An international team of scientists have discovered an enormous structure which is home to at least 20 massive galaxies. The structure, dubbed ‘Cosmic Vine’,&nbsp;is said to be about 13 million light-years long and 0.65 million light-years wide. It is so massive that it makes our galaxy, the Milky Way, sound like a negligible speck of dust in the vast cosmos.

To put this number into perspective, if we had the ability to travel at impossible lightspeed, it would roughly 100,000 years to travel across the entire Milky Way but even the fastest man-made object ever, the American space agency NASA’s Parker Solar Probe travels at 0.064 per cent the speed of light.&nbsp;

The group of astronomers led by Shuowen Jin of the Technical University of Denmark have detected a new object the investigation of which is said to be fundamental for our understanding of galaxy formation and evolution.

<h2>What is the ‘Cosmic Vine’?</h2>

The structure, the findings about which were published on the pre-print server arXiv, is said to consist of at least 20 massive galaxies and six galaxy overdensities, which would add up to a total of 260 billion solar masses.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ginormous-fossilised-bubble-near-milky-way-could-be-relic-of-the-big-bang-638965">Ginormous ‘fossilised’ bubble near Milky Way could be relic of the Big Bang</a>

Cosmic Vine was seen at a redshift of 3.44 in the Extended Groth Strip (EGS) field observed with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) which means as per the findings, that the universe was only a 2.5 billion-year-old baby when the structure made its appearance. Current methods estimate the universe’s age at 13.7 billion years.

<h2>What makes this discovery significant?</h2>

Cosmic Vine is an extremely long and large structure which is also home to two of the most massive galaxies ever found at such a high redshift – Galaxy A and Galaxy E.&nbsp;

Massive and dense structures of galaxies like the Cosmic Vine are perceived as precursors to galaxy clusters which are the biggest gravitationally bound systems in the universe.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/macallan-1926-rare-whisky-becomes-worlds-most-expensive-bottle-after-being-sold-at-auction-for-record-27mn-660342">Macallan 1926: Rare whisky becomes world’s most expensive bottle after being sold at auction for record $2.7mn</a>

Therefore, the study suggests that since Cosmic Vine is not a virialized system, it is on its way to becoming a galaxy cluster and scientists believe that it might provide insights into the formation of such clusters and the emergence of massive galaxies within them.

The international team of researchers also propose a further investigation of quiescent cluster galaxies at high redshifts which they believe would be significant in helping us understand how the largest structures in the universe form and evolve.

An international team of scientists have discovered an enormous structure which is home to at least 20 massive galaxies. The structure, dubbed ‘Cosmic Vine’, is said to be about 13 million light-years long and 0.

An international team of scientists have discovered an enormous structure which is home to at least 20 massive galaxies. The structure, dubbed ‘Cosmic Vine’, is said to be about 13 million light-years long and 0.65 million light-years wide. It is so massive that it makes our galaxy, the Milky Way, sound like a negligible speck of dust in the vast cosmos. To put this number into perspective, if we had the ability to travel at impossible lightspeed, it would roughly 100,000 years to travel across the entire Milky Way but even the fastest man-made object ever, the American space agency NASA’s Parker Solar Probe travels at 0.064 per cent the speed of light. The group of astronomers led by Shuowen Jin of the Technical University of Denmark have detected a new object the investigation of which is said to be fundamental for our understanding of galaxy formation and evolution. What is the ‘Cosmic Vine’? The structure, the findings about which were published on the pre-print server arXiv, is said to consist of at least 20 massive galaxies and six galaxy overdensities, which would add up to a total of 260 billion solar masses. ALSO READ | Ginormous ‘fossilised’ bubble near Milky Way could be relic of the Big Bang Cosmic Vine was seen at a redshift of 3.44 in the Extended Groth Strip (EGS) field observed with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) which means as per the findings, that the universe was only a 2.5 billion-year-old baby when the structure made its appearance. Current methods estimate the universe’s age at 13.7 billion years. What makes this discovery significant? Cosmic Vine is an extremely long and large structure which is also home to two of the most massive galaxies ever found at such a high redshift – Galaxy A and Galaxy E. Massive and dense structures of galaxies like the Cosmic Vine are perceived as precursors to galaxy clusters which are the biggest gravitationally bound systems in the universe. ALSO READ | Macallan 1926: Rare whisky becomes world’s most expensive bottle after being sold at auction for record $2.7mn Therefore, the study suggests that since Cosmic Vine is not a virialized system, it is on its way to becoming a galaxy cluster and scientists believe that it might provide insights into the formation of such clusters and the emergence of massive galaxies within them. The international team of researchers also propose a further investigation of quiescent cluster galaxies at high redshifts which they believe would be significant in helping us understand how the largest structures in the universe form and evolve.

‘Cosmic Vine’: Scientists discover enormous structure hosting 20 galaxies

Nothing beats the cool sci-fi film scene where a film's protagonist racing against time is beamed up by aliens or other powerful entities at the last minute. But what if this beam could be used to remove junk from space?

This could soon be a reality as scientists develop a high-intensity real-life tractor beam that could nudge dangerous space junk out of the Earth's orbit. Here's how it will work.

<h2>High stakes mission</h2>

Removing space junk is a high-stakes mission. With the commercial space industry gaining prominence, the number of satellites in our planet's orbit is predicted to rise manifold. These would eventually wear out and litter the already crowded 'space junkyard' that surrounds the Earth.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/as-race-to-space-shoots-up-junk-in-earths-orbit-us-space-command-releases-responsible-space-behaviours-568413">As space race zooms junk in Earth’s orbit, US Space Command shares ‘responsible space behaviours’</a>

Scientists are developing the tractor beam dubbed 'electrostatic tractor' that could potentially help rid of dead satellites and clear space for new ones.

However, it is an expensive undertaking. Talking to Live Science, project researcher Kaylee Champion said, "The science is pretty much there, but the funding is not."

The prototype itself could cost millions, and an operation full-scale version much more.

<h2>How will the tractor beam work?</h2>

Behind the idea is Hanspeter Schaub, an aerospace engineering professor at CU Boulder. He came up with the idea in the aftermath of a major satellite collision in 2009 — when Iridium 33, an active communications satellite, smashed into Kosmos 2251, a defunct Russian military spacecraft.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-perseverance-rovers-pictures-raise-question-can-humanity-be-trusted-with-other-planets-488883">NASA Perseverance rover's pictures raise question: Can humanity be trusted with other planets?</a>

He speculates that a spacecraft could be pulled out of harm's way by using attraction between two objects, one charged positively and one negatively. This attraction can be used to make the objects "stick" together, and then the defunct satellite could be pulled away and released into space to drift forever.

Schaub and his team have spent a decade on developing the idea, which one day might help clear the "prime estate" of space orbit.

<h2>Why is removing space junk important?</h2>

Space junk can put space missions and satellite launches at significant risk. Upon launch, the space vehicles can potentially collide with the junk that is crowding the planet's orbit. This junk could also plummet down into the Earth's atmosphere, and pollute the atmosphere with metals, obscuring our view of the cosmos.

In a statement released a few months back, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said: "If left unchecked, the accumulation of orbital debris will increase the risk of collisions and clutter orbits used for human spaceflight and satellites providing communications, weather and Global Positioning System services."&nbsp;

As per the FAA, as of July 2023, the Earth's orbit contains over 23,000 orbital objects of sizes 10 cm and above. Furthermore, there are around one-half million objects sized between 1 and 10 cm, over 100 million larger than 1mm.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nothing beats the cool sci-fi film scene where a film's protagonist racing against time is beamed up by aliens or other powerful entities at the last minute. But what if this beam could be used to remove junk from space?

Nothing beats the cool sci-fi film scene where a film's protagonist racing against time is beamed up by aliens or other powerful entities at the last minute. But what if this beam could be used to remove junk from space? This could soon be a reality as scientists develop a high-intensity real-life tractor beam that could nudge dangerous space junk out of the Earth's orbit. Here's how it will work. High stakes mission Removing space junk is a high-stakes mission. With the commercial space industry gaining prominence, the number of satellites in our planet's orbit is predicted to rise manifold. These would eventually wear out and litter the already crowded 'space junkyard' that surrounds the Earth. Also read | As space race zooms junk in Earth’s orbit, US Space Command shares ‘responsible space behaviours’ Scientists are developing the tractor beam dubbed 'electrostatic tractor' that could potentially help rid of dead satellites and clear space for new ones. However, it is an expensive undertaking. Talking to Live Science, project researcher Kaylee Champion said, "The science is pretty much there, but the funding is not." The prototype itself could cost millions, and an operation full-scale version much more. How will the tractor beam work? Behind the idea is Hanspeter Schaub, an aerospace engineering professor at CU Boulder. He came up with the idea in the aftermath of a major satellite collision in 2009 — when Iridium 33, an active communications satellite, smashed into Kosmos 2251, a defunct Russian military spacecraft. Also read | NASA Perseverance rover's pictures raise question: Can humanity be trusted with other planets? He speculates that a spacecraft could be pulled out of harm's way by using attraction between two objects, one charged positively and one negatively. This attraction can be used to make the objects "stick" together, and then the defunct satellite could be pulled away and released into space to drift forever. Schaub and his team have spent a decade on developing the idea, which one day might help clear the "prime estate" of space orbit. Why is removing space junk important? Space junk can put space missions and satellite launches at significant risk. Upon launch, the space vehicles can potentially collide with the junk that is crowding the planet's orbit. This junk could also plummet down into the Earth's atmosphere, and pollute the atmosphere with metals, obscuring our view of the cosmos. In a statement released a few months back, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said: "If left unchecked, the accumulation of orbital debris will increase the risk of collisions and clutter orbits used for human spaceflight and satellites providing communications, weather and Global Positioning System services." As per the FAA, as of July 2023, the Earth's orbit contains over 23,000 orbital objects of sizes 10 cm and above. Furthermore, there are around one-half million objects sized between 1 and 10 cm, over 100 million larger than 1mm. (With inputs from agencies)

'Beam me up, Scotty': Scientists to use sci-fi beam to get rid of real space junk

For the first time, artificial intelligence (AI) fully automated the process of discovering a supernova as it searched for, detected, confirmed, classified, and announced the findings without any human intervention. Led by Northwestern University, an international team of scientists has created a cutting-edge AI tool known as the Bright Transient Survey Bot (BTSbot).

<h2>What is the AI tool?</h2>

The university has reported that the new system not only allows automation of the entire search for new supernovae across the night sky but also eliminates human error and dramatically increases speed.&nbsp;

BTSbot is a machine-learning algorithm which has been trained by using over 1.4 million images from nearly 16,000 sources, said the researchers in a statement. Scientists have estimated that in the last six years, humans have spent an estimated 2,200 hours visually inspecting and classifying supernova candidates.&nbsp;

“For the first time ever, a series of robots and AI algorithms has observed, then identified, then communicated with another telescope to finally confirm the discovery of a supernova,” said Northwestern’s Adam Miller, who led the work.

He added, “Ultimately, removing humans from the loop provides more time for the research team to analyze their observations and develop new hypotheses to explain the origin of the cosmic explosions that we observe.”

<h2>How does it work?</h2>

The current process of detecting and analysing supernovae involves humans working hand in hand with robotic systems and though supernovae are bright and energetic events, they are not that common, and certainly not easy to spot.&nbsp;

The traditional method involves relying on robotic telescopes repeatedly taking images of the same sections of the night sky to detect new sources of light after which humans take over. Subsequently, astronomers have to visually inspect large volumes of data.&nbsp;

This time-consuming process is believed to be the reason why astronomers have only discovered a small fraction of all supernovae that occur in the universe.

“Automated software presents a list of candidate explosions to humans, who spend time verifying the candidates and executing spectroscopic observations,” Miller explains.&nbsp;

He added, “We can only definitively know that a candidate is truly a supernova by collecting its spectrum – the source’s dispersed light, which reveals elements present in the explosion.”

BTSbot detected the newly discovered supernova named SN2023tyk in data from the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF), said the researchers, which is a robotic camera in the US state of California which scans the northern sky every two days.&nbsp;

This was also after BTSbot automatically requested the potential supernova’s spectrum from Palomar Observatory – where another robotic telescope, the Spectral Energy Distribution Machine (SEDM) performed an in-depth observation to obtain the source’s spectrum.&nbsp;

The spectrum was then sent to SNIascore – developed by Caltech’s Christoffer Fremling, an astronomer – to determine the supernova’s type. “Adding BTSbot to our workflow will eliminate the need for us to spend time inspecting these candidates,” said Fremling.&nbsp;

“This significantly streamlines large studies of supernovae, helping us better understand the life cycles of stars and the origin of elements supernovae create, like carbon, iron and gold,” said Nabeel Rehemtulla, who co-led the development.&nbsp; 
 
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For the first time, artificial intelligence (AI) fully automated the process of discovering a supernova as it searched for, detected, confirmed, classified, and announced the findings without any human intervention.

For the first time, artificial intelligence (AI) fully automated the process of discovering a supernova as it searched for, detected, confirmed, classified, and announced the findings without any human intervention. Led by Northwestern University, an international team of scientists has created a cutting-edge AI tool known as the Bright Transient Survey Bot (BTSbot). What is the AI tool? The university has reported that the new system not only allows automation of the entire search for new supernovae across the night sky but also eliminates human error and dramatically increases speed. BTSbot is a machine-learning algorithm which has been trained by using over 1.4 million images from nearly 16,000 sources, said the researchers in a statement. Scientists have estimated that in the last six years, humans have spent an estimated 2,200 hours visually inspecting and classifying supernova candidates. “For the first time ever, a series of robots and AI algorithms has observed, then identified, then communicated with another telescope to finally confirm the discovery of a supernova,” said Northwestern’s Adam Miller, who led the work. He added, “Ultimately, removing humans from the loop provides more time for the research team to analyze their observations and develop new hypotheses to explain the origin of the cosmic explosions that we observe.” How does it work? The current process of detecting and analysing supernovae involves humans working hand in hand with robotic systems and though supernovae are bright and energetic events, they are not that common, and certainly not easy to spot. The traditional method involves relying on robotic telescopes repeatedly taking images of the same sections of the night sky to detect new sources of light after which humans take over. Subsequently, astronomers have to visually inspect large volumes of data. This time-consuming process is believed to be the reason why astronomers have only discovered a small fraction of all supernovae that occur in the universe. “Automated software presents a list of candidate explosions to humans, who spend time verifying the candidates and executing spectroscopic observations,” Miller explains. He added, “We can only definitively know that a candidate is truly a supernova by collecting its spectrum – the source’s dispersed light, which reveals elements present in the explosion.” BTSbot detected the newly discovered supernova named SN2023tyk in data from the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF), said the researchers, which is a robotic camera in the US state of California which scans the northern sky every two days. This was also after BTSbot automatically requested the potential supernova’s spectrum from Palomar Observatory – where another robotic telescope, the Spectral Energy Distribution Machine (SEDM) performed an in-depth observation to obtain the source’s spectrum. The spectrum was then sent to SNIascore – developed by Caltech’s Christoffer Fremling, an astronomer – to determine the supernova’s type. “Adding BTSbot to our workflow will eliminate the need for us to spend time inspecting these candidates,” said Fremling. “This significantly streamlines large studies of supernovae, helping us better understand the life cycles of stars and the origin of elements supernovae create, like carbon, iron and gold,” said Nabeel Rehemtulla, who co-led the development. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

For the first time, an AI system discovers supernova without human intervention

Aditya L1, India’s maiden space-based mission to study the Sun, successfully completed its fourth Earth-bound manoeuvre in the early hours of Friday (September 15), said the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The manoeuvre was said to be a crucial step as the Indian space agency seeks&nbsp;to place the spacecraft in a halo orbit around the Lagrange Point 1 (L1) of the Sun-Earth system.

