NASA has successfully tracked GPS signals on the Moon for the first time, marking a major breakthrough in lunar navigation. This achievement could revolutionize space travel, enabling precise positioning for future lunar missions and beyond. How will this impact space exploration?

New technology: NASA tracks GPS signals on the Moon for the first time

NASA achieves breakthrough: GPS signals successfully tracked on the Moon

Europe&rsquo;s Ariane 6 commercial launch has been postponed for the second time due to an anomaly detected on the ground, French aerospace company Arianespace announced on Monday. The mission was set to take off from the Kourou spaceport in French Guiana but was called off minutes before launch. Arianespace CEO David Cavailloles confirmed that the decision to delay the launch was necessary and that it would not take place on the scheduled day.
The first commercial flight of Ariane 6 was initially scheduled for 26 February but was delayed due to a previous anomaly. Arianespace has not provided a revised launch date.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/thermonuclear-blast-a-star-is-about-to-explode-in-deep-space-and-it-will-be-visible-from-earth-8774338">'Thermonuclear blast': A star is about to explode in deep space and it will be visible from Earth</a>
<h2>CSO-3 Satellite</h2>
The mission aims to deploy the CSO-3 satellite, developed for the French Defence Procurement and Technology Agency (DGA) and the French space agency CNES, on behalf of the French Air and Space Force&rsquo;s Space Command (CDE). The satellite is part of the Optical Space Component (CSO) programme, which enhances France&rsquo;s defence and reconnaissance capabilities.
Ariane 6 is Europe&rsquo;s next-generation heavy-lift launcher, designed to succeed the Ariane 5 rocket. It comes in two configurations: Ariane 62, equipped with two boosters, and Ariane 64, with four boosters for higher payload capacity.
The Ariane 62 version was set to carry the CSO-3 satellite into a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of approximately 800 km. The satellite was expected to separate from the rocket around an hour and six minutes after launch. The CSO-3 satellite is the third and final component of the CSO constellation, joining CSO-1, launched in December 2018, and CSO-2, launched in December 2020.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/36-billion-suns-inside-nasas-hubble-telescope-discovers-one-of-the-largest-black-hole-hiding-inside-an-einstein-ring-8773922">'36 billion suns inside': NASA's Hubble Telescope discovers one of the largest black hole hiding inside an Einstein Ring</a>
The satellites are supposed to be positioned in different sun-synchronous orbits to perform distinct roles: CSO-1 and CSO-3 focus on reconnaissance, covering operational theatres, and providing revisit capability, while CSO-2 is dedicated to high-resolution imaging and analysis. The constellation is designed to support the Multinational Space-based Imaging System (MUSIS), an initiative led by the DGA.&nbsp;
The CSO satellites are built by Airbus Defence and Space, with Thales Alenia Space supplying the very high-resolution optical imaging instrument. Each satellite has an expected operational lifespan of ten years. Arianespace has been working closely with CNES and the French military to ensure the successful deployment of the CSO-3 satellite, but further technical evaluations will now be required before a new launch date is confirmed.

Science: ESA's Ariane 6 mission was set to take off from the Kourou spaceport in French Guiana but was called off minutes before launch due to a ground system anomaly.

Europe’s Ariane 6 commercial launch has been postponed for the second time due to an anomaly detected on the ground, French aerospace company Arianespace announced on Monday. The mission was set to take off from the Kourou spaceport in French Guiana but was called off minutes before launch. Arianespace CEO David Cavailloles confirmed that the decision to delay the launch was necessary and that it would not take place on the scheduled day. The first commercial flight of Ariane 6 was initially scheduled for 26 February but was delayed due to a previous anomaly. Arianespace has not provided a revised launch date. Also read: 'Thermonuclear blast': A star is about to explode in deep space and it will be visible from Earth CSO-3 Satellite The mission aims to deploy the CSO-3 satellite, developed for the French Defence Procurement and Technology Agency (DGA) and the French space agency CNES, on behalf of the French Air and Space Force’s Space Command (CDE). The satellite is part of the Optical Space Component (CSO) programme, which enhances France’s defence and reconnaissance capabilities. Ariane 6 is Europe’s next-generation heavy-lift launcher, designed to succeed the Ariane 5 rocket. It comes in two configurations: Ariane 62, equipped with two boosters, and Ariane 64, with four boosters for higher payload capacity. The Ariane 62 version was set to carry the CSO-3 satellite into a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of approximately 800 km. The satellite was expected to separate from the rocket around an hour and six minutes after launch. The CSO-3 satellite is the third and final component of the CSO constellation, joining CSO-1, launched in December 2018, and CSO-2, launched in December 2020. Also read: '36 billion suns inside': NASA's Hubble Telescope discovers one of the largest black hole hiding inside an Einstein Ring The satellites are supposed to be positioned in different sun-synchronous orbits to perform distinct roles: CSO-1 and CSO-3 focus on reconnaissance, covering operational theatres, and providing revisit capability, while CSO-2 is dedicated to high-resolution imaging and analysis. The constellation is designed to support the Multinational Space-based Imaging System (MUSIS), an initiative led by the DGA. The CSO satellites are built by Airbus Defence and Space, with Thales Alenia Space supplying the very high-resolution optical imaging instrument. Each satellite has an expected operational lifespan of ten years. Arianespace has been working closely with CNES and the French military to ensure the successful deployment of the CSO-3 satellite, but further technical evaluations will now be required before a new launch date is confirmed.

ESA's Ariane 6 launch delayed again due to ground system anomaly

US-based firm Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost scripts history becomes the second private moon lander to make a soft-landing on the lunar surface. The company was carrying science and technology equipment to the lunar surface as part of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/nasa" rel="dofollow">NASA</a>&rsquo;s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program. As the touchdown was complete the craft captured first images from Mare Crisium, a unique landing site.
"Would you look at that view! #BlueGhost captured its first image on the Moon that embodies everything this bold, unstoppable Firefly team has worked so hard for over the last 3+ years. And we&rsquo;re just getting started!," a tweet by the US firm revealed
According to the company's website, Blue Ghost is tasked to supply data, power and thermal resources for payload missions for around 2 months.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Would you look at that view! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlueGhost?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlueGhost</a> captured its first image on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/moon" rel="dofollow">Moon </a>that embodies everything this bold, unstoppable Firefly team has worked so hard for over the last 3+ years. And we&rsquo;re just getting started! Find out what's next for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BGM1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BGM1</a> <a href="https://t.co/oEJhJu7KHx">https://t.co/oEJhJu7KHx</a> <a href="https://t.co/NsdljgQOpu">pic.twitter.com/NsdljgQOpu</a>
&mdash; Firefly Aerospace (@Firefly_Space) <a href="https://twitter.com/Firefly_Space/status/1896127381670367703?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/25-million-light-years-away-nasas-hubble-space-telescope-discovers-36-dwarf-galaxies-inside-andromeda-8768230">'2.5 million light-years away': NASA's Hubble Space Telescope discovers 36 dwarf galaxies orbiting Andromeda</a>
<h2>Why is the landing site unique?</h2>
The landing site, Mare Crisium, was created after being impacted by an asteroid. 3 billion years ago, it was created by volcanic eruptions that flooded the basin with basaltic lava. This unique site will help 'gather critical data about the moon&rsquo;s regolith, geophysical characteristics, and the interaction of solar wind and Earth&rsquo;s magnetic field.'
<h2>1st private spacecraft to land on moon</h2>
The first private spacecraft to make a successful landing on the moon was Intuitive Machines' Odysseus. The landing took place on February 22, but the craft landed on the slop of a crater which later led to its collapse. Some landing gear was damaged and ultimately toppled, making it a short-lived mission.
They are currently working on another mission that is to land Athena, another spacecraft on the southern <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lunar" rel="dofollow">lunar </a>surface. The mission announcement could come in less than a week's time.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/game-changer-nasa-to-launch-spherex-telescope-on-march-4-8771144">'Game changer': NASA to launch SPHEREx Telescope on March 4</a>
<h2>About the team</h2>
Over 700 employees of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/us" rel="dofollow">US</a>-based firm FireFly worked relentlessly to make this feat a success. The company highlighted, 'These Ghost Riders are forging a highway to the Moon by enabling regular lunar access, advancing lunar research, and laying the groundwork for humans to have a lasting lunar presence.'&nbsp;

US-based firm Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost scripts history becomes the second private moon lander to make a soft-landing on the lunar surface. Science & Tech, Trending

US-based firm Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost scripts history becomes the second private moon lander to make a soft-landing on the lunar surface. The company was carrying science and technology equipment to the lunar surface as part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program. As the touchdown was complete the craft captured first images from Mare Crisium, a unique landing site. "Would you look at that view! #BlueGhost captured its first image on the Moon that embodies everything this bold, unstoppable Firefly team has worked so hard for over the last 3+ years. And we’re just getting started!," a tweet by the US firm revealed According to the company's website, Blue Ghost is tasked to supply data, power and thermal resources for payload missions for around 2 months. Would you look at that view! #BlueGhost captured its first image on the Moon that embodies everything this bold, unstoppable Firefly team has worked so hard for over the last 3+ years. And we’re just getting started! Find out what's next for #BGM1 https://t.co/oEJhJu7KHx pic.twitter.com/NsdljgQOpu — Firefly Aerospace (@Firefly_Space) March 2, 2025 Also Read: '2.5 million light-years away': NASA's Hubble Space Telescope discovers 36 dwarf galaxies orbiting Andromeda Why is the landing site unique? The landing site, Mare Crisium, was created after being impacted by an asteroid. 3 billion years ago, it was created by volcanic eruptions that flooded the basin with basaltic lava. This unique site will help 'gather critical data about the moon’s regolith, geophysical characteristics, and the interaction of solar wind and Earth’s magnetic field.' 1st private spacecraft to land on moon The first private spacecraft to make a successful landing on the moon was Intuitive Machines' Odysseus. The landing took place on February 22, but the craft landed on the slop of a crater which later led to its collapse. Some landing gear was damaged and ultimately toppled, making it a short-lived mission. They are currently working on another mission that is to land Athena, another spacecraft on the southern lunar surface. The mission announcement could come in less than a week's time. Also Read: 'Game changer': NASA to launch SPHEREx Telescope on March 4 About the team Over 700 employees of the US-based firm FireFly worked relentlessly to make this feat a success. The company highlighted, 'These Ghost Riders are forging a highway to the Moon by enabling regular lunar access, advancing lunar research, and laying the groundwork for humans to have a lasting lunar presence.'

Blue Ghost Landing: US firm's spacecraft second private lander on moon. Check out which was first

Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost lunar lander has captured breathtaking images of the Moon, showcasing massive craters and detailed lunar terrain. Launched on January 15, the lander is heading toward Mare Crisium, offering a rare glimpse of Earth's closest celestial neighbor. Watch these incredible images from space.

