Moon. The Artemis III mission of NASA will also take the technology to grow plants on the lunar surface. The ambitious project, scheduled for launch in 2026, will also take with it the LEAF, which stands for Lunar Effects on Agricultural Flora (LEAF). The mission will test growing plants in a mini lunar greenhouse. The LEAF project, if successful, will mark a brand new chapter in the history of space exploration. NASA Artemis III mission: About 'LEAF' project LEAF has been developed by Colorado-based Space Lab Technologies. It is among three experiments chosen by NASA to be sent to Moon during the mission's 2026 leg. LEAF on Moon: Which plants will be on lunar surface? The plants include thale cress, duckweed, and Brassica rapa. They will be put in a protected growth chamber in order to ensure that their existence and subsequent growth is not impacted by the conditions on and beyond the lunar surface. What does it mean? NASA has dubbed it as an important step to solve the defining challenge in lunar and interplanetary exploration within and beyond our Solar System. But why only these plants? Yes, NASA isn't taking a mango or apple plantlet on Moon. There's a reason for it. Over the course of evolution of life forms on our planet, the conventional crop plants — just like humans — have become exclusive to Earth due to special life-supporting conditions available on our planet blue. Also read | NASA's Artemis moon missions to face further delays due to spacecraft issues But among the selected hoard of plants, for instance, duckweed is a miracle plant that is resistant to most challenges. It carries a greater protein content than most food crops and is dubbed as the desired food crop for future space colonies. The Brassica rapa is a fast-growing cousin of cabbage and broccoli and has a higher chance than ever of successful space habitats away from Earth. Also watch | NASA's Artemis mission to take an international astronaut to Lunar Space × Experiments conducted on the International Space Station have already provided a foundation for this cutting-edge mission. (With inputs from agencies)

Greenery on Moon soon? NASA to put plants on lunar surface by 2026

<p>After Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the name "Shiv Shakti" for Chandrayaan 3's moon lander landing site six months ago, it has now been officially recognised by the internationally acknowledged organisation responsible for naming celestial objects.</p>

<p>International Astronomical Union (IAU) Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature on Tuesday (Mar 19) approved the name ‘Statio Shiv Shakti’ for the landing site of Chandrayaan’s Vikram lander.</p>

<h2><strong>India's lunar win: Chandrayaan 3 mission</strong></h2>

<p>Chandrayaan 3, India's third lunar expedition, lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota under the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on July 14. A month later, on August 23, the Vikram lander and Pragyan Rover successfully made a lunar touchdown. This groundbreaking feat established India as the first nation to land in close proximity to the lunar South Pole and only the fourth to accomplish a controlled landing on the moon.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/data-lab-with-a-budget-less-than-hollywoods-interstellar-indias-moon-mission-is-gaining-momentum-628393">Also read |&nbsp;Data Lab | With a budget less than Hollywood's 'Interstellar', India's Chandrayaan-3 is a big success</a></p>

<p>After exploring the lunar surface for 10 days, both the lander and rover transitioned into sleep mode. Meanwhile, the propulsion module remained in lunar orbit following its separation from the lander.</p>

<h2><strong>What does the term Shiv Shakti signify?</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on August 26 that the landing area designated for Chandrayaan 3's lunar module would be referred to as Shiv Shakti.</p>

<p>"In Shiv, there is resolution for the welfare of humanity, and Shakti gives us strength to fulfil those resolutions," said Modi, while announcing the name.</p>

<p>The IAU's Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature, which officially published the name, described it as a combination of terms from Indian mythology symbolising the dual nature of masculinity ("Shiva") and femininity ("Shakti").</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Chandrayaan-3 is success: A soft landing for Vikram lander, giant leap for India's space odyssey</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chandrayaan-3-is-success-a-soft-landing-for-vikram-lander-giant-leap-for-indias-space-odyssey-628447/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Planetary nomenclature, akin to naming geographical features on Earth, serves the purpose of identifying and referring to specific locations on planets and moons. Established by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) since 1919, this catalogue includes names designated to various sites on celestial bodies, facilitating scientists in locating and describing these features effectively.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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After Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the name "Shiv Shakti" for Chandrayaan 3's moon lander landing site six months ago, it has now been officially recognised by the internationally acknowledged organisation responsible for naming celestial objects.

After Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the name "Shiv Shakti" for Chandrayaan 3's moon lander landing site six months ago, it has now been officially recognised by the internationally acknowledged organisation responsible for naming celestial objects. International Astronomical Union (IAU) Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature on Tuesday (Mar 19) approved the name ‘Statio Shiv Shakti’ for the landing site of Chandrayaan’s Vikram lander. India's lunar win: Chandrayaan 3 mission Chandrayaan 3, India's third lunar expedition, lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota under the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on July 14. A month later, on August 23, the Vikram lander and Pragyan Rover successfully made a lunar touchdown. This groundbreaking feat established India as the first nation to land in close proximity to the lunar South Pole and only the fourth to accomplish a controlled landing on the moon. Also read | Data Lab | With a budget less than Hollywood's 'Interstellar', India's Chandrayaan-3 is a big success After exploring the lunar surface for 10 days, both the lander and rover transitioned into sleep mode. Meanwhile, the propulsion module remained in lunar orbit following its separation from the lander. What does the term Shiv Shakti signify? Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on August 26 that the landing area designated for Chandrayaan 3's lunar module would be referred to as Shiv Shakti. "In Shiv, there is resolution for the welfare of humanity, and Shakti gives us strength to fulfil those resolutions," said Modi, while announcing the name. The IAU's Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature, which officially published the name, described it as a combination of terms from Indian mythology symbolising the dual nature of masculinity ("Shiva") and femininity ("Shakti"). Also watch | Chandrayaan-3 is success: A soft landing for Vikram lander, giant leap for India's space odyssey Planetary nomenclature, akin to naming geographical features on Earth, serves the purpose of identifying and referring to specific locations on planets and moons. Established by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) since 1919, this catalogue includes names designated to various sites on celestial bodies, facilitating scientists in locating and describing these features effectively. (With inputs from agencies)

It’s official: Chandrayaan-3 landing site will now be called ‘Shiv Shakti’

<p>Astronomers and space enthusiasts have gathered their force to preserve radio silence on the far side of the moon. With increasing interest in the lunar south pole, moon enthusiasts are concerned that several missions to the moon can disrupt the radio silence on its surface.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moon has a unique ability to naturally shield radio waves generated by chatter on Earth and around it. This phenomenon is called the radio silence zone or shielded zone on the moon. The experts are now concerned that growing scientific interest in the moon’s far side might lead to it getting corrupted by electromagnetic pollution from Earth.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pregnant-women-working-in-extreme-heat-are-more-prone-to-miscarriage-and-stillbirth-new-study-suggests-702667">Pregnant women working in extreme heat are more prone to miscarriage and stillbirth, says new study</a></p>

<p>To tackle the issue and many other concerns related to the moon’s far side, an international symposium is being held this week in Italy, under the auspices of the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first-ever conference raising concerns about the exploration of the lunar south pole is named as IAA Moon Farside Protection Symposium, taking place from Mar 21-22. &nbsp;The aim is to set off a wake-up call that engages the global scientific, political, and industrial community to be aware of a growing list of concerns.</p>

<h2><strong>Growing scientific interest in Moon’s South Pole comes with plenty of concerns as well</strong></h2>

<p>The idea to have a conference dedicated to the Moon’s South Pole and factors concerning it was championed by Claudio Maccone of the National Institute for Astrophysics in Italy. In December 2021, the IAA made a new permanent committee devoted to the&nbsp;protection of&nbsp;the moon's far side, chaired by Maccone as the IAA technical director.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maccone and colleagues believe that the moon's far side is a region of paramount scientific interest as it provides an environment free from the electromagnetic pollution typical on Earth.</p>

<p>However, the fast pace at which lunar missions are being launched to this region can compromise the current situation of the moon's radio quietness.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/can-genetically-modified-cows-solve-insulin-shortages-for-diabetes-patients-research-reveals-702775">Scientists genetically modify cow to solve insulin shortages for diabetes patients</a></p>

<p>The science on the moon is already taking shape, as per Jack Burns, professor emeritus in the Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences at the University of Colorado, Boulder.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Radio astronomy from the moon has begun," Burns says.</p>

<p>NASA's first radio telescope, ROLSES, was recently delivered to the lunar south pole by the Intuitive Machines Odysseus lander, Burns points out.</p>