<h2>Aditya-L1 completes&nbsp;fourth Earth-bound manoeuvre</h2>

“The fourth Earth-bound maneuvre (EBN#4) is performed successfully,” said ISRO, in a post on X, formerly Twitter. It added, “ISRO’s ground stations at Mauritius, Bengaluru, SDSC-SHAR and Port Blair tracked the satellite during this operation, while a transportable terminal currently stationed in the Fiji islands for Aditya-L1 &nbsp;will support post-burn operations.”

After the latest manoeuvre, the new orbit attained is 256 km x 121973 km, according to the Indian space agency. “The next maneuvre Trans-Lagragean Point 1 Insertion (TL1I) – a send-off from the Earth – is scheduled for September 19, 2023, around 02:00 Hrs. IST,” said ISRO.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Aditya-L1 Mission: 
The fourth Earth-bound maneuvre (EBN#4) is performed successfully. 
 
ISRO's ground stations at Mauritius, Bengaluru, SDSC-SHAR and Port Blair tracked the satellite during this operation, while a transportable terminal currently stationed in the Fiji islands for… <a href="https://t.co/cPfsF5GIk5">pic.twitter.com/cPfsF5GIk5</a>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1702426982602907974?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>About Aditya-L1 mission</h2>

India’s maiden sun mission was launched on September 2&nbsp;from the Second Launch Pad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota. The spacecraft has undergone three Earth-bound manoeuvres, with the first, second and third taking place on September 3, 5 and 10 respectively.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indias-aditya-l1-mission-to-study-sun-completes-second-earth-bound-manoeuvre-632420">India's Aditya L1 mission to study Sun completes second Earth-bound manoeuvre</a>

The manoeuvres are being performed during the spacecraft’s 16-day journey around the Earth where the spacecraft will gain the necessary velocity for its further journey to L1. The L1 point was discovered by mathematician Joseph Louis Lagrange.&nbsp;

It is considered to be the most significant of the Lagrangian points for observation of the Sun.

Aditya-L1 is equipped with seven scientific payloads developed indigenously by the ISRO and various national research laboratories, including the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) and the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), in the Indian cities of Bengaluru and Pune, respectively.

These payloads are designed to study the photosphere, chromosphere, and the outermost layers of the Sun, known as the corona, using electromagnetic, particle, and magnetic field detectors.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-what-will-isro-study-in-aditya-l1-mission-as-it-aims-for-the-sun-630471">Explained | What will ISRO study in Aditya-L1 mission as it aims for the Sun</a>

Positioned at the advantageous L1 point, four of these payloads will directly observe the Sun, while the remaining three will conduct in-situ studies of particles and fields at Lagrange point L1.&nbsp;

Notably, the launch of Aditya-L1 came barely 10 days after ISRO successfully soft-landed the Chandrayaan-3 craft near the lunar south pole, thereby making India the first nation to do so.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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Aditya L1, India’s maiden space-based mission to study the Sun, successfully completed its fourth Earth-bound manoeuvre in the early hours of Friday (September 15), said the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

Aditya L1, India’s maiden space-based mission to study the Sun, successfully completed its fourth Earth-bound manoeuvre in the early hours of Friday (September 15), said the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The manoeuvre was said to be a crucial step as the Indian space agency seeks to place the spacecraft in a halo orbit around the Lagrange Point 1 (L1) of the Sun-Earth system. Aditya-L1 completes fourth Earth-bound manoeuvre “The fourth Earth-bound maneuvre (EBN#4) is performed successfully,” said ISRO, in a post on X, formerly Twitter. It added, “ISRO’s ground stations at Mauritius, Bengaluru, SDSC-SHAR and Port Blair tracked the satellite during this operation, while a transportable terminal currently stationed in the Fiji islands for Aditya-L1 will support post-burn operations.” After the latest manoeuvre, the new orbit attained is 256 km x 121973 km, according to the Indian space agency. “The next maneuvre Trans-Lagragean Point 1 Insertion (TL1I) – a send-off from the Earth – is scheduled for September 19, 2023, around 02:00 Hrs. IST,” said ISRO. Aditya-L1 Mission: The fourth Earth-bound maneuvre (EBN#4) is performed successfully. ISRO's ground stations at Mauritius, Bengaluru, SDSC-SHAR and Port Blair tracked the satellite during this operation, while a transportable terminal currently stationed in the Fiji islands for… pic.twitter.com/cPfsF5GIk5 — ISRO (@isro) September 14, 2023 × About Aditya-L1 mission India’s maiden sun mission was launched on September 2 from the Second Launch Pad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota. The spacecraft has undergone three Earth-bound manoeuvres, with the first, second and third taking place on September 3, 5 and 10 respectively. ALSO READ | India's Aditya L1 mission to study Sun completes second Earth-bound manoeuvre The manoeuvres are being performed during the spacecraft’s 16-day journey around the Earth where the spacecraft will gain the necessary velocity for its further journey to L1. The L1 point was discovered by mathematician Joseph Louis Lagrange. It is considered to be the most significant of the Lagrangian points for observation of the Sun. Aditya-L1 is equipped with seven scientific payloads developed indigenously by the ISRO and various national research laboratories, including the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) and the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), in the Indian cities of Bengaluru and Pune, respectively. These payloads are designed to study the photosphere, chromosphere, and the outermost layers of the Sun, known as the corona, using electromagnetic, particle, and magnetic field detectors. ALSO READ | Explained | What will ISRO study in Aditya-L1 mission as it aims for the Sun Positioned at the advantageous L1 point, four of these payloads will directly observe the Sun, while the remaining three will conduct in-situ studies of particles and fields at Lagrange point L1. Notably, the launch of Aditya-L1 came barely 10 days after ISRO successfully soft-landed the Chandrayaan-3 craft near the lunar south pole, thereby making India the first nation to do so. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India’s Aditya-L1 mission successfully undergoes fourth Earth-bound manoeuvre, says ISRO

Amid the ongoing debate about the existence of a so-called ‘Planet Nine’ which scientists believe has been lurking around in the murky depths of our solar system for years now, two scientists from Japan have a new theory that suggests the existence of a more modestly sized, Earth-like planet closer than the disputed Planet Nine.&nbsp;

<h2>Argument around existence of ‘Planet Nine’</h2>

Scientists have been debating about the presence of the so-called <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-mysterious-planet-may-be-lurking-around-in-our-solar-system-621243">Planet Nine</a>, the supposedly massive terrestrial planet for some time now, after Pluto was unceremoniously stripped of its planetary status and declared a dwarf planet.&nbsp;

So far, the most distant single object ever to be found in our solar system is some 132 astronomical units from the Sun, to put this into perspective, Pluto is at an average distance of about 40 astronomical units from the Sun.

<h2>About the new theory</h2>

Planetary scientists Patryk Sofia Lykawka of Kindai University in Japan and Takashi Ito of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, in a recent paper, published in The Astronomical Journal, have put forth an alternative explanation.&nbsp;

They suggest that there might be a more modestly sized, Earth-like planet revolving around the Sun, closer to the debated Planet Nine, on a tilted orbit.

Trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs) found beyond the orbit of Neptune, which scientists have recently taken note of due to their peculiar clustering behaviour have led them to suggest the presence of a hidden world and the idea of a 9th planet lurking beyond our range of visibility.

“We predict the existence of an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-earth-like-exoplanet-in-habitable-zone-around-its-star-558568">Earth-like planet</a> and several trans-Neptunian objects on peculiar orbits in the outer solar system, which can serve as observationally testable signatures of the putative planet’s perturbations,” the duo wrote.&nbsp;

This comes as scientists have found a number of TNOs including icy rocks and dwarf planets beyond Neptune which are some 30 astronomical units from the Sun, which extend as far as we can see. This is the Kuiper belt and the objects it contains are called TNOs.

Lykawka and Ito said that they have found the properties of a hypothetical planet that could explain “three fundamental properties of the distant Kuiper Belt: a prominent population of TNOs with orbits beyond Neptune’s gravitational influence, a significant population of high-inclination objects, and the existence of some extreme objects with peculiar orbits.”&nbsp;

The two scientists suggested that the mass of this possible Earth-like planet would be between 1.5 and three times that of Earth. The most distant point from the Sun in this planet’s orbit would be between 250 and 500 astronomical units and an inclination of 30 degrees respective to the plane of the solar system.&nbsp; 
 
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Amid the ongoing debate about the existence of a so-called ‘Planet Nine’ which scientists believe has been lurking around in the murky depths of our solar system for years now, two scientists from Japan have a new theory that suggests the existence of a more modestly sized, Earth-like planet closer than the disputed Planet Nine.

Amid the ongoing debate about the existence of a so-called ‘Planet Nine’ which scientists believe has been lurking around in the murky depths of our solar system for years now, two scientists from Japan have a new theory that suggests the existence of a more modestly sized, Earth-like planet closer than the disputed Planet Nine. Argument around existence of ‘Planet Nine’ Scientists have been debating about the presence of the so-called Planet Nine, the supposedly massive terrestrial planet for some time now, after Pluto was unceremoniously stripped of its planetary status and declared a dwarf planet. So far, the most distant single object ever to be found in our solar system is some 132 astronomical units from the Sun, to put this into perspective, Pluto is at an average distance of about 40 astronomical units from the Sun. About the new theory Planetary scientists Patryk Sofia Lykawka of Kindai University in Japan and Takashi Ito of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, in a recent paper, published in The Astronomical Journal, have put forth an alternative explanation. They suggest that there might be a more modestly sized, Earth-like planet revolving around the Sun, closer to the debated Planet Nine, on a tilted orbit. Trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs) found beyond the orbit of Neptune, which scientists have recently taken note of due to their peculiar clustering behaviour have led them to suggest the presence of a hidden world and the idea of a 9th planet lurking beyond our range of visibility. “We predict the existence of an Earth-like planet and several trans-Neptunian objects on peculiar orbits in the outer solar system, which can serve as observationally testable signatures of the putative planet’s perturbations,” the duo wrote. This comes as scientists have found a number of TNOs including icy rocks and dwarf planets beyond Neptune which are some 30 astronomical units from the Sun, which extend as far as we can see. This is the Kuiper belt and the objects it contains are called TNOs. Lykawka and Ito said that they have found the properties of a hypothetical planet that could explain “three fundamental properties of the distant Kuiper Belt: a prominent population of TNOs with orbits beyond Neptune’s gravitational influence, a significant population of high-inclination objects, and the existence of some extreme objects with peculiar orbits.” The two scientists suggested that the mass of this possible Earth-like planet would be between 1.5 and three times that of Earth. The most distant point from the Sun in this planet’s orbit would be between 250 and 500 astronomical units and an inclination of 30 degrees respective to the plane of the solar system. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scientists believe an Earth-like planet might be hiding in our solar system

Russia's first probe to the Moon was launched in almost 50 years on Friday. The mission is aimed at giving fresh impetus to the country's space sector which has been struggling for years and is now facing isolation because of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. 
 
The Luna-25 probe's launch is the first lunar mission of Moscow since 1976 when the USSR had emerged as a pioneer in the arena of space conquest. 
 
The rocket, carrying the Luna-25 probe, lifted off from the Vostochny Cosmodrome at 02:10 am Moscow time (2310 GMT Thursday), as per live images broadcast by the Russian space agency Roscosmos. The spacecraft will be reaching the lunar orbit in five days. 
 
Around three to seven days will be spent by the spacecraft in choosing the right spot before the lunar probe lands in the south pole area.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/virgin-galactics-first-space-tourism-flight-takes-off-with-three-civilian-passengers-624309">Virgin Galactic's first space tourism flight takes off with three civilian passengers</a>

"For the first time in history, the lunar landing will take place on the lunar south pole. Until now, everyone has been landing in the equatorial zone," said senior Roscosmos official Alexander Blokhin in a recent interview with AFP. 
 
As per Roscosmos, the lunar probe should land on the Moon around August 21, said a source in the agency, while speaking to AFP.

<h2>Guided by ambition of our ancestors: Putin on space exploration</h2>

The Russian space agency stated that the spacecraft, which will stay on the Moon for a year, has been given the task of "taking (samples) and analysing the soil" as well as "conducting long-term scientific research", said the Russian space agency. 
 
The launch is the new lunar programme's first mission which gets underway at a time when Roscosmos does not have partnerships with the West as the conflict with Ukraine continues to escalate. 
 
As per Russian space expert Vitali Iegorov, this is the first time a mission has been launched by post-Soviet Russia with the aim to place a device on a celestial body. "The biggest question will be: can it land?" he said, while speaking AFP, emphasising that this mission is "of great importance" for Russia.

WATCH |&nbsp;China's Tiangong space station faces equipment delay from India

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President Vladimir Putin has taken the pledge to continue the space programme in Russia despite sanctions, pointing to the mission of the USSR to send the first man into space in 1961.

"We are guided by the ambition of our ancestors to move forward, despite difficulties and external attempts to prevent us from doing so," Putin stated at the Vostochny Cosmodrome last year.

