Nasa's Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem (Pace) mission soared into orbit aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on Thursday.

NASA launches new climate mission to study ocean, atmosphere

SpaceX launches nasa's pace satellite to study earth's oceans, air and climate.

NASA launches new climate mission to study ocean

<p>New NASA-funded research has uncovered a surprising reality behind the serene facade of the moon. It turns out that the beautiful celestial object in our night skies is not as calm as it seems! Research suggests that it may actually be hiding some turbulence right at its core, that is causing it to shrink.</p>

<h2><strong>Wrinkles on the moon</strong></h2>

<p>As per The Guardian, as the moon's core cools down, it is actually shrinking. This is causing its surface to shrivel and form what scientists call thrust faults—basically, giant ripples across its surface.</p>

<p>These thrust faults aren't just harmless wrinkles; they can actually lead to moonquakes and landslides that last for hours.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/aliens-made-the-meteor-that-hit-earth-10-years-ago-scientist-claims-687718">Aliens made the 'meteor' that hit Earth 10 years ago, scientist claims</a></strong></p>

<p>In the new research published in the Planetary Science Journal, lead researcher Tom Watters from the Smithsonian Institution explains: "Our modelling suggests that shallow moonquakes capable of producing strong ground shaking in the south polar region are possible from slip events on existing faults or the formation of new thrust faults," he said.</p>

<p>The researchers took a close look at the moon's South Pole, an area believed to have places with water ice hidden in the shadows. This region is super important and is set to be explored by NASA's Artemis III mission in 2026.</p>

<p>Using cameras aboard the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, researchers spotted lots of "relatively small, young thrust faults widely distributed in the lunar crust, and seismic devices left on the moon's surface by astronauts decades ago".</p>

<p>They compared these findings with seismic data and found that they matched.</p>

<h2><strong>Why is this significant?</strong></h2>

<p>You may be asking why does this even matter. Well, it is not great news for astronauts or robots exploring the moon. These can actually be very dangerous as humans continue to explore Earth's natural satellite.</p>

<p>In a statement published by NASA, Watters said that "The global distribution of young thrust faults, their potential to be active, and the potential to form new thrust faults from ongoing global contraction should be considered when planning the location and stability of permanent outposts on the Moon".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/rocks-found-in-antarctica-suggest-an-asteroid-may-have-exploded-over-the-continent-25-million-years-ago-687777">An asteroid exploded over Antarctica 2.5 million years ago, rocky evidence suggests</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking with CNN, he clarified that he was not trying to "alarm anyone" or "discourage exploration" of the moon. He said taht he just wants to warn future astronauts that the moon is more dynamic than it looks.&nbsp;"The moon is not this benign place where nothing is happening," he remarked.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


New NASA-funded research has uncovered a surprising reality behind the serene facade of the moon. It turns out that the beautiful celestial object in our night skies is not as calm as it seems!

New NASA-funded research has uncovered a surprising reality behind the serene facade of the moon. It turns out that the beautiful celestial object in our night skies is not as calm as it seems! Research suggests that it may actually be hiding some turbulence right at its core, that is causing it to shrink. Wrinkles on the moon As per The Guardian, as the moon's core cools down, it is actually shrinking. This is causing its surface to shrivel and form what scientists call thrust faults—basically, giant ripples across its surface. These thrust faults aren't just harmless wrinkles; they can actually lead to moonquakes and landslides that last for hours. Also read | Aliens made the 'meteor' that hit Earth 10 years ago, scientist claims In the new research published in the Planetary Science Journal, lead researcher Tom Watters from the Smithsonian Institution explains: "Our modelling suggests that shallow moonquakes capable of producing strong ground shaking in the south polar region are possible from slip events on existing faults or the formation of new thrust faults," he said. The researchers took a close look at the moon's South Pole, an area believed to have places with water ice hidden in the shadows. This region is super important and is set to be explored by NASA's Artemis III mission in 2026. Using cameras aboard the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, researchers spotted lots of "relatively small, young thrust faults widely distributed in the lunar crust, and seismic devices left on the moon's surface by astronauts decades ago". They compared these findings with seismic data and found that they matched. Why is this significant? You may be asking why does this even matter. Well, it is not great news for astronauts or robots exploring the moon. These can actually be very dangerous as humans continue to explore Earth's natural satellite. In a statement published by NASA, Watters said that "The global distribution of young thrust faults, their potential to be active, and the potential to form new thrust faults from ongoing global contraction should be considered when planning the location and stability of permanent outposts on the Moon". Also read | An asteroid exploded over Antarctica 2.5 million years ago, rocky evidence suggests Speaking with CNN, he clarified that he was not trying to "alarm anyone" or "discourage exploration" of the moon. He said taht he just wants to warn future astronauts that the moon is more dynamic than it looks. "The moon is not this benign place where nothing is happening," he remarked. (With inputs from agencies)

Moon's serene facade is hiding a turbulent reality, reveals NASA-funded research

<p>NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), operated by Caltech, has announced significant layoffs, affecting 8 per cent of its workforce, alongside additional contractor reductions.&nbsp;This decision comes due to funding uncertainties amidst the absence of a 2024 budget from Congress for the Mars mission, casting a shadow over one of NASA's most ambitious projects. With this NASA's quest to find&nbsp;out about any potential Martian life is now facing a substantial setback as congressional budget gridlock throws a wrench into its plans.</p>

<p>JPL Director Laurie Leshin conveyed the gravity of the situation in a sombre memo on Tuesday (Feb 6), acknowledging the lack of fiscal clarity and its consequential impact on the mission.</p>

<p>“Today I’m writing to share some difficult news," she wrote while adding, “While we still do not have an FY24 appropriation or the final word from Congress on our Mars Sample Return (MSR) budget allocation, we are now in a position where we must take further significant action to reduce our spending, which will result in layoffs of JPL employees and an additional release of contractors."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The layoffs will impact 530 people, in addition to another 40 contractors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite prior directives from NASA regarding budget allocations, dwindling resources and ongoing budget constraints necessitated these drastic measures.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/moons-serene-facade-is-hiding-a-turbulent-reality-reveals-nasa-funded-research-687981">Moon's serene facade is hiding a turbulent reality, reveals NASA-funded research</a></p>

<p>The Mars Sample Return mission is hailed for its potential to unearth evidence of ancient Martian life. But now it has encountered these financial hurdles.</p>

<p>While the Perseverance rover successfully collected soil samples, the challenge of transporting them back to Earth looms large. With an estimated cost of billions, the mission faces scrutiny over its feasibility amidst constrained budgets.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/space-industry-bodies-from-india-and-australia-ink-pact-to-further-cooperation-687886">Space industry bodies from India and Australia ink pact to further cooperation</a></p>

<p>According to the NASA Independent Review Board, the sample return would cost between $8 billion and $11 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-putin-tightens-grip-on-internet-access-how-russians-are-evading-kremlins-eyes-688009">Putin Tightens Grip on Internet Access | How Russians Are Evading Kremlin's Eyes</a></strong></p>

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<p>The announcement of layoffs drew sharp criticism from Rep. Judy Chu, who condemned the move as "premature".</p>

<p>“I’m extremely disappointed with the impending JPL layoffs announced today, and my thoughts are with the workers who will be impacted and their families,” Chu said. “These cuts will devastate workers and Southern California in the short-term, and they hurt the long-term viability of not just our Mars Exploration Program but also many years of scientific discovery to come.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), operated by Caltech, has announced significant layoffs, affecting 8 per cent of its workforce, alongside additional contractor reductions.

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), operated by Caltech, has announced significant layoffs, affecting 8 per cent of its workforce, alongside additional contractor reductions. This decision comes due to funding uncertainties amidst the absence of a 2024 budget from Congress for the Mars mission, casting a shadow over one of NASA's most ambitious projects. With this NASA's quest to find out about any potential Martian life is now facing a substantial setback as congressional budget gridlock throws a wrench into its plans. JPL Director Laurie Leshin conveyed the gravity of the situation in a sombre memo on Tuesday (Feb 6), acknowledging the lack of fiscal clarity and its consequential impact on the mission. “Today I’m writing to share some difficult news," she wrote while adding, “While we still do not have an FY24 appropriation or the final word from Congress on our Mars Sample Return (MSR) budget allocation, we are now in a position where we must take further significant action to reduce our spending, which will result in layoffs of JPL employees and an additional release of contractors." The layoffs will impact 530 people, in addition to another 40 contractors. Despite prior directives from NASA regarding budget allocations, dwindling resources and ongoing budget constraints necessitated these drastic measures. Also Read | Moon's serene facade is hiding a turbulent reality, reveals NASA-funded research The Mars Sample Return mission is hailed for its potential to unearth evidence of ancient Martian life. But now it has encountered these financial hurdles. While the Perseverance rover successfully collected soil samples, the challenge of transporting them back to Earth looms large. With an estimated cost of billions, the mission faces scrutiny over its feasibility amidst constrained budgets. Also Read | Space industry bodies from India and Australia ink pact to further cooperation According to the NASA Independent Review Board, the sample return would cost between $8 billion and $11 billion. Watch | Putin Tightens Grip on Internet Access | How Russians Are Evading Kremlin's Eyes × The announcement of layoffs drew sharp criticism from Rep. Judy Chu, who condemned the move as "premature". “I’m extremely disappointed with the impending JPL layoffs announced today, and my thoughts are with the workers who will be impacted and their families,” Chu said. “These cuts will devastate workers and Southern California in the short-term, and they hurt the long-term viability of not just our Mars Exploration Program but also many years of scientific discovery to come.” (With inputs from agencies)

US Congressional budget stalemate forces NASA layoffs, Mars sample return mission in peril

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<p>The National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) PACE (Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem) mission was successfully launched on Thursday (Feb 8). A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carrying the PACE spacecraft blasted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station’s Space Launch Complex 40. In a post on X, NASA said, "Today we put the PACE in space! The newest NASA Earth-observing satellite launched on Feb 8 at 1.33 am ET."</p>

<p>"Separation confirmed—PACE is now flying free from its SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. We’ll be keeping PACE with the NASA Earth spacecraft throughout its mission as it studies our ocean and clouds," NASA said in a separate post.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is PACE?</strong></h2>

<p>According to NASA, PACE will study ocean health, air quality, and the effects of a changing climate for the benefit of humanity. "The satellite’s hyperspectral ocean colour instrument will allow researchers to measure oceans and other waterbodies across a spectrum of ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared light," NASA said <strong><a href="https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-launches-new-climate-mission-to-study-ocean-atmosphere/?linkId=314466587">in a statement</a></strong>.</p>

<p>"This will enable scientists to track the distribution of phytoplankton and – for the first time from space – identify which communities of these organisms are present on daily, global scales. Scientists and coastal resource managers can use the data to help forecast the health of fisheries, track harmful algal blooms, and identify changes in the marine environment," it added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/moons-serene-facade-is-hiding-a-turbulent-reality-reveals-nasa-funded-research-687981">Moon's serene facade is hiding a turbulent reality, reveals NASA-funded research</a></strong></p>

<p>The PACE spacecraft carries two polarimeter instruments, Hyper-Angular Rainbow Polarimeter #2 and Spectro-polarimeter for planetary exploration. These instruments will detect "how sunlight interacts with particles in the atmosphere, giving researchers new information on atmospheric aerosols and cloud properties, as well as air quality at local, regional, and global scales," the statement said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Separation confirmed—PACE is now flying free from its <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpaceX</a> Falcon 9 rocket.<br />
<br />
We’ll be <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeepingPACE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeepingPACE</a> with the <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAEarth?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASAEarth</a> spacecraft throughout its mission as it studies our ocean and clouds. <a href="https://t.co/dhPgQSuPCM">pic.twitter.com/dhPgQSuPCM</a></p>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1755484438408962355?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Karen St. Germain, director of the Earth Science Division, Science Mission Directorate&nbsp;at NASA, said that the mission will profoundly advance knowledge of the ocean's role in the climate cycle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As an open-source science mission with early adopters ready to use its research and data, PACE will accelerate our understanding of the Earth system and help NASA deliver actionable science, data, and practical applications to help our coastal communities and industries address rapidly evolving challenges," Germain added.</p>

<h2><strong>'PACE will help us learn like never before'</strong></h2>

<p>Reacting to the mission's successful launch, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said that PACE "will help us learn, like never before, how particles in our atmosphere and our oceans can identify key factors impacting global warming."</p>

<p>The mission is being managed by NASA Goddard, which also built and tested the spacecraft and the ocean colour instrument.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Missions like this are supporting the Biden-Harris Administration’s climate agenda and helping us answer urgent questions about our changing climate,” Nelson added.</p>


The National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) PACE (Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem) mission was successfully launched on Thursday (Feb 8).

