<p>The human influence has pushed the moon into a new geological epoch called the Lunar Anthropocene, a group of researchers suggest.</p>

<p>A new study by the University of Kansas says that this new phase of existence for the moon has been triggered by human disturbance which dates back to 1959 when for the very first time the USSR’s Luna 2 mission made contact with the lunar surface.</p>

<p>Since then, more than a hundred other spacecraft have made their way to the moon's surface with or without the crews significantly impacting its surface.</p>

<p>The scientists argue that in the coming years, the missions and projects that have been planned to study the moon can have a severe impact on the Earth's only natural satellite.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the Anthropocene?</strong></h2>

<p>The Anthropocene is an unofficial unit of geologic time, that is used to describe the most recent period in the history of the planet when human activity begins showing traces of its significant impact on the climate and ecosystems.</p>

<p>For the longest time being used in the context of Earth, researchers suggest that the planet entered into the period of Anthropocene in the 1950s.</p>

<p>Now in the case of the moon, the scientists at the University of Kansas say that the missions designated for the exploration of the Earth's satellite have ignited a new era of human interference on the lunar surface.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/giant-lighthouses-being-planned-to-be-built-on-moon-for-future-explorations-669499">Moon might soon become home to giant lighthouses to show future rovers the way</a></p>

<p>The anthropologists and geologists at the university say it is high time now that we acknowledge how humans have become the prevalent force in altering the moon’s environment by declaring a new geological epoch for the moon: the Lunar Anthropocene.</p>

<p>“The idea is much the same as the discussion of the Anthropocene on Earth — the exploration of how much humans have impacted our planet,” said lead author Justin Holcomb, a postdoctoral researcher with the Kansas Geological Survey at KU.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The consensus is on Earth the Anthropocene began at some point in the past, whether hundreds of thousands of years ago or in the 1950s. Similarly, on the moon, we argue the Lunar Anthropocene already has commenced, but we want to prevent massive damage or a delay of its recognition until we can measure a significant lunar halo caused by human activities, which would be too late." Holcomb said.</p>

<p>He also laid stress on how the lunar landscape was no longer a static or untouched entity.</p>

<p>Busting the myth that the moon is an unchanging environment, barely impacted by humanity, Holcomb underlined how cultural processes were overtaking the natural background of geological processes on the moon.</p>

<p>"Cultural processes are starting to outstrip the natural background of geological processes on the moon," Holcomb said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“These processes involve moving sediments, which we refer to as ‘regolith,’ on the moon. Typically, these processes include meteoroid impacts and mass movement events, among others. However, when we consider the impact of rovers, landers and human movement, they significantly disturb the regolith. In the context of the new space race, the lunar landscape will be entirely different in 50 years. Multiple countries will be present, leading to numerous challenges. Our goal is to dispel the lunar-static myth and emphasize the importance of our impact, not only in the past but ongoing and in the future. We aim to initiate discussions about our impact on the lunar surface before it's too late,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/is-barringer-crater-in-arizona-formed-by-asteroids-curveball-spins-study-reveals-669519">Asteroid with curveball-like spin likely created 49,000-year-old Barringer Crater</a></p>

<h2><strong>How are moon missions affecting the lunar surface?</strong></h2>

<p>The scientists say that in all these years with several landings on the moon, humans have overlooked the “Leave No Trace” principles and have left a number of things on the lunar surface including “discarded and abandoned spacecraft components, bags of human excreta, scientific equipment, and other objects (e.g., flags, golf balls, photographs, religious texts).”</p>

<p>“We know that while the Moon does not have an atmosphere or magnetosphere, it does have a delicate exosphere composed of dust and gas, as well as ice inside permanently shadowed areas, and both are susceptible to exhaust gas propagation,” the study authors say. “Future missions must consider mitigating deleterious effects on lunar environments.”</p>

<p>The human activity, the researchers say, is more complex than it may be perceived as once the changes are made to the lunar surface, they last for a very long time considering there can possibly be no erosion of the alterations as the moon sees no wind or rain. This means any effects humans have on the moon's surface are most likely permanent.</p>

<p>Holcomb said that he and his colleagues, through the Lunar Anthropocene want to lay stress on the potential the human influence holds on negatively impacting the environment of the moon.</p>