<p>"After many years of anticipation, we are actively doing radio science from the moon. Thus, we also need to actively work to protect, in particular, the far side of the moon from radio frequency interference from lunar orbiting satellites and infrastructure on the lunar surface," Burns tells Space.com.</p>

<p>Also Read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/telescope-discovers-ancient-star-threads-shiva-and-shakti-weaving-milky-way-702797">Telescope discovers ancient star threads 'Shiva' and 'Shakti' weaving Milky way</a></p>

<p>Recent lunar missions and newer programmes will bring more and more artificial systems around and on the lunar surface, occupying space and emitting radio waves at various frequencies, Maccone explains.</p>

<p>There are already international regulations and resolutions aimed at protecting any shielded zone on the moon — SZM in lunar lingo — such as International Telecommunication Union (ITU) radio regulations.</p>

<p>"However, it is of paramount importance to take a further step, both to extend the protected frequencies to encompass all other scientifically relevant ones, in addition to those already included, and to preserve a portion of the far side exclusively for scientific installations," Maccone suggests.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Astronomers and space enthusiasts have gathered their force to preserve radio silence on the far side of the moon. With increasing interest in the lunar south pole, moon enthusiasts are concerned that several missions to the moon can disrupt the radio silence on its surface.

Astronomers and space enthusiasts have gathered their force to preserve radio silence on the far side of the moon. With increasing interest in the lunar south pole, moon enthusiasts are concerned that several missions to the moon can disrupt the radio silence on its surface. Moon has a unique ability to naturally shield radio waves generated by chatter on Earth and around it. This phenomenon is called the radio silence zone or shielded zone on the moon. The experts are now concerned that growing scientific interest in the moon’s far side might lead to it getting corrupted by electromagnetic pollution from Earth. Also Read | Pregnant women working in extreme heat are more prone to miscarriage and stillbirth, says new study To tackle the issue and many other concerns related to the moon’s far side, an international symposium is being held this week in Italy, under the auspices of the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA). The first-ever conference raising concerns about the exploration of the lunar south pole is named as IAA Moon Farside Protection Symposium, taking place from Mar 21-22. The aim is to set off a wake-up call that engages the global scientific, political, and industrial community to be aware of a growing list of concerns. Growing scientific interest in Moon’s South Pole comes with plenty of concerns as well The idea to have a conference dedicated to the Moon’s South Pole and factors concerning it was championed by Claudio Maccone of the National Institute for Astrophysics in Italy. In December 2021, the IAA made a new permanent committee devoted to the protection of the moon's far side, chaired by Maccone as the IAA technical director. Maccone and colleagues believe that the moon's far side is a region of paramount scientific interest as it provides an environment free from the electromagnetic pollution typical on Earth. However, the fast pace at which lunar missions are being launched to this region can compromise the current situation of the moon's radio quietness. Also Read | Scientists genetically modify cow to solve insulin shortages for diabetes patients The science on the moon is already taking shape, as per Jack Burns, professor emeritus in the Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences at the University of Colorado, Boulder. "Radio astronomy from the moon has begun," Burns says. NASA's first radio telescope, ROLSES, was recently delivered to the lunar south pole by the Intuitive Machines Odysseus lander, Burns points out. "After many years of anticipation, we are actively doing radio science from the moon. Thus, we also need to actively work to protect, in particular, the far side of the moon from radio frequency interference from lunar orbiting satellites and infrastructure on the lunar surface," Burns tells Space.com. Also Read| Telescope discovers ancient star threads 'Shiva' and 'Shakti' weaving Milky way Recent lunar missions and newer programmes will bring more and more artificial systems around and on the lunar surface, occupying space and emitting radio waves at various frequencies, Maccone explains. There are already international regulations and resolutions aimed at protecting any shielded zone on the moon — SZM in lunar lingo — such as International Telecommunication Union (ITU) radio regulations. "However, it is of paramount importance to take a further step, both to extend the protected frequencies to encompass all other scientifically relevant ones, in addition to those already included, and to preserve a portion of the far side exclusively for scientific installations," Maccone suggests. (With inputs from agencies)

Astronomers call to protect radio silence on Moon's far side amid growing scientific interest in the region

China launched a new relay satellite to provide Earth-Moon communications services. It will act as a communications bridge between ground operations on Earth and an upcoming mission on the far side of the moon.