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) PACE (Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem) mission was successfully launched on Thursday (Feb 8). A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carrying the PACE spacecraft blasted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station’s Space Launch Complex 40. In a post on X, NASA said, "Today we put the PACE in space! The newest NASA Earth-observing satellite launched on Feb 8 at 1.33 am ET." "Separation confirmed—PACE is now flying free from its SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. We’ll be keeping PACE with the NASA Earth spacecraft throughout its mission as it studies our ocean and clouds," NASA said in a separate post. What is PACE? According to NASA, PACE will study ocean health, air quality, and the effects of a changing climate for the benefit of humanity. "The satellite’s hyperspectral ocean colour instrument will allow researchers to measure oceans and other waterbodies across a spectrum of ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared light," NASA said in a statement. "This will enable scientists to track the distribution of phytoplankton and – for the first time from space – identify which communities of these organisms are present on daily, global scales. Scientists and coastal resource managers can use the data to help forecast the health of fisheries, track harmful algal blooms, and identify changes in the marine environment," it added. Also read | Moon's serene facade is hiding a turbulent reality, reveals NASA-funded research The PACE spacecraft carries two polarimeter instruments, Hyper-Angular Rainbow Polarimeter #2 and Spectro-polarimeter for planetary exploration. These instruments will detect "how sunlight interacts with particles in the atmosphere, giving researchers new information on atmospheric aerosols and cloud properties, as well as air quality at local, regional, and global scales," the statement said. Separation confirmed—PACE is now flying free from its @SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. We’ll be #KeepingPACE with the @NASAEarth spacecraft throughout its mission as it studies our ocean and clouds. pic.twitter.com/dhPgQSuPCM — NASA (@NASA) February 8, 2024 × Karen St. Germain, director of the Earth Science Division, Science Mission Directorate at NASA, said that the mission will profoundly advance knowledge of the ocean's role in the climate cycle. "As an open-source science mission with early adopters ready to use its research and data, PACE will accelerate our understanding of the Earth system and help NASA deliver actionable science, data, and practical applications to help our coastal communities and industries address rapidly evolving challenges," Germain added. 'PACE will help us learn like never before' Reacting to the mission's successful launch, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said that PACE "will help us learn, like never before, how particles in our atmosphere and our oceans can identify key factors impacting global warming." The mission is being managed by NASA Goddard, which also built and tested the spacecraft and the ocean colour instrument. “Missions like this are supporting the Biden-Harris Administration’s climate agenda and helping us answer urgent questions about our changing climate,” Nelson added.

NASA's PACE mission launched into space. What is it about?

<p>NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission, acronymically named Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification and Security — Regolith Explorer, culminated in the successful retrieval of specimens from asteroid Bennu. These extraterrestrial samples, captured over a seven-year mission, hold the potential to unravel the mysteries of our solar system's origins.</p>

<p>After a seven-year voyage, the OSIRIS-REx sample canister touched down on September 24, 2023, in a remote area of Utah. This marked the beginning of a meticulous analysis of the cosmic treasure trove brought back from Bennu, believed to contain remnants dating back 4.5 billion years.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/aliens-made-the-meteor-that-hit-earth-10-years-ago-scientist-claims-687718">Also read |&nbsp;Aliens made the 'meteor' that hit Earth 10 years ago, scientist claims</a></p>

<h2><strong>Insights from Bennu's specimens</strong></h2>

<p>The Bennu samples, primarily composed of water-rich minerals and various elements like carbon and nitrogen, represent an unparalleled opportunity for scientific investigation. Researchers anticipate that these materials will shed light on the formation processes of celestial bodies within our solar system, including Earth.</p>

<p>Early analyses have unveiled distinctive features of Bennu's composition, including a phosphate crust unseen in meteorites. Moreover, isotopic studies have revealed that Bennu's material differs significantly from known meteorite samples, suggesting a unique origin.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/asteroid-that-fell-in-germany-is-extremely-rare-as-old-as-solar-system-scientists-687684">Also read |&nbsp;Asteroid that fell in Germany ‘extremely rare’, as old as solar system: Scientists</a></p>

<p>The presence of phosphates in Bennu's material hints at the possibility that the asteroid may have originated from an ancient ocean world. This speculation underscores the potential role of asteroids in the delivery of essential ingredients for life to terrestrial planets like Earth.</p>

<p>Teams of scientists, equipped with cutting-edge analytical tools, are engaged in a comprehensive examination of the Bennu specimens. From optical and electron microscopes to advanced instruments like the nanoSIMS, researchers are poised to uncover new insights into the asteroid's history and composition.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission, acronymically named Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification and Security — Regolith Explorer, culminated in the successful retrieval of specimens from asteroid Bennu.

NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission, acronymically named Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification and Security — Regolith Explorer, culminated in the successful retrieval of specimens from asteroid Bennu. These extraterrestrial samples, captured over a seven-year mission, hold the potential to unravel the mysteries of our solar system's origins. After a seven-year voyage, the OSIRIS-REx sample canister touched down on September 24, 2023, in a remote area of Utah. This marked the beginning of a meticulous analysis of the cosmic treasure trove brought back from Bennu, believed to contain remnants dating back 4.5 billion years. Also read | Aliens made the 'meteor' that hit Earth 10 years ago, scientist claims Insights from Bennu's specimens The Bennu samples, primarily composed of water-rich minerals and various elements like carbon and nitrogen, represent an unparalleled opportunity for scientific investigation. Researchers anticipate that these materials will shed light on the formation processes of celestial bodies within our solar system, including Earth. Early analyses have unveiled distinctive features of Bennu's composition, including a phosphate crust unseen in meteorites. Moreover, isotopic studies have revealed that Bennu's material differs significantly from known meteorite samples, suggesting a unique origin. Also read | Asteroid that fell in Germany ‘extremely rare’, as old as solar system: Scientists The presence of phosphates in Bennu's material hints at the possibility that the asteroid may have originated from an ancient ocean world. This speculation underscores the potential role of asteroids in the delivery of essential ingredients for life to terrestrial planets like Earth. Teams of scientists, equipped with cutting-edge analytical tools, are engaged in a comprehensive examination of the Bennu specimens. From optical and electron microscopes to advanced instruments like the nanoSIMS, researchers are poised to uncover new insights into the asteroid's history and composition. (With inputs from agencies)

First look of asteroid Bennu samples hints it could be remnant of ancient ocean world

<p>US Space Agency NASA recently unveiled a breathtaking photograph featuring both the Moon and Earth in a single frame, captured from the International Space Station (ISS). In the shared image, the Moon appears in a crescent phase, while Earth shines below with delicate wisps of white clouds enveloping its blue surface.</p>

<p>NASA provided insight into the lunar phase, stating,&nbsp;"Our Moon is in its waning crescent phase, where most of the sunlight is illuminating its far side - the side we can't directly see from Earth. The waning crescent is the last phase before the lunar cycle repeats with a "new moon" phase, where it is completely obscured from Earth's perspective."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Detailing the view from the ISS, NASA elaborated, "Moon appears partially lit in the upper middle portion of the image. The Earth appears blue with faint white clouds in the atmosphere, stretching from the bottom left to the top right of the image. Black space surrounds the Moon."</p>

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<p>Reacting to the post, one user wrote, "Omg, magnificent! In addition, I love the philosophical captions of posts from NASA!"<br />
<br />
"I really want to board ISS once in my lifetime," another user wrote.&nbsp;NASA often shares pictures like these, including the cosmic wonders of distant galaxies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NASA earlier also shared another striking image captured from the International Space Station, showcasing Earth's airglow casting an outline along the planet's horizon, with the Moon hovering above.</p>

<p>This stunning photo was taken on November 14, 2023, from an altitude of 260 miles (418 km) above the midwestern United States and provided a unique perspective of our planet's nocturnal beauty.</p>

<p>NASA wrote, "A view of Earth from the space station during orbital night. The Moon is above the earth nearly centered above the surface. An airglow outlines the atmosphere above the Earth's surface in a yellow shade. Lights from cities dot Earth's surface - among them, a concentration of lights near the horizon identifies the city of Chicago, while the concentration of lights closer to the bottom left identifies Denver."</p>

<p>Airglow is a natural phenomenon in Earth's atmosphere that manifests as a faint emission of light in the night sky. It occurs when atoms and molecules in the upper atmosphere, typically at altitudes of about 80 to 100 kilometres (50 to 62 miles) above the Earth's surface, become excited by sunlight during the day and then release this energy as light at night.</p>

<p>Airglow is distinct from auroras, which occur at higher latitudes and are caused by energetic particles from the Sun interacting with Earth's magnetic field. While auroras are more dramatic and visible, airglow is generally much fainter and can be observed worldwide, even in areas far from the polar regions where auroras are typically seen.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US Space Agency NASA recently unveiled a breathtaking photograph featuring both the Moon and Earth in a single frame, captured from the International Space Station (ISS).

US Space Agency NASA recently unveiled a breathtaking photograph featuring both the Moon and Earth in a single frame, captured from the International Space Station (ISS). In the shared image, the Moon appears in a crescent phase, while Earth shines below with delicate wisps of white clouds enveloping its blue surface. NASA provided insight into the lunar phase, stating, "Our Moon is in its waning crescent phase, where most of the sunlight is illuminating its far side - the side we can't directly see from Earth. The waning crescent is the last phase before the lunar cycle repeats with a "new moon" phase, where it is completely obscured from Earth's perspective." Detailing the view from the ISS, NASA elaborated, "Moon appears partially lit in the upper middle portion of the image. The Earth appears blue with faint white clouds in the atmosphere, stretching from the bottom left to the top right of the image. Black space surrounds the Moon." View this post on Instagram A post shared by NASA (@nasa) × Reacting to the post, one user wrote, "Omg, magnificent! In addition, I love the philosophical captions of posts from NASA!" "I really want to board ISS once in my lifetime," another user wrote. NASA often shares pictures like these, including the cosmic wonders of distant galaxies. NASA earlier also shared another striking image captured from the International Space Station, showcasing Earth's airglow casting an outline along the planet's horizon, with the Moon hovering above. This stunning photo was taken on November 14, 2023, from an altitude of 260 miles (418 km) above the midwestern United States and provided a unique perspective of our planet's nocturnal beauty. NASA wrote, "A view of Earth from the space station during orbital night. The Moon is above the earth nearly centered above the surface. An airglow outlines the atmosphere above the Earth's surface in a yellow shade. Lights from cities dot Earth's surface - among them, a concentration of lights near the horizon identifies the city of Chicago, while the concentration of lights closer to the bottom left identifies Denver." Airglow is a natural phenomenon in Earth's atmosphere that manifests as a faint emission of light in the night sky. It occurs when atoms and molecules in the upper atmosphere, typically at altitudes of about 80 to 100 kilometres (50 to 62 miles) above the Earth's surface, become excited by sunlight during the day and then release this energy as light at night. Airglow is distinct from auroras, which occur at higher latitudes and are caused by energetic particles from the Sun interacting with Earth's magnetic field. While auroras are more dramatic and visible, airglow is generally much fainter and can be observed worldwide, even in areas far from the polar regions where auroras are typically seen. (With inputs from agencies)

Space marvel! NASA's incredible shot of Moon, Earth in one frame leaves internet awestruck

<p>The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) postponed the launch of its PACE (Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem) mission on Tuesday (February 6). The launch, a collaboration between NASA and Elon Musk-led SpaceX is now going to take place at 12:03 PM (IST) on February 7. The postponement was due to unfavourable weather conditions on Tuesday.</p>

<p>When launched, the satellite will be placed in a Sun-synchronous orbit. When any object is placed in Sun-synchronous orbit it is synced to a constant position relative to the Sun.</p>

<p>This would further mean that it will cross Earth's equator at same local time for each orbit.</p>

<p>The unique placement of the satellite will ensure that the Sun will be almost behind PACE when it observed Earth</p>

<p>The launch is slated to take place from the USA's Spaceport at Cape Canaveral in Florida. The launch will take place when the region will be in the dark side of the Earth. Because of this, the satellite will be over Indian subcontinent when it crosses equator for the first time on the side of the Earth illuminated by sunlight.</p>

<p><strong>Check out | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ai-trippy-art-and-moremuseums-that-showcase-the-future-and-arent-stuck-in-the-past-598062">AI, trippy art and more...Museums that showcase the future and aren't stuck in the past</a></strong></p>

<p>"PACE's data will help us better understand how the ocean and atmosphere exchange carbon dioxide. In addition, it will reveal how aerosols might fuel phytoplankton growth in the surface ocean. Novel uses of PACE data will benefit our economy and society. For example, it will help identify the extent and duration of harmful algal blooms. PACE will extend and expand NASA's long-term observations of our living planet. By doing so, it will take Earth's pulse in new ways for decades to come," says NASA on its website.</p>

<p><strong>In pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-archaeologists-find-2000-year-old-painting-of-pizza-in-ancient-roman-ruins-of-pompeii-609421">Archaeologists find 2,000-year-old painting of 'pizza' in ancient Roman ruins of Pompeii</a></strong></p>

<p>"A SpaceX Falcon 9, whose first stage booster will have been used 3 previous times. SpaceX plans to recover the first stage as part of the process of PACE's launch," said NASA</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) postponed the launch of its PACE (Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem) mission on Tuesday (February 6).