Blue Ghost lander sends stunning close-ups of the Moon

The latest scientific findings by NASA suggest that the chances of an asteroid collision have increased for the third time, raising concerns. How worried should we be? What happens if the asteroid is indeed on a collision course, and is there any hope for us? These are the pressing questions on many minds as experts work to assess the risks and potential responses.

NASA increases collision chances, experts assure: no need for panic

A new study says ---

The snow cover on Mount Everest snow cover has retreated by a huge 490 feet in one and a half months...

NASA’s satellite images point to a long-term shift in snowfall patterns.

'sublimation' shifts snowline on Mount Everest

America's Artemis moon mission faces growing uncertainty as reports suggest Trump’s potential return to power and Musk’s influence could shift NASA’s focus toward Mars instead of the Moon. Originally designed to establish a long-term human presence on the Moon, Artemis has already faced delays and cost overruns. Is the Moon mission being sidelined for Mars colonization dreams?

Trump and Musk’s space vision: Mars over Moon mission?

NASA might take on a different route under President Donald Trump. This is if his pick for chief of the space agency, Jared Isaacman, is confirmed as the new NASA administrator, Gizmodo reported. The businessman touted to take over the space agency reportedly has plans to shove aside the grand moon mission, Artemis, and focus on landing humans on Mars.
Isaacman shared a post on social media on February 16, hinting at the change of plans.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/nasa-bumps-up-probability-of-city-killer-asteroid-2024-yr4-slamming-into-our-planet-earth-in-8-years-8735944" rel="dofollow"> NASA bumps up probability of 'city killer' asteroid 2024-YR4 slamming into our planet Earth in 8 years</a>
He retweeted a photo of Mars and wrote that a photo such as this makes him feel &ldquo;energised about the future.&rdquo; He further talked about how massive an accomplishment landing humans on another planet is.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7d4oc9b-t5vn08jp-g9tz8qck">
When I see a picture like this, it is impossible not to feel energized about the future. I think it is so important for people to understand the profound implications of sending humans to another planet: - We will develop groundbreaking technologies in propulsion, habitability,&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/vEG2KHU3eS">https://t.co/vEG2KHU3eS</a>
&mdash; Jared Isaacman (@rookisaacman) <a href="https://twitter.com/rookisaacman/status/1891148876046102896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Artemis mission</h2>
The Artemis programme has been beset with uncertainties amid delays. The second Artemis programme was supposed to take off in November 2024, however, it has been delayed by over a year now.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/meteoroid-impact-on-mars-produces-seismic-signals-quakes-go-deeper-than-expected-8717335" rel="dofollow">Meteoroid impact on Mars produces seismic signals, quakes go deeper than expected</a>
The NASA mission will fly astronauts aboard the SLS (Space Launch System) rocket and Orion spacecraft around the moon. It aims to know whether all systems work well in deep space with a spacecraft carrying humans aboard. This will further pave the way to land people on the moon once again since the historic Apollo missions.
Reports suggest that the delay and revision in the Artemis programme is pushing Boeing, a major NASA contractor, to lay off hundreds of employees from its space division.&nbsp;
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasas-artemis-moon-mission-delayed-new-schedule-set-for-2026-and-2027-782004" rel="dofollow">NASA's Artemis Moon Mission delayed, new schedule set for 2026 and 2027</a>
<h2>Trump, Musk, Isaacman and Mars</h2>
Meanwhile, Trump also mentioned that his administration will aim to plant a flag on the red planet, without so much as talking about the moon. Landing people on Mars is also a dream shared by DOGE chief Elon Musk. He plans on using the Starship built by his company SpaceX to send humans to the red planet.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Isaacman was also a part of the Polaris mission spearheaded by Musk's company SpaceX in collaboration with Isaacman. He carried out the&nbsp;first-ever spacewalk by non-professional astronauts.&nbsp;
The delays in the Artemis mission coupled with Isaacman's plans and Musk's proximity to Trump, hint at the likelihood that Mars will become the focus of attention for NASA under the new president.&nbsp;
Isaacman does mention in his post that they will aim to "develop groundbreaking technologies" to unlock "mission optionality from the Moon to Mars and beyond." However, his main focus seems to be landing people on "another planet" as he ended his post by saying that "landing American astronauts on another planet&mdash;will inspire generations of dreamers".
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/nasas-curiosity-rover-captures-colorful-clouds-on-mars-watch-8714488" rel="dofollow">'Cloudgazing on Mars': NASA's Curiosity rover captures colourful clouds on Mars - WATCH</a>
NASA has for years been talking about making the moon the point from where missions to Mars can be launched. However, Musk has called the Artemis missions a distraction, and believes that the best approach is to tackle Mars directly. Given his current position in the Trump administration, he is likely to have a major influence on how NASA works in the coming years.
During the Space Force Association&rsquo;s Spacepower Conference on December 11, Isaacman stressed the role of the United States in putting humans on the Moon and Mars. He added that the ventures can &ldquo;shift the entire balance of power here on Earth.&rdquo;
&nbsp;

Jared Isaacman, Trump's pick for NASA chief, is expected to focus on sending humans to Mars rather than landing them on the moon, the sole aim of the Artemis programme.

NASA might take on a different route under President Donald Trump. This is if his pick for chief of the space agency, Jared Isaacman, is confirmed as the new NASA administrator, Gizmodo reported. The businessman touted to take over the space agency reportedly has plans to shove aside the grand moon mission, Artemis, and focus on landing humans on Mars. Isaacman shared a post on social media on February 16, hinting at the change of plans. Also Read: NASA bumps up probability of 'city killer' asteroid 2024-YR4 slamming into our planet Earth in 8 years He retweeted a photo of Mars and wrote that a photo such as this makes him feel “energised about the future.” He further talked about how massive an accomplishment landing humans on another planet is. When I see a picture like this, it is impossible not to feel energized about the future. I think it is so important for people to understand the profound implications of sending humans to another planet: - We will develop groundbreaking technologies in propulsion, habitability,… https://t.co/vEG2KHU3eS — Jared Isaacman (@rookisaacman) February 16, 2025 Artemis mission The Artemis programme has been beset with uncertainties amid delays. The second Artemis programme was supposed to take off in November 2024, however, it has been delayed by over a year now. Also Read: Meteoroid impact on Mars produces seismic signals, quakes go deeper than expected The NASA mission will fly astronauts aboard the SLS (Space Launch System) rocket and Orion spacecraft around the moon. It aims to know whether all systems work well in deep space with a spacecraft carrying humans aboard. This will further pave the way to land people on the moon once again since the historic Apollo missions. Reports suggest that the delay and revision in the Artemis programme is pushing Boeing, a major NASA contractor, to lay off hundreds of employees from its space division. Also Read: NASA's Artemis Moon Mission delayed, new schedule set for 2026 and 2027 Trump, Musk, Isaacman and Mars Meanwhile, Trump also mentioned that his administration will aim to plant a flag on the red planet, without so much as talking about the moon. Landing people on Mars is also a dream shared by DOGE chief Elon Musk. He plans on using the Starship built by his company SpaceX to send humans to the red planet. Meanwhile, Isaacman was also a part of the Polaris mission spearheaded by Musk's company SpaceX in collaboration with Isaacman. He carried out the first-ever spacewalk by non-professional astronauts. The delays in the Artemis mission coupled with Isaacman's plans and Musk's proximity to Trump, hint at the likelihood that Mars will become the focus of attention for NASA under the new president. Isaacman does mention in his post that they will aim to "develop groundbreaking technologies" to unlock "mission optionality from the Moon to Mars and beyond." However, his main focus seems to be landing people on "another planet" as he ended his post by saying that "landing American astronauts on another planet—will inspire generations of dreamers". Also Read: 'Cloudgazing on Mars': NASA's Curiosity rover captures colourful clouds on Mars - WATCH NASA has for years been talking about making the moon the point from where missions to Mars can be launched. However, Musk has called the Artemis missions a distraction, and believes that the best approach is to tackle Mars directly. Given his current position in the Trump administration, he is likely to have a major influence on how NASA works in the coming years. During the Space Force Association’s Spacepower Conference on December 11, Isaacman stressed the role of the United States in putting humans on the Moon and Mars. He added that the ventures can “shift the entire balance of power here on Earth.”

Mars in, moon out? NASA might go a different route under Isaacman

City-Killer asteroid: Earth faces a growing threat

An asteroid could potentially collide with Earth eight years from now, as its orbit around the sun briefly intersects the path of our planet. Watch this report for more details!

Scientists issue stark warning about asteroid moving toward earth

Astronomers have identified the nearest known Einstein ring, a rare gravitational lensing phenomenon where light from a distant galaxy is bent by the gravitational field of a closer galaxy. Initially thought to be a single galaxy, the object was first observed more than a century ago but has now been confirmed as a gravitational lens.
Such galactic lenses were predicted by Albert Einstein in 1936 as part of his general theory of relativity. At the time, he believed they would be too difficult to observe. However, with modern telescopes, such phenomena can now be detected. &ldquo;It was there all along, but we had no idea,&rdquo; said Thomas Collett from the University of Portsmouth, UK.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/cinematic-voyage-of-space-why-interstellar-in-imax-is-a-must-watch-8704787">&lsquo;Cinematic voyage of space&rsquo;: Why Interstellar in IMAX is a must-watch</a>
The Einstein ring was discovered when Collett and his team studied NGC 6505, an oval-shaped galaxy located around 600 million light-years from Earth. The galaxy, first documented in 1884, was found to be bending the light from a second galaxy approximately 6 billion light-years away.
<img src="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/10103031/SEI_239324054.jpg?width=1600" alt="My alt text" style="width: 1350px;">
The discovery was made using data from the European Space Agency&rsquo;s Euclid telescope, which is surveying billions of galaxies across a third of the night sky. Team member Bruno Altieri noticed the Einstein ring while validating early test data. &ldquo;There was this abundantly obvious Einstein ring. There are not many things in the universe that can produce a ring like this,&rdquo; Collett said.
The ring appears exceptionally bright compared to other known Einstein rings. Its relative proximity to Earth and the imaging capabilities of Euclid make it easier to distinguish the four images of the distant galaxy. The faint orange glow surrounding the ring represents the lensing galaxy.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/runs-on-radiation-this-tiny-cosmic-object-will-travel-through-interstellar-space-at-astonishing-speeds-8708156">'Runs on radiation': This tiny cosmic object will travel through interstellar space at astonishing speeds</a>
<h2>Theory of Relativity&nbsp;</h2>
This discovery provides an opportunity to test Einstein&rsquo;s theory of general relativity. Researchers can measure the mass of the lensing galaxy in two ways&mdash;by analysing how the light bends and by observing the velocity of its stars. Einstein&rsquo;s theory predicts these values should be the same, so any discrepancy could indicate a need to modify existing gravitational models.
When the team calculated the mass of the lensing galaxy, they found it to be slightly higher than expected based on the estimated number of stars it contains. This discrepancy may be due to dark matter clustering at the galaxy&rsquo;s centre, according to Fr&eacute;d&eacute;ric Dux from the European Southern Observatory. However, further observations of similar lenses will be required to confirm this hypothesis.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

SCIENCE & TECH: Such galactic lenses were predicted by Albert Einstein in 1936 as part of his general theory of relativity. Initially thought to be a single galaxy, the object was first observed more than a century ago.