China launches satellite to probe moon 's hidden side, new lunar signal relay satellites

While Saudi Arabia begins the holy month on March 11th, India will follow a day later due to moon sighting variations. Watch to know more.

Crescent moon spotted in Saudi Arabia, holiest Islamic month to start in India from March 12

Ramadan 2024: In India, Ramadan to begin on March 12

<p>NASA's Europa Clipper mission in October 2024 will&nbsp;embark on a journey to explore Europa, a moon of Jupiter harbouring tantalising evidence of a subsurface ocean. However, beyond its scientific objectives, Europa Clipper will also aim to carry humanity's aspirations into the cosmos through a carefully curated message sealed within the spacecraft's vault.</p>

<p>"The plate combines the best humanity has to offer across the universe – science, technology, education, art, and math," Lori Glaze, director of the Planetary Science Division at NASA Headquarters in Washington reportedly said. "The message of connection through water, essential for all forms of life as we know it, perfectly illustrates Earth’s tie to this mysterious ocean world we are setting out to explore."</p>

<h2><strong>What is the message within Europa Clipper?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A triangular plate in Europa Clipper will bear an array of symbols and inscriptions. Crafted from tantalum, this artifact will embody the spirit of exploration and the quest for understanding.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-james-webb-telescope-finds-exoplanet-with-boiling-ocean-is-it-a-leap-in-habitable-exploration-698270">NASA's James Webb Telescope finds exoplanet with 'boiling ocean'. Is it a leap in habitable exploration?</a></p>

<p>The outward-facing panel will showcase an engraving of US Poet Laureate Ada Limon’s poem "In Praise of Mystery: A Poem for Europa," alongside over 2.6 million names submitted by the public.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, linguists have etched waveforms representing the word "water" spoken in 103 languages, highlighting the universal significance of this vital element.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-a-snake-like-amphibian-that-produces-milk-for-its-young-698014">Scientists discover a snake-like amphibian that produces milk for its young</a></p>

<p>As Europa Clipper is set to venture into the depths of space, it will carry with it the hopes and aspirations of generations.</p>

<p>From Frank Drake's pioneering equation to the visionary efforts of scientists like Ron Greeley, the mission will encapsulate humanity's relentless pursuit of knowledge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Drake Equation was developed by American astronomer Frank Drake in 1961 and is used to estimate the number of active, communicative extraterrestrial civilisations in the Milky Way galaxy.</p>

<p>The equation takes into account various factors such as the rate of star formation, the fraction of stars with planets, the number of planets that could potentially support life, the probability of life emerging on those planets, the likelihood of intelligent life evolving, and the duration for which such civilisations release detectable signals into space.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mystery-of-mh370-families-seek-closure-what-really-happened-to-malaysias-missing-airplane-698265">Mystery of MH370: Families seek closure, what really happened to Malaysia's missing airplane?</a></strong></p>

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<p>"It’s been a decades-long journey, and we can’t wait to see what Europa Clipper shows us at this water world," remarked Project Scientist Robert Pappalardo of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California.</p>

<p>"In 2030, after a 1.6-billion-mile (2.6-billion-kilometer) journey, Europa Clipper will begin orbiting Jupiter, making 49 close flybys of Europa," as per NASA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With its launch scheduled from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Europa Clipper will unveil the mysteries of one of the solar system's most enigmatic moons, igniting our collective imagination and inspiring future generations to explore the cosmos.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


NASA's Europa Clipper mission in October 2024 will embark on a journey to explore Europa, a moon of Jupiter harbouring tantalising evidence of a subsurface ocean.