<p>“The concept of a Lunar Anthropocene aims to raise awareness and contemplation regarding our impact on the lunar surface, as well as our influence on the preservation of historical artefacts,” Holcomb said.</p>

<p>The researcher at the University of Kansas said that they aim to preserve or catalogue items such as rovers, flags, golf balls and footprints on the moon’s surface.</p>

<p>“As archaeologists, we perceive footprints on the moon as an extension of humanity's journey out of Africa, a pivotal milestone in our species' existence,” Holcomb said. “These imprints are intertwined with the overarching narrative of evolution. It’s within this framework we seek to capture the interest of not only planetary scientists but also archaeologists and anthropologists who may not typically engage in discussions about planetary science.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The human influence has pushed the moon into a new geological epoch called the Lunar Anthropocene, a group of researchers suggest. A new study by the University of Kansas says that this new phase of existence for the moon has been triggered by human disturbance which dates back to 1959 when for the very first time the USSR’s Luna 2 mission made contact with the lunar surface.

The human influence has pushed the moon into a new geological epoch called the Lunar Anthropocene, a group of researchers suggest. A new study by the University of Kansas says that this new phase of existence for the moon has been triggered by human disturbance which dates back to 1959 when for the very first time the USSR’s Luna 2 mission made contact with the lunar surface. Since then, more than a hundred other spacecraft have made their way to the moon's surface with or without the crews significantly impacting its surface. The scientists argue that in the coming years, the missions and projects that have been planned to study the moon can have a severe impact on the Earth's only natural satellite. What is the Anthropocene? The Anthropocene is an unofficial unit of geologic time, that is used to describe the most recent period in the history of the planet when human activity begins showing traces of its significant impact on the climate and ecosystems. For the longest time being used in the context of Earth, researchers suggest that the planet entered into the period of Anthropocene in the 1950s. Now in the case of the moon, the scientists at the University of Kansas say that the missions designated for the exploration of the Earth's satellite have ignited a new era of human interference on the lunar surface. Also read: Moon might soon become home to giant lighthouses to show future rovers the way The anthropologists and geologists at the university say it is high time now that we acknowledge how humans have become the prevalent force in altering the moon’s environment by declaring a new geological epoch for the moon: the Lunar Anthropocene. “The idea is much the same as the discussion of the Anthropocene on Earth — the exploration of how much humans have impacted our planet,” said lead author Justin Holcomb, a postdoctoral researcher with the Kansas Geological Survey at KU. “The consensus is on Earth the Anthropocene began at some point in the past, whether hundreds of thousands of years ago or in the 1950s. Similarly, on the moon, we argue the Lunar Anthropocene already has commenced, but we want to prevent massive damage or a delay of its recognition until we can measure a significant lunar halo caused by human activities, which would be too late." Holcomb said. He also laid stress on how the lunar landscape was no longer a static or untouched entity. Busting the myth that the moon is an unchanging environment, barely impacted by humanity, Holcomb underlined how cultural processes were overtaking the natural background of geological processes on the moon. "Cultural processes are starting to outstrip the natural background of geological processes on the moon," Holcomb said. “These processes involve moving sediments, which we refer to as ‘regolith,’ on the moon. Typically, these processes include meteoroid impacts and mass movement events, among others. However, when we consider the impact of rovers, landers and human movement, they significantly disturb the regolith. In the context of the new space race, the lunar landscape will be entirely different in 50 years. Multiple countries will be present, leading to numerous challenges. Our goal is to dispel the lunar-static myth and emphasize the importance of our impact, not only in the past but ongoing and in the future. We aim to initiate discussions about our impact on the lunar surface before it's too late,” he added. Also read: Asteroid with curveball-like spin likely created 49,000-year-old Barringer Crater How are moon missions affecting the lunar surface? The scientists say that in all these years with several landings on the moon, humans have overlooked the “Leave No Trace” principles and have left a number of things on the lunar surface including “discarded and abandoned spacecraft components, bags of human excreta, scientific equipment, and other objects (e.g., flags, golf balls, photographs, religious texts).” “We know that while the Moon does not have an atmosphere or magnetosphere, it does have a delicate exosphere composed of dust and gas, as well as ice inside permanently shadowed areas, and both are susceptible to exhaust gas propagation,” the study authors say. “Future missions must consider mitigating deleterious effects on lunar environments.” The human activity, the researchers say, is more complex than it may be perceived as once the changes are made to the lunar surface, they last for a very long time considering there can possibly be no erosion of the alterations as the moon sees no wind or rain. This means any effects humans have on the moon's surface are most likely permanent. Holcomb said that he and his colleagues, through the Lunar Anthropocene want to lay stress on the potential the human influence holds on negatively impacting the environment of the moon. “The concept of a Lunar Anthropocene aims to raise awareness and contemplation regarding our impact on the lunar surface, as well as our influence on the preservation of historical artefacts,” Holcomb said. The researcher at the University of Kansas said that they aim to preserve or catalogue items such as rovers, flags, golf balls and footprints on the moon’s surface. “As archaeologists, we perceive footprints on the moon as an extension of humanity's journey out of Africa, a pivotal milestone in our species' existence,” Holcomb said. “These imprints are intertwined with the overarching narrative of evolution. It’s within this framework we seek to capture the interest of not only planetary scientists but also archaeologists and anthropologists who may not typically engage in discussions about planetary science.” (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Humans are on the Moon and it might be the beginning of the end for our satellite