Astronomers have identified the nearest known Einstein ring, a rare gravitational lensing phenomenon where light from a distant galaxy is bent by the gravitational field of a closer galaxy. Initially thought to be a single galaxy, the object was first observed more than a century ago but has now been confirmed as a gravitational lens. Such galactic lenses were predicted by Albert Einstein in 1936 as part of his general theory of relativity. At the time, he believed they would be too difficult to observe. However, with modern telescopes, such phenomena can now be detected. “It was there all along, but we had no idea,” said Thomas Collett from the University of Portsmouth, UK. Also read: ‘Cinematic voyage of space’: Why Interstellar in IMAX is a must-watch The Einstein ring was discovered when Collett and his team studied NGC 6505, an oval-shaped galaxy located around 600 million light-years from Earth. The galaxy, first documented in 1884, was found to be bending the light from a second galaxy approximately 6 billion light-years away. The discovery was made using data from the European Space Agency’s Euclid telescope, which is surveying billions of galaxies across a third of the night sky. Team member Bruno Altieri noticed the Einstein ring while validating early test data. “There was this abundantly obvious Einstein ring. There are not many things in the universe that can produce a ring like this,” Collett said. The ring appears exceptionally bright compared to other known Einstein rings. Its relative proximity to Earth and the imaging capabilities of Euclid make it easier to distinguish the four images of the distant galaxy. The faint orange glow surrounding the ring represents the lensing galaxy. Also read: 'Runs on radiation': This tiny cosmic object will travel through interstellar space at astonishing speeds Theory of Relativity This discovery provides an opportunity to test Einstein’s theory of general relativity. Researchers can measure the mass of the lensing galaxy in two ways—by analysing how the light bends and by observing the velocity of its stars. Einstein’s theory predicts these values should be the same, so any discrepancy could indicate a need to modify existing gravitational models. When the team calculated the mass of the lensing galaxy, they found it to be slightly higher than expected based on the estimated number of stars it contains. This discrepancy may be due to dark matter clustering at the galaxy’s centre, according to Frédéric Dux from the European Southern Observatory. However, further observations of similar lenses will be required to confirm this hypothesis.

Inside an oval shaped galaxy, European astronomers detect nearest Einstein ring using Euclid telescope

NASA has revised its plans for the return of astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from the International Space Station (ISS), now considering March 19, 2025 as their new departure date. This update moves their return forward by approximately two weeks from the previously scheduled early April timeline, according to a report by Daily Mail.
The decision is linked to adjustments in the schedule for SpaceX&rsquo;s Crew-10 mission. Originally set for launch in February, the Crew-10 mission was delayed due to a technical issue with the new Dragon capsule intended for the flight. As a result, the launch was postponed to March, which in turn delayed Williams and Wilmore&rsquo;s return.
Williams and Wilmore are expected to travel back to Earth aboard the Crew-9 capsule, which has been docked at the ISS since 29 September 2024. However, NASA protocol requires Crew-9 to remain at the station until Crew-10 arrives to ensure a structured transition. This procedure allows for a handover period in which the outgoing crew briefs the incoming team, maintaining continuity of operations aboard the ISS.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/an-asteroid-is-coming-humans-could-face-dinosaur-type-extinction-level-event-if-8697342">'An asteroid is coming': Humans could face dinosaur type extinction level event if...</a>
<h2 class="p1">NASA's Preparations</h2>
To facilitate an earlier launch, NASA has opted to switch the Dragon capsule originally assigned to Crew-10. This change is expected to clear the way for Crew-10&rsquo;s revised launch schedule, thereby enabling Crew-9, along with Williams and Wilmore, to return to Earth sooner than initially planned.
Williams and Wilmore&rsquo;s return had already been postponed multiple times due to technical concerns with Boeing&rsquo;s Starliner spacecraft. The pair launched aboard Starliner on 5 June 2024 as part of its first crewed mission under the Starliner Crew Flight Test. However, propulsion system issues and helium leaks detected during the mission led to repeated delays in their journey back to Earth.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/cant-remember-how-to-walk-why-nasas-sunita-williams-is-losing-basic-human-movements-in-space-8682779">'Can't remember how to walk': Why NASA's Sunita Williams is losing basic human movements in space</a>
In a separate development, former US President Donald Trump recently commented on the astronauts&rsquo; extended stay aboard the ISS. He claimed that Williams and Wilmore were &ldquo;stranded&rdquo; in space and called on Elon Musk&rsquo;s SpaceX to intervene. Despite Trump&rsquo;s remarks, NASA has confirmed that the astronauts are not stranded and that plans for their return in March are proceeding as scheduled.

Originally set for launch in February, the Crew-10 mission was delayed due to a technical issue with the new Dragon capsule intended for the flight. 

NASA has revised its plans for the return of astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from the International Space Station (ISS), now considering March 19, 2025 as their new departure date. This update moves their return forward by approximately two weeks from the previously scheduled early April timeline, according to a report by Daily Mail. The decision is linked to adjustments in the schedule for SpaceX’s Crew-10 mission. Originally set for launch in February, the Crew-10 mission was delayed due to a technical issue with the new Dragon capsule intended for the flight. As a result, the launch was postponed to March, which in turn delayed Williams and Wilmore’s return. Williams and Wilmore are expected to travel back to Earth aboard the Crew-9 capsule, which has been docked at the ISS since 29 September 2024. However, NASA protocol requires Crew-9 to remain at the station until Crew-10 arrives to ensure a structured transition. This procedure allows for a handover period in which the outgoing crew briefs the incoming team, maintaining continuity of operations aboard the ISS. Also read: 'An asteroid is coming': Humans could face dinosaur type extinction level event if... NASA's Preparations To facilitate an earlier launch, NASA has opted to switch the Dragon capsule originally assigned to Crew-10. This change is expected to clear the way for Crew-10’s revised launch schedule, thereby enabling Crew-9, along with Williams and Wilmore, to return to Earth sooner than initially planned. Williams and Wilmore’s return had already been postponed multiple times due to technical concerns with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. The pair launched aboard Starliner on 5 June 2024 as part of its first crewed mission under the Starliner Crew Flight Test. However, propulsion system issues and helium leaks detected during the mission led to repeated delays in their journey back to Earth. Also read: 'Can't remember how to walk': Why NASA's Sunita Williams is losing basic human movements in space In a separate development, former US President Donald Trump recently commented on the astronauts’ extended stay aboard the ISS. He claimed that Williams and Wilmore were “stranded” in space and called on Elon Musk’s SpaceX to intervene. Despite Trump’s remarks, NASA has confirmed that the astronauts are not stranded and that plans for their return in March are proceeding as scheduled.

NASA confirms March 19 as return date for Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore

In 2024, scientists came up with a strange theory that the Moon got substantially cooler during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the lockdown was the reason for it. The hypothesis forced normal people to think about the time when Earth was gripped by the pandemic in early 2020 and nations imposed lockdowns. But now, scientists have said that the two aspects - the pandemic and Moon's temperature - were not related.&nbsp;
Last year, scientists from the Physical Research Laboratory in India's Ahmedabad observed that lunar nighttime surface temperatures dipped substantially across six observation sites on the near side of the Moon between April and May 2020.&nbsp;
Their findings were published in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society: Letters.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/earth-faces-2032-collision-risk-scientists-track-potential-impact-threat-8697308">Earth faces 2032 collision risk; scientists track potential impact threat</a>
However, researchers from the Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&amp;T) and the University of West Indies (UWI) found issues with the hypothesis when they analysed the data closely.&nbsp;
In the latest study, published in the same journal, researchers noted that just like in 2020, there was also a dip in lunar temperatures in 2018. There was a steady decline in 2019. The collective timestamp doesn't align with the period of the Covid pandemic and its lockdowns.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/earths-temporary-mini-moon-may-have-been-a-piece-of-actual-moon-8662139">Earth's temporary &lsquo;mini moon&rsquo; may have been a piece of actual moon</a>
As quoted by Science Alert, civil engineer William Schonberg from Missouri S&amp;T said, "The idea that our activity, or lack of activity, on Earth would have a significant influence on the temperatures of the Moon &ndash; which is almost 240,000 miles from us &ndash; didn't seem likely, but we decided to keep an open mind and conduct additional research."&nbsp;
The study noted that the temperature readings gathered by NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter suggest cyclical fluctuations instead of one significant dip.&nbsp;
In the latest article, the researchers said several factors are responsible for any change in Moon's temperature and also weighed in on a 2021 study which found that emissions reduction during the pandemic could only have affected the lower parts of Earth's atmosphere.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hubble-space-telescope-nasas-plan-for-more-cosmic-discoveries-728929">Hubble Space Telescope faces a hiccup, but to stay in service for 'years to come'</a>
"We're not disputing that the temperatures did go down at different times during the time frame studied, but it seems to be a bit of a stretch to state with any certainty that human activity was the primary cause of this," Schonberg added.&nbsp;
In the conclusion of the new study, the researchers said that be it Covid or any other period, human activity is unlikely to have an impact on the temperatures on the Moon.&nbsp;
"During the Moon's nighttime, there is a small possibility that heat and radiation from Earth might have a very small effect on the lunar surface temperatures," Schonberg said.&nbsp;
"But this influence would probably be so minimal that it would be difficult to measure or even notice," he added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Science | Trending | Data from NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter suggests natural fluctuations in Moon's temperatures rather than human-induced changes during the Covid pandemic 

In 2024, scientists came up with a strange theory that the Moon got substantially cooler during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the lockdown was the reason for it. The hypothesis forced normal people to think about the time when Earth was gripped by the pandemic in early 2020 and nations imposed lockdowns. But now, scientists have said that the two aspects - the pandemic and Moon's temperature - were not related. Last year, scientists from the Physical Research Laboratory in India's Ahmedabad observed that lunar nighttime surface temperatures dipped substantially across six observation sites on the near side of the Moon between April and May 2020. Their findings were published in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society: Letters. Also read: Earth faces 2032 collision risk; scientists track potential impact threat However, researchers from the Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T) and the University of West Indies (UWI) found issues with the hypothesis when they analysed the data closely. In the latest study, published in the same journal, researchers noted that just like in 2020, there was also a dip in lunar temperatures in 2018. There was a steady decline in 2019. The collective timestamp doesn't align with the period of the Covid pandemic and its lockdowns. Also read: Earth's temporary ‘mini moon’ may have been a piece of actual moon As quoted by Science Alert, civil engineer William Schonberg from Missouri S&T said, "The idea that our activity, or lack of activity, on Earth would have a significant influence on the temperatures of the Moon – which is almost 240,000 miles from us – didn't seem likely, but we decided to keep an open mind and conduct additional research." The study noted that the temperature readings gathered by NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter suggest cyclical fluctuations instead of one significant dip. In the latest article, the researchers said several factors are responsible for any change in Moon's temperature and also weighed in on a 2021 study which found that emissions reduction during the pandemic could only have affected the lower parts of Earth's atmosphere. Also read: Hubble Space Telescope faces a hiccup, but to stay in service for 'years to come' "We're not disputing that the temperatures did go down at different times during the time frame studied, but it seems to be a bit of a stretch to state with any certainty that human activity was the primary cause of this," Schonberg added. In the conclusion of the new study, the researchers said that be it Covid or any other period, human activity is unlikely to have an impact on the temperatures on the Moon. "During the Moon's nighttime, there is a small possibility that heat and radiation from Earth might have a very small effect on the lunar surface temperatures," Schonberg said. "But this influence would probably be so minimal that it would be difficult to measure or even notice," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

No, humans did not really change Moon's temperatures during Covid lockdown: Study

An asteroid has a one in 83 chance of hitting Earth in just over seven years. While most space rocks pass by harmlessly, this one, known as 2024 YR4, which is about half the size of a football field, is too close for comfort. Here's more.