NASA's Europa Clipper mission in October 2024 will embark on a journey to explore Europa, a moon of Jupiter harbouring tantalising evidence of a subsurface ocean. However, beyond its scientific objectives, Europa Clipper will also aim to carry humanity's aspirations into the cosmos through a carefully curated message sealed within the spacecraft's vault. "The plate combines the best humanity has to offer across the universe – science, technology, education, art, and math," Lori Glaze, director of the Planetary Science Division at NASA Headquarters in Washington reportedly said. "The message of connection through water, essential for all forms of life as we know it, perfectly illustrates Earth’s tie to this mysterious ocean world we are setting out to explore." What is the message within Europa Clipper? A triangular plate in Europa Clipper will bear an array of symbols and inscriptions. Crafted from tantalum, this artifact will embody the spirit of exploration and the quest for understanding. Also Read | NASA's James Webb Telescope finds exoplanet with 'boiling ocean'. Is it a leap in habitable exploration? The outward-facing panel will showcase an engraving of US Poet Laureate Ada Limon’s poem "In Praise of Mystery: A Poem for Europa," alongside over 2.6 million names submitted by the public. Meanwhile, linguists have etched waveforms representing the word "water" spoken in 103 languages, highlighting the universal significance of this vital element. Also Read | Scientists discover a snake-like amphibian that produces milk for its young As Europa Clipper is set to venture into the depths of space, it will carry with it the hopes and aspirations of generations. From Frank Drake's pioneering equation to the visionary efforts of scientists like Ron Greeley, the mission will encapsulate humanity's relentless pursuit of knowledge. The Drake Equation was developed by American astronomer Frank Drake in 1961 and is used to estimate the number of active, communicative extraterrestrial civilisations in the Milky Way galaxy. The equation takes into account various factors such as the rate of star formation, the fraction of stars with planets, the number of planets that could potentially support life, the probability of life emerging on those planets, the likelihood of intelligent life evolving, and the duration for which such civilisations release detectable signals into space. Watch | Mystery of MH370: Families seek closure, what really happened to Malaysia's missing airplane? × "It’s been a decades-long journey, and we can’t wait to see what Europa Clipper shows us at this water world," remarked Project Scientist Robert Pappalardo of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. "In 2030, after a 1.6-billion-mile (2.6-billion-kilometer) journey, Europa Clipper will begin orbiting Jupiter, making 49 close flybys of Europa," as per NASA. With its launch scheduled from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Europa Clipper will unveil the mysteries of one of the solar system's most enigmatic moons, igniting our collective imagination and inspiring future generations to explore the cosmos. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA's Europa Clipper mission to send humanity's message to one of Jupiter's largest moons

Russia and China are "seriously considering" constructing a nuclear power plant on the surface of the moon by 2035, according to the head of Russia's space agency, Roskosmos. Watch to know more!

China & Russia team up for Moon base nuclear energy

China is planning to install chilling all-seeing surveillance on the moon to spy on its citizens and protect its forthcoming lunar base. Watch in for more details!

China plans to install ‘all-seeing’ Skynet CCTV on the Moon

Russia and China have been considering plans to deliver and install a shared nuclear power plant on a settlement built by robots on the surface of the moon. Head of Russia’s space agency, Roscosmos, announced on Tuesday that Russia and China are considering setting up a nuclear power plant on the moon from 2033-35.

Russia and China team up for nuclear power station on moon

Russia and China planning joint nuclear power plant on moon

Russia and China are "seriously considering" constructing a nuclear power plant on the surface of the moon by 2035, according to the head of Russia's space agency, Roskosmos.

Moscow, Beijing planning joint nuclear plant on the moon

<p>In a significant development in the modern lunar exploration race, Russia and China are jointly pursuing plans to establish a nuclear power plant on the moon's surface. The&nbsp;project, slated between 2033 and 2035, signifies a groundbreaking collaboration between the two nations in advancing lunar habitation and exploration.</p>

<p>Yuri Borisov, the head of Russia's space agency Roscosmos, unveiled this initiative, highlighting the strategic partnership between Russia and China in space exploration.</p>

<p>With a background as a former deputy defence minister, Borisov stressed on&nbsp;Russia's expertise in "nuclear space energy" as a crucial aspect of this collaborative lunar programme, aiming for sustainable lunar settlements.</p>

<h2><strong>Addressing energy challenges</strong></h2>

<p>Borisov stressed on&nbsp;the necessity of overcoming the limitations of solar panels, citing their inadequacy in meeting the electricity demands of future lunar settlements. Instead, the deployment of nuclear power emerges as a promising solution to fuel these extraterrestrial habitats, ensuring continuous and reliable energy supply.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/james-webb-space-telescope-sets-sights-on-these-cosmic-marvels-until-mid-2025-697163">Also read |&nbsp;James Webb Space Telescope sets sights on THESE cosmic marvels until mid-2025</a></p>