<p>Over a month after NASA unveiled the sample collected from asteroid Bennu, scientists have finally been able to take a closer look at the rock from outer space and they are stumped. Earlier this week, at a meeting of the American Geophysical Union (AGU), researchers said that they have found that the sample contains a surprisingly rich array of carbon-bearing molecules.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Cauliflower-like texture’</strong></h2>

<p>“We definitely have hydrated, organic-rich remnants from the early solar system, which is exactly what we were hoping when we first conceived this mission almost 20 years ago,” said Dante Lauretta, the mission’s principal investigator and professor of planetary science and cosmochemistry at the University of Arizona, during the AGU.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “I fully expect the cosmochemistry community is going to go to town on this.” Lauretta, as per Live Science, also spoke about how they have been able to retrieve only bits of the 3-billion-year-old asteroid from the outer lid of the sample capsule and described it as rich in carbon and organic molecules.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-to-unveil-fascinating-bennu-asteroid-sample-to-the-public-645380">NASA unveils sample from asteroid Bennu, says it contains abundant water and carbon</a></strong></p>

<p>The scientists have only been able to take a small part of the sample since the probe dug out so much material that particles began leaking out of the sample collector’s head, but the ones inside its outer lid were protected.</p>

<p>Therefore, while the researchers wait for approval to use new tools for use on the precious rocks, they are using tweezers to pick tiny rocks through the partially open flap and have collected 70.3 grams.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team believes the container still holds an additional 30 grams to 70 grams of rock which will be extracted next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-nasa-fetches-celestial-cargo-to-earth-heres-why-bennu-asteroid-samples-matter-639472">Explained | NASA sends Bennu asteroid samples to Earth. Here's why the celestial cargo matters</a></strong></p>

<p>So far, they have found that the particles are very dark in colour and consist of centimetre- and millimetre-sized “hummocky boulders” that have a rough “cauliflower-like texture,” said Lauretta, adding that they “cling to everything we touch them with.”</p>

<h2>‘Largest pristine reservoir’</h2>

<p>Speaking at the conference, Lauretta also described the material as the “largest pristine reservoir of this material on Earth.” It is believed that the diversity of organic compounds that the extraterrestrial rock contains would help researchers understand the billions of years old complex space-based chemistry and if the origins of life on Earth can be traced back to it being hit by these asteroids.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Lauretta, an initial analysis at the Carnegie Institution for Science suggests that the sample contains up to 4.7 per cent carbon by mass. Researchers also observed metre-long veins of white minerals which were initially thought to be calcium carbonate or limestone.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/unexpected-discovery-scientists-stumble-upon-dark-material-in-asteroid-sample-dropped-from-space-642898">Unexpected discovery: Scientists stumble upon dark material in asteroid sample dropped from space</a></strong></p>

<p>However, once placed under an electron microscope, the white material looked more like skin, according to the principal investigator. Researchers also shined a light on the white material and it reflected, which does not happen with calcium carbonate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team later not only found the signs of carbon and organic molecules but also magnesium, sodium, and phosphate. “I’ve been looking at meteorites for a long time and I’ve never come across anything like that,” said the University of Arizona professor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “It’s a head-scratcher right now. What is this material?” The researcher also highlighted an important early result based on the initial findings which indicate that overall composition closely resembles the ratio of elements seen in the Sun.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Over a month after NASA unveiled the sample collected from asteroid Bennu, scientists have finally been able to take a closer look at the rock from outer space and they are stumped.