NASA scientist warns, we can't stop a big asteroid

NASA astronaut Don Pettit has shared a spectacular image of Dubai&rsquo;s iconic Burj Khalifa during the night time from space.
While on a mission in space, the astronaut captured the world&rsquo;s tallest building from the International Space Station. The striking image shows the Burj Khalifa shining like a jewel among the city lights with the dark backdrop of the night.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/watch-live-nasa-astronauts-sunita-williams-butch-wilmore-step-of-international-space-station-for-first-spacewalk-together-8675770">Watch Live | NASA astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore step out for first spacewalk&nbsp;together</a>
&ldquo;Burj Khalifa, the world&rsquo;s tallest building from space,&rdquo; Pettit wrote in an X post while sharing the breathtaking image, leaving his followers and other space enthusiasts speechless.
Standing 828 meters high, Burj Khalifa is located in the United Arab Emirates&rsquo;s Dubai. The architectural marvel was designed by a Chicago-based firm Skidmore, Owings &amp; Merrill and was completed in six years. The skyscraper houses various commercial, hospitality, and residential sections.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/indian-space-agency-isros-nvs-02-satellite-stuck-in-initial-orbit-survival-uncertain-8684625" rel="dofollow">ISRO's NVS-02 satellite stuck in initial orbit, survival uncertain</a>
<h2>Who is Don Pettit?</h2>
Don Pettit or Donald R. Pettit is a NASA astronaut with a varied experience in astronomy. He worked as a staff scientist at Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico between 1984 and 1996.
According to NASA, &ldquo;He was a member of the Synthesis Group, a presidential commission lead by Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Tom Stafford tasked with assembling the technology to return to the Moon and explore Mars (1990) and the Space Station Freedom Redesign Team (1993),&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-indian-astronaut-shuks-to-fly-to-space-in-may-2025-8676223" rel="dofollow">Exclusive: Indian astronaut &lsquo;Shuks&rsquo; to fly to space in May 2025</a>
In 2003, he completed his first space flight. In 2012, he was sent to the International Space Station aboard the Soyuz TMA-03M spacecraft, which was launched from Kazakhstan.
He was stationed at the International Space Station in September 2024, accompanied by Roscosmos cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner. The astronauts boarded the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-26 spacecraft for their journey.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/asteroid-impact-in-2032-scientists-are-preparing-for-a-potential-hit-8669829" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Asteroid to hit Earth in 2032? Scientists warn of space rock that can cause 'severe damage'</a>
He is currently serving as a flight engineer and member of the Expedition 72 crew aboard the orbiting laboratory, where he will stay for about six months to conduct experiments and maintain the space station. He is known to frequently share similar mesmerising images from space on social media.
(With inputs from agencies)

Science & Tech | Trending | While on a mission in space, the astronaut captured the world’s tallest building from the International Space Station. The striking image shows the Burj Khalifa shining like a jewel among the city lights with the dark backdrop of the night.

NASA astronaut Don Pettit has shared a spectacular image of Dubai’s iconic Burj Khalifa during the night time from space. While on a mission in space, the astronaut captured the world’s tallest building from the International Space Station. The striking image shows the Burj Khalifa shining like a jewel among the city lights with the dark backdrop of the night. Also read | Watch Live | NASA astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore step out for first spacewalk together “Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building from space,” Pettit wrote in an X post while sharing the breathtaking image, leaving his followers and other space enthusiasts speechless. Standing 828 meters high, Burj Khalifa is located in the United Arab Emirates’s Dubai. The architectural marvel was designed by a Chicago-based firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and was completed in six years. The skyscraper houses various commercial, hospitality, and residential sections. Also read | ISRO's NVS-02 satellite stuck in initial orbit, survival uncertain Who is Don Pettit? Don Pettit or Donald R. Pettit is a NASA astronaut with a varied experience in astronomy. He worked as a staff scientist at Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico between 1984 and 1996. According to NASA, “He was a member of the Synthesis Group, a presidential commission lead by Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Tom Stafford tasked with assembling the technology to return to the Moon and explore Mars (1990) and the Space Station Freedom Redesign Team (1993),” Also read | Exclusive: Indian astronaut ‘Shuks’ to fly to space in May 2025 In 2003, he completed his first space flight. In 2012, he was sent to the International Space Station aboard the Soyuz TMA-03M spacecraft, which was launched from Kazakhstan. He was stationed at the International Space Station in September 2024, accompanied by Roscosmos cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner. The astronauts boarded the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-26 spacecraft for their journey. Also read | Asteroid to hit Earth in 2032? Scientists warn of space rock that can cause 'severe damage' He is currently serving as a flight engineer and member of the Expedition 72 crew aboard the orbiting laboratory, where he will stay for about six months to conduct experiments and maintain the space station. He is known to frequently share similar mesmerising images from space on social media. (With inputs from agencies)

Take a look at dazzling image of Burj Khalifa from space shared by NASA astronaut

Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Tuesday (Jan 28) said that US President Donald Trump had asked him to facilitate the return of the two Boeing Starliner astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been on the space station since June 2024, as soon as possible.
Musk called out former President Joe Biden's administration as "terrible" for leaving the duo "stranded"&nbsp;at the International Space Station (ISS) for&nbsp;so long, even though NASA had already roped in SpaceX months ago to return both astronauts as part of its Crew-9 mission.
"The @POTUS has asked @SpaceX to bring home the 2 astronauts stranded on the @Space_Station as soon as possible. We will do so. Terrible that the Biden administration left them there so long," Musk wrote on X.
Also read | US President Trump offers federal employees to quit with eight months severance
<h2 dir="ltr">NASA says the pair is not &lsquo;stranded&rsquo;</h2>
NASA had earlier determined that the duo would come home on Dragon because of lingering uncertainties surrounding Starliner.
NASA leadership repeatedly stressed on multiple forums that Wilmore and Williams were not &ldquo;stranded,&rdquo; but that the Starliner didn&rsquo;t have enough assurances around it to support a crewed trip back to Earth.
Also read | Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms
<h2 dir="ltr">Sunita Williams says &lsquo;she&rsquo;s trying to remember how to walk&rsquo;</h2>
Astronaut Sunita Williams, while speaking to students from Needham High School on January 27, said she is trying to remember how to walk as she awaits her return to Earth in spring.
Williams, a native of Needham, a town in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, shared what it was like living on the space station.
She said, &ldquo;I've been up here long enough right now I've been trying to remember what it's like to walk. I haven't walked. I haven't sat down. I haven't laid down. You don't have to. You can just close your eyes and float where you are right here,&rdquo; reported People Magazine.
Also read | Maha Kumbh and stampedes: A look at the deadly history of world's largest religious gathering
Williams admitted that she didn&rsquo;t expect to be stuck in space for such a long time.
"We knew that it would be probably a month or so, honestly. But the extended stay was just a little bit different,&rdquo; she said.
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are expected to return in March 2025 as NASA&rsquo;s SpaceX Crew-10 mission has been rescheduled.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Elon Musk announced that President Trump requested his help to bring back astronauts, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from the space station promptly.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Tuesday (Jan 28) said that US President Donald Trump had asked him to facilitate the return of the two Boeing Starliner astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been on the space station since June 2024, as soon as possible. Musk called out former President Joe Biden's administration as "terrible" for leaving the duo "stranded" at the International Space Station (ISS) for so long, even though NASA had already roped in SpaceX months ago to return both astronauts as part of its Crew-9 mission. "The @POTUS has asked @SpaceX to bring home the 2 astronauts stranded on the @Space_Station as soon as possible. We will do so. Terrible that the Biden administration left them there so long," Musk wrote on X. Also read | US President Trump offers federal employees to quit with eight months severance NASA says the pair is not ‘stranded’ NASA had earlier determined that the duo would come home on Dragon because of lingering uncertainties surrounding Starliner. NASA leadership repeatedly stressed on multiple forums that Wilmore and Williams were not “stranded,” but that the Starliner didn’t have enough assurances around it to support a crewed trip back to Earth. Also read | Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms Sunita Williams says ‘she’s trying to remember how to walk’ Astronaut Sunita Williams, while speaking to students from Needham High School on January 27, said she is trying to remember how to walk as she awaits her return to Earth in spring. Williams, a native of Needham, a town in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, shared what it was like living on the space station. She said, “I've been up here long enough right now I've been trying to remember what it's like to walk. I haven't walked. I haven't sat down. I haven't laid down. You don't have to. You can just close your eyes and float where you are right here,” reported People Magazine. Also read | Maha Kumbh and stampedes: A look at the deadly history of world's largest religious gathering Williams admitted that she didn’t expect to be stuck in space for such a long time. "We knew that it would be probably a month or so, honestly. But the extended stay was just a little bit different,” she said. Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are expected to return in March 2025 as NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 mission has been rescheduled. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump orders Musk to bring astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore home