<p>Acknowledging the complexities involved in establishing a power unit on the lunar surface, Borisov highlighted the importance of automating the process to mitigate risks associated with human presence during the initial stages.</p>

<p>In addition to the lunar power plant, Borisov discussed Russia's plans for developing a nuclear-powered cargo spaceship, referred to as a "space tugboat." This&nbsp;vessel, equipped with a nuclear reactor and high-power turbines, aims to facilitate large cargo transportation between orbits and address various critical space missions.</p>

<p>Despite technical progress, challenges such as cooling the nuclear reactor remain unresolved. Russia's lunar endeavours have faced setbacks, including mission failures, but Moscow remains resolute in its commitment to further lunar exploration, including joint missions with China and aspirations for a lunar base.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;China plans to install ‘all-seeing’ Skynet CCTV on the Moon</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-plans-to-install-all-seeing-skynet-cctv-on-the-moon-697086/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>China's parallel efforts, including plans to send the first Chinese astronaut to the moon by 2030, underscore the competitive yet collaborative nature of the lunar exploration race. Amid international concerns over space militarisation, Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed&nbsp;US warnings about deploying nuclear weapons in space, signalling ongoing geopolitical dynamics in space exploration.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a significant development in the modern lunar exploration race, Russia and China are jointly pursuing plans to establish a nuclear power plant on the moon's surface.

In a significant development in the modern lunar exploration race, Russia and China are jointly pursuing plans to establish a nuclear power plant on the moon's surface. The project, slated between 2033 and 2035, signifies a groundbreaking collaboration between the two nations in advancing lunar habitation and exploration. Yuri Borisov, the head of Russia's space agency Roscosmos, unveiled this initiative, highlighting the strategic partnership between Russia and China in space exploration. With a background as a former deputy defence minister, Borisov stressed on Russia's expertise in "nuclear space energy" as a crucial aspect of this collaborative lunar programme, aiming for sustainable lunar settlements. Addressing energy challenges Borisov stressed on the necessity of overcoming the limitations of solar panels, citing their inadequacy in meeting the electricity demands of future lunar settlements. Instead, the deployment of nuclear power emerges as a promising solution to fuel these extraterrestrial habitats, ensuring continuous and reliable energy supply. Also read | James Webb Space Telescope sets sights on THESE cosmic marvels until mid-2025 Acknowledging the complexities involved in establishing a power unit on the lunar surface, Borisov highlighted the importance of automating the process to mitigate risks associated with human presence during the initial stages. In addition to the lunar power plant, Borisov discussed Russia's plans for developing a nuclear-powered cargo spaceship, referred to as a "space tugboat." This vessel, equipped with a nuclear reactor and high-power turbines, aims to facilitate large cargo transportation between orbits and address various critical space missions. Despite technical progress, challenges such as cooling the nuclear reactor remain unresolved. Russia's lunar endeavours have faced setbacks, including mission failures, but Moscow remains resolute in its commitment to further lunar exploration, including joint missions with China and aspirations for a lunar base. Also watch | China plans to install ‘all-seeing’ Skynet CCTV on the Moon China's parallel efforts, including plans to send the first Chinese astronaut to the moon by 2030, underscore the competitive yet collaborative nature of the lunar exploration race. Amid international concerns over space militarisation, Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed US warnings about deploying nuclear weapons in space, signalling ongoing geopolitical dynamics in space exploration. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia, China plan to build joint nuclear power plant on moon by 2035

Russia, China consider setting up joint power plant on the moon

China has revealed a surveillance system for its upcoming lunar research station. It is inspired by its national surveillance system Skynet, which comprises 600 million cameras in every nook and cranny of China.

Gravitas | All about China's 'Skynet 2.0' | China takes surveillance to the moon

<p>The icy moon of planet Jupiter, Europa, has been producing 1,000 tonnes of oxygen every 24 hours which is sufficient to keep one million humans breathing, as per the data collected by the Juno spacecraft, which is orbiting the planet.</p>

<p>The new findings, however, have proven that in reality Europa produces less amount of oxygen than was previously believed.</p>

<p>The new study was published in Nature Astronomy with the use of data collected by Juno's Jovian Auroral Distributions Experiment (JADE) instrument which measures the amount of hydrogen that has out gassed the surface of the icy moon.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-is-round-but-jupiter-was-once-most-likely-flat-scientists-690573">Earth is round, but Jupiter was once most likely flat: Scientists</a></p>