Over a month after NASA unveiled the sample collected from asteroid Bennu, scientists have finally been able to take a closer look at the rock from outer space and they are stumped. Earlier this week, at a meeting of the American Geophysical Union (AGU), researchers said that they have found that the sample contains a surprisingly rich array of carbon-bearing molecules. ‘Cauliflower-like texture’ “We definitely have hydrated, organic-rich remnants from the early solar system, which is exactly what we were hoping when we first conceived this mission almost 20 years ago,” said Dante Lauretta, the mission’s principal investigator and professor of planetary science and cosmochemistry at the University of Arizona, during the AGU. He added, “I fully expect the cosmochemistry community is going to go to town on this.” Lauretta, as per Live Science, also spoke about how they have been able to retrieve only bits of the 3-billion-year-old asteroid from the outer lid of the sample capsule and described it as rich in carbon and organic molecules. ALSO READ | NASA unveils sample from asteroid Bennu, says it contains abundant water and carbon The scientists have only been able to take a small part of the sample since the probe dug out so much material that particles began leaking out of the sample collector’s head, but the ones inside its outer lid were protected. Therefore, while the researchers wait for approval to use new tools for use on the precious rocks, they are using tweezers to pick tiny rocks through the partially open flap and have collected 70.3 grams. The team believes the container still holds an additional 30 grams to 70 grams of rock which will be extracted next year. ALSO READ | Explained | NASA sends Bennu asteroid samples to Earth. Here's why the celestial cargo matters So far, they have found that the particles are very dark in colour and consist of centimetre- and millimetre-sized “hummocky boulders” that have a rough “cauliflower-like texture,” said Lauretta, adding that they “cling to everything we touch them with.” ‘Largest pristine reservoir’ Speaking at the conference, Lauretta also described the material as the “largest pristine reservoir of this material on Earth.” It is believed that the diversity of organic compounds that the extraterrestrial rock contains would help researchers understand the billions of years old complex space-based chemistry and if the origins of life on Earth can be traced back to it being hit by these asteroids. According to Lauretta, an initial analysis at the Carnegie Institution for Science suggests that the sample contains up to 4.7 per cent carbon by mass. Researchers also observed metre-long veins of white minerals which were initially thought to be calcium carbonate or limestone. ALSO READ | Unexpected discovery: Scientists stumble upon dark material in asteroid sample dropped from space However, once placed under an electron microscope, the white material looked more like skin, according to the principal investigator. Researchers also shined a light on the white material and it reflected, which does not happen with calcium carbonate. The team later not only found the signs of carbon and organic molecules but also magnesium, sodium, and phosphate. “I’ve been looking at meteorites for a long time and I’ve never come across anything like that,” said the University of Arizona professor. He added, “It’s a head-scratcher right now. What is this material?” The researcher also highlighted an important early result based on the initial findings which indicate that overall composition closely resembles the ratio of elements seen in the Sun. (With inputs from agencies)

Bennu asteroid: Hummocky boulders with cauliflower-like texture in canister stump scientists

<p>One of the largest reservoirs of water, and perhaps the oldest, has been discovered, but not on Earth. According to scientists, it is floating in space.</p>

<p>Researchers say that it is the largest reservoir ever detected in the universe, as the mass of water is at least 140 trillion times more than all of the water in the Earth's oceans combined.</p>

<p>The discovery was made by two teams of astronomers led by scientists at Caltech.</p>

<h2><strong>Took 12 billion light years to reach Earth&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>However, it is less likely to be seen through a telescope as this body of water is surrounded by a massive feeding black hole known as a quasar, located more than 12 billion light years away.</p>

<p>Quasars are the blazing centres of active galaxies and are powered by a supermassive black hole feeding on humungous quantities of gas.</p>

<p>"The environment around this quasar is unique in that it's producing this huge mass of water,” Matt Bradford, a scientist at NASA' Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), said, according to UNILAD news outlet.</p>

<p>"It's another demonstration that water is pervasive throughout the universe, even at the very earliest times."</p>