Daksh Malik, a 14-year-old boy from Noida, India, has made a remarkable discovery by identifying an asteroid. His finding has caught the attention of space enthusiasts worldwide, and now, with NASA&rsquo;s official approval, he will be granted the opportunity to name the asteroid once the verification process is complete.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/dramatic-video-captures-lightning-striking-british-airways-plane-in-brazils-s%C3%A3o-paulo-watch-video-here-8657465">Video: Dramatic clip captures lightning striking British Airways plane in Brazil's S&atilde;o Paulo</a>
<h2>A passion for space</h2>
Daksh&rsquo;s love for space began at a young age. He spent countless hours gazing at the night sky, fascinated by the stars, planets, and other celestial objects. His curiosity only deepened as he grew older, leading him to actively pursue knowledge in astronomy and look for ways to contribute to the field.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/truly-iconic-coldplays-chris-martin-sings-vande-mataram-at-ahmedabad-show-watch-8657289">'Truly iconic!' Coldplay's Chris Martin sings Vande Mataram at Ahmedabad show | Watch</a>
<h2>How the discovery happened</h2>
Daksh&rsquo;s breakthrough moment came when his school&rsquo;s astronomy club invited students to join the International Asteroid Discovery Project (IAPD). Through the project, participants can analyse telescope data from around the world to identify new asteroids. Daksh participated enthusiastically, and his efforts led to the discovery of an asteroid, temporarily named "2023 OG40" after the time and date it was observed. Once NASA finishes its confirmation process, Daksh will have the prestigious honour of naming it.
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/ais-sputnik-moment-chinas-cheap-ai-app-deepseek-overtakes-billion-dollar-chatgpt-8658617"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/ais-sputnik-moment-chinas-cheap-ai-app-deepseek-overtakes-billion-dollar-chatgpt-8658617">'AI's Sputnik moment': China's 'cheap' AI model DeepSeek overtakes billion-dollar ChatGPT</a>
<h2>Why do asteroids matter?</h2>
Asteroids are ancient remnants of the early solar system, offering clues about the formation of planets and other celestial bodies. Most asteroids are located in the asteroid belt, though some can be found in other orbits. The largest known asteroid in the belt is Vesta, which measures 329 miles in diameter. Daksh&rsquo;s discovery adds to the growing knowledge of these fascinating objects in space.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/coldplays-chris-martin-and-actress-dakota-johnson-arrive-at-maha-kumbh-watch-8658804">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/coldplays-chris-martin-and-actress-dakota-johnson-arrive-at-maha-kumbh-watch-8658804">Coldplay's Chris Martin and actress Dakota Johnson arrive at Maha Kumbh | Watch</a>

Trending | India News: Daksh’s love for space began at a young age. He spent countless hours gazing at the night sky, fascinated by the stars, planets, and other celestial objects. His curiosity only deepened as he grew older.

Daksh Malik, a 14-year-old boy from Noida, India, has made a remarkable discovery by identifying an asteroid. His finding has caught the attention of space enthusiasts worldwide, and now, with NASA’s official approval, he will be granted the opportunity to name the asteroid once the verification process is complete. Also Read | Video: Dramatic clip captures lightning striking British Airways plane in Brazil's São Paulo A passion for space Daksh’s love for space began at a young age. He spent countless hours gazing at the night sky, fascinated by the stars, planets, and other celestial objects. His curiosity only deepened as he grew older, leading him to actively pursue knowledge in astronomy and look for ways to contribute to the field. Also Read | 'Truly iconic!' Coldplay's Chris Martin sings Vande Mataram at Ahmedabad show | Watch How the discovery happened Daksh’s breakthrough moment came when his school’s astronomy club invited students to join the International Asteroid Discovery Project (IAPD). Through the project, participants can analyse telescope data from around the world to identify new asteroids. Daksh participated enthusiastically, and his efforts led to the discovery of an asteroid, temporarily named "2023 OG40" after the time and date it was observed. Once NASA finishes its confirmation process, Daksh will have the prestigious honour of naming it. Also Read | 'AI's Sputnik moment': China's 'cheap' AI model DeepSeek overtakes billion-dollar ChatGPT Why do asteroids matter? Asteroids are ancient remnants of the early solar system, offering clues about the formation of planets and other celestial bodies. Most asteroids are located in the asteroid belt, though some can be found in other orbits. The largest known asteroid in the belt is Vesta, which measures 329 miles in diameter. Daksh’s discovery adds to the growing knowledge of these fascinating objects in space. Also Read | Coldplay's Chris Martin and actress Dakota Johnson arrive at Maha Kumbh | Watch

14-year-old Noida boy makes asteroid discovery, NASA asks him to name it

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: The world&rsquo;s largest religious gathering taking place right now in India in the holy city of Prayagraj has now caught the attention of NASA astronaut Donald Petit who shared some stunning visuals of the same from the International Space Station (ISS).&nbsp;
NASA&rsquo;s Donald captured and shared breathtaking photos of the Maha Kumbh Mela showcasing the grandeur of the event. He offered a fresh perspective as he shared the stunning visuals on his X account. He mentioned how the Maha Kumbh was extremely &ldquo;well lit&rdquo; and could be seen shining bright from the ISS.&nbsp;
He wrote on X, "2025 Maha Kumbh Mela Ganges River pilgrimage from the ISS at night. The largest human gathering in the world is well lit.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/from-showbiz-to-priesthood-tracing-mamta-kulkarnis-spiritual-journey-8654867">From showbiz to priesthood: Tracing Mamta Kulkarni's spiritual journey</a>
Check out his post here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6enj18g-18bsjia7-vnstz0cj">
2025 Maha Kumbh Mela Ganges River pilgrimage from the ISS at night. The largest human gathering in the world is well lit. <a href="https://t.co/l9YD6o0Llo">pic.twitter.com/l9YD6o0Llo</a>
&mdash; Don Pettit (@astro_Pettit) <a href="https://twitter.com/astro_Pettit/status/1883613984563355783?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
As the astronaut shared pictures of Maha Kumbh, netizens couldn't stop praising the event. Some called it "beautiful" while others explained how "historic" this religious event was for Sanatan Dharma followers.&nbsp;
The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 began on January 13. In just 14 days, the Mela has seen over 110 million devotees take a holy dip in the sacred waters of Prayagraj.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahakumbh-2025-over-130-million-pilgrims-take-holy-dip-so-far-8656573">Mahakumbh 2025: Over 130 million pilgrims take holy dip so far</a>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/choreographer-remo-dsouza-visits-maha-kumbh-mela-roams-freely-by-hiding-his-face-watch-8655963">Choreographer Remo D'Souza visits Maha Kumbh, roams freely by hiding his&nbsp;face&nbsp;|&nbsp;Watch</a>
<h2>Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many&nbsp;</h2>
The Maha Kumbh is held every 12 years and a huge turnout of devotees is expected in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26. According to tradition, pilgrims flock to the Sangam--the confluence of the holy Indian rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati (now extinct) --to take the holy dip believed to absolve sins and grant moksha (liberation).
The Mahakumbh Mela is expected to host over 45 crore visitors, marking a historic occasion for India.

Trending India News Maka Kumbh Mela 2025: Like a bright patch of lights, the world's largest human gathering could be seen from the International Space Station (ISS) in the night. 

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: The world’s largest religious gathering taking place right now in India in the holy city of Prayagraj has now caught the attention of NASA astronaut Donald Petit who shared some stunning visuals of the same from the International Space Station (ISS). NASA’s Donald captured and shared breathtaking photos of the Maha Kumbh Mela showcasing the grandeur of the event. He offered a fresh perspective as he shared the stunning visuals on his X account. He mentioned how the Maha Kumbh was extremely “well lit” and could be seen shining bright from the ISS. He wrote on X, "2025 Maha Kumbh Mela Ganges River pilgrimage from the ISS at night. The largest human gathering in the world is well lit.” Also read: From showbiz to priesthood: Tracing Mamta Kulkarni's spiritual journey Check out his post here: 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela Ganges River pilgrimage from the ISS at night. The largest human gathering in the world is well lit. pic.twitter.com/l9YD6o0Llo — Don Pettit (@astro_Pettit) January 26, 2025 As the astronaut shared pictures of Maha Kumbh, netizens couldn't stop praising the event. Some called it "beautiful" while others explained how "historic" this religious event was for Sanatan Dharma followers. The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 began on January 13. In just 14 days, the Mela has seen over 110 million devotees take a holy dip in the sacred waters of Prayagraj. Also read: Mahakumbh 2025: Over 130 million pilgrims take holy dip so far Also read: Choreographer Remo D'Souza visits Maha Kumbh, roams freely by hiding his face | Watch Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many The Maha Kumbh is held every 12 years and a huge turnout of devotees is expected in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26. According to tradition, pilgrims flock to the Sangam--the confluence of the holy Indian rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati (now extinct) --to take the holy dip believed to absolve sins and grant moksha (liberation). The Mahakumbh Mela is expected to host over 45 crore visitors, marking a historic occasion for India.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: NASA astronaut shares breathtaking PICS of 'well lit' Kumbh from space station

NASA Astronaut <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sunita-williams" rel="dofollow">Sunita 'Suni' Williams</a>, who has been stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) along with Butch Wilmore, stepped out for her first spacewalk after more than seven months in orbit.&nbsp;
While floating 260 miles above Earth, Williams radioed, &ldquo;I&rsquo;m coming out,&rdquo; capturing her breathtaking yet routine nature of life and work in space for those living aboard the station.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
LIVE: Two <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA_Astronauts?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASA_Astronauts</a>, Nick Hague and Suni Williams, step outside of the <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a> to support station upgrades, including repairs to our NICER (Neutron star Interior Composition Explorer) X-ray telescope. <a href="https://t.co/0VP296OmRY">https://t.co/0VP296OmRY</a>
&mdash; NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1879853707845664954?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Williams and Wilmore were due to return to Earth after a week-long mission in June 2024, however, the return has been delayed due to a technical issue.&nbsp;
The two veteran astronauts arrived at the ISS in June for an eight-day mission but have been stuck up there for over seven months due to technical difficulties. The astronauts will not return until late March or possibly April.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunita-williams-upbeat-seven-months-into-eight-day-nasa-space-mission-says-dont-feel-like-a-cast-away-8603858" rel="dofollow"> Sunita Williams upbeat seven months into eight-day NASA space mission</a>
Their return has been delayed many times now. Previously, they were scheduled to fly back in February 2025.
"NASA&rsquo;s SpaceX Crew-10 now is targeting no earlier than late March 2025 to launch four crew members to the International Space Station," NASA said in a statement.&nbsp;
Williams teamed up with astronaut Nick Hague on Thursday (Jan 16) to perform maintenance on the craft. Their tasks include repairing equipment that governs station orientation, patching light filters on the NICER X-ray telescope, and replacing a reflector device on an international docking adapter.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunita-williams-witnesses-16-new-year-sunrises-science-explains-how-8582786" rel="dofollow">Sunita Williams witnesses 16 New Year sunrises. Science explains how</a>
Further, Sunita Williams will conduct another spacewalk next week on January 23, with Wilmore.&nbsp;
NASA is providing live coverage of both spacewalks on its YouTube channel.&nbsp;
Nicole McElroy, a Flight Director at NASA, said in a press briefing before the spacewalk that "The road to our preparations for all of these EVAs (extra-vehicular activity) has been going well."
"The crew on board has been studying their procedures, getting familiar with all of the tasks, and are really excited and looking forward to going out the door."
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/toxic-smell-raises-alarm-for-astronauts-aboard-sunita-williams-led-iss-779344" rel="dofollow"> Sunita Williams-led team encounters toxic smell at ISS, here's how the astronauts responded&nbsp;</a>
Despite the setbacks faced by the astronauts in space, they have continued their work aboard the ISS while awaiting a safe return to home.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Williams and Wilmore were due to return to Earth after a week-long mission in June 2024, however, the return has been delayed due to a technical issue. 