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) postponed the launch of its PACE (Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem) mission on Tuesday (February 6). The launch, a collaboration between NASA and Elon Musk-led SpaceX is now going to take place at 12:03 PM (IST) on February 7. The postponement was due to unfavourable weather conditions on Tuesday. When launched, the satellite will be placed in a Sun-synchronous orbit. When any object is placed in Sun-synchronous orbit it is synced to a constant position relative to the Sun. This would further mean that it will cross Earth's equator at same local time for each orbit. The unique placement of the satellite will ensure that the Sun will be almost behind PACE when it observed Earth The launch is slated to take place from the USA's Spaceport at Cape Canaveral in Florida. The launch will take place when the region will be in the dark side of the Earth. Because of this, the satellite will be over Indian subcontinent when it crosses equator for the first time on the side of the Earth illuminated by sunlight. Check out | AI, trippy art and more...Museums that showcase the future and aren't stuck in the past "PACE's data will help us better understand how the ocean and atmosphere exchange carbon dioxide. In addition, it will reveal how aerosols might fuel phytoplankton growth in the surface ocean. Novel uses of PACE data will benefit our economy and society. For example, it will help identify the extent and duration of harmful algal blooms. PACE will extend and expand NASA's long-term observations of our living planet. By doing so, it will take Earth's pulse in new ways for decades to come," says NASA on its website. In pics | Archaeologists find 2,000-year-old painting of 'pizza' in ancient Roman ruins of Pompeii "A SpaceX Falcon 9, whose first stage booster will have been used 3 previous times. SpaceX plans to recover the first stage as part of the process of PACE's launch," said NASA (With inputs from agencies)

NASA postpones PACE mission launch due to unfavourable weather

<p>NASA, in a sheer delight for space enthusiasts, shared a striking close-up image of Jupiter's moon Io, courtesy of the Juno spacecraft. NASA, while sharing the image wrote in its caption,&nbsp;"On Saturday, Feb. 3, our @NASASolarSystem Juno spacecraft made its final close flyby of Jupiter's moon Io. Similar to the previous flyby on Dec. 30, 2023, this second pass was at a distance of about 930 miles (1,500 kilometres) - or the distance from New York to Orlando, Florida."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jupiter's moon Io is one of the four largest moons of the planet, known as the Galilean moons. It was discovered by the Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei in 1610. lo is the innermost of these four moons and is the fourth largest moon in the solar system. It's a fascinating celestial body for several reasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the image, Io could be seen against the vast backdrop of space. Half-illuminated by sunlight from the right, its night side softly aglow from Jupiter's reflected light, Io presented a mesmerising sight.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/inheritance-of-attraction-study-claims-children-of-attractive-parents-earn-more-687432">Inheritance of attraction? 'Hot parents' study claims children of attractive people earn more</a></p>

<p>Io is the most volcanically active body in the solar system. Its surface is covered with sulfur and sulfur dioxide, and its intense volcanic activity is a result of tidal heating caused by the gravitational forces exerted by Jupiter and its other large moons, Europa and Ganymede.</p>

<p>"Io is caught in a tug-of-war between Jupiter’s powerful gravity and the smaller pull from two neighboring moons, churning its insides and creating eruptions and lakes of lava that cover its surface. The twin flybys are designed to provide new insight into how Io’s volcanic engine works and whether a global magma ocean exists under Io’s rocky, mountainous surface terrain," NASA added in the image caption.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/researchers-use-ai-to-read-2000-year-old-buried-roman-scroll-687402">AI helps read 2,000-year-old Roman scroll from Pompeii charred by Mount Vesuvius volcano</a></p>

<p>The moon displayed hues of orange, brown, and yellow. It is adorned with circular volcanic calderas, lava flows, and jagged mountains creating dramatic shadows across its surface in the beautiful picture.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-isro-joint-satellite-nisar-to-be-launched-in-first-half-of-2024-687486">NASA-ISRO joint satellite 'NISAR' to be launched in first half of 2024</a></strong></p>

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<p>Earlier, NASA's Juno mission made a notable discovery regarding mineral salts and organic compounds present on Ganymede, Jupiter's largest moon. The&nbsp;data was collected using the Jovian InfraRed Auroral Mapper (JIRAM) spectrometer during a close pass by Ganymede.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


NASA, in a sheer delight for space enthusiasts, shared a striking close-up image of Jupiter's moon Io, courtesy of the Juno spacecraft. NASA, while sharing the image wrote in its caption, "On Saturday, Feb.

NASA, in a sheer delight for space enthusiasts, shared a striking close-up image of Jupiter's moon Io, courtesy of the Juno spacecraft. NASA, while sharing the image wrote in its caption, "On Saturday, Feb. 3, our @NASASolarSystem Juno spacecraft made its final close flyby of Jupiter's moon Io. Similar to the previous flyby on Dec. 30, 2023, this second pass was at a distance of about 930 miles (1,500 kilometres) - or the distance from New York to Orlando, Florida." Jupiter's moon Io is one of the four largest moons of the planet, known as the Galilean moons. It was discovered by the Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei in 1610. lo is the innermost of these four moons and is the fourth largest moon in the solar system. It's a fascinating celestial body for several reasons. In the image, Io could be seen against the vast backdrop of space. Half-illuminated by sunlight from the right, its night side softly aglow from Jupiter's reflected light, Io presented a mesmerising sight. Also Read | Inheritance of attraction? 'Hot parents' study claims children of attractive people earn more Io is the most volcanically active body in the solar system. Its surface is covered with sulfur and sulfur dioxide, and its intense volcanic activity is a result of tidal heating caused by the gravitational forces exerted by Jupiter and its other large moons, Europa and Ganymede. "Io is caught in a tug-of-war between Jupiter’s powerful gravity and the smaller pull from two neighboring moons, churning its insides and creating eruptions and lakes of lava that cover its surface. The twin flybys are designed to provide new insight into how Io’s volcanic engine works and whether a global magma ocean exists under Io’s rocky, mountainous surface terrain," NASA added in the image caption. Also Read | AI helps read 2,000-year-old Roman scroll from Pompeii charred by Mount Vesuvius volcano The moon displayed hues of orange, brown, and yellow. It is adorned with circular volcanic calderas, lava flows, and jagged mountains creating dramatic shadows across its surface in the beautiful picture. Watch | NASA-ISRO joint satellite 'NISAR' to be launched in first half of 2024 × Earlier, NASA's Juno mission made a notable discovery regarding mineral salts and organic compounds present on Ganymede, Jupiter's largest moon. The data was collected using the Jovian InfraRed Auroral Mapper (JIRAM) spectrometer during a close pass by Ganymede. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA’s Juno spacecraft delivers stunning close-up picture of Jupiter’s moon Io

Since March 2023, ISRO and NASA scientists are putting together their first ever jointly developed satellite that will study the Earth in detail known as the NASA ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar. The NISAR (NASA ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) satellite is gearing up for launch in a few months. NASA's programme executive of NISAR mission speaks to WION. Watch to know more!

NASA-ISRO joint satellite 'NISAR' to be launched in first half of 2024

<p>As Earth continues to extinguish its limited years and resources, scientists have been trying to find a habitable place for humanity to flourish and not get extinct if the blue planet becomes inhabitable.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, in a remarkable finding, NASA has said it has discovered a "super-Earth” which has potential conditions and temperature for sustaining life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The newly discovered exoplanet, which is 137 light years away from Earth, has been orbiting within a "habitable zone," as per NASA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the astronomers, the exoplanet&nbsp;dubbed TOI-715b is around one and half times the Earth’s width and has been orbiting a small, reddish star.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In its press release, NASA said the same system can also host another Earth-sized planet, which, if confirmed, "would become the smallest habitable-zone planet discovered by TESS [the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite] so far.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/james-webb-detects-exoplanets-orbiting-dead-stars-this-hints-after-suns-death-our-solar-system-will-686767">James Webb detects exoplanets orbiting dead stars. This hints after Sun's death our solar system will...</a></p>

<p>Because of the distance of the super-Earth from its parent star, it carries the possibility of becoming a conservative "habitable zone" and can attain the right temperature for the formation of liquid water on its surface which is important for sustaining life, as per the space agency and also added that "several other factors would have to line up, of course."</p>

<p>NASA stated that as per the conservative measurements of the habitable zone, "a narrower and potentially more robust definition than the broader 'optimistic' habitable zone", places the newly discovered planet in a "prime position" from its parent star.</p>

<p>The smaller Earth-sized planet is also likely to be placed in a conservative habitable zone.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A year on 'super-Earth' is equal to 19 Earth Days: NASA&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The agency stated that due to the short distance between the super-Earth and its parent star, which is a red dwarf that is smaller and cooler in comparison to our Earth's sun, a "year" for the exoplanet is equal to 19 Earth days.</p>

<p>The tighter orbits hint at the fact that the "planets can be more easily detected and more frequently observed," said NASA.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | New Study reveals why the Moon is shrinking</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-new-study-reveals-why-the-moon-is-shrinking-686119/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The James Webb Space Telescope has not only detected exoplanets but has also "explored the composition of their atmospheres, which could offer clues to the possible presence of life," said NASA.</p>

<p>University of Birmingham's Georgina Dransfield is headed by the discovery and research of the super-Earth and it was published in the "Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society" journal in January.</p>

<p>The discovery marks another step forward in the mission of astronomers to understand what kind of atmospheric conditions are required to sustain life and also explore the exoplanets' characteristics beyond our solar system, said NASA.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As Earth continues to extinguish its limited years and resources, scientists have been trying to find a habitable place for humanity to flourish and not get extinct if the blue planet becomes inhabitable.