The Indian space agency, ISRO, tweeted, "Congratulations, Roscosmos on the successful launch of Luna-25. Wonderful to have another meeting point in our space journies. Wishes for Chandrayaan-3 &amp; 🇷🇺Luna-25 missions to achieve their goals."&nbsp;

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Congratulations, Roscosmos on the successful launch of Luna-25 💐 
 
Wonderful to have another meeting point in our space journies 
 
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🇮🇳Chandrayaan-3 &amp; 
🇷🇺Luna-25 
missions to achieve their goals.
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The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the Chandrayaan-3 mission from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 2:35 pm local time on July 14 in its second attempt at a soft landing on the surface of the moon. The spacecraft is expected to land on the lunar surface by&nbsp;August 23.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia's first probe to the Moon was launched in almost 50 years on Friday. The mission is aimed at giving fresh impetus to the country's space sector which has been struggling for years and is now facing isolation because of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Russia's first probe to the Moon was launched in almost 50 years on Friday. The mission is aimed at giving fresh impetus to the country's space sector which has been struggling for years and is now facing isolation because of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The Luna-25 probe's launch is the first lunar mission of Moscow since 1976 when the USSR had emerged as a pioneer in the arena of space conquest. The rocket, carrying the Luna-25 probe, lifted off from the Vostochny Cosmodrome at 02:10 am Moscow time (2310 GMT Thursday), as per live images broadcast by the Russian space agency Roscosmos. The spacecraft will be reaching the lunar orbit in five days. Around three to seven days will be spent by the spacecraft in choosing the right spot before the lunar probe lands in the south pole area. ALSO READ | Virgin Galactic's first space tourism flight takes off with three civilian passengers "For the first time in history, the lunar landing will take place on the lunar south pole. Until now, everyone has been landing in the equatorial zone," said senior Roscosmos official Alexander Blokhin in a recent interview with AFP. As per Roscosmos, the lunar probe should land on the Moon around August 21, said a source in the agency, while speaking to AFP. Guided by ambition of our ancestors: Putin on space exploration The Russian space agency stated that the spacecraft, which will stay on the Moon for a year, has been given the task of "taking (samples) and analysing the soil" as well as "conducting long-term scientific research", said the Russian space agency. The launch is the new lunar programme's first mission which gets underway at a time when Roscosmos does not have partnerships with the West as the conflict with Ukraine continues to escalate. As per Russian space expert Vitali Iegorov, this is the first time a mission has been launched by post-Soviet Russia with the aim to place a device on a celestial body. "The biggest question will be: can it land?" he said, while speaking AFP, emphasising that this mission is "of great importance" for Russia. WATCH | China's Tiangong space station faces equipment delay from India President Vladimir Putin has taken the pledge to continue the space programme in Russia despite sanctions, pointing to the mission of the USSR to send the first man into space in 1961. "We are guided by the ambition of our ancestors to move forward, despite difficulties and external attempts to prevent us from doing so," Putin stated at the Vostochny Cosmodrome last year. The Indian space agency, ISRO, tweeted, "Congratulations, Roscosmos on the successful launch of Luna-25. Wonderful to have another meeting point in our space journies. Wishes for Chandrayaan-3 & 🇷🇺Luna-25 missions to achieve their goals." Congratulations, Roscosmos on the successful launch of Luna-25 💐 Wonderful to have another meeting point in our space journies Wishes for 🇮🇳Chandrayaan-3 & 🇷🇺Luna-25 missions to achieve their goals. — ISRO (@isro) August 11, 2023 × The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the Chandrayaan-3 mission from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 2:35 pm local time on July 14 in its second attempt at a soft landing on the surface of the moon. The spacecraft is expected to land on the lunar surface by August 23. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia launches first probe to the Moon in almost 50 years

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

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

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

Over the weekend, the United States space agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) released an image of the Crab Nebula which it said was one of the well-known as well as mysterious astronomical objects in our night sky.&nbsp;

The bright cosmic object is 6,500 light-years away, in the Taurus constellation, the image of which was captured by using NASA’s Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE), which launched on December 9, 2021.

What makes this image historic?

There is a long history behind the recently released image as the sensors which had been directed at the Crab Nebula were first launched in a sounding rocket back in 1971. However, scientists back then would first receive scientific data on a strip chart recorder, a device that printed signals on paper. For this project, astronomer Martin Weisskopf and his colleagues began their analysis on launch day by measuring the distance between signals using a ruler and pencil. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It was not until a few decades later that the astronomer proposed developing a satellite with “powerful instruments” which would help them gather more detailed measurements of the Crab Nebula and other mysterious cosmic objects. This led to the creation of IXPE and now over five decades later scientists have a nuanced map of the Crab Nebula’s magnetic field.&nbsp;

“What makes science so beautiful and exciting is that for those few moments, you’re seeing something that no one has ever seen before,” said Weisskopf, in a statement, who is now an emeritus astronomer at NASA. The Crab Nebula is also the result of a supernova documented in the year 1054, said the space agency.&nbsp;

The explosion left behind a dense object called the Crab Pulsar, about the diameter of the length of Manhattan with the mass of about two Suns. “The chaotic mess of gases, shock waves, magnetic fields and high-energy light and particles coming from the rotating pulsar is collectively called a ‘pulsar wind nebula,’” NASA explained.&nbsp; 
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However, the extreme conditions which resulted in this “bizarre environment” have not been thoroughly understood. Even after so many years, “every recent large telescope has pointed to the Crab Nebula to better understand this mysterious supernova remnant,” said NASA, in a statement.

“The Crab is one of the most-studied high-energy astrophysical objects in the sky. So it is extremely exciting that we could learn something new about this system by looking through IXPE’s ‘polarized lenses,’” said Michela Negro, a research scientist at NASA and co-author of the study.

What did the scientists find?

While the image of the nebula is a sight to behold it was actually the Crab Nebula’s magnetic field that the scientists wanted to understand more about. According to NASA, the map has revealed “more of its inner workings than ever before.”&nbsp;

The researchers observed that the magnetic field of the Crab Nebula resembles that of the Vela Pulsar Wind Nebula, which is also doughnut-shaped, however, they were surprised by how parts of the magnetic field turbulence “more patchy and asymmetrical than expected.”&nbsp;

It was the previously mentioned “bizarre environment” that Weisskopf and colleagues were hoping to understand by measuring the polarisation of X-rays from the Crab Nebula. This is because the polarisation of X-ray gives scientists clues to the direction where the magnetic field points in different parts of a cosmic object, as well as how well-ordered the magnetic field is. &nbsp;

“The magnetic field’s geometry and turbulence determines how particles get catapulted toward the speed of light,” said NASA. Scientists found that the areas of polarisation in the outer regions of the nebula are light-years away from the pulsar, where polarisation is lower.&nbsp;

This has enabled them not only to investigate the X-rays from the Crab Nebula but also those coming from the pulsar itself. “The findings suggest that those X-rays originate in the outer magnetic field region, called the ‘wind’ region, although exactly where and how is still unknown,” said NASA.&nbsp; 
 
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Over the weekend, the United States space agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) released an image of the Crab Nebula which it said was one of the well-known as well as mysterious astronomical objects in our night sky.

Over the weekend, the United States space agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) released an image of the Crab Nebula which it said was one of the well-known as well as mysterious astronomical objects in our night sky. The bright cosmic object is 6,500 light-years away, in the Taurus constellation, the image of which was captured by using NASA’s Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE), which launched on December 9, 2021. What makes this image historic? There is a long history behind the recently released image as the sensors which had been directed at the Crab Nebula were first launched in a sounding rocket back in 1971. However, scientists back then would first receive scientific data on a strip chart recorder, a device that printed signals on paper. For this project, astronomer Martin Weisskopf and his colleagues began their analysis on launch day by measuring the distance between signals using a ruler and pencil. It was not until a few decades later that the astronomer proposed developing a satellite with “powerful instruments” which would help them gather more detailed measurements of the Crab Nebula and other mysterious cosmic objects. This led to the creation of IXPE and now over five decades later scientists have a nuanced map of the Crab Nebula’s magnetic field. “What makes science so beautiful and exciting is that for those few moments, you’re seeing something that no one has ever seen before,” said Weisskopf, in a statement, who is now an emeritus astronomer at NASA. The Crab Nebula is also the result of a supernova documented in the year 1054, said the space agency. The explosion left behind a dense object called the Crab Pulsar, about the diameter of the length of Manhattan with the mass of about two Suns. “The chaotic mess of gases, shock waves, magnetic fields and high-energy light and particles coming from the rotating pulsar is collectively called a ‘pulsar wind nebula,’” NASA explained. View this post on Instagram A post shared by NASA (@nasa) × However, the extreme conditions which resulted in this “bizarre environment” have not been thoroughly understood. Even after so many years, “every recent large telescope has pointed to the Crab Nebula to better understand this mysterious supernova remnant,” said NASA, in a statement. “The Crab is one of the most-studied high-energy astrophysical objects in the sky. So it is extremely exciting that we could learn something new about this system by looking through IXPE’s ‘polarized lenses,’” said Michela Negro, a research scientist at NASA and co-author of the study. What did the scientists find? While the image of the nebula is a sight to behold it was actually the Crab Nebula’s magnetic field that the scientists wanted to understand more about. According to NASA, the map has revealed “more of its inner workings than ever before.” The researchers observed that the magnetic field of the Crab Nebula resembles that of the Vela Pulsar Wind Nebula, which is also doughnut-shaped, however, they were surprised by how parts of the magnetic field turbulence “more patchy and asymmetrical than expected.” It was the previously mentioned “bizarre environment” that Weisskopf and colleagues were hoping to understand by measuring the polarisation of X-rays from the Crab Nebula. This is because the polarisation of X-ray gives scientists clues to the direction where the magnetic field points in different parts of a cosmic object, as well as how well-ordered the magnetic field is. “The magnetic field’s geometry and turbulence determines how particles get catapulted toward the speed of light,” said NASA. Scientists found that the areas of polarisation in the outer regions of the nebula are light-years away from the pulsar, where polarisation is lower. This has enabled them not only to investigate the X-rays from the Crab Nebula but also those coming from the pulsar itself. “The findings suggest that those X-rays originate in the outer magnetic field region, called the ‘wind’ region, although exactly where and how is still unknown,” said NASA. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Historic! NASA’s IXPE captures image of Crab Nebula, the ‘mysterious supernova remnant’

As humanity reaches out towards space, thousands of commercial satellites are being launched into Earth's orbit. The launch of these satellites at a record, breakneck speed has also spurred a growing swarm of space debris, which has become the cause of concern for governments and private companies alike. In a bid to establish norms in the orbit, the US Space Command on Friday released a formal list of what it considers "responsible space behaviours."

Watch |&nbsp;Expanding problem of space debris: What is space junk? Why is it a problem?

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The norms, as per Reuters, comprise a section on space debris urging space players to dispose of defunct satellites safely. It also calls on companies to notify other operators if any problems with their spacecraft might pose a debris hazard.

"You have to find a way to allow the economy to grow in the space domain, and in order to do that you need to make sure that it remains sustainable," said Brigadier General Richard Zellmann, deputy director of the command's operations unit while talking to Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-perseverance-rovers-pictures-raise-question-can-humanity-be-trusted-with-other-planets-488883">NASA Perseverance rover's pictures raise question: Can humanity be trusted with other planets?</a>

"Key to that is going to be ensuring that we can either solve that debris problem or at least mitigate it to the point that it's acceptable," he added.

The private sector, too, is attempting to control littering in orbit. Reportedly, Neumann Space, an&nbsp;Australia-based company, is developing technology that could help recycle old defunct satellites into fuel. A test satellite may be launched in coming June this year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/narrow-escape-international-space-station-dodges-space-debris-from-russian-anti-satellite-test-490218">Narrow escape! International Space Station dodges space debris from Russian anti-satellite test</a>

"It's great because you can do mission extension by refuelling with what's already in space," said Neumann Chief Executive Herve Astier. "Using the metal that's already there, that's a way to move forward in terms of sustainability," he added.

Another firm, Tokyo-based Astroscale, is testing a debris-removing device called ELSA. The device latches onto defunct satellites and drags them towards Earth's atmosphere, where they undergo a fiery disposal upon entering the planet's atmosphere.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As humanity reaches out towards space, thousands of commercial satellites are being launched into Earth's orbit. The launch of these satellites at a record, breakneck speed has also spurred a growing swarm of space debris, which has become the cause of concern for governments and private companies alike.

As humanity reaches out towards space, thousands of commercial satellites are being launched into Earth's orbit. The launch of these satellites at a record, breakneck speed has also spurred a growing swarm of space debris, which has become the cause of concern for governments and private companies alike. In a bid to establish norms in the orbit, the US Space Command on Friday released a formal list of what it considers "responsible space behaviours." Watch | Expanding problem of space debris: What is space junk? Why is it a problem? The norms, as per Reuters, comprise a section on space debris urging space players to dispose of defunct satellites safely. It also calls on companies to notify other operators if any problems with their spacecraft might pose a debris hazard. "You have to find a way to allow the economy to grow in the space domain, and in order to do that you need to make sure that it remains sustainable," said Brigadier General Richard Zellmann, deputy director of the command's operations unit while talking to Reuters. Also read | NASA Perseverance rover's pictures raise question: Can humanity be trusted with other planets? "Key to that is going to be ensuring that we can either solve that debris problem or at least mitigate it to the point that it's acceptable," he added. The private sector, too, is attempting to control littering in orbit. Reportedly, Neumann Space, an Australia-based company, is developing technology that could help recycle old defunct satellites into fuel. A test satellite may be launched in coming June this year. Also read | Narrow escape! International Space Station dodges space debris from Russian anti-satellite test "It's great because you can do mission extension by refuelling with what's already in space," said Neumann Chief Executive Herve Astier. "Using the metal that's already there, that's a way to move forward in terms of sustainability," he added. Another firm, Tokyo-based Astroscale, is testing a debris-removing device called ELSA. The device latches onto defunct satellites and drags them towards Earth's atmosphere, where they undergo a fiery disposal upon entering the planet's atmosphere. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

As space race zooms junk in Earth’s orbit, US Space Command shares ‘responsible space behaviours’

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), on Sunday (February 19) announced that its soon-to-be third mission to Moon, Chandrayaan-3’s lander has successfully undergone the EMI-EMC (Electro-Magnetic Interference/Electro-Magnetic Compatibility) test. It was conducted at the U R Rao Satellite Centre in the Indian city of Bengaluru between January 31 and February 2, said a statement by the national space agency, on Sunday (February 19).&nbsp;

Why is this test important?

The EMI-EMC test is conducted prior to satellite missions which ensures the functionality of the satellite subsystems in space as well as their compatibility with the expected electromagnetic levels. “This test is a major milestone in the realization of the satellites,” said ISRO.&nbsp;

Highlighting the importance of the test, ISRO explained that since Chandrayaan-3 is an interplanetary mission has three major modules, the Propulsion module, Lander module, and Rover. It added, the mission’s complexity calls for establishing radio-frequency (RF) communication links between the modules.&nbsp;

What happened during the test?

The Chandrayaan-3 lander EMI/EC test included launcher compatibility, antenna polarization of all RF systems, standalone auto compatibility tests for orbital and powered descent mission phases, and lander and rover compatibility tests for the post-landing mission phase were ensured, said the statement. The ISRO said that the performance of the lander’s system was satisfactory.&nbsp;

About Chandrayaan-3&nbsp;

The Chandrayaan-3 mission will follow Chandrayan-2 and demonstrate end-to-end capability in safe landing and roving on the lunar surface, the Indian space agency had said previously. It will comprise a lander and rover configuration and will be launched by GSLV MkIII from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, an island off the Bay of Bengal coast and dubbed as the spaceport of India.&nbsp;

The propulsion module will carry the lander and rover configuration to 100 km of the Moon’s orbit and will also study the spectral and polarimetric measurements of Earth from there with the help of Spectro-polarimetry of Habitable Planet Earth (SHAPE) payload. However, the final launch date of the mission is yet to be announced but is said to be towards the second or third quarter of this year.&nbsp;

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), on Sunday (February 19) announced that its soon-to-be third mission to Moon, Chandrayaan-3’s lander has successfully undergone the EMI-EMC (Electro-Magnetic Interference/Electro-Magnetic Compatibility) test.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), on Sunday (February 19) announced that its soon-to-be third mission to Moon, Chandrayaan-3’s lander has successfully undergone the EMI-EMC (Electro-Magnetic Interference/Electro-Magnetic Compatibility) test. It was conducted at the U R Rao Satellite Centre in the Indian city of Bengaluru between January 31 and February 2, said a statement by the national space agency, on Sunday (February 19). Why is this test important? The EMI-EMC test is conducted prior to satellite missions which ensures the functionality of the satellite subsystems in space as well as their compatibility with the expected electromagnetic levels. “This test is a major milestone in the realization of the satellites,” said ISRO. Highlighting the importance of the test, ISRO explained that since Chandrayaan-3 is an interplanetary mission has three major modules, the Propulsion module, Lander module, and Rover. It added, the mission’s complexity calls for establishing radio-frequency (RF) communication links between the modules. What happened during the test? The Chandrayaan-3 lander EMI/EC test included launcher compatibility, antenna polarization of all RF systems, standalone auto compatibility tests for orbital and powered descent mission phases, and lander and rover compatibility tests for the post-landing mission phase were ensured, said the statement. The ISRO said that the performance of the lander’s system was satisfactory. About Chandrayaan-3 The Chandrayaan-3 mission will follow Chandrayan-2 and demonstrate end-to-end capability in safe landing and roving on the lunar surface, the Indian space agency had said previously. It will comprise a lander and rover configuration and will be launched by GSLV MkIII from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, an island off the Bay of Bengal coast and dubbed as the spaceport of India. The propulsion module will carry the lander and rover configuration to 100 km of the Moon’s orbit and will also study the spectral and polarimetric measurements of Earth from there with the help of Spectro-polarimetry of Habitable Planet Earth (SHAPE) payload. However, the final launch date of the mission is yet to be announced but is said to be towards the second or third quarter of this year.