NASA Astronaut Sunita 'Suni' Williams, who has been stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) along with Butch Wilmore, stepped out for her first spacewalk after more than seven months in orbit. While floating 260 miles above Earth, Williams radioed, “I’m coming out,” capturing her breathtaking yet routine nature of life and work in space for those living aboard the station. LIVE: Two @NASA_Astronauts, Nick Hague and Suni Williams, step outside of the @Space_Station to support station upgrades, including repairs to our NICER (Neutron star Interior Composition Explorer) X-ray telescope. https://t.co/0VP296OmRY — NASA (@NASA) January 16, 2025 Williams and Wilmore were due to return to Earth after a week-long mission in June 2024, however, the return has been delayed due to a technical issue. The two veteran astronauts arrived at the ISS in June for an eight-day mission but have been stuck up there for over seven months due to technical difficulties. The astronauts will not return until late March or possibly April. Also read: Sunita Williams upbeat seven months into eight-day NASA space mission Their return has been delayed many times now. Previously, they were scheduled to fly back in February 2025. "NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 now is targeting no earlier than late March 2025 to launch four crew members to the International Space Station," NASA said in a statement. Williams teamed up with astronaut Nick Hague on Thursday (Jan 16) to perform maintenance on the craft. Their tasks include repairing equipment that governs station orientation, patching light filters on the NICER X-ray telescope, and replacing a reflector device on an international docking adapter. Also read: Sunita Williams witnesses 16 New Year sunrises. Science explains how Further, Sunita Williams will conduct another spacewalk next week on January 23, with Wilmore. NASA is providing live coverage of both spacewalks on its YouTube channel. Nicole McElroy, a Flight Director at NASA, said in a press briefing before the spacewalk that "The road to our preparations for all of these EVAs (extra-vehicular activity) has been going well." "The crew on board has been studying their procedures, getting familiar with all of the tasks, and are really excited and looking forward to going out the door." Also read: Sunita Williams-led team encounters toxic smell at ISS, here's how the astronauts responded Despite the setbacks faced by the astronauts in space, they have continued their work aboard the ISS while awaiting a safe return to home. (With inputs from agencies)

'I'm coming out': Sunita Williams conducts spacewalk after being stuck in orbit for seven months

Elon Musk&rsquo;s SpaceX launched two private lunar landers on Wednesday (Jan 15). The landers built by US and Japanese companies left the Earth aboard a Falcon 9 rocket as a part of a rideshare to the Moon.
The SpaceX rocket was launched from NASA&rsquo;s Kennedy Space Center in Florida around 01:00 local time on Wednesday (Jan 15), carrying two landers, one from America's Firefly Aerospace and the other from Japan's ispace.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/la-wildfires-amid-limited-fresh-water-supply-seawater-being-used-to-douse-fires-8623200" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">LA wildfires: Amid limited fresh water supply, firefighters using seawater to douse fires</a>
<h2>Two cost-efficient missions</h2>
The landers share the rocket to save cost and will go separate ways once they reach the Moon&rsquo;s orbit to conduct their own explorations.
Firefly's rover, Blue Space, is expected to reach the Moon in about 45 days after it is separated from the SpaceX rocket. It will then drill into the Moon&rsquo;s surface to collect samples. The rover will also capture X-ray images of the Earth&rsquo;s magnetic field to &ldquo;advance research for future human missions on the Moon and provide insights into how space weather impacts the planet,&rdquo; SpaceX said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/head-injury-may-awaken-dead-viruses-within-our-body-study-finds-8621782" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Head injury may awaken &lsquo;dead&rsquo; viruses within our body, study finds</a>
On the other hand, ispace's Resilence lander would reach the Moon&rsquo;s surface in about five months and will deploy a rover to explore and gather loose surface material called regolith on the Moon.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/why-jeff-bezos-blue-origin-called-off-new-glenn-rocket-launch-8618749" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Few anomalies': Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin calls off rocket launch</a>
<h2>NASA backed mission</h2>
The Moon exploration mission is backed by NASA and will be its biggest commercial delivery to the Earth&rsquo;s natural satellite so far.
Texas-based Intuitive Machines became the first commercial company to land on the Moon last year. Till now only the US, the Soviet Union, China, India and Japan have been able to conduct soft landings on the Moon.
Aslo read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/scientists-uncover-evidence-of-second-core-layer-beneath-earths-surface-8612662" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Scientists uncover evidence of second core layer beneath Earth's surface</a>
Meanwhile, SpaceX is also conducting its seventh orbital flight test of the Starship rocket. The launch is scheduled from Texas at 16:00 local time.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Science & tech | Trending | The SpaceX rocket was launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida around 01:00 local time on Wednesday (Jan 15).

Elon Musk’s SpaceX launched two private lunar landers on Wednesday (Jan 15). The landers built by US and Japanese companies left the Earth aboard a Falcon 9 rocket as a part of a rideshare to the Moon. The SpaceX rocket was launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida around 01:00 local time on Wednesday (Jan 15), carrying two landers, one from America's Firefly Aerospace and the other from Japan's ispace. Also read | LA wildfires: Amid limited fresh water supply, firefighters using seawater to douse fires Two cost-efficient missions The landers share the rocket to save cost and will go separate ways once they reach the Moon’s orbit to conduct their own explorations. Firefly's rover, Blue Space, is expected to reach the Moon in about 45 days after it is separated from the SpaceX rocket. It will then drill into the Moon’s surface to collect samples. The rover will also capture X-ray images of the Earth’s magnetic field to “advance research for future human missions on the Moon and provide insights into how space weather impacts the planet,” SpaceX said. Also read | Head injury may awaken ‘dead’ viruses within our body, study finds On the other hand, ispace's Resilence lander would reach the Moon’s surface in about five months and will deploy a rover to explore and gather loose surface material called regolith on the Moon. Also read | 'Few anomalies': Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin calls off rocket launch NASA backed mission The Moon exploration mission is backed by NASA and will be its biggest commercial delivery to the Earth’s natural satellite so far. Texas-based Intuitive Machines became the first commercial company to land on the Moon last year. Till now only the US, the Soviet Union, China, India and Japan have been able to conduct soft landings on the Moon. Aslo read | Scientists uncover evidence of second core layer beneath Earth's surface Meanwhile, SpaceX is also conducting its seventh orbital flight test of the Starship rocket. The launch is scheduled from Texas at 16:00 local time. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk’s SpaceX launches two private lunar landers aboard Falcon 9

NASA astronaut Don Pettit shared a stunning video of an aurora aboard the International Space Station (ISS), which is going viral, leaving people amazed by its bright green hues. Filmed during Petit&rsquo;s six-month mission in space, the video shows the aurora moving and dancing above Earth with city lights visible below. While many praised and acknowledged the rare display, some even speculated that it might have been digitally made.&nbsp;
<h2 dir="ltr">Rare aurora captured in the video&nbsp;</h2>
Petit describes the aurora as &ldquo;intensely green&rdquo; with an attractive, vivid light above Earth. The bright colour of the aurora moves across the sky in green colours often called the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis in the Northern Hemisphere. The video also captures Earth's lights, adding beauty to the scene.&nbsp; Check the aurora footage here:&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5ntof9q-cbkaxuoz-bbs373qx">
Flying over aurora; intensely green. <a href="https://t.co/leUufKFnBB">pic.twitter.com/leUufKFnBB</a>
&mdash; Don Pettit (@astro_Pettit) <a href="https://twitter.com/astro_Pettit/status/1876154709519806543?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/northern-lights-spotted-in-india-aurora-borealis-visible-from-ladakh-720440" rel="dofollow">Northern Lights spotted in India! Aurora borealis illuminates Ladakh skies</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Viewers doubted the video's authenticity </h2>
While many were amazed with the footage, some questioned its authenticity. The intense colour and appearance made the audience curious, as auroras are usually dynamic with flowing light patterns, and the lack of movement in the video led some viewers to wonder whether the footage had been digitally created using artificial intelligence (AI).&nbsp;
Auroras are not unique to Earth. Similar phenomena have been observed on other planets, such as Jupiter and Saturn, both of which have also been captured by NASA. The wonder of auroras lies in the dynamic interplay between solar particles and Earth's atmosphere, creating a light show that is truly mesmerising.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-east-australia-kicks-off-2025-with-a-stunning-aurora-australis-8584633" rel="dofollow">Southeast Australia welcomes 2025 with a stunning Aurora Australis</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">What is the aurora phenomenon?</h2>
Auroras are natural light displays created by the interaction of sunlight and Earth's magnetic fields with charged particles from the sun through collision with the earth's atmosphere, producing light.
This phenomenon is usually found inside polar regions where the Earth's magnetic field is very strong.&nbsp;
In the Northern Hemisphere, these are known as the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis, while in the Southern Hemisphere, they are called the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights. These beautiful light shows are typically seen in hues of green, red, blue, and purple, depending on the specific gases and altitude of the interactions.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/earth-witnessed-never-ever-seen-polar-rain-aurora-heres-how-this-eerie-glow-was-formed-738543" rel="dofollow">Earth witnessed never-ever-seen 'polar rain' aurora. Here's how this eerie glow was formed</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Who is Don Pettit?</h2>
Don Pettit is an experienced NASA astronaut, selected in 1996. During his current mission aboard the ISS, Pettit has been conducting a variety of scientific experiments to advance space exploration. Alongside Russian cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner, Pettit is involved in research spanning physics, biology, and materials science. His six-month mission also focuses on the development of technologies to support long-duration space missions.
Despite the debate raising questions, what cannot be taken away is the breathtaking view of the natural phenomenon, which was captured from space. Whether AI&rsquo;s role in space-related media is a real one or not, Petit&rsquo;s aurora video has left the viewers with a lasting impression, continuing to spark conversations about the mysteries of space.
(With inputs from agencies)

SCIENCE & TECH : While the footage amazed many, some questioned its authenticity. The intense colours and static appearance raised suspicions of AI-generated imagery.