As Earth continues to extinguish its limited years and resources, scientists have been trying to find a habitable place for humanity to flourish and not get extinct if the blue planet becomes inhabitable. Now, in a remarkable finding, NASA has said it has discovered a "super-Earth” which has potential conditions and temperature for sustaining life. The newly discovered exoplanet, which is 137 light years away from Earth, has been orbiting within a "habitable zone," as per NASA. As per the astronomers, the exoplanet dubbed TOI-715b is around one and half times the Earth’s width and has been orbiting a small, reddish star. In its press release, NASA said the same system can also host another Earth-sized planet, which, if confirmed, "would become the smallest habitable-zone planet discovered by TESS [the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite] so far.” Also read: James Webb detects exoplanets orbiting dead stars. This hints after Sun's death our solar system will... Because of the distance of the super-Earth from its parent star, it carries the possibility of becoming a conservative "habitable zone" and can attain the right temperature for the formation of liquid water on its surface which is important for sustaining life, as per the space agency and also added that "several other factors would have to line up, of course." NASA stated that as per the conservative measurements of the habitable zone, "a narrower and potentially more robust definition than the broader 'optimistic' habitable zone", places the newly discovered planet in a "prime position" from its parent star. The smaller Earth-sized planet is also likely to be placed in a conservative habitable zone. A year on 'super-Earth' is equal to 19 Earth Days: NASA The agency stated that due to the short distance between the super-Earth and its parent star, which is a red dwarf that is smaller and cooler in comparison to our Earth's sun, a "year" for the exoplanet is equal to 19 Earth days. The tighter orbits hint at the fact that the "planets can be more easily detected and more frequently observed," said NASA. Watch: Gravitas | New Study reveals why the Moon is shrinking The James Webb Space Telescope has not only detected exoplanets but has also "explored the composition of their atmospheres, which could offer clues to the possible presence of life," said NASA. University of Birmingham's Georgina Dransfield is headed by the discovery and research of the super-Earth and it was published in the "Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society" journal in January. The discovery marks another step forward in the mission of astronomers to understand what kind of atmospheric conditions are required to sustain life and also explore the exoplanets' characteristics beyond our solar system, said NASA. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA discovers ‘super-Earth’ with habitable zone. This planet 137 light years away assures…

<p>Mars exploration by humans using cutting-edge landers and rovers has led to the piling up of junk in space, a new map has revealed. There were two Soviet missions to the Red Planet in 1971 - Mars 2 and Mars 3. While Mars 2's orbiter successfully entered Mars orbit on November 27, 1971, its lander crashed during its descent. From that day till now,&nbsp;humans have been leaving their mark on Mars in the pursuit of scientific knowledge.</p>

<p>In the latest episode, Mars helicopter Ingenuity also suffered a setback as it was rendered incapable of flight.&nbsp;This incident has also contributed an additional 1.8 kilogrammes to the mounting pile of human-made debris on Mars.</p>

<p>The junk lying around Mars is massive, with more than seven tonnes of debris littering the Martian landscape. It includes all the discarded parachutes, and chunks of tyres, among others. Notably, amidst this debris, ongoing missions led by NASA's Curiosity and Perseverance rovers,&nbsp;and China's Zhurong rover, are working to get signs of past or present life on the red planet.</p>

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<p>It is worth noting that operational rovers are not classified as space junk.</p>

<p>Dr. James Blake from the University of Warwick’s physics reportedly said, "It’s common for space missions to discard debris and rovers/helicopters sometimes come across debris fields while exploring."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"With current technology, there’s still an unfortunate balance that needs to be struck between scientific discovery and the impact of missions on the natural environment of these remote worlds," he said adding,&nbsp;"It’s important that future missions are designed with sustainability in mind to ensure that the human footprint is minimised."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What missions led to increased space junk on Mars?&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The junk is the result of many unfortunate missions that ended prematurely or malfunctioned. It includes the Mars 6 lander and Britain's Beagle 2, which miraculously resurfaced in 2015 on Mars after years of being missing in action.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hazardous-asteroid-6-times-wider-than-qutub-minars-height-to-fly-past-earth-on-feb-2-686104">‘Hazardous asteroid’ 6 times wider than Qutub Minar’s height to fly past Earth on Feb 2</a></p>

<p>The journey of Mars exploration has witnessed both successes and setbacks. Spirit and Opportunity rovers, which exceeded their initial 90-day missions, provided groundbreaking insights into Mars' wetter past and its potential to sustain microbial life. Missions like NASA's ambitious Polar Lander were lost in 1999.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Mars exploration by humans using cutting-edge landers and rovers has led to the piling up of junk in space, a new map has revealed. There were two Soviet missions to the Red Planet in 1971 - Mars 2 and Mars 3.

Mars exploration by humans using cutting-edge landers and rovers has led to the piling up of junk in space, a new map has revealed. There were two Soviet missions to the Red Planet in 1971 - Mars 2 and Mars 3. While Mars 2's orbiter successfully entered Mars orbit on November 27, 1971, its lander crashed during its descent. From that day till now, humans have been leaving their mark on Mars in the pursuit of scientific knowledge. In the latest episode, Mars helicopter Ingenuity also suffered a setback as it was rendered incapable of flight. This incident has also contributed an additional 1.8 kilogrammes to the mounting pile of human-made debris on Mars. The junk lying around Mars is massive, with more than seven tonnes of debris littering the Martian landscape. It includes all the discarded parachutes, and chunks of tyres, among others. Notably, amidst this debris, ongoing missions led by NASA's Curiosity and Perseverance rovers, and China's Zhurong rover, are working to get signs of past or present life on the red planet. Also Read | Massive clue found solving why 80 pc of autoimmune patients are women It is worth noting that operational rovers are not classified as space junk. Dr. James Blake from the University of Warwick’s physics reportedly said, "It’s common for space missions to discard debris and rovers/helicopters sometimes come across debris fields while exploring." "With current technology, there’s still an unfortunate balance that needs to be struck between scientific discovery and the impact of missions on the natural environment of these remote worlds," he said adding, "It’s important that future missions are designed with sustainability in mind to ensure that the human footprint is minimised." What missions led to increased space junk on Mars? The junk is the result of many unfortunate missions that ended prematurely or malfunctioned. It includes the Mars 6 lander and Britain's Beagle 2, which miraculously resurfaced in 2015 on Mars after years of being missing in action. Also Read | ‘Hazardous asteroid’ 6 times wider than Qutub Minar’s height to fly past Earth on Feb 2 The journey of Mars exploration has witnessed both successes and setbacks. Spirit and Opportunity rovers, which exceeded their initial 90-day missions, provided groundbreaking insights into Mars' wetter past and its potential to sustain microbial life. Missions like NASA's ambitious Polar Lander were lost in 1999. (With inputs from agencies)

Humans have already dumped 7 tonnes of junk on Mars, map reveals

<p>NASA made a mad discovery of a rare system of six hyperactive exoplanets, with a seventh “misbehaving” infant star. This system of planets with a star is quite similar to our solar system, which raises curiosity to explore more of this region, said scientists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This system of exoplanets is orbiting a relatively close dwarf star in the Milky Way called TOI-1136, which is 270 light years away from Earth. There are a huge number of such exoplanet systems in this region that inspired scientists to study deeper.</p>

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<p>"Because few star systems have as many planets as this one does, it's getting close in size to our solar system," Tara Fetherolf, team member and a visiting professor of astrophysics at the University of California, said in a statement. "It's both similar enough and different enough that we can learn a lot."</p>

<h2><strong>Discovery of young exoplanet system with infant star could help in understanding solar system better</strong></h2>

<p>The initial study of the TOI-1136 planetary system was done by NASA using its Transitioning Survey Satellite (TESS) in 2019. Fetherolf and team found masses of planets in the region with their orbits and even some trace of their atmospheres.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The planets in the system were designated names between TOI-1136 b to TOI-1136 g, and termed as "sub-Neptune" planets. The smallest of the six confirmed planets has a width twice that of Earth, while some of its sibling planets are as large as four times the size of our planet.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Later it was found that TOI-1136 exoplanets are so close to their parent star that they only take 88 Earth days to complete one orbit. This was a major discovery because 88 days is the orbital period of Mercury, which is the closest planet to the Sun, meaning that all these planets may be closer to their star than that tiny planet is to the Sun.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They're weird planets to us because we don't have anything exactly like them in our solar system," Rae Holcomb, team member and a physics Ph.D. candidate at the University of California, said in a separate statement. "But the more we study other planet systems, it seems like they may be the most common type of planet in the galaxy."</p>

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<p>This system of TOI-1136 is quite young, much younger than our solar system, which makes TOI-1136 a toddler in comparison to our home system. This could be of immense importance for astronomers and scientists to learn more about the formation of the solar system, which is a hot topic, said Fetherolf.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Any time we find a multi-planet system it gives us more information to inform our theories about how systems come to be and how our system got here."</p>

<p>The hyperactivity of these much younger exoplanets and a star will be a problem for scientists as it will make high-precision measurements difficult, as they are still juvenile stars.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


NASA made a mad discovery of a rare system of six hyperactive exoplanets, with a seventh “misbehaving” infant star. This system of planets with a star is quite similar to our solar system, which raises curiosity to explore more of this region, said scientists.

NASA made a mad discovery of a rare system of six hyperactive exoplanets, with a seventh “misbehaving” infant star. This system of planets with a star is quite similar to our solar system, which raises curiosity to explore more of this region, said scientists. This system of exoplanets is orbiting a relatively close dwarf star in the Milky Way called TOI-1136, which is 270 light years away from Earth. There are a huge number of such exoplanet systems in this region that inspired scientists to study deeper. Also Read | Humans have already dumped 7 tonnes of junk on Mars, map reveals "Because few star systems have as many planets as this one does, it's getting close in size to our solar system," Tara Fetherolf, team member and a visiting professor of astrophysics at the University of California, said in a statement. "It's both similar enough and different enough that we can learn a lot." Discovery of young exoplanet system with infant star could help in understanding solar system better The initial study of the TOI-1136 planetary system was done by NASA using its Transitioning Survey Satellite (TESS) in 2019. Fetherolf and team found masses of planets in the region with their orbits and even some trace of their atmospheres. The planets in the system were designated names between TOI-1136 b to TOI-1136 g, and termed as "sub-Neptune" planets. The smallest of the six confirmed planets has a width twice that of Earth, while some of its sibling planets are as large as four times the size of our planet. Also Read | Japan's moon lander clicks final image before going dormant once again Later it was found that TOI-1136 exoplanets are so close to their parent star that they only take 88 Earth days to complete one orbit. This was a major discovery because 88 days is the orbital period of Mercury, which is the closest planet to the Sun, meaning that all these planets may be closer to their star than that tiny planet is to the Sun. "They're weird planets to us because we don't have anything exactly like them in our solar system," Rae Holcomb, team member and a physics Ph.D. candidate at the University of California, said in a separate statement. "But the more we study other planet systems, it seems like they may be the most common type of planet in the galaxy." Also Read | Scientists stumble upon 90,000-year-old human footprints on Moroccan beach. Here's what it indicates This system of TOI-1136 is quite young, much younger than our solar system, which makes TOI-1136 a toddler in comparison to our home system. This could be of immense importance for astronomers and scientists to learn more about the formation of the solar system, which is a hot topic, said Fetherolf. "Any time we find a multi-planet system it gives us more information to inform our theories about how systems come to be and how our system got here." The hyperactivity of these much younger exoplanets and a star will be a problem for scientists as it will make high-precision measurements difficult, as they are still juvenile stars. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA spots a system of six 'sub-Neptunes' with hyperactive 'toddler' star

A new study led by NASA scientists has revealed that the Moon is shrinking in size. It has shrunk over 150 feet in its circumference over the past few hundred million years. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas | New Study reveals why the Moon is shrinking

<p>NASA’s Lucy spacecraft, known for visiting asteroids is set to get fired up in space on January 31 for its next trip to explore Trojan asteroids. Lucy earlier performed a flyby around asteroid Dinky and discovered its twin, and is now getting ready for its new voyage to unexplored cosmic spaces.</p>

<p>Lucy is slated to visit two main belt asteroids as well as six Jupiter Trojans - asteroids that share Jupiter’s orbit around the Sun. Its firing-off on Wednesday will be the first time since its launch in August 2021.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The firing of Lucy’s main engines will see the spacecraft burn through around half of its onboard fuel, as per NASA. This will be followed by a second and much larger manoeuvre, which is slated for Saturday (Feb 3).</p>

<h2><strong>NASA’s Lucy to fire off for its future voyages</strong></h2>

<p>Lucy will be fired off during two operations to change its velocity for further lined-up missions. The aim is to change its velocity by around 2,000 miles per hour (3,217 kilometres per hour).</p>

<p>The spacecraft had changed its manoeuvres earlier as well, but they were not as significant as the upcoming two manoeuvres.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Over the next week, Lucy will complete two deep space maneuvers to change the spacecraft’s velocity by about 2,000 mph! In Dec., Lucy will use the Earth's gravity for a 2nd time to slingshot through the main asteroid belt &amp; continue on its journey. <a href="https://t.co/Zs9B0lFn8X">https://t.co/Zs9B0lFn8X</a> <a href="https://t.co/8W3S8tJuna">pic.twitter.com/8W3S8tJuna</a></p>
— NASA Goddard (@NASAGoddard) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAGoddard/status/1752455690415677819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Following these manoeuvres, the next major milestone for Lucy will be a flyby of Earth in December 2024, at which time the spacecraft will get a second gravity assist from our planet that will hopefully slingshot it onto a new trajectory. Lucy will come as close as 230 miles (370 kilometres) to the Earth during this flyby.</p>

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<p>The sequence of manoeuvres planned for 2024 will alter the spacecraft's trajectory away from its present solar orbit, which closely traverses the primary asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. This adjustment helped it encounter the tiny asteroid Dinkinesh, or 'Dinky', on 1 November 2023. Notably, Lucy's exploration revealed that Dinky is, in fact, a binary asteroid system, effectively a double asteroid.</p>

<p>After this, Lucy’s other mission will be to track around Jupiter Trojans. These Trojans are arranged in two loose groups, with one slightly ahead of the gas giant, the Greek camp, and another behind it, the Trojan camp.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/do-moons-exist-outside-our-solar-systems-researchers-argue-on-discovery-of-exomoons-685419">Do moons exist outside our solar systems? Researchers argue on discovery of exomoons</a></p>

<p>Lucy will visit the Greek camp of Trojan asteroids first, setting its sights on the asteroid Eurybates and its satellite or 'moonlet' Queta in August 2027, as per NASA.</p>

<p>After this, the spacecraft will fly past another four Trojan asteroids and three more moonlets, eventually making a final visit to Earth in 2031 before the Lucy mission draws to a close in 2033.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


NASA’s Lucy spacecraft, known for visiting asteroids is set to get fired up in space on January 31 for its next trip to explore Trojan asteroids. Lucy earlier performed a flyby around asteroid Dinky and discovered its twin, and is now getting ready for its new voyage to unexplored cosmic spaces.