India: ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 successfully undergoes key test ensuring it can function in space

NASA and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), a research arm of the US Department of Defense, have unveiled plans to test nuclear-powered rockets that would one day fly humans to Mars.

Announcing the ambitious plans on Tuesday, the space agency said that it will partner with DARPA on the Demonstration Rocket for Agile Cislunar Operations, or DRACO, programme. It is slated to happen by 2027.

Watch |&nbsp;NASA's Mars Perseverance rover finds samples of Microbial life on mars

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"NASA will work with our long-term partner, DARPA, to develop and demonstrate advanced nuclear thermal propulsion technology as soon as 2027," said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson as he announced the mission.

"With the help of this new technology, astronauts could journey to and from deep space faster than ever—a major capability to prepare for crewed missions to Mars," he explained.&nbsp;

The nuclear thermal rocket, as per the NASA website, will allow for a " faster transit time" and will also reduce the risk for astronauts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/india-based-telescope-detects-faint-radio-signal-from-an-extremely-distant-galaxy-553716">India-based telescope detects faint radio signal from an extremely distant galaxy</a>

Reducing transit time is fundamental to human missions to the red planet. This is because a longer transit time means more supplies and more robust systems.

The current technology allows for the 225 million-kilometre average distance journey from Earth to Mars to be completed in about seven months. While the estimated time using a nuclear thermal rocket engine is not known, as per the NASA Administrator, it would allow astronauts to undertake the "journey to and from deep space faster than ever".

Before this, NASA had last tested a nuclear thermal rocket engine in the mid-19th century, some 50 years back.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/rare-and-exciting-find-international-team-of-researchers-discover-8kg-meteorite-in-antarctica-555001">'Rare and exciting' find: International team of researchers discover meteorite weighing 8 kg in Antarctica</a>

"Congratulations to both NASA and DARPA on this exciting investment, as we ignite the future, together," said Nelson.

The engine would rely on a nuclear reactor and will use atomic fission to heat up the propellant, which will provide thrust to the rocket. This as per NASA will be around three times more efficient than the chemical propulsion technology currently in use.

(With inputs from agencies)

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NASA and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), a research arm of the US Department of Defense, have unveiled plans to test nuclear-powered rockets that would one day fly humans to Mars.

NASA and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), a research arm of the US Department of Defense, have unveiled plans to test nuclear-powered rockets that would one day fly humans to Mars. Announcing the ambitious plans on Tuesday, the space agency said that it will partner with DARPA on the Demonstration Rocket for Agile Cislunar Operations, or DRACO, programme. It is slated to happen by 2027. Watch | NASA's Mars Perseverance rover finds samples of Microbial life on mars "NASA will work with our long-term partner, DARPA, to develop and demonstrate advanced nuclear thermal propulsion technology as soon as 2027," said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson as he announced the mission. "With the help of this new technology, astronauts could journey to and from deep space faster than ever—a major capability to prepare for crewed missions to Mars," he explained. The nuclear thermal rocket, as per the NASA website, will allow for a " faster transit time" and will also reduce the risk for astronauts. Also read | India-based telescope detects faint radio signal from an extremely distant galaxy Reducing transit time is fundamental to human missions to the red planet. This is because a longer transit time means more supplies and more robust systems. The current technology allows for the 225 million-kilometre average distance journey from Earth to Mars to be completed in about seven months. While the estimated time using a nuclear thermal rocket engine is not known, as per the NASA Administrator, it would allow astronauts to undertake the "journey to and from deep space faster than ever". Before this, NASA had last tested a nuclear thermal rocket engine in the mid-19th century, some 50 years back. Also read | 'Rare and exciting' find: International team of researchers discover meteorite weighing 8 kg in Antarctica "Congratulations to both NASA and DARPA on this exciting investment, as we ignite the future, together," said Nelson. The engine would rely on a nuclear reactor and will use atomic fission to heat up the propellant, which will provide thrust to the rocket. This as per NASA will be around three times more efficient than the chemical propulsion technology currently in use. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NASA to test 'DRACO', a nuclear power rocket engine that'll send humans to Mars ‘faster than ever'

A study of the Martian meteorite ‘Tissint’ which crashed landed in Morocco over a decade ago found that it consists of a vast array of organic compounds which could reveal new details about the Red Planet’s habitability and even important clues about Earth’s geological history. Published in the journal Science Advances by an international team of researchers led by the Technical University of Munich in Germany. It also included Helmholtz Munich’s Philippe Schmitt-Kopplin and Carnegie Institution for Science in the United States’ Andrew Steele.&nbsp;

In a statement, the lead author of the study, Schmitt-Kopplin, said, “Mars and Earth share many aspects of their evolution. And while life arose and thrived on our home planet, the question of whether it ever existed on Mars is a very hot research topic that requires deeper knowledge of our neighbouring planet’s water, organic molecules, and reactive surfaces.”&nbsp;

After analysing the meteorite’s organic inventory in detail the researchers found a link between the type and diversity of organic molecules as well as specific mineralogy. This helped them create the most comprehensive catalogue of the diversity of organic compounds found in a Martian meteorite or in a sample collected and analysed by a rover. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/is-there-life-on-mars-study-of-decades-old-meteorite-casts-doubt-on-presence-of-life-on-the-planet-444601">Is there life on Mars?: Study of decades-old meteorite casts doubt on presence of life on the planet</a>

The meteorite, Tissint, is one of the five Martian rocks that was observed as it fell to the Earth, over 11 years ago its pieces were scattered in a Moroccan desert about 30 miles from the town after which it was named. It is speculated that the hundred million years old rock was launched into space following a violent event.&nbsp;

Notably, organic compounds are large molecules that contain predominantly carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen and sulphur, and are associated with life and biological processes. However, these compounds can be created by non-biological processes which previous Martian meteorite research demonstrated which scientists call, abiotic organic chemistry.&nbsp;

The findings of the study detailed the process occurring beneath the Red Planet’s mantle and crust and how they have changed over time, especially with regard to abiotic organics that formed from Mars’ water-rock interactions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/30000-meteorites-are-hiding-across-antarctica-as-per-this-treasure-map-created-by-artificial-intelligence-451559">30,000 meteorites are hiding across Antarctica as per this 'treasure map' created by artificial intelligence</a>

According to Steele who was also a member of both the Perseverance and Curiosity rovers’ teams, “understanding the processes and sequence of events that shaped this rich organic bounty will reveal new details about Mars’ habitability and potentially about the reactions that could lead to the formation of life.”&nbsp;

Additionally, one of the most intriguing findings of the study was the abundance of organic magnesium compounds which was previously not seen on Mars and offered insights into the planet’s high-pressure and high-temperature geochemistry that shaped its deep interior as well as a connection between its carbon cycle and mineral evolution.&nbsp; 
 
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A study of the Martian meteorite ‘Tissint’ which crashed landed in Morocco over a decade ago found that it consists of a vast array of organic compounds which could reveal new details about the Red Planet’s habitability and even important clues about Earth’s geological history.

A study of the Martian meteorite ‘Tissint’ which crashed landed in Morocco over a decade ago found that it consists of a vast array of organic compounds which could reveal new details about the Red Planet’s habitability and even important clues about Earth’s geological history. Published in the journal Science Advances by an international team of researchers led by the Technical University of Munich in Germany. It also included Helmholtz Munich’s Philippe Schmitt-Kopplin and Carnegie Institution for Science in the United States’ Andrew Steele. In a statement, the lead author of the study, Schmitt-Kopplin, said, “Mars and Earth share many aspects of their evolution. And while life arose and thrived on our home planet, the question of whether it ever existed on Mars is a very hot research topic that requires deeper knowledge of our neighbouring planet’s water, organic molecules, and reactive surfaces.” After analysing the meteorite’s organic inventory in detail the researchers found a link between the type and diversity of organic molecules as well as specific mineralogy. This helped them create the most comprehensive catalogue of the diversity of organic compounds found in a Martian meteorite or in a sample collected and analysed by a rover. ALSO READ | Is there life on Mars?: Study of decades-old meteorite casts doubt on presence of life on the planet The meteorite, Tissint, is one of the five Martian rocks that was observed as it fell to the Earth, over 11 years ago its pieces were scattered in a Moroccan desert about 30 miles from the town after which it was named. It is speculated that the hundred million years old rock was launched into space following a violent event. Notably, organic compounds are large molecules that contain predominantly carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen and sulphur, and are associated with life and biological processes. However, these compounds can be created by non-biological processes which previous Martian meteorite research demonstrated which scientists call, abiotic organic chemistry. The findings of the study detailed the process occurring beneath the Red Planet’s mantle and crust and how they have changed over time, especially with regard to abiotic organics that formed from Mars’ water-rock interactions. ALSO READ | 30,000 meteorites are hiding across Antarctica as per this 'treasure map' created by artificial intelligence According to Steele who was also a member of both the Perseverance and Curiosity rovers’ teams, “understanding the processes and sequence of events that shaped this rich organic bounty will reveal new details about Mars’ habitability and potentially about the reactions that could lead to the formation of life.” Additionally, one of the most intriguing findings of the study was the abundance of organic magnesium compounds which was previously not seen on Mars and offered insights into the planet’s high-pressure and high-temperature geochemistry that shaped its deep interior as well as a connection between its carbon cycle and mineral evolution. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Martian meteorite with vast array of organic compounds might hold clues to life on Mars

Humanity's knowledge of the universe is a constant effort to reach the farthest edges of what's out "there", but the search is constantly limited by the dearth of technology that can peer into the murky depths of the far reaches of space.

The current technology we have is amazing, it can scan the sky within hours but it can only "see" the brightest sources, or focus on specific sources.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: The Pillars of Creation through the eyes of NASA'S James Webb telescope

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However, China has now developed a space telescope that can do a wider and deeper x-ray of the universe.

The nation successfully tested the world's first "lobster eye" space telescope that will be able to capture x-ray images of the universe with unprecedented efficiency.

As per the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the device called Lobster Eye Imager for Astronomy or LEIA has successfully clicked high-quality images of X-ray sources of the centre of our galaxy, the Magellanic Clouds and the Scorpius constellation. The achievement was reported in the peer-reviewed journal The Astrophysical Journal Letters last week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mars-insight-lander-officially-retires-ending-a-four-year-mission-545315">Mars InSight lander officially retires, ending a four-year mission</a>

The mission's chief scientist, astrophysicist &nbsp;Yuan Weimin of Beijing's National Astronomical Observatory said that his team was excited about LEIA's results and that the results have "shown that our technology works and the observation precision exceeded our expectation."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/with-soyuz-ship-damaged-russia-may-send-rescue-vehicle-for-iss-crew-545886">With Soyuz spacecraft damaged, Russia may send vehicle to rescue International Space Station crew</a>

The so-called 'lobster eye' telescope gains its name from crustaceans such as lobster and shrimp who have evolved to develop a way to adapt their eyes to murky depths underwater.

LEIA's technology will reportedly be part of the Einstein Probe that is being developed by Chinese and European scientists and is scheduled to be sent into orbit late next year.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Humanity's knowledge of the universe is a constant effort to reach the farthest edges of what's out "there", but the search is constantly limited by the dearth of technology that can peer into the murky depths of the far reaches of space.

Humanity's knowledge of the universe is a constant effort to reach the farthest edges of what's out "there", but the search is constantly limited by the dearth of technology that can peer into the murky depths of the far reaches of space. The current technology we have is amazing, it can scan the sky within hours but it can only "see" the brightest sources, or focus on specific sources. Watch | Gravitas: The Pillars of Creation through the eyes of NASA'S James Webb telescope However, China has now developed a space telescope that can do a wider and deeper x-ray of the universe. The nation successfully tested the world's first "lobster eye" space telescope that will be able to capture x-ray images of the universe with unprecedented efficiency. As per the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the device called Lobster Eye Imager for Astronomy or LEIA has successfully clicked high-quality images of X-ray sources of the centre of our galaxy, the Magellanic Clouds and the Scorpius constellation. The achievement was reported in the peer-reviewed journal The Astrophysical Journal Letters last week. Also read | Mars InSight lander officially retires, ending a four-year mission The mission's chief scientist, astrophysicist Yuan Weimin of Beijing's National Astronomical Observatory said that his team was excited about LEIA's results and that the results have "shown that our technology works and the observation precision exceeded our expectation." Also read | With Soyuz spacecraft damaged, Russia may send vehicle to rescue International Space Station crew The so-called 'lobster eye' telescope gains its name from crustaceans such as lobster and shrimp who have evolved to develop a way to adapt their eyes to murky depths underwater. LEIA's technology will reportedly be part of the Einstein Probe that is being developed by Chinese and European scientists and is scheduled to be sent into orbit late next year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China develops 'lobster eye' telescope to scan the murky depths of the universe

After months of delay caused by technological woes, natural disasters and bad weather, NASA's unmanned Moon mission Artemis-I, finally and successfully lifted off, on Wednesday (November 16) marking a historic moment in space exploration. However, it was only the beginning of the US space agency’s plan to set up the Artemis Base Camp.&nbsp;

NASA's Artemis rocket ship embarked on a voyage around the moon and back nearly five decades after the Apollo lunar mission from Florida which is aimed at getting astronauts back on the lunar surface as early as 2025 as part of Artemis-III. Along with this, the space agency also plans to construct the base camp on the Moon’s south pole.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/artemis-1-launched-as-nasa-ushers-into-a-new-era-of-lunar-exploration-534646">Artemis 1 launched successfully, NASA ushers in a new era of lunar exploration</a>

According to NASA, initially, the camp will start small and include short surface stays but eventually, the goal is to expand size and sophistication so that it will sustain crews for up to two months at a time. “On each new trip, astronauts are going to have an increasing level of comfort with the capabilities to explore and study more of the Moon than ever before,” said NASA’s associate administrator for human spaceflight, Kathy Lueders, in a statement.&nbsp;

The Artemis Base Camp will also include “a modern lunar cabin and even a mobile home”, including an unpressurised rover to transport suited astronauts as well as a pressurised one to enable long treks away from the base. In the long run, NASA envisions a fixed habitat at the Artemis Base Camp that can house up to four astronauts for at least a month-long stay, said the statement.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/artemis-i-explained-nasas-first-mission-to-land-humans-on-the-moon-after-50-years-510343">Artemis I Explained: NASA's first mission to land humans on the moon after 50 years</a>

“With more demand for access to the moon, we are developing the technologies to achieve an unprecedented human and robotic presence 240,000 miles from home. Our experience on the moon this decade will prepare us for an even greater adventure in the universe –human exploration of Mars,” said Lueders. NASA’s central vision also includes finding and extracting resources from the moon over time which would reduce the load on rockets carrying supplies that will take off from Earth.&nbsp;

According to the director of the Technical Integration Office in NASA’s Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, Greg Chavers, the space agency is also considering modular and inflatable structures given that they will be compact and lightweight in transit in order to create large habitable spaces on the moon, said a report by Smithsonian.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/nasas-historic-moon-mission-artemis-shares-first-images-from-space-534974">NASA's historic moon mission Artemis shares first images from space</a>

The mission Artemis is named after the ancient Greek goddess of hunting and the moon as well as Apollo’s twin sister, the programme aims to return astronauts to the lunar surface in 2025. NASA has also promised that this mission will also witness “the first woman and the first person of colour” to walk on the moon. 
&nbsp;

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After months of delay caused by technological woes, natural disasters and bad weather, NASA's unmanned Moon mission Artemis-I, finally and successfully lifted off, on Wednesday (November 16) marking a historic moment in space exploration.