NASA astronaut Don Pettit shared a stunning video of an aurora aboard the International Space Station (ISS), which is going viral, leaving people amazed by its bright green hues. Filmed during Petit’s six-month mission in space, the video shows the aurora moving and dancing above Earth with city lights visible below. While many praised and acknowledged the rare display, some even speculated that it might have been digitally made. Rare aurora captured in the video Petit describes the aurora as “intensely green” with an attractive, vivid light above Earth. The bright colour of the aurora moves across the sky in green colours often called the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis in the Northern Hemisphere. The video also captures Earth's lights, adding beauty to the scene. Check the aurora footage here: Flying over aurora; intensely green. pic.twitter.com/leUufKFnBB — Don Pettit (@astro_Pettit) January 6, 2025 Also Read: Northern Lights spotted in India! Aurora borealis illuminates Ladakh skies Viewers doubted the video's authenticity While many were amazed with the footage, some questioned its authenticity. The intense colour and appearance made the audience curious, as auroras are usually dynamic with flowing light patterns, and the lack of movement in the video led some viewers to wonder whether the footage had been digitally created using artificial intelligence (AI). Auroras are not unique to Earth. Similar phenomena have been observed on other planets, such as Jupiter and Saturn, both of which have also been captured by NASA. The wonder of auroras lies in the dynamic interplay between solar particles and Earth's atmosphere, creating a light show that is truly mesmerising. Also Read: Southeast Australia welcomes 2025 with a stunning Aurora Australis What is the aurora phenomenon? Auroras are natural light displays created by the interaction of sunlight and Earth's magnetic fields with charged particles from the sun through collision with the earth's atmosphere, producing light. This phenomenon is usually found inside polar regions where the Earth's magnetic field is very strong. In the Northern Hemisphere, these are known as the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis, while in the Southern Hemisphere, they are called the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights. These beautiful light shows are typically seen in hues of green, red, blue, and purple, depending on the specific gases and altitude of the interactions. Also Read: Earth witnessed never-ever-seen 'polar rain' aurora. Here's how this eerie glow was formed Who is Don Pettit? Don Pettit is an experienced NASA astronaut, selected in 1996. During his current mission aboard the ISS, Pettit has been conducting a variety of scientific experiments to advance space exploration. Alongside Russian cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner, Pettit is involved in research spanning physics, biology, and materials science. His six-month mission also focuses on the development of technologies to support long-duration space missions. Despite the debate raising questions, what cannot be taken away is the breathtaking view of the natural phenomenon, which was captured from space. Whether AI’s role in space-related media is a real one or not, Petit’s aurora video has left the viewers with a lasting impression, continuing to spark conversations about the mysteries of space. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA’s Don Pettit’s stunning aurora video sparks authenticity debate

New research suggests that billions of years ago, Pluto (also known as a dwarf planet) may have captured its largest moon, Charon, through a unique "kiss-and-capture" collision. Unlike Earth, where the moon orbits the planet, Pluto and Charon orbit each other. Both are icy bodies located in the Kuiper Belt, beyond Neptune.
The study, led by NASA postdoctoral fellow Adeene Denton at the University of Arizona's Lunar and Planetary Laboratory, proposes that Pluto and Charon were once two icy worlds that collided in the distant Kuiper Belt. Rather than destroying each other, they briefly merged into a spinning "cosmic snowman" before separating. Despite this, they remained gravitationally bound, forming the Pluto-Charon system we see today.
This "kiss-and-capture" event offers a new understanding of how moons are captured and helps scientists learn more about how planetary bodies form and evolve in the cold, icy regions of the solar system.
<h2 dir="ltr">New theory: How Charon formed&nbsp;</h2>
Scientists presumed for decades that the dwarf planet&rsquo;s unusually large moon, Charon, formed from a massive collision, similar to Earth's moon. The common idea was that a large object collided with Pluto, causing molten material to form Charon. However, this theory works better for larger, hotter planets like Earth, where the colliding bodies behave like fluids.&nbsp;
Pluto and Charon are smaller and colder, mainly made of rock and ice. When Denton and her team considered the strength of these materials, they found something completely new. &ldquo;Pluto and Charon are different&mdash;they&rsquo;re smaller, colder, and made mainly of rock and ice. When we looked at the actual strength of these materials, we discovered something unexpected," Denton explained.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-isro-plans-to-build-space-station-around-moon-by-2040-report-777662" rel="dofollow">India's ISRO plans to build space station around moon by 2040: Report</a>
<figure class="image"><img alt="Charon, left, was formed when a large object collided with Pluto" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/08/AzEaFmdZp9wK70w4T9sd.jpg" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>Charon, left, was formed when a large object collided with Pluto Photograph: ( NASA/JHUAPL)</figcaption>
</figure>
<h2 dir="ltr">&nbsp;The 'Kiss and Capture' model</h2>
The research team&rsquo;s model shows that instead of a massive collision or simple grazing, Pluto and Charon may have briefly collided, stuck together, and then separated, all while remaining gravitationally bound. This new "kiss and capture" mechanism is different from the more common "hit and run" or "graze and merge" collision scenarios.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-inside-the-moons-inner-core-heres-what-scientists-revealed-778745" rel="dofollow">What is inside the moon&rsquo;s inner core? Here&rsquo;s what scientists revealed</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Findings in journal: Nature&nbsp;Geoscience</h2>
The findings published in the journal Nature Geoscience could revolutionise our understanding of how icy bodies in the Kuiper Belt and beyond form and evolve. &ldquo;The compelling thing about this study is that the model parameters that work to capture Charon end up putting it in the right orbit. You get two things right for the price of one,&rdquo; said Erik Asphaug, senior author and professor at the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory.
The "kiss and capture" theory could lead to a better understanding of how moons and planets in the solar system, particularly those in the cold interact and form.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
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Science Tech: This "kiss-and-capture" event offers a new understanding of how moons are captured and helps scientists learn more about how planetary bodies form. 

New research suggests that billions of years ago, Pluto (also known as a dwarf planet) may have captured its largest moon, Charon, through a unique "kiss-and-capture" collision. Unlike Earth, where the moon orbits the planet, Pluto and Charon orbit each other. Both are icy bodies located in the Kuiper Belt, beyond Neptune. The study, led by NASA postdoctoral fellow Adeene Denton at the University of Arizona's Lunar and Planetary Laboratory, proposes that Pluto and Charon were once two icy worlds that collided in the distant Kuiper Belt. Rather than destroying each other, they briefly merged into a spinning "cosmic snowman" before separating. Despite this, they remained gravitationally bound, forming the Pluto-Charon system we see today. This "kiss-and-capture" event offers a new understanding of how moons are captured and helps scientists learn more about how planetary bodies form and evolve in the cold, icy regions of the solar system. New theory: How Charon formed Scientists presumed for decades that the dwarf planet’s unusually large moon, Charon, formed from a massive collision, similar to Earth's moon. The common idea was that a large object collided with Pluto, causing molten material to form Charon. However, this theory works better for larger, hotter planets like Earth, where the colliding bodies behave like fluids. Pluto and Charon are smaller and colder, mainly made of rock and ice. When Denton and her team considered the strength of these materials, they found something completely new. “Pluto and Charon are different—they’re smaller, colder, and made mainly of rock and ice. When we looked at the actual strength of these materials, we discovered something unexpected," Denton explained. Also Read: India's ISRO plans to build space station around moon by 2040: Report Charon, left, was formed when a large object collided with Pluto Photograph: ( NASA/JHUAPL) The 'Kiss and Capture' model The research team’s model shows that instead of a massive collision or simple grazing, Pluto and Charon may have briefly collided, stuck together, and then separated, all while remaining gravitationally bound. This new "kiss and capture" mechanism is different from the more common "hit and run" or "graze and merge" collision scenarios. Also Read: What is inside the moon’s inner core? Here’s what scientists revealed Findings in journal: Nature Geoscience The findings published in the journal Nature Geoscience could revolutionise our understanding of how icy bodies in the Kuiper Belt and beyond form and evolve. “The compelling thing about this study is that the model parameters that work to capture Charon end up putting it in the right orbit. You get two things right for the price of one,” said Erik Asphaug, senior author and professor at the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory. The "kiss and capture" theory could lead to a better understanding of how moons and planets in the solar system, particularly those in the cold interact and form. (With inputs from agencies)

How Pluto got its moon: The ‘Kiss-and-Capture’ theory

NASA astronaut captures stunning images of the Northern Lights from space, showcasing the beauty of Earth's auroras from a unique vantage point.

NASA astronaut capture northern lights from space

NASA reveals new Mars helicopter design with aim to enhance the exploration of Mars and help explore other planets. In April 2021, Ingenuity made history by becoming the first aircraft to fly on another planet.
<h2>Challenges of flying on Mars</h2>
Flying on Mars is difficult due to the planet's thin atmosphere, which has less than 1 per cent of the density of Earth's atmosphere. This means helicopters like Ingenuity need to work harder to lift off the ground. Mars also has fine dust, which can be harmful to the delicate equipment on these aircraft, as reported by the Science Alert website.
Also Read | &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-space-agency-isro-launches-spadex-mission-8578903" rel="dofollow">Watch: Indian space agency ISRO successfully launches SpaDeX mission</a>
Building on the success of Ingenuity, NASA is designing a new helicopter, the Mars Chopper. This new helicopter will be larger and more capable. Unlike Ingenuity, which was a demonstration, the Mars Chopper will carry scientific instruments to help explore Mars in greater detail.
<h2>Increased payload and new capabilities</h2>
The new helicopter design features six rotors, each with six blades, which are smaller in comparison but help generate more lift. This means the Mars Chopper will be able to carry more equipment and fly longer distances&mdash;up to three kilometres.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/study-reveals-too-much-sitting-can-undermine-exercise-benefits-8577907">Study reveals too much sitting can undermine exercise benefits</a>
The Mars Chopper will be able to carry up to 5 kilograms of equipment, allowing it to perform more complex tasks. It will help scientists study areas that are difficult to reach with rovers, and it will be valuable for future human missions to Mars.
This new helicopter is the result of a collaboration between NASA&rsquo;s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and the Ames Research Center, both based in California. It will play a key role in gathering important data and supporting exploration efforts on Mars.
The Mars Chopper will be a game changer for the exploration of Mars and other planets with similar atmospheres. By providing aerial views of Mars, it will support both robotic and human missions, allowing us to explore parts of the planet that we could not reach before.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Science & Tech | The Mars Chopper will help scientists study areas that are difficult to reach with rovers, and it will be valuable for future human missions to Mars.