NASA’s Lucy spacecraft, known for visiting asteroids is set to get fired up in space on January 31 for its next trip to explore Trojan asteroids. Lucy earlier performed a flyby around asteroid Dinky and discovered its twin, and is now getting ready for its new voyage to unexplored cosmic spaces. Lucy is slated to visit two main belt asteroids as well as six Jupiter Trojans - asteroids that share Jupiter’s orbit around the Sun. Its firing-off on Wednesday will be the first time since its launch in August 2021. Also Read | A bacteria-murdering virus may come in handy to kill superbugs The firing of Lucy’s main engines will see the spacecraft burn through around half of its onboard fuel, as per NASA. This will be followed by a second and much larger manoeuvre, which is slated for Saturday (Feb 3). NASA’s Lucy to fire off for its future voyages Lucy will be fired off during two operations to change its velocity for further lined-up missions. The aim is to change its velocity by around 2,000 miles per hour (3,217 kilometres per hour). The spacecraft had changed its manoeuvres earlier as well, but they were not as significant as the upcoming two manoeuvres. Over the next week, Lucy will complete two deep space maneuvers to change the spacecraft’s velocity by about 2,000 mph! In Dec., Lucy will use the Earth's gravity for a 2nd time to slingshot through the main asteroid belt & continue on its journey. https://t.co/Zs9B0lFn8X pic.twitter.com/8W3S8tJuna — NASA Goddard (@NASAGoddard) January 30, 2024 × Following these manoeuvres, the next major milestone for Lucy will be a flyby of Earth in December 2024, at which time the spacecraft will get a second gravity assist from our planet that will hopefully slingshot it onto a new trajectory. Lucy will come as close as 230 miles (370 kilometres) to the Earth during this flyby. Also Read | Scientists create AI-powered robot that reads braille at breakneck speed The sequence of manoeuvres planned for 2024 will alter the spacecraft's trajectory away from its present solar orbit, which closely traverses the primary asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. This adjustment helped it encounter the tiny asteroid Dinkinesh, or 'Dinky', on 1 November 2023. Notably, Lucy's exploration revealed that Dinky is, in fact, a binary asteroid system, effectively a double asteroid. After this, Lucy’s other mission will be to track around Jupiter Trojans. These Trojans are arranged in two loose groups, with one slightly ahead of the gas giant, the Greek camp, and another behind it, the Trojan camp. Also Read | Do moons exist outside our solar systems? Researchers argue on discovery of exomoons Lucy will visit the Greek camp of Trojan asteroids first, setting its sights on the asteroid Eurybates and its satellite or 'moonlet' Queta in August 2027, as per NASA. After this, the spacecraft will fly past another four Trojan asteroids and three more moonlets, eventually making a final visit to Earth in 2031 before the Lucy mission draws to a close in 2033. (With inputs from agencies)

Fired up! NASA’s Lucy spacecraft starts main engines in space for the first time since its launch

NASA has finally unlocked the asteroid canister. The canister contains precious dust samples from the asteroid Bennu. The canister landed in the Utah desert in September 2023.

NASA finally unlocks a canister containing precious dust samples from the asteroid Bennu

<p>This week, Earth is in for a celestial spectacle as it braces for&nbsp;close encounters with not one or two, but five asteroids.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per NASA's Asteroid Watch dashboard, leading this stellar cast is the colossal Asteroid 2008 OS7, a celestial behemoth rivalling the dimensions of a Fifa-accredited football stadium, measuring a staggering 890 feet (0.27 kilometres) across.</p>

<p>Discovered by NASA in 2008, this cosmic giant is poised to zoom past our planet on February 2. The cosmic pas de deux, as per NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), will happen at a distance of 1.77 million miles—a cosmic closeness that, while safe, manages to stir the curiosity of avid skygazers.</p>

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<h2><strong>Other asteroids gracing Earth's skies</strong></h2>

<p>2008 OS7 is not the sole luminary in this cosmic parade. Four celestial companions, varying in size from a house to a building, are also set to make&nbsp;stellar flybys.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Sunday (Jan 28th) Asteroid 2024 AU4, a 260-feet-wide celestial object the size of a big building, zoomed past Earth at a secure distance of 3.92 million miles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tuesday (Jan 30th) will witness the arrival of 2007 EG, an asteroid akin in size to an aeroplane — 130 feet (0.04 km), making its celestial approach at 3.8 million miles.</p>

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<p>Thursday (Feb 1st) marks the entrance of two more cosmic voyagers: Asteroid 2024 BY, a house-sized wanderer — 62 feet (0.02 km), pirouetting at 1.57 million miles, and Asteroid 2003 BM4, a celestial aviator of aeroplane dimensions — 120 feet (0.04 km), traversing at 2.06 million miles.</p>

<p>NASA's Asteroid Watch dashboard tracks asteroids and comets that will make relatively close approaches to Earth. "The dashboard displays the next five Earth approaches to within 4.6 million miles (7.5 million kilometres or 19.5 times the distance to the moon); an object larger than about 150 meters that can approach the Earth to within this distance is termed a potentially hazardous object," states the JPL website.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


This week, Earth is in for a celestial spectacle as it braces for close encounters with not one or two, but five asteroids. As per NASA's Asteroid Watch dashboard, leading this stellar cast is the colossal Asteroid 2008 OS7, a celestial behemoth rivalling the dimensions of a Fifa-accredited football stadium, measuring a staggering 890 feet (0.

This week, Earth is in for a celestial spectacle as it braces for close encounters with not one or two, but five asteroids. As per NASA's Asteroid Watch dashboard, leading this stellar cast is the colossal Asteroid 2008 OS7, a celestial behemoth rivalling the dimensions of a Fifa-accredited football stadium, measuring a staggering 890 feet (0.27 kilometres) across. Discovered by NASA in 2008, this cosmic giant is poised to zoom past our planet on February 2. The cosmic pas de deux, as per NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), will happen at a distance of 1.77 million miles—a cosmic closeness that, while safe, manages to stir the curiosity of avid skygazers. Also read | Lunar resilience: Japan's SLIM bounces back, captures images of 'toy poodle' rock on Moon's surface Other asteroids gracing Earth's skies 2008 OS7 is not the sole luminary in this cosmic parade. Four celestial companions, varying in size from a house to a building, are also set to make stellar flybys. On Sunday (Jan 28th) Asteroid 2024 AU4, a 260-feet-wide celestial object the size of a big building, zoomed past Earth at a secure distance of 3.92 million miles. Tuesday (Jan 30th) will witness the arrival of 2007 EG, an asteroid akin in size to an aeroplane — 130 feet (0.04 km), making its celestial approach at 3.8 million miles. Also read | Fragments of asteroid that crashed into Earth with little warning have been found Thursday (Feb 1st) marks the entrance of two more cosmic voyagers: Asteroid 2024 BY, a house-sized wanderer — 62 feet (0.02 km), pirouetting at 1.57 million miles, and Asteroid 2003 BM4, a celestial aviator of aeroplane dimensions — 120 feet (0.04 km), traversing at 2.06 million miles. NASA's Asteroid Watch dashboard tracks asteroids and comets that will make relatively close approaches to Earth. "The dashboard displays the next five Earth approaches to within 4.6 million miles (7.5 million kilometres or 19.5 times the distance to the moon); an object larger than about 150 meters that can approach the Earth to within this distance is termed a potentially hazardous object," states the JPL website. (With inputs from agencies)

Celestial parade: Earth braces for close encounters with five colossal asteroids this week

Tesla is planning to build new electric vehicles. There is a new mobile game that is empowering girls in India. The week gone by was buzzing with a lot of exciting tech developments. And we bring you the most interesting ones in our tech wrap.

North Korea's AI development raises concerns

This new plane can revolutionise air travel. It can make it possible for you to travel the world in half the time. Here's more.

New aircraft can travel faster than speed of sound

<p>After over three years, NASA’s Ingenuity Mars helicopter mission which&nbsp;made history by being the first powered flight on another world, has ended, said the American space agency&nbsp;on Thursday (Jan 25).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ingenuity, which had surpassed expectations time and time again since its lift-off for the red planet on April 19, 2021, sustained mission-ending damage.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, NASA said that the aircraft made an “emergency landing” during its previous flight and that Ingenuity’s team had planned for the helicopter to make a “short vertical flight” on January 18 to pinpoint its location.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As planned, the helicopter achieved a maximum altitude of 40 feet, but while landing, when it was around three feet off the ground, Ingenuity lost contact with the rover.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The following day when the imagery and data returned to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, it was found that “one or more of its rotor blades” were damaged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Therefore, while the helicopter remained “upright and in communication with ground controllers,” it was “no longer capable of flight,” said the American space agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-loses-but-regains-contact-with-ingenuity-helicopter-on-mars-682066">NASA regains contact with Ingenuity helicopter on Mars after unexpected outage</a></strong></p>

<p>Ingenuity’s team is still investigating the cause of the communications dropout and the helicopter’s orientation at the time of touchdown.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The historic journey of Ingenuity, the first aircraft on another planet, has come to end,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson&nbsp;in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “Through missions like Ingenuity, NASA is paving the way for future flight in our solar system and smarter, safer human exploration to Mars and beyond.”</p>

<h2><strong>‘Exceeded expectations’</strong></h2>

<p>Ingenuity reached Mars in February 2021, and during its time there, it&nbsp;exceeded expectations time and time again. The helicopter performed 72 flights, flying more than 14 times farther than planned, 33 times longer than expected, operated from 48 different airfields, and logged in more than two hours of flight time.</p>

<p>Over the years, Ingenuity was upgraded with the ability to autonomously choose landing sites on the red planet’s treacherous terrain. It also dealt with a dead sensor, cleaned itself after dust storms, performed three emergency landings, and even made it through the frigid Martian winter.</p>

<p>“That remarkable helicopter flew higher and farther than we ever imagined and helped NASA do what we do best – make the impossible, possible,” said Nelson.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-moon-sniper-switched-off-space-agency-says-data-transmission-completed-682353">Japan's Moon sniper switched off, space agency says data transmission completed</a></strong></p>

<p>Ingenuity initially began as a short technology demonstration to show flight was possible in the ultra-thin Martian atmosphere. However, it went on to become Perseverance rover’s trusty sidekick, by previewing areas of the red planet that might be of interest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s humbling Ingenuity not only carries onboard a swatch from the original Wright Flyer, but also this helicopter followed in its footsteps and proved flight is possible on another world,” said Ingenuity’s project manager, Teddy Tzanetos of NASA JPL.</p>

<p>He added, “History’s first Mars helicopter will leave behind an indelible mark on the future of space exploration and will inspire fleets of aircraft on Mars – and other worlds – for decades to come.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After over three years, NASA’s Ingenuity Mars helicopter mission which made history by being the first powered flight on another world, has ended, said the American space agency on Thursday (Jan 25).