<p>According to the study, every second 12kg of oxygen is being produced at Europa. It was previously estimated to be as much as 1,000kg every second.</p>

<h2><strong>Is Europa's subsurface ocean a habitable place?</strong></h2>

<p>However, according to some planetary scientists, some of the oxygen produced on Jupiter's moon is entering Europa's subsurface ocean and the icy moon has been one of the most suitable places to hunt for habitable conditions beyond Earth in the Solar System.</p>

<p>“Europa is like an ice ball slowly losing its water in a flowing stream. Except, in this case, the stream is a fluid of ionised particles swept around Jupiter by its extraordinary magnetic field. When these ionized particles impact Europa, they break up the water-ice molecule by molecule on the surface to produce hydrogen and oxygen. In a way, the entire ice shell is being continuously eroded by waves of charged particles washing up upon it,” said Jamey Szalay from Princeton University, while speaking to NASA.</p>

<p>Juno spacecraft measured the hydrogen while flying overhead on September 29, 2022. It was 354 kilometres above Europa as JADE started recording data.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Russia's new secret weapon for space war</strong></p>

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<p>The spacecraft took measurements of hydrogen and oxygen ions which had been created by bombarding charged particles and then “picked up” by the magnetic field of Jupiter.</p>

<p>“Our ability to fly close to the Galilean satellites during our extended mission allowed us to start tackling a breadth of science, including some unique opportunities to contribute to the investigation of Europa’s habitability. And we’re not done yet. More moon flybys and the first exploration of Jupiter’s close ring and polar atmosphere are yet to come,” said Scott Bolton, Juno’s principal investigator.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The icy moon of planet Jupiter, Europa, has been producing 1,000 tonnes of oxygen every 24 hours which is sufficient to keep one million humans breathing, as per the data collected by the Juno spacecraft, which is orbiting the planet.

The icy moon of planet Jupiter, Europa, has been producing 1,000 tonnes of oxygen every 24 hours which is sufficient to keep one million humans breathing, as per the data collected by the Juno spacecraft, which is orbiting the planet. The new findings, however, have proven that in reality Europa produces less amount of oxygen than was previously believed. The new study was published in Nature Astronomy with the use of data collected by Juno's Jovian Auroral Distributions Experiment (JADE) instrument which measures the amount of hydrogen that has out gassed the surface of the icy moon. Also Read: Earth is round, but Jupiter was once most likely flat: Scientists According to the study, every second 12kg of oxygen is being produced at Europa. It was previously estimated to be as much as 1,000kg every second. Is Europa's subsurface ocean a habitable place? However, according to some planetary scientists, some of the oxygen produced on Jupiter's moon is entering Europa's subsurface ocean and the icy moon has been one of the most suitable places to hunt for habitable conditions beyond Earth in the Solar System. “Europa is like an ice ball slowly losing its water in a flowing stream. Except, in this case, the stream is a fluid of ionised particles swept around Jupiter by its extraordinary magnetic field. When these ionized particles impact Europa, they break up the water-ice molecule by molecule on the surface to produce hydrogen and oxygen. In a way, the entire ice shell is being continuously eroded by waves of charged particles washing up upon it,” said Jamey Szalay from Princeton University, while speaking to NASA. Juno spacecraft measured the hydrogen while flying overhead on September 29, 2022. It was 354 kilometres above Europa as JADE started recording data. Watch: Gravitas: Russia's new secret weapon for space war The spacecraft took measurements of hydrogen and oxygen ions which had been created by bombarding charged particles and then “picked up” by the magnetic field of Jupiter. “Our ability to fly close to the Galilean satellites during our extended mission allowed us to start tackling a breadth of science, including some unique opportunities to contribute to the investigation of Europa’s habitability. And we’re not done yet. More moon flybys and the first exploration of Jupiter’s close ring and polar atmosphere are yet to come,” said Scott Bolton, Juno’s principal investigator. (With inputs from agencies)

Jupiter’s moon Europa produces enough oxygen for one million humans to breathe every day: Study

<p>China has been planning to set up an all-seeing surveillance system on the moon in the wake of the success of the massive video surveillance network of the country, known as Skynet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Chinese officials, the new system will strengthen the security of the upcoming lunar base, will secure assets and track foreign visitors to the moon.</p>