After months of delay caused by technological woes, natural disasters and bad weather, NASA's unmanned Moon mission Artemis-I, finally and successfully lifted off, on Wednesday (November 16) marking a historic moment in space exploration. However, it was only the beginning of the US space agency’s plan to set up the Artemis Base Camp. NASA's Artemis rocket ship embarked on a voyage around the moon and back nearly five decades after the Apollo lunar mission from Florida which is aimed at getting astronauts back on the lunar surface as early as 2025 as part of Artemis-III. Along with this, the space agency also plans to construct the base camp on the Moon’s south pole. ALSO READ: Artemis 1 launched successfully, NASA ushers in a new era of lunar exploration According to NASA, initially, the camp will start small and include short surface stays but eventually, the goal is to expand size and sophistication so that it will sustain crews for up to two months at a time. “On each new trip, astronauts are going to have an increasing level of comfort with the capabilities to explore and study more of the Moon than ever before,” said NASA’s associate administrator for human spaceflight, Kathy Lueders, in a statement. The Artemis Base Camp will also include “a modern lunar cabin and even a mobile home”, including an unpressurised rover to transport suited astronauts as well as a pressurised one to enable long treks away from the base. In the long run, NASA envisions a fixed habitat at the Artemis Base Camp that can house up to four astronauts for at least a month-long stay, said the statement. ALSO WATCH: Artemis I Explained: NASA's first mission to land humans on the moon after 50 years “With more demand for access to the moon, we are developing the technologies to achieve an unprecedented human and robotic presence 240,000 miles from home. Our experience on the moon this decade will prepare us for an even greater adventure in the universe –human exploration of Mars,” said Lueders. NASA’s central vision also includes finding and extracting resources from the moon over time which would reduce the load on rockets carrying supplies that will take off from Earth. According to the director of the Technical Integration Office in NASA’s Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, Greg Chavers, the space agency is also considering modular and inflatable structures given that they will be compact and lightweight in transit in order to create large habitable spaces on the moon, said a report by Smithsonian. ALSO READ: NASA's historic moon mission Artemis shares first images from space The mission Artemis is named after the ancient Greek goddess of hunting and the moon as well as Apollo’s twin sister, the programme aims to return astronauts to the lunar surface in 2025. NASA has also promised that this mission will also witness “the first woman and the first person of colour” to walk on the moon. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NASA plans to send astronauts to live and work on the Moon within this decade

China successfully launched its first comprehensive space-based solar telescope called the Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory (ASO-S) on Sunday.&nbsp;

The observatory has been nicknamed Kuafu-1, after a giant in Chinese mythology who wished to capture and tame the Sun, reports Sputnik quoting the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC).

It was launched using the Long March-2D carrier rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern China.

The mission which is expected to last four years will allow scientists to capture and study previously unprecedented images of the Sun during "solar maximum" or its most active phase which is expected to peak around 2025.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/worlds-most-powerful-solar-telescope-captures-stunning-image-of-suns-surface-shows-its-exquisite-details-514156">World's most powerful solar telescope captures stunning image of Sun's surface, shows its exquisite details</a>

ASO-S is China's first full-scale instrument dedicated to studying Earth's closest star. As per Zhu Cheng, the chief engineer of the ASO-S platform system it is also the world's first solar telescope in space that can simultaneously monitor solar flares and coronal mass ejections.

Kuafu-1 will observe the Sun from an orbit 720 kilometres (447 miles) above Earth’s surface and will provide critical insights into the sun's two most violent activities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fishes-feel-pain-stress-and-anxiety-organisation-introduces-proposal-for-their-humane-slaughter-523756" hreflang="en">Fish feel 'pain, stress and anxiety': Organisation introduces proposal for their 'humane slaughter'</a>

China Daily reports that it would also provide data on the powerful radiation and magnetic fields generated by these phenomena and help scientists understand how these affect the sensitive equipment on Earth and in orbit equipment like satellites, electronics, power grids and internet services.

The mission joins the ranks of other sun-gazing space observatories launched by various countries: NASA's Parker Solar Probe, and the European Space Agency's Solar Orbiter. By next year (2023) India is planning to launch a similar mission called Aditya-L1 to study the solar atmosphere.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China successfully launched its first comprehensive space-based solar telescope called the Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory (ASO-S) on Sunday. The observatory has been nicknamed Kuafu-1, after a giant in Chinese mythology who wished to capture and tame the Sun, reports Sputnik quoting the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC).

China successfully launched its first comprehensive space-based solar telescope called the Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory (ASO-S) on Sunday. The observatory has been nicknamed Kuafu-1, after a giant in Chinese mythology who wished to capture and tame the Sun, reports Sputnik quoting the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC). It was launched using the Long March-2D carrier rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern China. The mission which is expected to last four years will allow scientists to capture and study previously unprecedented images of the Sun during "solar maximum" or its most active phase which is expected to peak around 2025. Also read | World's most powerful solar telescope captures stunning image of Sun's surface, shows its exquisite details ASO-S is China's first full-scale instrument dedicated to studying Earth's closest star. As per Zhu Cheng, the chief engineer of the ASO-S platform system it is also the world's first solar telescope in space that can simultaneously monitor solar flares and coronal mass ejections. Kuafu-1 will observe the Sun from an orbit 720 kilometres (447 miles) above Earth’s surface and will provide critical insights into the sun's two most violent activities. Also read | Fish feel 'pain, stress and anxiety': Organisation introduces proposal for their 'humane slaughter' China Daily reports that it would also provide data on the powerful radiation and magnetic fields generated by these phenomena and help scientists understand how these affect the sensitive equipment on Earth and in orbit equipment like satellites, electronics, power grids and internet services. The mission joins the ranks of other sun-gazing space observatories launched by various countries: NASA's Parker Solar Probe, and the European Space Agency's Solar Orbiter. By next year (2023) India is planning to launch a similar mission called Aditya-L1 to study the solar atmosphere. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China successfully launches its first solar observatory

While Mars is the intended target for humanity's first crewed mission to another planet, a group of experts is now advocating for Earth's sister planet Venus to get that accolade.

However, the planet is practically burning up. It is hot enough to melt lead, is home to clouds of sulphuric acid, a chemical capable of causing severe skin burns, and has a crushing atmospheric pressure.&nbsp;

Why then, do these experts want to forego Mars and visit Venus?

As per a report by the Guardian quoting research presented at the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Paris last week, there are actually plus points to this.

Watch |&nbsp;Expanding problem of space debris: What is space junk? Why is it a problem?

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Firstly, Venus is nearer. While a roundtrip to Mars is estimated to take around three years, to and fro Venus would only take one year.

Second, while walking on the planet's surface is a distant dream, and an unlivable experience, a flyby might offer the essential experience of a lengthy deep-space mission as a prelude to reaching Mars.

One of the supporters of the Venus flyby, Dr Noam Izenberg of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, claimed that Venus "gets a bad rap because it's got such a difficult surface environment."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/humans-yet-to-set-foot-on-mars-yet-the-red-planet-is-already-littered-with-7000-kgs-of-our-trash-519541" hreflang="en">Humans yet to set foot on Mars, but the red planet is already 'littered' with 7000 kg of our trash</a>

"Moon to Mars is the current NASA paradigm," he said adding that they're attempting to justify Venus as an additional objective along that route.&nbsp;He says that a Venus flyby makes sense as performing a slingshot or gravity assist around Earth's sister planet, could shorten the journey time and fuel needed to reach the red planet despite the fact that Venus is in the "wrong" direction.

However, not everyone is sold on the idea.&nbsp;

“It’s really not a nice place to go. It’s a hellish environment and the thermal challenges for a human mission would be quite considerable,” says Prof. Andrew Coates of UCL's Mullard Space Science Laboratory.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-captures-mid-boggling-photo-of-ufo-like-object-on-mars-take-a-look-474921">NASA captures mind-boggling photo of UFO-like object on Mars. Take a look!</a>

He claimed that although Venus was rightfully the focus of scientific inquiry, "a human flyby really wouldn't add very much."

Since the discovery of hundreds of exoplanets, scientific curiosity about Venus has grown as the finding raises the question of how many of these planets may be habitable. Now, scientists want to know how and why Venus, a planet so similar to our own in size, mass, and distance from the sun, ended up with hellish surface conditions.

(With inputs from agencies)

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While Mars is the intended target for humanity's first crewed mission to another planet, a group of experts is now advocating for Earth's sister planet Venus to get that accolade.

While Mars is the intended target for humanity's first crewed mission to another planet, a group of experts is now advocating for Earth's sister planet Venus to get that accolade. However, the planet is practically burning up. It is hot enough to melt lead, is home to clouds of sulphuric acid, a chemical capable of causing severe skin burns, and has a crushing atmospheric pressure. Why then, do these experts want to forego Mars and visit Venus? As per a report by the Guardian quoting research presented at the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Paris last week, there are actually plus points to this. Watch | Expanding problem of space debris: What is space junk? Why is it a problem? Firstly, Venus is nearer. While a roundtrip to Mars is estimated to take around three years, to and fro Venus would only take one year. Second, while walking on the planet's surface is a distant dream, and an unlivable experience, a flyby might offer the essential experience of a lengthy deep-space mission as a prelude to reaching Mars. One of the supporters of the Venus flyby, Dr Noam Izenberg of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, claimed that Venus "gets a bad rap because it's got such a difficult surface environment." Also read | Humans yet to set foot on Mars, but the red planet is already 'littered' with 7000 kg of our trash "Moon to Mars is the current NASA paradigm," he said adding that they're attempting to justify Venus as an additional objective along that route. He says that a Venus flyby makes sense as performing a slingshot or gravity assist around Earth's sister planet, could shorten the journey time and fuel needed to reach the red planet despite the fact that Venus is in the "wrong" direction. However, not everyone is sold on the idea. “It’s really not a nice place to go. It’s a hellish environment and the thermal challenges for a human mission would be quite considerable,” says Prof. Andrew Coates of UCL's Mullard Space Science Laboratory. Also read | NASA captures mind-boggling photo of UFO-like object on Mars. Take a look! He claimed that although Venus was rightfully the focus of scientific inquiry, "a human flyby really wouldn't add very much." Since the discovery of hundreds of exoplanets, scientific curiosity about Venus has grown as the finding raises the question of how many of these planets may be habitable. Now, scientists want to know how and why Venus, a planet so similar to our own in size, mass, and distance from the sun, ended up with hellish surface conditions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Men are from Mars, women are from Venus', which planet should humans visit first?

At a time when the Emirates' space sector is witnessing significant and rapid progress, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Space Agency is to host an international event featuring all major space powers. The new global forum is dubbed 'Abu Dhabi Space Debate' and its maiden edition will be held in the eponymous city in December this year. The event is meant to offer a global forum for the space industry, nations, business leaders and policymakers to come together and address the issues facing growth and innovation in space.

The event gains importance given the pace at which many nations are venturing towards developing space capabilities and are witnessing a boom in the private aerospace sector. Hosted under the patronage of UAE president Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Abu Dhabi Space Debate is to take place on the 5th and 6th of December 2022.

According to Her Excellency Sarah Bint Yousif Al Amiri, Chair of the UAE Space Agency and the Abu Dhabi Space Debate Committee, the world is seeing a huge expansion in organisations developing space capabilities and potential, but that growth in the sector brings challenges, ranging from preservation of national interests through to the regulation of private sector players. "The Abu Dhabi Space Debate aims to create a global platform that will bring together a diverse and challenging audience and forge concrete progress in advancing international co-operation, standards and policy-setting for the space sector", she added.

The Emirates operates 19 Earth-orbiting satellites, whereas ten additional satellites are under development. With over 50 organisations and institutions and five research centres for space sciences, the Emirates has committed to long-term interplanetary exploration missions and the accelerated development of its emerging private sector space ecosystem.

On the importance of international collaboration in space, Al Amiri said, "Our space programme has been built on collaboration, with partners in Europe, South Korea, the US, Japan and elsewhere. We have been keen to embrace international efforts to work together on common goals and objectives, and we’re committed to supporting efforts from the Artemis Accords to the United Nations Guidelines for the Long-term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities."

The maiden edition of the Abu Dhabi Space Debate is set to gather leaders and policymakers in the public and private space sector from around the globe, particularly from China, Europe, India, Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

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At a time when the Emirates' space sector is witnessing significant and rapid progress, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Space Agency is to host an international event featuring all major space powers.