After over three years, NASA’s Ingenuity Mars helicopter mission which made history by being the first powered flight on another world, has ended, said the American space agency on Thursday (Jan 25). Ingenuity, which had surpassed expectations time and time again since its lift-off for the red planet on April 19, 2021, sustained mission-ending damage. What happened? In a statement, NASA said that the aircraft made an “emergency landing” during its previous flight and that Ingenuity’s team had planned for the helicopter to make a “short vertical flight” on January 18 to pinpoint its location. As planned, the helicopter achieved a maximum altitude of 40 feet, but while landing, when it was around three feet off the ground, Ingenuity lost contact with the rover. The following day when the imagery and data returned to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, it was found that “one or more of its rotor blades” were damaged. Therefore, while the helicopter remained “upright and in communication with ground controllers,” it was “no longer capable of flight,” said the American space agency. ALSO READ | NASA regains contact with Ingenuity helicopter on Mars after unexpected outage Ingenuity’s team is still investigating the cause of the communications dropout and the helicopter’s orientation at the time of touchdown. “The historic journey of Ingenuity, the first aircraft on another planet, has come to end,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson in a statement. He added, “Through missions like Ingenuity, NASA is paving the way for future flight in our solar system and smarter, safer human exploration to Mars and beyond.” ‘Exceeded expectations’ Ingenuity reached Mars in February 2021, and during its time there, it exceeded expectations time and time again. The helicopter performed 72 flights, flying more than 14 times farther than planned, 33 times longer than expected, operated from 48 different airfields, and logged in more than two hours of flight time. Over the years, Ingenuity was upgraded with the ability to autonomously choose landing sites on the red planet’s treacherous terrain. It also dealt with a dead sensor, cleaned itself after dust storms, performed three emergency landings, and even made it through the frigid Martian winter. “That remarkable helicopter flew higher and farther than we ever imagined and helped NASA do what we do best – make the impossible, possible,” said Nelson. ALSO READ | Japan's Moon sniper switched off, space agency says data transmission completed Ingenuity initially began as a short technology demonstration to show flight was possible in the ultra-thin Martian atmosphere. However, it went on to become Perseverance rover’s trusty sidekick, by previewing areas of the red planet that might be of interest. “It’s humbling Ingenuity not only carries onboard a swatch from the original Wright Flyer, but also this helicopter followed in its footsteps and proved flight is possible on another world,” said Ingenuity’s project manager, Teddy Tzanetos of NASA JPL. He added, “History’s first Mars helicopter will leave behind an indelible mark on the future of space exploration and will inspire fleets of aircraft on Mars – and other worlds – for decades to come.” (With inputs from agencies)

NASA’s historic Ingenuity helicopter mission on Mars ends: Here’s what happened

<p>Water, the all-dissolving 'universal solvent' is almost a sure hint of life, or at least for theories about it. no matter where it is found in the cosmos. So for a civilisation like&nbsp;ours, eager to find alien life, the presence of water, or even water vapour anywhere in space, is a signal for more probing. Astronomers have found an exoplanet, twice the size of Earth with water vapour in its atmosphere. The astronomers used Hubble Space Telescope, the trusty ol' piece of high technology still doing its job perfectly even when James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is the hot thing right now.</p>

<p>The planet has been designated GJ 9827d. The exoplanet is 97 light-years away from Earth and revolves around a star designated as GJ 9827. The planet revolves around the red dwarf star once in every 6.2 days. So in other words, a 'year' on the planet is shorter than a week, by our Earthly reference points.</p>

<p>"This would be the first time that we can directly show through an atmospheric detection, that these planets with water-rich atmospheres can actually exist around other stars," said team member Björn Benneke from Trottier Institute for Research on Exoplanets at Université de Montréal.</p>

<p>"This is an important step toward determining the prevalence and diversity of atmospheres on rocky planets."</p>

<p>Benneke was quoted by NASA.</p>

<p>The planet itself was discovered in 2017, but the detection of water in atmosphere is a new discovery.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Why is NASA pushing back Moon mission timelines?</strong></p>

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<p>"Water on a planet this small is a landmark discovery," added co-principal investigator Laura Kreidberg from Max Planck Institute for Astronomy in Heidelberg, as quoted by NASA.</p>

<p>&nbsp;"It pushes closer than ever to characterizing truly Earth-like worlds."</p>

<p>However, it is too early to tell if the water is present in a 'puffy hydrogen-rich atmosphere' or the planet itself has an abundance of water.</p>

<p>"Our observing program, led by principal investigator Ian Crossfield of Kansas University in Lawrence, Kansas, was designed specifically with the goal to not only detect the molecules in the planet's atmosphere, but to actually look specifically for water vapor. Either result would be exciting, whether water vapor is dominant or just a tiny species in a hydrogen-dominant atmosphere," said the science paper's lead author, Pierre-Alexis Roy form Trottier Institute.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-historic-ingenuity-helicopter-mission-on-mars-ends-heres-what-happened-683753">NASA’s historic Ingenuity helicopter mission on Mars ends: Here’s what happened</a></strong></p>

<p>"Until now, we had not been able to directly detect the atmosphere of such a small planet. And we're slowly getting in this regime now," added Benneke. "At some point, as we study smaller planets, there must be a transition where there's no more hydrogen on these small worlds, and they have atmospheres more like Venus (which is dominated by carbon dioxide)."</p>

<h2><strong>So is there life on the planet?</strong></h2>

<p>It tough to determine right now because it is a Venus-like planet with high surface temperature (800 degrees Fahrenheit).</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japans-successful-moon-landing-was-upside-down-quite-literally-683782">Japan's successful Moon landing was 'upside down', quite literally</a></strong></p>

<p>But it's perhaps ok to say that 'Life finds a way' and where there's water, there is (or will be) life.</p>

<p>Probably a soothing thought for those pondering the distressing question of 'Are we alone in the Universe?'</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Water, the all-dissolving 'universal solvent' is almost a sure hint of life, or at least for theories about it. no matter where it is found in the cosmos. So for a civilisation like ours, eager to find alien life, the presence of water, or even water vapour anywhere in space, is a signal for more probing.

Water, the all-dissolving 'universal solvent' is almost a sure hint of life, or at least for theories about it. no matter where it is found in the cosmos. So for a civilisation like ours, eager to find alien life, the presence of water, or even water vapour anywhere in space, is a signal for more probing. Astronomers have found an exoplanet, twice the size of Earth with water vapour in its atmosphere. The astronomers used Hubble Space Telescope, the trusty ol' piece of high technology still doing its job perfectly even when James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is the hot thing right now. The planet has been designated GJ 9827d. The exoplanet is 97 light-years away from Earth and revolves around a star designated as GJ 9827. The planet revolves around the red dwarf star once in every 6.2 days. So in other words, a 'year' on the planet is shorter than a week, by our Earthly reference points. "This would be the first time that we can directly show through an atmospheric detection, that these planets with water-rich atmospheres can actually exist around other stars," said team member Björn Benneke from Trottier Institute for Research on Exoplanets at Université de Montréal. "This is an important step toward determining the prevalence and diversity of atmospheres on rocky planets." Benneke was quoted by NASA. The planet itself was discovered in 2017, but the detection of water in atmosphere is a new discovery. Watch | Why is NASA pushing back Moon mission timelines? × "Water on a planet this small is a landmark discovery," added co-principal investigator Laura Kreidberg from Max Planck Institute for Astronomy in Heidelberg, as quoted by NASA. "It pushes closer than ever to characterizing truly Earth-like worlds." However, it is too early to tell if the water is present in a 'puffy hydrogen-rich atmosphere' or the planet itself has an abundance of water. "Our observing program, led by principal investigator Ian Crossfield of Kansas University in Lawrence, Kansas, was designed specifically with the goal to not only detect the molecules in the planet's atmosphere, but to actually look specifically for water vapor. Either result would be exciting, whether water vapor is dominant or just a tiny species in a hydrogen-dominant atmosphere," said the science paper's lead author, Pierre-Alexis Roy form Trottier Institute. Also Read | NASA’s historic Ingenuity helicopter mission on Mars ends: Here’s what happened "Until now, we had not been able to directly detect the atmosphere of such a small planet. And we're slowly getting in this regime now," added Benneke. "At some point, as we study smaller planets, there must be a transition where there's no more hydrogen on these small worlds, and they have atmospheres more like Venus (which is dominated by carbon dioxide)." So is there life on the planet? It tough to determine right now because it is a Venus-like planet with high surface temperature (800 degrees Fahrenheit). Also Read | Japan's successful Moon landing was 'upside down', quite literally But it's perhaps ok to say that 'Life finds a way' and where there's water, there is (or will be) life. Probably a soothing thought for those pondering the distressing question of 'Are we alone in the Universe?' (With inputs from agencies)

NASA's Hubble Telescope finds water vapour in distant planet's atmosphere

<p>The world is still in the throes of winter and it's only natural that we ascribe meaning to celestial structures as we warm our...hands to fend off the chill. And National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) leaves no lens unturned as it clicks pictures of wonders in space.</p>

<p>And now, the US space agency has captured image of a "snowman" which is about 6000 light-years away from Earth. The image has been captured by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, the trusty ol' piece of tech that was humanity's most advansed eye in the sky before James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) took over. Hubble telescope is still working fine and sending us nice pics of celestial objects.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Why is NASA pushing back Moon mission timelines?</strong></p>

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<p>It has posted the image of "space snowman" on its official Instagram handle.</p>

<p>In its post, NASA has said that the 'snowman' is actually a diffusion nebula. The diffused clouds of gas are charged to the extent that they are glowing. The energy for this 'charging' has been provided by nearby massive stars. The 'snowman' is visible in the upper part of the image.</p>

<p>"Three bright, blue-white stars at upper left mark the beginning of a bright and dusty reddish-brown, orange, and white swathe of glowing gas and dust, with its upper portions loosely resembling a snowman with a scarf and top hat. The rest of the image is dark and full of sparkling stars, many with diffraction spikes," says NASA in its Instagram post.</p>

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<p>Like any other NASA image, this has wowed people on the social media. At the time of publishing of this article, the image has been liked by more than 60 thousand people.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/stellar-show-nasas-james-webb-telescope-captures-birth-of-new-suns-far-away-from-earth-683450">Stellar show! NASA's James Webb Telescope captures birth of new suns far away from Earth</a></strong></p>

<p>"The Snowman Nebula is truly a whimsical celestial masterpiece" an Instagram user has written.</p>

<p>Other star-struck user exclaims with just "awesome!"</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The world is still in the throes of winter and it's only natural that we ascribe meaning to celestial structures as we warm our...hands to fend off the chill. And National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) leaves no lens unturned as it clicks pictures of wonders in space.

The world is still in the throes of winter and it's only natural that we ascribe meaning to celestial structures as we warm our...hands to fend off the chill. And National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) leaves no lens unturned as it clicks pictures of wonders in space. And now, the US space agency has captured image of a "snowman" which is about 6000 light-years away from Earth. The image has been captured by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, the trusty ol' piece of tech that was humanity's most advansed eye in the sky before James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) took over. Hubble telescope is still working fine and sending us nice pics of celestial objects. Watch | Why is NASA pushing back Moon mission timelines? × It has posted the image of "space snowman" on its official Instagram handle. In its post, NASA has said that the 'snowman' is actually a diffusion nebula. The diffused clouds of gas are charged to the extent that they are glowing. The energy for this 'charging' has been provided by nearby massive stars. The 'snowman' is visible in the upper part of the image. "Three bright, blue-white stars at upper left mark the beginning of a bright and dusty reddish-brown, orange, and white swathe of glowing gas and dust, with its upper portions loosely resembling a snowman with a scarf and top hat. The rest of the image is dark and full of sparkling stars, many with diffraction spikes," says NASA in its Instagram post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hubble Space Telescope (@nasahubble) × Like any other NASA image, this has wowed people on the social media. At the time of publishing of this article, the image has been liked by more than 60 thousand people. Also Read | Stellar show! NASA's James Webb Telescope captures birth of new suns far away from Earth "The Snowman Nebula is truly a whimsical celestial masterpiece" an Instagram user has written. Other star-struck user exclaims with just "awesome!" (With inputs from agencies)

'Snowman' in space: NASA's Hubble Space Telescope clicks the beautiful celestial structure

<p>NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has captured the image of a stunning nebula far away from our Milky Way galaxy. The nebula, named N79, is 1630 light years away from our galaxy and is actively forming thousands of stars that remain virtually an unexplored territory by astronomers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The interstellar cosmic space with yellow, orange and blue ribbons of light looks hypnotic and majestic.</p>

<p>Take a close look.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It’s always darkest before the dawn.<br />
<br />
This image from the Webb telescope shows N79, a massive star-forming region. At mid-infrared wavelengths, Webb reveals glowing gas and dust deep within the clouds, as well as embedded baby stars: <a href="https://t.co/U3MQwO2kvK">https://t.co/U3MQwO2kvK</a> <a href="https://t.co/eAU7L08i2A">pic.twitter.com/eAU7L08i2A</a></p>
— NASA Webb Telescope (@NASAWebb) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAWebb/status/1749814253413109918?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>N79 is said to be the younger sibling of the Tarantula Nebula, which was recently sighted by the JWST. Tarantula lies about 161,000 light years away from Earth. As per scientists, the N79 has been forming stars at twice the rate of the Tarantula Nebula which is officially named 30 Doradus.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Exploring ‘starburst’ patterns in young stellar bodies</strong></h2>