<p>The agencies, planning the project, said that the lessons learnt from Skynet will help them build and operate the optical surveillance system for the lunar research station of China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Skynet or Tianwang is the largest video surveillance network in the world, which includes more than 600 million cameras. In this system, one camera monitors every two adult Chinese citizens and virtually covers every corner of the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-raise-defence-spending-as-beijing-adopts-tougher-language-against-taiwan-696740">China to raise defence spending as Beijing adopts tougher language against Taiwan</a></p>

<p>“The construction and operation of the optical surveillance system for the (International) Lunar Research Station can draw on the successful experience … of China’s Skynet project,” said the Lunar Exploration and Space Engineering Centre of the China National Space Administration (CNSA), in a paper published in the Chinese academic journal Acta Optica Sinica on February 22.</p>

<p>The co-authoring organisations like the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang University and the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation are the main agencies which manage and execute the lunar programme of China and play an important role in establishing technical standards.</p>

<h2><strong>All about the lunar version of Skynet</strong></h2>

<p>The lunar version of China's Skynet will include a large number of high-performance security cameras that operate in infrared zones or visible light.</p>

<p>These cameras, which generally weigh only 100 grammes (3½ oz) each, will be fitted with AI-driven chips “capable of identifying, locating, tracking and aiming at suspicious targets independently”, as per the paper.</p>

<p>It said that if “abnormalities” get detected in the system, it will “promptly generate alarm signals and initiate appropriate response measures”. The paper did not mention what kind of measures will be adopted.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;China raises defence spending by 7.1 percent, to improve childbirth policies</strong></p>

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<p>The cameras, in batches, will land on the moon and will get automatically connected with each other to ensure seamless coverage of the station area, as per the paper.</p>

<p>The proposed lunar research station, which has a radius of more than 6km (3.7 miles), is a large complex and will house a communication hub, power station, command centre, scientific facilities and a group of robots.</p>

<p>The station will have its own satellites for navigation, remote sensing and communication.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


China has been planning to set up an all-seeing surveillance system on the moon in the wake of the success of the massive video surveillance network of the country, known as Skynet.

China has been planning to set up an all-seeing surveillance system on the moon in the wake of the success of the massive video surveillance network of the country, known as Skynet. According to Chinese officials, the new system will strengthen the security of the upcoming lunar base, will secure assets and track foreign visitors to the moon. The agencies, planning the project, said that the lessons learnt from Skynet will help them build and operate the optical surveillance system for the lunar research station of China. Skynet or Tianwang is the largest video surveillance network in the world, which includes more than 600 million cameras. In this system, one camera monitors every two adult Chinese citizens and virtually covers every corner of the country. Also Read: China to raise defence spending as Beijing adopts tougher language against Taiwan “The construction and operation of the optical surveillance system for the (International) Lunar Research Station can draw on the successful experience … of China’s Skynet project,” said the Lunar Exploration and Space Engineering Centre of the China National Space Administration (CNSA), in a paper published in the Chinese academic journal Acta Optica Sinica on February 22. The co-authoring organisations like the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang University and the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation are the main agencies which manage and execute the lunar programme of China and play an important role in establishing technical standards. All about the lunar version of Skynet The lunar version of China's Skynet will include a large number of high-performance security cameras that operate in infrared zones or visible light. These cameras, which generally weigh only 100 grammes (3½ oz) each, will be fitted with AI-driven chips “capable of identifying, locating, tracking and aiming at suspicious targets independently”, as per the paper. It said that if “abnormalities” get detected in the system, it will “promptly generate alarm signals and initiate appropriate response measures”. The paper did not mention what kind of measures will be adopted. Watch: China raises defence spending by 7.1 percent, to improve childbirth policies The cameras, in batches, will land on the moon and will get automatically connected with each other to ensure seamless coverage of the station area, as per the paper. The proposed lunar research station, which has a radius of more than 6km (3.7 miles), is a large complex and will house a communication hub, power station, command centre, scientific facilities and a group of robots. The station will have its own satellites for navigation, remote sensing and communication. (With inputs from agencies)

China plans ‘all-seeing’ surveillance camera network on moon to secure its lunar base

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