At a time when the Emirates' space sector is witnessing significant and rapid progress, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Space Agency is to host an international event featuring all major space powers. The new global forum is dubbed 'Abu Dhabi Space Debate' and its maiden edition will be held in the eponymous city in December this year. The event is meant to offer a global forum for the space industry, nations, business leaders and policymakers to come together and address the issues facing growth and innovation in space. The event gains importance given the pace at which many nations are venturing towards developing space capabilities and are witnessing a boom in the private aerospace sector. Hosted under the patronage of UAE president Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Abu Dhabi Space Debate is to take place on the 5th and 6th of December 2022. According to Her Excellency Sarah Bint Yousif Al Amiri, Chair of the UAE Space Agency and the Abu Dhabi Space Debate Committee, the world is seeing a huge expansion in organisations developing space capabilities and potential, but that growth in the sector brings challenges, ranging from preservation of national interests through to the regulation of private sector players. "The Abu Dhabi Space Debate aims to create a global platform that will bring together a diverse and challenging audience and forge concrete progress in advancing international co-operation, standards and policy-setting for the space sector", she added. The Emirates operates 19 Earth-orbiting satellites, whereas ten additional satellites are under development. With over 50 organisations and institutions and five research centres for space sciences, the Emirates has committed to long-term interplanetary exploration missions and the accelerated development of its emerging private sector space ecosystem. On the importance of international collaboration in space, Al Amiri said, "Our space programme has been built on collaboration, with partners in Europe, South Korea, the US, Japan and elsewhere. We have been keen to embrace international efforts to work together on common goals and objectives, and we’re committed to supporting efforts from the Artemis Accords to the United Nations Guidelines for the Long-term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities." The maiden edition of the Abu Dhabi Space Debate is set to gather leaders and policymakers in the public and private space sector from around the globe, particularly from China, Europe, India, Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States of America. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UAE to host representation from India, US, China, Europe for 'Abu Dhabi Space Debate'

The fascination we humans have had with the universe has been around for centuries and will continue to exist in the future. In our search for life outside of Earth, we have ventured to other planets. It is without a doubt fascinating to inquire about other planets, but can we be trusted to take care of them??

Look at the state humanity has landed Earth in. Our planet is suffering. Pollution is at an all-time high, climate change is a reality, and global warming is already making all life forms suffer. Are we taking action to save our planet? Yes. But, is it enough? No, the pace is too slow.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-dead-star-is-ripping-apart-its-planets-in-cosmic-cannibalism-488846" hreflang="en">A dead star is ripping apart its planets in 'cosmic cannibalism'</a>

Should humanity at a time when we can barely control the pollution on our own planet, be trusted with alien planets? The answer is no.

Recently, NASA's Perseverance rover, which is currently on the red planet has shared images that show the starting of plausible destruction our actions can cause on the red planet.

It has beamed back pictures of a piece of debris, stuck between martian rocks, the result of a robotic craft touchdown last year in February.

At first glance, it may seem like a discarded packet of chips, so you may not think much of it, since it is only one piece of debris.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Is an alien looking at us from Mars?

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However, the image has reignited concerns that space exploration risks 'contaminating' pristine other worlds and environments.

Tweeting about the debris, the Perseverance Twitter account reported “my team has spotted something unexpected: It’s a piece of a thermal blanket that they think may have come from my descent stage, the rocket-powered jet pack that set me down on landing day back in 2021.”&nbsp;

“That shiny bit of foil is part of a thermal blanket – a material used to control temperatures. It’s a surprise finding this here: My descent stage crashed about 2 km away. Did this piece land here after that, or was it blown here by the wind?,” it adds.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-multiplanet-system-that-hosts-two-earth-type-planets-just-33-light-years-away-488616" hreflang="en">Scientists find multiplanet system that hosts two Earth-type planets just 33 light years away</a>

As per the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, under international law, it is an obligation to avoid harmful contamination of outer space, the moon and other celestial bodies. Professor Andrew Coates, a space scientist at UCL Mullard Space Science Laboratory, while talking to the Guardian said that the risk of contamination is low given that all equipment is sterilised before it travels to Mars.

However, the image begs the question: Are we human scientists up to the task of preserving other planets and not soiling them as we have our own planet Earth?&nbsp;

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The fascination we humans have had with the universe has been around for centuries and will continue to exist in the future. In our search for life outside of Earth, we have ventured to other planets.

The fascination we humans have had with the universe has been around for centuries and will continue to exist in the future. In our search for life outside of Earth, we have ventured to other planets. It is without a doubt fascinating to inquire about other planets, but can we be trusted to take care of them?? Look at the state humanity has landed Earth in. Our planet is suffering. Pollution is at an all-time high, climate change is a reality, and global warming is already making all life forms suffer. Are we taking action to save our planet? Yes. But, is it enough? No, the pace is too slow. Also read | A dead star is ripping apart its planets in 'cosmic cannibalism' Should humanity at a time when we can barely control the pollution on our own planet, be trusted with alien planets? The answer is no. Recently, NASA's Perseverance rover, which is currently on the red planet has shared images that show the starting of plausible destruction our actions can cause on the red planet. It has beamed back pictures of a piece of debris, stuck between martian rocks, the result of a robotic craft touchdown last year in February. At first glance, it may seem like a discarded packet of chips, so you may not think much of it, since it is only one piece of debris. Watch | Is an alien looking at us from Mars? However, the image has reignited concerns that space exploration risks 'contaminating' pristine other worlds and environments. Tweeting about the debris, the Perseverance Twitter account reported “my team has spotted something unexpected: It’s a piece of a thermal blanket that they think may have come from my descent stage, the rocket-powered jet pack that set me down on landing day back in 2021.” “That shiny bit of foil is part of a thermal blanket – a material used to control temperatures. It’s a surprise finding this here: My descent stage crashed about 2 km away. Did this piece land here after that, or was it blown here by the wind?,” it adds. Also read | Scientists find multiplanet system that hosts two Earth-type planets just 33 light years away As per the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, under international law, it is an obligation to avoid harmful contamination of outer space, the moon and other celestial bodies. Professor Andrew Coates, a space scientist at UCL Mullard Space Science Laboratory, while talking to the Guardian said that the risk of contamination is low given that all equipment is sterilised before it travels to Mars. However, the image begs the question: Are we human scientists up to the task of preserving other planets and not soiling them as we have our own planet Earth? Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NASA Perseverance rover's pictures raise question: Can humanity be trusted with other planets?

Astronomers successfully observed and captured a supernova blast in space over 14 years. Now, it has given them fascinating insights into the supernovas that mark the end of a star’s life-cycle.

With images from over a decade, astronomers observed the supernova in space as it exploded with speeds of up to 4,000 kilometres per second (2,485 miles).

What is a supernova? How far is this one from Earth?

They observed the remains of a supernova called “MSH 15-52”, situated 17,000 light-years away from Earth. It is one of the youngest known legacies of a supernova within the Milky Way and flung its remains into a gas of cloud called “RCW 89”.

Approximately 1,700 years ago, the star began to die after running out of fuel. The death of stars in space is markedly violent, as they explode the outer material to collapse unto themselves.

Supernovas are essentially large-scale explosions that take place once the star runs out of energy and collapses into itself. For this reason, they are considered the largest explosions in space.

Once the star collapsed, it became a dead star called a “pulsar”, with densely packed neutrons and high speed rotations. Its rotational movement played an important role in the X-ray which shows the explosion in action. In a new study, scientists used images from 2004, 2008, and 2017-18 to note and understand the changes in the gas cloud “RCW 89”, which the supernova seems to be expanding.

How did the scientists study the supernova?

Scientists calculated the distance travelled by the dead star’s remnants to understand its reach. The scientist were literally guided by a “hand” to the explosion, the fingertip of which shows the MSH 15-52 meeting RCW 89. This meeting was rather fierce, causing movement at speeds of 4,000-5,000 kilometres per second.

According to ScienceAlert, the many knots visible in the graphic are cosmic entities made of magnesium and neon that formed in the star before the explosion. The slowest speed touched by the remnants is reportedly 1,000 kilometres per second!

Watch the movement below

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The movement of the explosion's blast wave is occurring at the speed of almost 96 lakh kilometres per hour, with some debris even moving at faster speeds of 1.7 crore kilometres per hour. <a href="https://t.co/q0TVFkFWF6">pic.twitter.com/q0TVFkFWF6</a>
— The Weather Channel India (@weatherindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/weatherindia/status/1408394337512087552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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But as the interaction between RCW 89 and MSH 15-52 slows down, so do these features, spanning a distance of 75-light years between the dead star and RCW 89, the gaseous cloud.

The material moving rapidly in the aftermath of the explosion passed a low-density bubble surrounding the dead star before merging into RCW 89, the study published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters claims. The findings prove that the understanding scientists have of any star’s death is true, that&nbsp;the collapse of the life-providing core triggers a supernova.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-a-first-new-3d-map-reveals-details-about-the-edge-of-our-solar-system-393123" hreflang="en">In a first, new 3D map reveals details about the edge of our solar system</a>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/how-nasas-plans-to-send-detergent-to-iss-could-change-space-exploration-393320" hreflang="en">How NASA's plans to send detergent to ISS could change space exploration</a> 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hubble-space-telescope-beams-back-mesmerising-image-of-a-nebula-370330" hreflang="en">Hubble Space Telescope beams back mesmerising image of a nebula!</a>

Astronomers successfully observed and captured a supernova blast in space over 14 years. Now, it has given them fascinating insights into the supernovas that mark the end of a star’s life-cycle.

Astronomers successfully observed and captured a supernova blast in space over 14 years. Now, it has given them fascinating insights into the supernovas that mark the end of a star’s life-cycle. With images from over a decade, astronomers observed the supernova in space as it exploded with speeds of up to 4,000 kilometres per second (2,485 miles). What is a supernova? How far is this one from Earth? They observed the remains of a supernova called “MSH 15-52”, situated 17,000 light-years away from Earth. It is one of the youngest known legacies of a supernova within the Milky Way and flung its remains into a gas of cloud called “RCW 89”. Approximately 1,700 years ago, the star began to die after running out of fuel. The death of stars in space is markedly violent, as they explode the outer material to collapse unto themselves. Supernovas are essentially large-scale explosions that take place once the star runs out of energy and collapses into itself. For this reason, they are considered the largest explosions in space. Once the star collapsed, it became a dead star called a “pulsar”, with densely packed neutrons and high speed rotations. Its rotational movement played an important role in the X-ray which shows the explosion in action. In a new study, scientists used images from 2004, 2008, and 2017-18 to note and understand the changes in the gas cloud “RCW 89”, which the supernova seems to be expanding. How did the scientists study the supernova? Scientists calculated the distance travelled by the dead star’s remnants to understand its reach. The scientist were literally guided by a “hand” to the explosion, the fingertip of which shows the MSH 15-52 meeting RCW 89. This meeting was rather fierce, causing movement at speeds of 4,000-5,000 kilometres per second. According to ScienceAlert, the many knots visible in the graphic are cosmic entities made of magnesium and neon that formed in the star before the explosion. The slowest speed touched by the remnants is reportedly 1,000 kilometres per second! Watch the movement below The movement of the explosion's blast wave is occurring at the speed of almost 96 lakh kilometres per hour, with some debris even moving at faster speeds of 1.7 crore kilometres per hour. pic.twitter.com/q0TVFkFWF6 — The Weather Channel India (@weatherindia) June 25, 2021 × But as the interaction between RCW 89 and MSH 15-52 slows down, so do these features, spanning a distance of 75-light years between the dead star and RCW 89, the gaseous cloud. The material moving rapidly in the aftermath of the explosion passed a low-density bubble surrounding the dead star before merging into RCW 89, the study published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters claims. The findings prove that the understanding scientists have of any star’s death is true, that the collapse of the life-providing core triggers a supernova. Also read: In a first, new 3D map reveals details about the edge of our solar system Also read: How NASA's plans to send detergent to ISS could change space exploration Also read: Hubble Space Telescope beams back mesmerising image of a nebula!

Watch | With help from a 'cosmic hand', scientists capture death of a star

NASA&nbsp;announced two new missions to Venus on Wednesday that will launch at the end of the decade and are aimed at learning how Earth's nearest planetary neighbor became a hellscape while our own thrived.

"These two sister missions both aim to understand how Venus became an inferno-like world, capable of melting lead at the surface," said Bill Nelson, the agency's newly-confirmed administrator.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/why-nasa-is-sending-bioluminescent-baby-squids-tardigrades-into-space-on-june-3-389016">Why NASA is sending bioluminescent baby squids, tardigrades into space on June 3</a>

"They will offer the entire science community the chance to investigate a planet we haven't been to in more than 30 years."

The missions have been awarded about $500 million under&nbsp;NASA's Discovery Program, and each is expected to launch in the 2028-2030 timeframe.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-curiosity-rover-clicks-rare-shiny-clouds-on-mars-388591">NASA's Curiosity Rover clicks rare shiny clouds on Mars</a>

Both missions were picked from a competitive, peer-reviewed process based on their scientific value and feasibility of their plans.

DAVINCI+, which stands for Deep Atmosphere Venus Investigation of Noble gases, Chemistry, and Imaging, will gather more detail on the composition of Venus' primarily carbon dioxide atmosphere, to learn how it formed and evolved.

The mission also seeks to determine whether the planet once had an ocean.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-piece-of-space-debris-recently-damaged-the-international-space-station-388585">A piece of space debris recently damaged the International Space Station</a>

A descent sphere will plunge through the dense atmosphere which is laced with sulfuric acid clouds.&nbsp;

It will precisely measure the levels of noble gases and other elements to learn what gave rise to the runaway greenhouse effect we see today.

DAVINCI+ will also beam back the first high resolution images of the planet's "tesserae," geological features roughly comparable with Earth's continents whose existence suggests Venus has plate tectonics.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-proposed-venus-mission-attracts-international-payload-proposals-344846">India's proposed Venus mission attracts international payload proposals</a>

The results could reshape scientists' understanding of terrestrial planet formation.

The other mission is called VERITAS, an acronym for Venus Emissivity, Radio Science, InSAR, Topography, and Spectroscopy.

This will aim to map the Venusian surface from orbit and delve into the planet's geologic history.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-venus-a-russian-planet-the-countrys-space-agency-chief-seems-to-think-so-327958">Is Venus a 'Russian planet'? The country's space agency chief seems to think so!</a>

Using a form of radar that is used to create three-dimensional constructions, it will chart surface elevations and confirm whether volcanoes and earthquakes are still happening on the planet.

It will also use infrared scanning to determine rock type, which is largely unknown, and whether active volcanoes are releasing water vapor into the atmosphere.

While the mission is&nbsp;NASA&nbsp;led, the German Aerospace Center will provide the infrared mapper, while the Italian&nbsp;Space&nbsp;Agency and France's Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales will contribute to the radar and other parts of the mission.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-parker-solar-probe-sends-stunning-image-of-venus-and-its-terrain-367178">Also Read |&nbsp;NASA's Parker Solar Probe sends stunning image of Venus and its terrain</a>

"It is astounding how little we know about Venus, but the combined results of these missions will tell us about the planet from the clouds in its sky through the volcanoes on its surface all the way down to its very core," said Tom Wagner,&nbsp;NASA's Discovery Program scientist.&nbsp;

"It will be as if we have rediscovered the planet."

NASA's last Venus orbiter was Magellan, which arrived in 1990, but other vessels have made fly-bys since then.

NASA announced two new missions to Venus on Wednesday that will launch at the end of the decade and are aimed at learning how Earth's nearest planetary neighbor became a hellscape while our own thrived.