<p>The image of the new nebula captured by the JWST primarily focuses on three giant complexes of cold atomic gas called molecular clouds. Astronomers call this as N79 South or S1.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Inside the S1, the “starburst” pattern around the bright heart of N79 stands out, as seen in the image. This effect is created by diffraction spikes caused by the 18 pieces of JWST’s primary mirror as they collect light. These mirrors are arranged in a hexagonal pattern like a honeycomb, meaning there are six main diffraction spikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/major-breakthrough-worlds-first-successful-ivf-could-help-save-nearly-extinct-rhino-species-683311">Major breakthrough: World’s first successful IVF could help save nearly extinct rhino species</a></p>

<p>These spikes arise when JWST studies particularly bright and compact objects that have light emerging from a concentrated location. So when the $10 billion telescope looks at galaxies at once, even the smaller ones appear to come out of more diffused and spread out, giving the illusion that a diffraction pattern is absent.</p>

<p>JWST captured the N79 image using its Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI), which captured the infrared light coming from the starburst as well. MIRI allows astronomers to look deep into the star-forming region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is why, with of help of MIRI, JWST is also able to see young stellar bodies that are still hidden in their natal womb of gas and dust. These are called ‘proto-stars’, which haven’t gathered material to fuse hydrogen to helium in their cores, which is the process of making a star.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/an-unprecedented-pinpoint-landing-japan-says-its-moon-landing-was-within-100-metres-of-target-683429">An 'unprecedented' pinpoint landing: Japan says its Moon landing was within 100 metres of target</a></p>

<p>An infant star that has just started this hydrogen-to-helium process can be seen as the brightest point in the midst of orange clouds of gas and dust in the JWST N97 image.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Studying regions of intense star birth like N79 with the JWST allows scientists to learn about the composition of star-birthing clouds of gas and dust in the early universe when star formation was at its most intense.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has captured the image of a stunning nebula far away from our Milky Way galaxy. The nebula, named N79, is 1630 light years away from our galaxy and is actively forming thousands of stars that remain virtually an unexplored territory by astronomers.

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has captured the image of a stunning nebula far away from our Milky Way galaxy. The nebula, named N79, is 1630 light years away from our galaxy and is actively forming thousands of stars that remain virtually an unexplored territory by astronomers. The interstellar cosmic space with yellow, orange and blue ribbons of light looks hypnotic and majestic. Take a close look. It’s always darkest before the dawn. This image from the Webb telescope shows N79, a massive star-forming region. At mid-infrared wavelengths, Webb reveals glowing gas and dust deep within the clouds, as well as embedded baby stars: https://t.co/U3MQwO2kvK pic.twitter.com/eAU7L08i2A — NASA Webb Telescope (@NASAWebb) January 23, 2024 × N79 is said to be the younger sibling of the Tarantula Nebula, which was recently sighted by the JWST. Tarantula lies about 161,000 light years away from Earth. As per scientists, the N79 has been forming stars at twice the rate of the Tarantula Nebula which is officially named 30 Doradus. Exploring ‘starburst’ patterns in young stellar bodies The image of the new nebula captured by the JWST primarily focuses on three giant complexes of cold atomic gas called molecular clouds. Astronomers call this as N79 South or S1. Inside the S1, the “starburst” pattern around the bright heart of N79 stands out, as seen in the image. This effect is created by diffraction spikes caused by the 18 pieces of JWST’s primary mirror as they collect light. These mirrors are arranged in a hexagonal pattern like a honeycomb, meaning there are six main diffraction spikes. Also Read | Major breakthrough: World’s first successful IVF could help save nearly extinct rhino species These spikes arise when JWST studies particularly bright and compact objects that have light emerging from a concentrated location. So when the $10 billion telescope looks at galaxies at once, even the smaller ones appear to come out of more diffused and spread out, giving the illusion that a diffraction pattern is absent. JWST captured the N79 image using its Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI), which captured the infrared light coming from the starburst as well. MIRI allows astronomers to look deep into the star-forming region. This is why, with of help of MIRI, JWST is also able to see young stellar bodies that are still hidden in their natal womb of gas and dust. These are called ‘proto-stars’, which haven’t gathered material to fuse hydrogen to helium in their cores, which is the process of making a star. Also Read | An 'unprecedented' pinpoint landing: Japan says its Moon landing was within 100 metres of target An infant star that has just started this hydrogen-to-helium process can be seen as the brightest point in the midst of orange clouds of gas and dust in the JWST N97 image. Studying regions of intense star birth like N79 with the JWST allows scientists to learn about the composition of star-birthing clouds of gas and dust in the early universe when star formation was at its most intense. (With inputs from agencies)

Stellar show! NASA's James Webb Telescope captures birth of new suns far away from Earth

NASA Chief Bill Nelson has said that he personally believes that aliens do exist. This comes after a self-proclaimed UFO researcher presented 'alien bodies' before the Mexican Parliament. Were the bodies really extra-terrestrial? Listen in to Vikram Chandra.

NASA Chief says Aliens exist | This World

<p>Not that NASA's James Webb Space Telescope wasn't getting the enthusiastic applause from the scientific community and space fans in general, but humanity's more powerful eye in the sky has received a much deserved nod from the United States Postal Service. The USPS has chosen two iconic images taken by the James Webb Space Telescope and has released two new priority mail stamps. The new stamps were issued on Monday (November 22)</p>

<p>James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) mission is led by NASA with support from ESA (European Space Agency) and CSA (Canadian Space Agency)</p>

<p>“NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope is the perfect intersection of science, engineering, and art as it reveals the greatest secrets of our cosmos through the beautiful images it captures,” said Nicola Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “With these stamps, people across the country can have their own snapshot of Webb’s captivating images – and the incredible science they represent – at their fingertips, and know that they, too, are part of this ground-breaking new era in astronomy.”</p>

<p>Fox was quoted by NASA on its website.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | NASA's James Webb space telescope's latest images, captures new views of Universe</strong></p>

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<p>The first of the two stamps is a Priority Mail Express stamp. It features image taken by Webb's NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera). The image shows "Cosmic Cliffs" from the Carina Nebula.</p>

<p><img alt="NASA Cosmic Cliff stamp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="91ab0d27-86df-4625-aa25-a2326ff3c909" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/cosmic%20cliffs.png" /></p>

<p><em>(Image: NASA)</em></p>

<p>The Nebula is about 7600 light-years away from us. Nebulas are where stars are born, and the JWST has been able to capture the stellar nursery relly well uncovering hidden stars which were previously hidden from sight.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-company-deliberately-blew-up-its-own-space-station-structure-watch-and-know-why-682843">This company deliberately blew up its own space station structure. WATCH and know why</a></strong></p>

<p>The second stamp is a Priority Mail Express stamp which features image of "Pillars of Creation" taken by Webb's MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument). This celestial structure was first made famous by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope.</p>

<p><img alt="Pillars of Creation" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b72727d-7353-4107-8ebf-8870a3fde722" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/NASA%20James%20Webb%20stamps_0.jpg" /></p>

<p>(Image: NASA)</p>

<p>In this image, pillars of gas and dust are visible. In the middle of all this gas and dust are newly forming stars which may take thousands of years to form fully. The 'Pillars of Creation' structure is in Eagle Nebula which s 6500 light-years away.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Not that NASA's James Webb Space Telescope wasn't getting the enthusiastic applause from the scientific community and space fans in general, but humanity's more powerful eye in the sky has received a much deserved nod from the United States Postal Service.

Not that NASA's James Webb Space Telescope wasn't getting the enthusiastic applause from the scientific community and space fans in general, but humanity's more powerful eye in the sky has received a much deserved nod from the United States Postal Service. The USPS has chosen two iconic images taken by the James Webb Space Telescope and has released two new priority mail stamps. The new stamps were issued on Monday (November 22) James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) mission is led by NASA with support from ESA (European Space Agency) and CSA (Canadian Space Agency) “NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope is the perfect intersection of science, engineering, and art as it reveals the greatest secrets of our cosmos through the beautiful images it captures,” said Nicola Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “With these stamps, people across the country can have their own snapshot of Webb’s captivating images – and the incredible science they represent – at their fingertips, and know that they, too, are part of this ground-breaking new era in astronomy.” Fox was quoted by NASA on its website. Watch | NASA's James Webb space telescope's latest images, captures new views of Universe × The first of the two stamps is a Priority Mail Express stamp. It features image taken by Webb's NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera). The image shows "Cosmic Cliffs" from the Carina Nebula. (Image: NASA) The Nebula is about 7600 light-years away from us. Nebulas are where stars are born, and the JWST has been able to capture the stellar nursery relly well uncovering hidden stars which were previously hidden from sight. Also Read | This company deliberately blew up its own space station structure. WATCH and know why The second stamp is a Priority Mail Express stamp which features image of "Pillars of Creation" taken by Webb's MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument). This celestial structure was first made famous by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. (Image: NASA) In this image, pillars of gas and dust are visible. In the middle of all this gas and dust are newly forming stars which may take thousands of years to form fully. The 'Pillars of Creation' structure is in Eagle Nebula which s 6500 light-years away. (With inputs from agencies)

US Postal Service issues stamps with iconic James Webb images

<p>NASA has captured images of the ancient volcanic fissures in Iceland that cracked open, spewing red-hot lava and posing a significant threat to towns, particularly Grindavik, where evacuations took place.</p>

<p>The most recent eruption on January 14 intensified fears as it engulfed homes shortly after villagers had been safely relocated.</p>

<p>The region has been on high alert since December due to a series of eruptions, leaving Grindavik in a precarious position.</p>

<p>However, the Icelandic Met Office has warned&nbsp;that the peril is far from over, with ongoing risks of fault movements, unpredictable lava flows, and the sudden emergence of new fissures.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-asteroid-turns-into-fireball-before-crashing-into-earth-in-germany-682483">Also read |&nbsp;Asteroid crashes into Earth over Germany just hours after being discovered</a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In mid-Jan. 2024, volcanic activity in southwestern Iceland released lava near the town of Grindavík.<br />
<br />
This map of thermal signatures from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Landsat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Landsat</a> 9 reveals heat emanating from Earth’s surface, highlighting the location and extent of the new fissures. <a href="https://t.co/pb6BOFSILW">https://t.co/pb6BOFSILW</a> <a href="https://t.co/JiL1Cvh3yO">pic.twitter.com/JiL1Cvh3yO</a></p>
— NASA Earth (@NASAEarth) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAEarth/status/1749499599859966211?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>NASA's thermal insight into the volcanic unrest</strong></h2>

<p>NASA's Landsat 9 satellite captured the unfolding crisis by using&nbsp;a thermal infrared sensor. A recently released map depicts the substantial heat emanating from the fractured land surface near Grindavik. The image vividly shows&nbsp;the massive fissures filled with intensely hot lava.</p>

<p>Despite recent evacuations, Grindavik remains susceptible to additional fault movements and unpredictable lava flows. The NASA data, collected on January 16, reveals ground deformation of up to 1.4 metres&nbsp;(4.6 feet) beneath Grindavik due to magma movement. Experts caution that the area may experience cyclical bursts of volcanic activity, underscoring the persistent dangers.</p>

<p>Last month, the eruption in the Svartsengi volcanic system heightened tensions. Beginning on December 18, it prompted the evacuation of Grindavik's 4,000 residents and the closure of the popular tourist destination, the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/massive-solar-flares-generating-geomagnetic-storms-could-trigger-auroras-on-tuesday-in-us-682726">Also read |&nbsp;Massive solar flares to trigger beautiful auroras in these parts of US</a></p>

<h2><strong>Iceland's unique geological position</strong></h2>

<p>Positioned between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, Iceland faces heightened seismic and volcanic activity. As these two colossal plates move in opposite directions, the country remains a dynamic hotspot for geological phenomena, adding to the ongoing challenges posed by natural forces.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


NASA has captured images of the ancient volcanic fissures in Iceland that cracked open, spewing red-hot lava and posing a significant threat to towns, particularly Grindavik, where evacuations took place.