NASA reveals new Mars helicopter design with aim to enhance the exploration of Mars and help explore other planets. In April 2021, Ingenuity made history by becoming the first aircraft to fly on another planet. Challenges of flying on Mars Flying on Mars is difficult due to the planet's thin atmosphere, which has less than 1 per cent of the density of Earth's atmosphere. This means helicopters like Ingenuity need to work harder to lift off the ground. Mars also has fine dust, which can be harmful to the delicate equipment on these aircraft, as reported by the Science Alert website. Also Read | Watch: Indian space agency ISRO successfully launches SpaDeX mission Building on the success of Ingenuity, NASA is designing a new helicopter, the Mars Chopper. This new helicopter will be larger and more capable. Unlike Ingenuity, which was a demonstration, the Mars Chopper will carry scientific instruments to help explore Mars in greater detail. Increased payload and new capabilities The new helicopter design features six rotors, each with six blades, which are smaller in comparison but help generate more lift. This means the Mars Chopper will be able to carry more equipment and fly longer distances—up to three kilometres. Also Read | Study reveals too much sitting can undermine exercise benefits The Mars Chopper will be able to carry up to 5 kilograms of equipment, allowing it to perform more complex tasks. It will help scientists study areas that are difficult to reach with rovers, and it will be valuable for future human missions to Mars. This new helicopter is the result of a collaboration between NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and the Ames Research Center, both based in California. It will play a key role in gathering important data and supporting exploration efforts on Mars. The Mars Chopper will be a game changer for the exploration of Mars and other planets with similar atmospheres. By providing aerial views of Mars, it will support both robotic and human missions, allowing us to explore parts of the planet that we could not reach before. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA introduces new Mars helicopter design following Ingenuity's success

A NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) spacecraft made history on Thursday (Dec 16) by surviving the closest-ever approach to the sun.&nbsp;
Parker Solar Probe gave a signal to scientists just before midnight on Thursday (Dec 26) after being out of communication for several days.&nbsp;
The space agency said the probe was &ldquo;safe&rdquo; and was operating after passing just 3.8 million miles from the solar space.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/milky-ways-fluffiest-system-found-a-new-planet-786724" aria-label="Milky Way's fluffiest system found a new planet">Milky Way's fluffiest system found a new planet</a>
NASA had been awaiting the signal since then as it was expected to be received on December 28.&nbsp;
As per the NASA website, moving at up to 692,000 kph, the spacecraft endured temperature of 980C.&nbsp;
The space agency said, "This close-up study of the Sun allows Parker Solar Probe to take measurements that help scientists better understand how material in this region gets heated to millions of degrees, trace the origin of the solar wind (a continuous flow of material escaping the Sun), and discover how energetic particles are accelerated to near light speed.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Dr Nicola Fox, head of science at NASA, previously told BBC News that people have studied the Sun for centuries, but &ldquo;you don't experience the atmosphere of a place until you actually go [and] visit it&rdquo;.&nbsp;
He further added, &ldquo;And so we can't really experience the atmosphere of our star unless we fly through it.&rdquo;
Parker Solar Probe was launched in 2018 and was aimed to head to the centre of our solar system.&nbsp;
It has swept past the Sun 21 times till now while getting nearer to the star.&nbsp;
Dr Fox told BBC, "We are 93 million miles away from the Sun, so if I put the Sun and the Earth one metre apart, Parker Solar Probe is 4cm from the Sun - so that's close."
<h3>But what's the purpose?</h3>
Scientists want to get closer to the Sun as they hope that as the spacecraft passes through the outer atmosphere of the Sun (Its corona), it will collect some unknown data that might solve a mystery.&nbsp;
Dr Jenifer Millard, an astronomer at Fifth Star Labs in Wales, explained to BBC, "The corona is really, really hot, and we have no idea why."
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-probe-to-make-closest-approach-ever-in-human-history-to-fiery-surface-of-sun-on-christmas-eve-785998" aria-label="NASA probe to make closest approach ever in human history to fiery surface of sun on Christmas Eve">NASA probe to make closest approach ever in human history to fiery surface of sun on Christmas Eve</a>
"The surface of the Sun is about 6,000C or so, but the corona, this tenuous outer atmosphere that you can see during solar eclipses, reaches millions of degrees - and that is further away from the Sun. So how is that atmosphere getting hotter," she further added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Science | NASA said the probe was “safe” and was operating after passing just 3.8 million miles from the solar space. NASA had been awaiting the signal since then as it was expected to be received on December 28. 

A NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) spacecraft made history on Thursday (Dec 16) by surviving the closest-ever approach to the sun. Parker Solar Probe gave a signal to scientists just before midnight on Thursday (Dec 26) after being out of communication for several days. The space agency said the probe was “safe” and was operating after passing just 3.8 million miles from the solar space. Also read | Milky Way's fluffiest system found a new planet NASA had been awaiting the signal since then as it was expected to be received on December 28. As per the NASA website, moving at up to 692,000 kph, the spacecraft endured temperature of 980C. The space agency said, "This close-up study of the Sun allows Parker Solar Probe to take measurements that help scientists better understand how material in this region gets heated to millions of degrees, trace the origin of the solar wind (a continuous flow of material escaping the Sun), and discover how energetic particles are accelerated to near light speed.” Dr Nicola Fox, head of science at NASA, previously told BBC News that people have studied the Sun for centuries, but “you don't experience the atmosphere of a place until you actually go [and] visit it”. He further added, “And so we can't really experience the atmosphere of our star unless we fly through it.” Parker Solar Probe was launched in 2018 and was aimed to head to the centre of our solar system. It has swept past the Sun 21 times till now while getting nearer to the star. Dr Fox told BBC, "We are 93 million miles away from the Sun, so if I put the Sun and the Earth one metre apart, Parker Solar Probe is 4cm from the Sun - so that's close." But what's the purpose? Scientists want to get closer to the Sun as they hope that as the spacecraft passes through the outer atmosphere of the Sun (Its corona), it will collect some unknown data that might solve a mystery. Dr Jenifer Millard, an astronomer at Fifth Star Labs in Wales, explained to BBC, "The corona is really, really hot, and we have no idea why." Also read | NASA probe to make closest approach ever in human history to fiery surface of sun on Christmas Eve "The surface of the Sun is about 6,000C or so, but the corona, this tenuous outer atmosphere that you can see during solar eclipses, reaches millions of degrees - and that is further away from the Sun. So how is that atmosphere getting hotter," she further added. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA spacecraft makes history by getting closest-ever to Sun

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who are&nbsp;stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) were pictured wearing Santa hats next to a tiny Christmas tree on Tuesday (Dec 24), which sparked theories among netizens. A video shared on NASA’s X handle shows the astronauts stranded aboard the International Space Station (ISS) posing, wearing fancy Santa hats.&nbsp;

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<h2 dir="ltr">Netizens puzzled&nbsp;</h2>

The netizens were curious to know how the Christmas hats and other items reached space when the astronauts had been stranded in space since June due to problems in the Boeing Starliner capsule.&nbsp;

"Did they pack Santa hats for an eight-day mission, or are they knitting them up there?" one user on X asked. While some doubted the video’s authenticity, suggesting the astronauts floating in space were actually in a film studio...&nbsp;

One person even passed humour: “Where’d they get the Christmas suits? This feels like the Space Station version of Gilligan’s Island.” Another made a quirky remark, “Imagine dealing with pine needles in zero gravity!”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunita-williams-return-further-delayed-until-march-2025-heres-why-785055">Sunita Williams's return further delayed until March 2025. Here's why</a>

<h2 dir="ltr">Video posted by NASA&nbsp;</h2>

The video posted by NASA shows astronauts Sunita Williams, Don Pettit, Nick Hague, and Barry "Butch" Wilmore sharing a holiday greeting and sending well wishes to those back home on Earth. The video further captures the astronauts floating in zero gravity. Sunita shared her happiness saying, “It’s a great time up here. We get to spend it with all of our ‘family’ on the International Space Station,” she said.

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To everyone on Earth, Merry Christmas from our <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA_Astronauts?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASA_Astronauts</a> aboard the International <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a>. <a href="https://t.co/GoOZjXJYLP">pic.twitter.com/GoOZjXJYLP</a>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1871298123777101835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2 dir="ltr">NASA’s response&nbsp;</h2>

In response to the speculations, NASA confirmed that a SpaceX shipment in late November had delivered the festive items to the ISS. The delivery had included not just the essentials for the holiday but also some mission supplies and scientific equipment. NASA further explained that the extra cargo space on the spacecraft allowed for these gravity-defying surprises.

The astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, whose mission with the Boeing Starliner capsule started in June, remain aboard the ISS due to technical issues with the capsule. In September the spacecraft returned unmanned; it had malfunctioned&nbsp;due to&nbsp;leaks.&nbsp;

The return remains delayed until March 2024, with the astronauts hoping to come back safe.

Watch |&nbsp;Boeing Starliner to return empty: What happens to Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/boeing-starliner-to-return-empty-what-happens-to-sunita-williams-and-butch-wilmore-754709/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who are stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) were pictured wearing Santa hats next to a tiny Christmas tree on Tuesday (Dec 24), which sparked theories among netizens.

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who are stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) were pictured wearing Santa hats next to a tiny Christmas tree on Tuesday (Dec 24), which sparked theories among netizens. A video shared on NASA’s X handle shows the astronauts stranded aboard the International Space Station (ISS) posing, wearing fancy Santa hats. Netizens puzzled The netizens were curious to know how the Christmas hats and other items reached space when the astronauts had been stranded in space since June due to problems in the Boeing Starliner capsule. "Did they pack Santa hats for an eight-day mission, or are they knitting them up there?" one user on X asked. While some doubted the video’s authenticity, suggesting the astronauts floating in space were actually in a film studio... One person even passed humour: “Where’d they get the Christmas suits? This feels like the Space Station version of Gilligan’s Island.” Another made a quirky remark, “Imagine dealing with pine needles in zero gravity!” Also Read: Sunita Williams's return further delayed until March 2025. Here's why Video posted by NASA The video posted by NASA shows astronauts Sunita Williams, Don Pettit, Nick Hague, and Barry "Butch" Wilmore sharing a holiday greeting and sending well wishes to those back home on Earth. The video further captures the astronauts floating in zero gravity. Sunita shared her happiness saying, “It’s a great time up here. We get to spend it with all of our ‘family’ on the International Space Station,” she said. To everyone on Earth, Merry Christmas from our @NASA_Astronauts aboard the International @Space_Station. pic.twitter.com/GoOZjXJYLP — NASA (@NASA) December 23, 2024 × NASA’s response In response to the speculations, NASA confirmed that a SpaceX shipment in late November had delivered the festive items to the ISS. The delivery had included not just the essentials for the holiday but also some mission supplies and scientific equipment. NASA further explained that the extra cargo space on the spacecraft allowed for these gravity-defying surprises. The astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, whose mission with the Boeing Starliner capsule started in June, remain aboard the ISS due to technical issues with the capsule. In September the spacecraft returned unmanned; it had malfunctioned due to leaks. The return remains delayed until March 2024, with the astronauts hoping to come back safe. Watch | Boeing Starliner to return empty: What happens to Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore? (With inputs from agencies)

Sunita Williams wishes Merry Christmas from space; netizens ask, ‘Where’d they get the Christmas suits?’

Breaking all records, NASA's Parker Solar Probe is now diving deeper into the sun's inferno than any human-made object. The spacecraft, designed to withstand temperatures of 1,400°C and endure radiation levels that would destroy any ordinary spacecraft in seconds, is attempting to get closer to the sun. Our next story takes a look at the fascinating journey and the answers the mission is trying to find. Watch in for more details!



Parker Solar Probe: Humanity's First Touch Of The Sun

Breaking all records, NASA's Parker Solar Probe is now diving deeper into the sun's inferno than any human-made object. The spacecraft, designed to withstand temperatures of 1,400°C and endure radiation levels that would destroy any ordinary spacecraft in seconds, is attempting to get closer to the sun. Our next story takes a look at the fascinating journey and the answers the mission is trying to find. Watch in for more details!

Parker Probe's Historic Plunge Toward The Sun

NASA's Parker Probe Pushes Limits Near The Sun

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