NASA announced two new missions to Venus on Wednesday that will launch at the end of the decade and are aimed at learning how Earth's nearest planetary neighbor became a hellscape while our own thrived. "These two sister missions both aim to understand how Venus became an inferno-like world, capable of melting lead at the surface," said Bill Nelson, the agency's newly-confirmed administrator. Also Read | Why NASA is sending bioluminescent baby squids, tardigrades into space on June 3 "They will offer the entire science community the chance to investigate a planet we haven't been to in more than 30 years." The missions have been awarded about $500 million under NASA's Discovery Program, and each is expected to launch in the 2028-2030 timeframe. Also Read | NASA's Curiosity Rover clicks rare shiny clouds on Mars Both missions were picked from a competitive, peer-reviewed process based on their scientific value and feasibility of their plans. DAVINCI+, which stands for Deep Atmosphere Venus Investigation of Noble gases, Chemistry, and Imaging, will gather more detail on the composition of Venus' primarily carbon dioxide atmosphere, to learn how it formed and evolved. The mission also seeks to determine whether the planet once had an ocean. Also Read | A piece of space debris recently damaged the International Space Station A descent sphere will plunge through the dense atmosphere which is laced with sulfuric acid clouds. It will precisely measure the levels of noble gases and other elements to learn what gave rise to the runaway greenhouse effect we see today. DAVINCI+ will also beam back the first high resolution images of the planet's "tesserae," geological features roughly comparable with Earth's continents whose existence suggests Venus has plate tectonics. Also Read | India's proposed Venus mission attracts international payload proposals The results could reshape scientists' understanding of terrestrial planet formation. The other mission is called VERITAS, an acronym for Venus Emissivity, Radio Science, InSAR, Topography, and Spectroscopy. This will aim to map the Venusian surface from orbit and delve into the planet's geologic history. Also Read | Is Venus a 'Russian planet'? The country's space agency chief seems to think so! Using a form of radar that is used to create three-dimensional constructions, it will chart surface elevations and confirm whether volcanoes and earthquakes are still happening on the planet. It will also use infrared scanning to determine rock type, which is largely unknown, and whether active volcanoes are releasing water vapor into the atmosphere. While the mission is NASA led, the German Aerospace Center will provide the infrared mapper, while the Italian Space Agency and France's Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales will contribute to the radar and other parts of the mission. Also Read | NASA's Parker Solar Probe sends stunning image of Venus and its terrain "It is astounding how little we know about Venus, but the combined results of these missions will tell us about the planet from the clouds in its sky through the volcanoes on its surface all the way down to its very core," said Tom Wagner, NASA's Discovery Program scientist. "It will be as if we have rediscovered the planet." NASA's last Venus orbiter was Magellan, which arrived in 1990, but other vessels have made fly-bys since then.

NASA announces two new missions to Venus

From Moon to Mars: Milestones in space exploration

In the year 2020, three separate Mars missions began their journey. Rewind & revisit this year from the prism of space exploration through WION's this report.

2020: The year of three separate Mars missions

Uranus wasn’t always tilted! A study claims that the planet was struck by an earth-size rock which then titled it and may also be responsible for birthing the planet’s moons.

Most planets in our solar system reflect the poles of the sun, the centre of our solar system. However, Uranus has always stood out.&nbsp;

The planet’s axis is titled by almost 98 degrees, which might not mean much, but stands out when compared to other planets.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/science-technology/massive-white-dwarf-star-resembling-space-snowman-spotted-by-scientists-283954" hreflang="en">Massive white dwarf star resembling 'space snowman' spotted by scientists</a>

For instance, our very own Earth is titled by over 23 degrees while Jupiter is tilted by 3 degrees.

In essence, Uranus is the only planet that spins on its side.

A Japanese study has now claimed that the collision with another giant rock may not just have titled the planet, but also birthed its 27 known moons.

Out of these, eighteen moons circle around the planet’s equator, as is customary.&nbsp;

However, Yuya Ishizawa at Kyoto University in Japan claims that these are the regular moons. For clarity - the irregular moons are those that were captured by the planet, hence they do not orbit around the planet’s equator, but circle the planet in a haphazard manner!

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/node/280673" hreflang="en">Doughnut in space: NASA unveils most distant object ever visited</a>

The Uranus, shortly after being born, was struck by a rock roughly the size of Earth, which tilted it.

The debris from the impact would then get stuck around the planet, which would then assume the characteristics of the planet’s natural moons and then stick around, or the researchers claim “captured”.

"Material from the two bodies is ejected in a debris disk, and finally satellites are formed from the debris disk," Ishizawa said in a conversation with Space.com. "It is possible to explain the axial tilt and the formation of the regular satellites of Uranus simultaneously", the researcher added.&nbsp;

Uranus wasn’t always tilted! A study claims that the planet was struck by an earth-size rock which then titled it and may also be responsible for birthing the planet’s moons.

Uranus wasn’t always tilted! A study claims that the planet was struck by an earth-size rock which then titled it and may also be responsible for birthing the planet’s moons. Most planets in our solar system reflect the poles of the sun, the centre of our solar system. However, Uranus has always stood out. The planet’s axis is titled by almost 98 degrees, which might not mean much, but stands out when compared to other planets. Also read: Massive white dwarf star resembling 'space snowman' spotted by scientists For instance, our very own Earth is titled by over 23 degrees while Jupiter is tilted by 3 degrees. In essence, Uranus is the only planet that spins on its side. A Japanese study has now claimed that the collision with another giant rock may not just have titled the planet, but also birthed its 27 known moons. Out of these, eighteen moons circle around the planet’s equator, as is customary. However, Yuya Ishizawa at Kyoto University in Japan claims that these are the regular moons. For clarity - the irregular moons are those that were captured by the planet, hence they do not orbit around the planet’s equator, but circle the planet in a haphazard manner! Also read: Doughnut in space: NASA unveils most distant object ever visited The Uranus, shortly after being born, was struck by a rock roughly the size of Earth, which tilted it. The debris from the impact would then get stuck around the planet, which would then assume the characteristics of the planet’s natural moons and then stick around, or the researchers claim “captured”. "Material from the two bodies is ejected in a debris disk, and finally satellites are formed from the debris disk," Ishizawa said in a conversation with Space.com. "It is possible to explain the axial tilt and the formation of the regular satellites of Uranus simultaneously", the researcher added.

Uranus wasn't always tilted: Find out what actually happened!

SpaceX launched its third batch of 60 Starlink satellites on Monday (January 6), the first of its 2020 push to get 1.5k satellites into space to become operational before year's end.

SpaceX launches first batch of 2020 Starlink satellites

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) team for the successful launch of PSLV-C47 carrying indigenous Cartosat-3 satellite and over a dozen nano-satellites. 
 
"I heartily congratulate the entire @isro team on yet another successful launch of PSLV-C47 carrying indigenous Cartosat-3 satellite and over a dozen nano-satellites of USA," tweeted Narendra Modi.

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I heartily congratulate the entire <a href="https://twitter.com/isro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isro</a> team on yet another successful launch of PSLV-C47 carrying indigenous Cartosat-3 satellite and over a dozen nano satellites of USA.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1199562721525555200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The advanced Cartosat-3 will augment our high-resolution imaging capability. ISRO has once again made the nation proud!" he said in his subsequent tweet. 
 
ISRO on Wednesday injected Cartosat-3 spacecraft and 13 commercial satellites successfully into their designated orbits. 
"#PSLV-C47 successfully injects #Cartosat3 spacecraft into orbit," tweeted the space agency.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSLV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSLV</a>-C47 successfully injects <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cartosat3?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cartosat3</a> spacecraft into orbit <a href="https://t.co/8QjiTY2kvl">pic.twitter.com/8QjiTY2kvl</a>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1199543356658876416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"13 commercial satellites from USA successfully placed in their designated orbits #PSLVC47," it said in its subsequent tweet. 
 
"I am happy that PSLV-C47 injected precisely in the orbit with 13 other satellites. Cartosat-3 is highest resolution civilian satellite; We have 13 missions up to March- 6 large vehicle missions and 7 satellite missions," said ISRO chief K Sivan. 
 
ISRO&nbsp;launched PSLV-C47&nbsp;from Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) team for the successful launch of PSLV-C47 carrying indigenous Cartosat-3 satellite and over a dozen nano-satellites.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) team for the successful launch of PSLV-C47 carrying indigenous Cartosat-3 satellite and over a dozen nano-satellites. "I heartily congratulate the entire @isro team on yet another successful launch of PSLV-C47 carrying indigenous Cartosat-3 satellite and over a dozen nano-satellites of USA," tweeted Narendra Modi. I heartily congratulate the entire @isro team on yet another successful launch of PSLV-C47 carrying indigenous Cartosat-3 satellite and over a dozen nano satellites of USA. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 27, 2019 × "The advanced Cartosat-3 will augment our high-resolution imaging capability. ISRO has once again made the nation proud!" he said in his subsequent tweet. ISRO on Wednesday injected Cartosat-3 spacecraft and 13 commercial satellites successfully into their designated orbits. "#PSLV-C47 successfully injects #Cartosat3 spacecraft into orbit," tweeted the space agency. #PSLV-C47 successfully injects #Cartosat3 spacecraft into orbit pic.twitter.com/8QjiTY2kvl — ISRO (@isro) November 27, 2019 × "13 commercial satellites from USA successfully placed in their designated orbits #PSLVC47," it said in its subsequent tweet. "I am happy that PSLV-C47 injected precisely in the orbit with 13 other satellites. Cartosat-3 is highest resolution civilian satellite; We have 13 missions up to March- 6 large vehicle missions and 7 satellite missions," said ISRO chief K Sivan. ISRO launched PSLV-C47 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

PM Modi congratulates ISRO for successfully launching PSLV-C47 carrying Cartosat-3

After announcing on Thursday that it would launch its first Mars exploration mission in 2020, China completed the first experiment in a series of many to come. The experiment included simulating a probe hovering, avoiding obstacles, and descending to Mars in Huailai County of north China's Hebei province.

According to the officials from the China National Space Administration, the mission intends to conduct a global and comprehensive exploration of Mars and make detailed surveys of key areas of the Martian surface.

Zhang Rongqiao, the chief designer of China's first Mars exploration mission, said the experiment simulated the process of landing on the red planet and verified the design accuracy.

"Today's test verified the procedures including the lander's separation with the main body of the spacecraft from a 70-meter altitude, and then hovering at 67 meters above the surface, searching for a safe landing spot, and then descending to 20 meters above the surface in an obstacle-avoiding mode," said Zhang.

The experiment was held on Asia's largest test ground for landing on extraterrestrial bodies. 
To test the design of the lander, the experiment simulated the gravity of Mars, about one-third of the gravity on Earth.

"The testing facility comprises three parts, a tower structure, a servo system and a Martian surface simulation area. The tower is 140 meters tall and the circle on top of the tower is 120 meters in diameter, offering sufficient space to simulate the process of landing on Mars," said Zhang.

A red platform in the middle of the tower is fixed by 36 steel cables. Through precise control, the platform is able to simulate the Martian gravitational environment for the lander and is able to follow the lander to move precisely.

On the ground underneath the tower, engineers created slopes and craters to simulate the environment of the Martian surface.

Ambassadors and diplomats from 19 countries including France, Italy and Brazil, as well as representatives from the European Union, the African Union and the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organisation, were invited to visit the experiment.

Zhang Kejian, the administrator of the CNSA, said since the official kick-off in 2016, China's Mars exploration programme has progressed well. The hovering and obstacle avoidance test for the Mars lander is a crucial step of the project.

Zhang said China has been actively promoting international cooperation in space exploration. To date, China has signed over 140 space cooperation protocols with 45 countries and international organizations.

Earlier this month, China announced it would make the 16-meter optical data obtained by the Gaofen-1 and Gaofen-6 satellites available to global users.

"At present, China is also actively planning major follow-up space missions, including sampling and return from Mars, asteroid explorations and a number of lunar explorations. We have an open attitude and sincerely welcome space organizations, space science research institutions and foreign space science enthusiasts from various countries to participate in China's space projects in different ways to jointly promote the development of space technology," Zhang said.

(With inputs from Reuters)

After announcing on Thursday that it would launch its first Mars exploration mission in 2020, China completed the first experiment in a series of many to come. The experiment included simulating a probe hovering, avoiding obstacles, and descending to Mars in Huailai County of north China's Hebei province.

After announcing on Thursday that it would launch its first Mars exploration mission in 2020, China completed the first experiment in a series of many to come. The experiment included simulating a probe hovering, avoiding obstacles, and descending to Mars in Huailai County of north China's Hebei province. According to the officials from the China National Space Administration, the mission intends to conduct a global and comprehensive exploration of Mars and make detailed surveys of key areas of the Martian surface. Zhang Rongqiao, the chief designer of China's first Mars exploration mission, said the experiment simulated the process of landing on the red planet and verified the design accuracy. "Today's test verified the procedures including the lander's separation with the main body of the spacecraft from a 70-meter altitude, and then hovering at 67 meters above the surface, searching for a safe landing spot, and then descending to 20 meters above the surface in an obstacle-avoiding mode," said Zhang. The experiment was held on Asia's largest test ground for landing on extraterrestrial bodies. To test the design of the lander, the experiment simulated the gravity of Mars, about one-third of the gravity on Earth. "The testing facility comprises three parts, a tower structure, a servo system and a Martian surface simulation area. The tower is 140 meters tall and the circle on top of the tower is 120 meters in diameter, offering sufficient space to simulate the process of landing on Mars," said Zhang. A red platform in the middle of the tower is fixed by 36 steel cables. Through precise control, the platform is able to simulate the Martian gravitational environment for the lander and is able to follow the lander to move precisely. On the ground underneath the tower, engineers created slopes and craters to simulate the environment of the Martian surface. Ambassadors and diplomats from 19 countries including France, Italy and Brazil, as well as representatives from the European Union, the African Union and the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organisation, were invited to visit the experiment. Zhang Kejian, the administrator of the CNSA, said since the official kick-off in 2016, China's Mars exploration programme has progressed well. The hovering and obstacle avoidance test for the Mars lander is a crucial step of the project. Zhang said China has been actively promoting international cooperation in space exploration. To date, China has signed over 140 space cooperation protocols with 45 countries and international organizations. Earlier this month, China announced it would make the 16-meter optical data obtained by the Gaofen-1 and Gaofen-6 satellites available to global users. "At present, China is also actively planning major follow-up space missions, including sampling and return from Mars, asteroid explorations and a number of lunar explorations. We have an open attitude and sincerely welcome space organizations, space science research institutions and foreign space science enthusiasts from various countries to participate in China's space projects in different ways to jointly promote the development of space technology," Zhang said. (With inputs from Reuters)

China completes Mars landing experiment, to launch mission in 2020

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-wants-international-partners-to-go-to-moon-too-257407">National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)</a> will send a golf cart-sized robot to the moon in 2022 to search for deposits of water below the surface, an effort to evaluate the vital resource ahead of a planned human return to the moon in 2024 to possibly use it for astronauts to drink and to make rocket fuel, the US&nbsp;space agency said on Friday.

The VIPER robot will drive for kilometres&nbsp;on the dusty lunar surface to get a closer look at what NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine has touted for months: underground pockets of&nbsp;"hundreds of millions of tons of water ice" that could help turn the moon into a jumping-off point to Mars.&nbsp;

"VIPER is going to assess where the water ice is. We're going to be able&nbsp;to characterize the water ice, and ultimately drill," Bridenstine said on Friday at the International Astronautical Congress in Washington. "Why is this important? Because water ice represents something significant. Life support."&nbsp;

VIPER stands for Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover.