NASA has captured images of the ancient volcanic fissures in Iceland that cracked open, spewing red-hot lava and posing a significant threat to towns, particularly Grindavik, where evacuations took place. The most recent eruption on January 14 intensified fears as it engulfed homes shortly after villagers had been safely relocated. The region has been on high alert since December due to a series of eruptions, leaving Grindavik in a precarious position. However, the Icelandic Met Office has warned that the peril is far from over, with ongoing risks of fault movements, unpredictable lava flows, and the sudden emergence of new fissures. Also read | Asteroid crashes into Earth over Germany just hours after being discovered In mid-Jan. 2024, volcanic activity in southwestern Iceland released lava near the town of Grindavík. This map of thermal signatures from #Landsat 9 reveals heat emanating from Earth’s surface, highlighting the location and extent of the new fissures. https://t.co/pb6BOFSILW pic.twitter.com/JiL1Cvh3yO — NASA Earth (@NASAEarth) January 22, 2024 × NASA's thermal insight into the volcanic unrest NASA's Landsat 9 satellite captured the unfolding crisis by using a thermal infrared sensor. A recently released map depicts the substantial heat emanating from the fractured land surface near Grindavik. The image vividly shows the massive fissures filled with intensely hot lava. Despite recent evacuations, Grindavik remains susceptible to additional fault movements and unpredictable lava flows. The NASA data, collected on January 16, reveals ground deformation of up to 1.4 metres (4.6 feet) beneath Grindavik due to magma movement. Experts caution that the area may experience cyclical bursts of volcanic activity, underscoring the persistent dangers. Last month, the eruption in the Svartsengi volcanic system heightened tensions. Beginning on December 18, it prompted the evacuation of Grindavik's 4,000 residents and the closure of the popular tourist destination, the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. Also read | Massive solar flares to trigger beautiful auroras in these parts of US Iceland's unique geological position Positioned between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, Iceland faces heightened seismic and volcanic activity. As these two colossal plates move in opposite directions, the country remains a dynamic hotspot for geological phenomena, adding to the ongoing challenges posed by natural forces. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Hazard remains high’: NASA captures images of new lava-emitting fissures in Iceland

NASA is set to delay its next few missions to the Moon as technical hurdles mount with the various spacecraft it intends to use to get there. Watch this video for all details.

Why is NASA pushing back Moon mission timelines?

<p>Sierra Space, a leading aerospace company, has made headlines by intentionally destroying its first full-scale prototype of a space station module in preparation for upcoming space missions, potentially slated for 2030 and beyond.</p>

<p>The testing, conducted at NASA's Marshall Space Center in Alabama, involved explosive trials, with all previous tests involving smaller scale models.</p>

<p>Sierra Space disclosed that it intentionally destroyed a full-scale prototype of its space station module through explosive tests at NASA's Marshall Space Center.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The full-scale UBP test unit reached 77 psi before it burst, which well exceeds (+27%) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NASA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NASA</a>’s recommended level of 60.8 psi (maximum operating pressure of 15.2 psi multiplied by a safety factor of four).<br />
<br />
Full video: <a href="https://t.co/5XumopCb0H">https://t.co/5XumopCb0H</a><a href="https://twitter.com/NASA_Marshall?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASA_Marshall</a> <a href="https://t.co/WO4YyPUA05">pic.twitter.com/WO4YyPUA05</a></p>
— Sierra Space (@SierraSpaceCo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SierraSpaceCo/status/1749429668820721879?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The company shared a video on X showcasing the test, with the prototype reaching 77 psi before bursting, surpassing NASA's recommended level of 60.8 psi by 27 per cent.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breakthrough-chinese-scientists-invent-new-porous-ceramic-that-can-be-used-in-making-hypersonic-aircraft-682833">Also read |&nbsp;Breakthrough: Chinese scientists invent new porous ceramic that can be used in making hypersonic aircraft</a></p>

<h2><strong>Inflatable module design and orbital reef project</strong></h2>

<p>Sierra Space's inflatable module design incorporates soft goods technology from ILC Dover, using&nbsp;Vectran straps. This innovative design will be deployed on the Orbital Reef space station, a collaborative project between Sierra Space and Blue Origin.</p>

<p>The Orbital Reef initiative is one of several concepts funded by NASA to succeed the aging International Space Station (ISS), which is expected to be retired around 2030.</p>

<p>Sierra Space emphasises that the dimensions of its modules are nearly equivalent to that of an average family home. Measuring three stories tall (20.5 feet or 6.2 metres) with a diameter of 27 feet (8.3 metres), Sierra Space uses&nbsp;cubic feet as a unit of measurement due to the microgravity environment, allowing for optimal use of space within the module.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Storm Isha hits travel and power services across UK</strong></p>

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<p>One of the notable features of Sierra Space's expandable space station module technology is its scalability and flexibility. The design accommodates various launch vehicle fairing sizes, making it adaptable to both existing and planned launch vehicles.</p>

<p>Sierra Space's successful testing of the full-scale space station module prototype marks a significant step forward in the development of innovative aerospace solutions.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Sierra Space, a leading aerospace company, has made headlines by intentionally destroying its first full-scale prototype of a space station module in preparation for upcoming space missions, potentially slated for 2030 and beyond.

Sierra Space, a leading aerospace company, has made headlines by intentionally destroying its first full-scale prototype of a space station module in preparation for upcoming space missions, potentially slated for 2030 and beyond. The testing, conducted at NASA's Marshall Space Center in Alabama, involved explosive trials, with all previous tests involving smaller scale models. Sierra Space disclosed that it intentionally destroyed a full-scale prototype of its space station module through explosive tests at NASA's Marshall Space Center. Watch the video here: The full-scale UBP test unit reached 77 psi before it burst, which well exceeds (+27%) #NASA’s recommended level of 60.8 psi (maximum operating pressure of 15.2 psi multiplied by a safety factor of four). Full video: https://t.co/5XumopCb0H@NASA_Marshall pic.twitter.com/WO4YyPUA05 — Sierra Space (@SierraSpaceCo) January 22, 2024 × The company shared a video on X showcasing the test, with the prototype reaching 77 psi before bursting, surpassing NASA's recommended level of 60.8 psi by 27 per cent. Also read | Breakthrough: Chinese scientists invent new porous ceramic that can be used in making hypersonic aircraft Inflatable module design and orbital reef project Sierra Space's inflatable module design incorporates soft goods technology from ILC Dover, using Vectran straps. This innovative design will be deployed on the Orbital Reef space station, a collaborative project between Sierra Space and Blue Origin. The Orbital Reef initiative is one of several concepts funded by NASA to succeed the aging International Space Station (ISS), which is expected to be retired around 2030. Sierra Space emphasises that the dimensions of its modules are nearly equivalent to that of an average family home. Measuring three stories tall (20.5 feet or 6.2 metres) with a diameter of 27 feet (8.3 metres), Sierra Space uses cubic feet as a unit of measurement due to the microgravity environment, allowing for optimal use of space within the module. Also watch | Storm Isha hits travel and power services across UK One of the notable features of Sierra Space's expandable space station module technology is its scalability and flexibility. The design accommodates various launch vehicle fairing sizes, making it adaptable to both existing and planned launch vehicles. Sierra Space's successful testing of the full-scale space station module prototype marks a significant step forward in the development of innovative aerospace solutions. (With inputs from agencies)

This company deliberately blew up its own space station structure. WATCH and know why

A privately built moon lander launched Monday morning to make the first U.S. soft lunar landing in more than 50 years failed to enter its correct orientation in space, suffering what its owners termed an "anomaly" that calls the mission's fate into question.

US: First Lunar mission in 50 years faces technical difficulties

NASA's James Webb celebrates two years of stunning observations. A look at NASA' James Webb space telescope's latest images. Watch the video to know more!

NASA's James Webb space telescope's latest images, captures new views of Universe

<p>A laser instrument aboard NASA's robotic spacecraft orbiting the Moon has successfully 'pinged' India's Chandrayaan-3 mission's Vikram lander, marking a breakthrough in precise location tracking technology, the US space agency confirmed.</p>

<p>"At 3 p.m. EST on Dec. 12, 2023, NASA’s LRO (Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter) pointed its laser altimeter instrument toward Vikram. The lander was 62 miles, or 100 kilometers, away from LRO, near Manzinus crater in the Moon’s South Pole region, when LRO transmitted laser pulses toward it," NASA said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The moment of triumph for NASA scientists was when the orbiter registered light bouncing back from a small NASA retroreflector on Vikram lander.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It must be noted that&nbsp;the locations of Earth-orbiting satellites are observed by sending laser pulses and measuring the time the light takes to bounce back.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This novel method of pinpointing targets on the lunar surface by sending laser pulses "from a moving spacecraft to a stationary one" to know the precise location has various applications,&nbsp;as per NASA scientists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We’ve showed that we can locate our retroreflector on the surface from the Moon’s orbit,” said Xiaoli Sun, who spearheaded the team at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. This team developed the Vikram retroreflector in collaboration with NASA and ISRO.</p>

<p>“The next step is to improve the technique so that it can become routine for missions that want to use these retroreflectors in the future,"&nbsp;Sun added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-black-hole-in-the-centre-of-a-bright-globular-cluster-may-be-emitting-mysterious-radio-signals-682680">A black hole in the centre of a bright globular cluster may be emitting mysterious radio signals</a></p>

<p>The Laser Retroreflector Array (LRA) on Chandrayaan-3's lander, a two-inch-wide device with eight quartz-corner-cube prisms, is expected to serve as a fiducial point for precise location references on the Moon.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ax-3-mission-all-european-astronaut-crew-successfully-reaches-iss-682547">Ax-3 Mission: All-European astronaut crew successfully reaches ISS</a></p>

<p>Retroreflectors, known for their durability and simplicity, have been utilised for various scientific and exploratory purposes since the Apollo era. NASA's retroreflector has already contributed to revealing the Moon's gradual movement away from Earth at a rate of 3.8 centimetres per year.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Why is NASA pushing back Moon mission timelines?</strong></p>

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<p>NASA said that in&nbsp;the future, these retroreflectors "could guide Artemis astronauts to the surface in the dark, for example, or mark the locations of spacecraft already on the surface, helping astronauts or uncrewed spacecraft land next to them."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


A laser instrument aboard NASA's robotic spacecraft orbiting the Moon has successfully 'pinged' India's Chandrayaan-3 mission's Vikram lander, marking a breakthrough in precise location tracking technology, the US space agency confirmed.

A laser instrument aboard NASA's robotic spacecraft orbiting the Moon has successfully 'pinged' India's Chandrayaan-3 mission's Vikram lander, marking a breakthrough in precise location tracking technology, the US space agency confirmed. "At 3 p.m. EST on Dec. 12, 2023, NASA’s LRO (Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter) pointed its laser altimeter instrument toward Vikram. The lander was 62 miles, or 100 kilometers, away from LRO, near Manzinus crater in the Moon’s South Pole region, when LRO transmitted laser pulses toward it," NASA said in a statement. The moment of triumph for NASA scientists was when the orbiter registered light bouncing back from a small NASA retroreflector on Vikram lander. It must be noted that the locations of Earth-orbiting satellites are observed by sending laser pulses and measuring the time the light takes to bounce back. This novel method of pinpointing targets on the lunar surface by sending laser pulses "from a moving spacecraft to a stationary one" to know the precise location has various applications, as per NASA scientists. “We’ve showed that we can locate our retroreflector on the surface from the Moon’s orbit,” said Xiaoli Sun, who spearheaded the team at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. This team developed the Vikram retroreflector in collaboration with NASA and ISRO. “The next step is to improve the technique so that it can become routine for missions that want to use these retroreflectors in the future," Sun added. Also Read | A black hole in the centre of a bright globular cluster may be emitting mysterious radio signals The Laser Retroreflector Array (LRA) on Chandrayaan-3's lander, a two-inch-wide device with eight quartz-corner-cube prisms, is expected to serve as a fiducial point for precise location references on the Moon. Also Read | Ax-3 Mission: All-European astronaut crew successfully reaches ISS Retroreflectors, known for their durability and simplicity, have been utilised for various scientific and exploratory purposes since the Apollo era. NASA's retroreflector has already contributed to revealing the Moon's gradual movement away from Earth at a rate of 3.8 centimetres per year. Watch | Why is NASA pushing back Moon mission timelines? × NASA said that in the future, these retroreflectors "could guide Artemis astronauts to the surface in the dark, for example, or mark the locations of spacecraft already on the surface, helping astronauts or uncrewed spacecraft land next to them." (With inputs from agencies)

NASA’s spacecraft ‘pings’ Chandrayaan-3 Vikram, method to help in precise location tracking technology

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