The rover is expected to arrive on the moon's south polar region in December 2022, carrying four instruments to sample lunar soil for traces of hydrogen and oxygen - the basic components of water that can be separated and synthesized into fuel for a planned fleet of commercial lunar launch vehicles.

In development at NASA's Ames Research Center in California, the VIPER robot will log "about&nbsp;100 days of data that will be used to inform the first global water resource maps of the moon," NASA said in announcing the plans.&nbsp;

NASA is in the process of kickstarting its Artemis programme, an accelerated mission to put people back on the moon for the first time since the 1970s to train and prove technologies that would later be sent on a Mars mission.&nbsp;Scientists have eyed lunar water as a key resource for enabling long-duration astronaut missions on the moon, though its form and exact amount are unknown. VIPER will aim to find out.

NASA crashed a rocket onto the moon's south pole in 2009 to confirm traces of lunar water ice in the plume of dust kicked up upon impact.&nbsp;

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) will send a golf cart-sized robot to the moon in 2022 to search for deposits of water below the surface, an effort to evaluate the vital resource ahead of a planned human return to the moon in 2024 to possibly use it for astronauts to drink and to make rocket fuel, the US space agency said on Friday.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) will send a golf cart-sized robot to the moon in 2022 to search for deposits of water below the surface, an effort to evaluate the vital resource ahead of a planned human return to the moon in 2024 to possibly use it for astronauts to drink and to make rocket fuel, the US space agency said on Friday. The VIPER robot will drive for kilometres on the dusty lunar surface to get a closer look at what NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine has touted for months: underground pockets of "hundreds of millions of tons of water ice" that could help turn the moon into a jumping-off point to Mars. "VIPER is going to assess where the water ice is. We're going to be able to characterize the water ice, and ultimately drill," Bridenstine said on Friday at the International Astronautical Congress in Washington. "Why is this important? Because water ice represents something significant. Life support." VIPER stands for Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover. The rover is expected to arrive on the moon's south polar region in December 2022, carrying four instruments to sample lunar soil for traces of hydrogen and oxygen - the basic components of water that can be separated and synthesized into fuel for a planned fleet of commercial lunar launch vehicles. In development at NASA's Ames Research Center in California, the VIPER robot will log "about 100 days of data that will be used to inform the first global water resource maps of the moon," NASA said in announcing the plans. NASA is in the process of kickstarting its Artemis programme, an accelerated mission to put people back on the moon for the first time since the 1970s to train and prove technologies that would later be sent on a Mars mission. Scientists have eyed lunar water as a key resource for enabling long-duration astronaut missions on the moon, though its form and exact amount are unknown. VIPER will aim to find out. NASA crashed a rocket onto the moon's south pole in 2009 to confirm traces of lunar water ice in the plume of dust kicked up upon impact.

NASA plans to send water-hunting robot to moon surface in 2022

Scientists have captured a view of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-release-first-images-of-black-hole-209303">colossal black hole</a> violently ripping apart a doomed star, illustrating an extraordinary and chaotic cosmic event from beginning to end for the first time using NASA's planet-hunting telescope.

The US&nbsp;space agency's orbiting Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite, better known as TESS, revealed the detailed timeline of a star 375 million light-years away warping and spiralling into the unrelenting gravitational pull of a supermassive black hole, researchers said on Thursday.

The star, roughly the same size as our sun, was eventually sucked into oblivion in a rare cosmic occurrence that astronomers call a tidal disruption event, they added.

Astronomers used an international network of telescopes to detect the phenomenon before turning to TESS, whose permanent viewing zones designed to hunt distant planets caught the beginning of the violent event, proving effective its unique method of surveilling the cosmos.

"This was really a combination of both being good and being lucky, and sometimes that's what you need to push the science forward," said astronomer Thomas Holoien of the Carnegie Institution for Science, who led the research published in the Astrophysical Journal.

Such phenomena happen when a star ventures too close to a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/first-black-hole-photo-confirms-einsteins-theory-of-relativity-209527">supermassive black hole</a>, objects that reside at the centre of most large galaxies including our Milky Way. The black hole's tremendous gravitational forces tear the star to shreds, with some of its material tossed into space and the rest plunging into the black hole, forming a disk of hot, bright gas as it is swallowed.

"Specifically, we are able to measure the rate at which it gets brighter after it starts brightening, and we also observed a drop in its temperature and brightness that is unique," Holoien said.

Observing the oscillation of light as the black hole gobbles the star and spews stellar material in an outward spiral could help astronomers understand the black hole's behaviour, a scientific mystery since physicist Albert Einstein's work more than a century ago examined gravity's influence on light in motion.

Scientists have captured a view of a colossal black hole violently ripping apart a doomed star, illustrating an extraordinary and chaotic cosmic event from beginning to end for the first time using NASA's planet-hunting telescope.

Scientists have captured a view of a colossal black hole violently ripping apart a doomed star, illustrating an extraordinary and chaotic cosmic event from beginning to end for the first time using NASA's planet-hunting telescope. The US space agency's orbiting Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite, better known as TESS, revealed the detailed timeline of a star 375 million light-years away warping and spiralling into the unrelenting gravitational pull of a supermassive black hole, researchers said on Thursday. The star, roughly the same size as our sun, was eventually sucked into oblivion in a rare cosmic occurrence that astronomers call a tidal disruption event, they added. Astronomers used an international network of telescopes to detect the phenomenon before turning to TESS, whose permanent viewing zones designed to hunt distant planets caught the beginning of the violent event, proving effective its unique method of surveilling the cosmos. "This was really a combination of both being good and being lucky, and sometimes that's what you need to push the science forward," said astronomer Thomas Holoien of the Carnegie Institution for Science, who led the research published in the Astrophysical Journal. Such phenomena happen when a star ventures too close to a supermassive black hole, objects that reside at the centre of most large galaxies including our Milky Way. The black hole's tremendous gravitational forces tear the star to shreds, with some of its material tossed into space and the rest plunging into the black hole, forming a disk of hot, bright gas as it is swallowed. "Specifically, we are able to measure the rate at which it gets brighter after it starts brightening, and we also observed a drop in its temperature and brightness that is unique," Holoien said. Observing the oscillation of light as the black hole gobbles the star and spews stellar material in an outward spiral could help astronomers understand the black hole's behaviour, a scientific mystery since physicist Albert Einstein's work more than a century ago examined gravity's influence on light in motion.

Caught in the act: A black hole rips apart a star

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on Friday, tweeted out images of the "targeted landing site of India’s Chandrayaan-2 lander Vikram" and stated that the lander had a "hard landing". The "precise location of the spacecraft in the lunar highlands has yet to be determined," NASA said in a statement.&nbsp;

NASA's statement further added that the lander may have been obscured by shadows as it "was dusk when the landing area was imaged and thus large shadows covered much of the terrain".

NASA'S Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter&nbsp;(LRO) flew over Vikram's landing site on September 17. Another attempt will be made to spot the lander on October 14.

India <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-an-emotional-moment-pm-modi-hugs-consoles-teary-eyed-isro-chief-248168">lost contact</a>&nbsp;with the spacecraft it was trying to land on the moon in a setback for the nation's plans to become the first country to probe the unexplored lunar south pole.

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Our <a href="https://twitter.com/LRO_NASA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LRO_NASA</a> mission imaged the targeted landing site of India’s Chandrayaan-2 lander, Vikram. The images were taken at dusk, and the team was not able to locate the lander. More images will be taken in October during a flyby in favorable lighting. More: <a href="https://t.co/1bMVGRKslp">https://t.co/1bMVGRKslp</a> <a href="https://t.co/kqTp3GkwuM">pic.twitter.com/kqTp3GkwuM</a>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1177326999657943060?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The lander of the Chandrayaan-2 moon mission was attempting a "soft," or controlled, landing near the south pole of the moon where scientists believe there could be water ice. Communication was lost just as it was about to touch down.

In any case, hopes of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/communication-with-vikram-lander-lost-announces-isro-chairman-248133">contacting</a> the Vikram lander have waned since the September&nbsp;6 landing attempt. Officials from the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) said imagery from the country’s Chandrayaan 2 orbiter, which launched in tandem with the Vikram lander, had located the landing craft on the moon.

Meanwhile, the Indian Space and Research Organisation (ISRO) has been trying to re-establish contact with the lander since the landing attempt. Data immediately before losing contact suggests that Vikram was descending at high speed, making it very hard to decipher if the lander is intact. The hopes of re-establishing contact are even lesser now, as the lander was designed for a two-week mission.

However, the lander and the rover were only a part of the moon mission and Chandrayaan 2's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-2-orbiter-performing-mission-to-complete-satisfaction-isro-250657">orbiter was still orbiting the moon</a> and will collect and send back valuable data for one year.

Only the United States, Russia, and China have landed on the moon. Beijing's Chang'e-4 probe touched down on the far side this year, while Israel made an unsuccessful attempt to land its Beresheet spacecraft on the moon in April.

India's space plans don't end here.&nbsp;

Last year, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a 100 billion Rupee project - named 'Gaganyaan' - that aims to send a three-member crew to low earth orbit by 2022.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on Friday, tweeted out images of the "targeted landing site of India’s Chandrayaan-2 lander Vikram" and stated that the lander had a "hard landing".

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on Friday, tweeted out images of the "targeted landing site of India’s Chandrayaan-2 lander Vikram" and stated that the lander had a "hard landing". The "precise location of the spacecraft in the lunar highlands has yet to be determined," NASA said in a statement. NASA's statement further added that the lander may have been obscured by shadows as it "was dusk when the landing area was imaged and thus large shadows covered much of the terrain". NASA'S Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) flew over Vikram's landing site on September 17. Another attempt will be made to spot the lander on October 14. India lost contact with the spacecraft it was trying to land on the moon in a setback for the nation's plans to become the first country to probe the unexplored lunar south pole. Our @LRO_NASA mission imaged the targeted landing site of India’s Chandrayaan-2 lander, Vikram. The images were taken at dusk, and the team was not able to locate the lander. More images will be taken in October during a flyby in favorable lighting. More: https://t.co/1bMVGRKslp pic.twitter.com/kqTp3GkwuM — NASA (@NASA) September 26, 2019 × The lander of the Chandrayaan-2 moon mission was attempting a "soft," or controlled, landing near the south pole of the moon where scientists believe there could be water ice. Communication was lost just as it was about to touch down. In any case, hopes of contacting the Vikram lander have waned since the September 6 landing attempt. Officials from the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) said imagery from the country’s Chandrayaan 2 orbiter, which launched in tandem with the Vikram lander, had located the landing craft on the moon. Meanwhile, the Indian Space and Research Organisation (ISRO) has been trying to re-establish contact with the lander since the landing attempt. Data immediately before losing contact suggests that Vikram was descending at high speed, making it very hard to decipher if the lander is intact. The hopes of re-establishing contact are even lesser now, as the lander was designed for a two-week mission. However, the lander and the rover were only a part of the moon mission and Chandrayaan 2's orbiter was still orbiting the moon and will collect and send back valuable data for one year. Only the United States, Russia, and China have landed on the moon. Beijing's Chang'e-4 probe touched down on the far side this year, while Israel made an unsuccessful attempt to land its Beresheet spacecraft on the moon in April. India's space plans don't end here. Last year, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a 100 billion Rupee project - named 'Gaganyaan' - that aims to send a three-member crew to low earth orbit by 2022.

NASA says Chandrayaan-2's Vikram's landing site obscured by shadows

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-investigating-first-crime-committed-in-space-report-245418">National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)</a> on Monday earmarked almost $3 billion to Lockheed Martin to build three Orion capsules, to allow US astronauts to return to the moon by 2024.

The megadeal calls for the&nbsp;first phase including three capsules for $2.7 billion, for Artemis missions III to V - to take astronauts back to the moon.

Each capsule can carry four astronauts.

The space agency plans to order three more capsules during the fiscal year 2022 for missions VI to VIII, for a total of $1.9 billion, said a NASA statement.

Six other capsules can be ordered later.

"This contract secures Orion production through the next decade, demonstrating NASA's commitment to establishing a sustainable presence at the Moon to bring back new knowledge and prepare for sending astronauts to Mars," said NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine.

The Orion capsule must be able to take astronauts to the Moon and bring them back, and it must also be capable of travelling to Mars and beyond.

"Orion is a highly capable, state-of-the-art spacecraft, designed specifically for deep space missions with astronauts, and an integral part of NASA's infrastructure for Artemis missions and future exploration of the solar system," Bridenstine added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-to-open-international-space-station-to-tourists-from-2020-225333">NASA </a>believes that ordering in groups of three capsules - up to a dozen of which are now envisaged &nbsp;-&nbsp;should help it save money.

The service module - the part of the ship that has the main elements to keep astronauts alive during their flight - is the responsibility of the European Space Agency.

Orion capsules must also be reusable at least once.

In addition to the capsule that will orbit around the Moon attached to a mini-station (the Gateway), NASA has asked the aerospace sector at the end of July to propose detailed vehicle projects to land two astronauts on the Moon by 2024, including the first woman.

For now, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-unveils-schedule-for-artemis-2024-moon-mission-221139">Artemis programme</a> is running behind schedule, mainly because of the construction delays of the SLS heavy rocket, piloted by NASA.

The flight of the Artemis I mission - unmanned - is scheduled for 2020. The first manned Artemis II flight is scheduled for 2022.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on Monday earmarked almost $3 billion to Lockheed Martin to build three Orion capsules, to allow US astronauts to return to the moon by 2024.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on Monday earmarked almost $3 billion to Lockheed Martin to build three Orion capsules, to allow US astronauts to return to the moon by 2024. The megadeal calls for the first phase including three capsules for $2.7 billion, for Artemis missions III to V - to take astronauts back to the moon. Each capsule can carry four astronauts. The space agency plans to order three more capsules during the fiscal year 2022 for missions VI to VIII, for a total of $1.9 billion, said a NASA statement. Six other capsules can be ordered later. "This contract secures Orion production through the next decade, demonstrating NASA's commitment to establishing a sustainable presence at the Moon to bring back new knowledge and prepare for sending astronauts to Mars," said NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine. The Orion capsule must be able to take astronauts to the Moon and bring them back, and it must also be capable of travelling to Mars and beyond. "Orion is a highly capable, state-of-the-art spacecraft, designed specifically for deep space missions with astronauts, and an integral part of NASA's infrastructure for Artemis missions and future exploration of the solar system," Bridenstine added. NASA believes that ordering in groups of three capsules - up to a dozen of which are now envisaged - should help it save money. The service module - the part of the ship that has the main elements to keep astronauts alive during their flight - is the responsibility of the European Space Agency. Orion capsules must also be reusable at least once. In addition to the capsule that will orbit around the Moon attached to a mini-station (the Gateway), NASA has asked the aerospace sector at the end of July to propose detailed vehicle projects to land two astronauts on the Moon by 2024, including the first woman. For now, the Artemis programme is running behind schedule, mainly because of the construction delays of the SLS heavy rocket, piloted by NASA. The flight of the Artemis I mission - unmanned - is scheduled for 2020. The first manned Artemis II flight is scheduled for 2022.

NASA in megadeal with Lockheed Martin for moon missions

Hard soil, big jumps and epiphanies: What it's like on the Moon

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