<p>The astronomers discovered water after examining a particular quasar called APM 08279+5255, which is said to harbour a black hole 20 billion times more massive than our Sun and believed to produce as much energy as a thousand trillion Suns.</p>

<h2><strong>Possibility of water in the early universe&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This particular quasar showed water vapour being distributed around the black hole in a gas region spanning hundreds of light-years.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/skygazers-alert-near-earth-comets-debris-could-create-majestic-meteor-showers-this-week-details-668580">Majestic meteor showers triggered by comet debris to light up sky. Check when to watch</a></p>

<p>The discovery of water, per se, in the universe has not surprised scientists, as traces of water are also found elsewhere in the Milky Way. However, most of it is frozen in ice.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ancient-fossil-shows-teenager-tyrannosaur-feasted-on-two-baby-dinos-before-dying-study-668463">As a teenager, the tyrannosaur only ate baby dinosaurs, and a fossil is proof</a></p>

<p>But what took the scientists aback was the presence of water in the early universe.</p>

<p>They hope to learn more about the distant universe and those in the study proposed a 25-meter telescope to be built in the Atacama Desert in Chile.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


One of the largest reservoirs of water, and perhaps the oldest, has been discovered, but not on Earth. According to scientists, it is floating in space. Researchers say that it is the largest reservoir ever detected in the universe, as the mass of water is at least 140 trillion times more than all of the water in the Earth's oceans combined.

One of the largest reservoirs of water, and perhaps the oldest, has been discovered, but not on Earth. According to scientists, it is floating in space. Researchers say that it is the largest reservoir ever detected in the universe, as the mass of water is at least 140 trillion times more than all of the water in the Earth's oceans combined. The discovery was made by two teams of astronomers led by scientists at Caltech. Took 12 billion light years to reach Earth However, it is less likely to be seen through a telescope as this body of water is surrounded by a massive feeding black hole known as a quasar, located more than 12 billion light years away. Quasars are the blazing centres of active galaxies and are powered by a supermassive black hole feeding on humungous quantities of gas. "The environment around this quasar is unique in that it's producing this huge mass of water,” Matt Bradford, a scientist at NASA' Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), said, according to UNILAD news outlet. "It's another demonstration that water is pervasive throughout the universe, even at the very earliest times." The astronomers discovered water after examining a particular quasar called APM 08279+5255, which is said to harbour a black hole 20 billion times more massive than our Sun and believed to produce as much energy as a thousand trillion Suns. Possibility of water in the early universe This particular quasar showed water vapour being distributed around the black hole in a gas region spanning hundreds of light-years. Also read | Majestic meteor showers triggered by comet debris to light up sky. Check when to watch The discovery of water, per se, in the universe has not surprised scientists, as traces of water are also found elsewhere in the Milky Way. However, most of it is frozen in ice. Also read | As a teenager, the tyrannosaur only ate baby dinosaurs, and a fossil is proof But what took the scientists aback was the presence of water in the early universe. They hope to learn more about the distant universe and those in the study proposed a 25-meter telescope to be built in the Atacama Desert in Chile. (With inputs from agencies)

'Water reservoir' larger than all of Earth's oceans found floating around black hole

<p>NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope captured a stunning new image of a&nbsp;star that exploded in the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A (Cas A). The image was released by the American space agency to showcase the “Magic, Wonder, and Joy” of the holiday season, as a part of the first-ever White House Advent Calendar which was unveiled by Dr Jill Biden, NASA said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cas A is one of the most well-studied supernova remnants in the cosmos, with multiple telescopes over the years piecing the multiwavelength picture of the object’s remnant. The new image shows the intricate details of the expanding material colliding with the gas shed by the star before it exploded.</p>

<h2><strong>About the new image</strong></h2>

<p>Since infrared is invisible to our eyes, image processors and scientists translate these wavelengths of light which make it visible to us. This was also the case with the new image of Cas A where colours were assigned to different filters from NIRCam, each of which hinted at a different activity occurring within the object.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/12-billion-year-old-and-largest-reservoir-of-water-found-floating-around-black-hole-668736">12-billion-year-old and largest reservoir of water found floating around black hole</a></strong></p>

<p>“With NIRCam’s resolution, we can now see how the dying star absolutely shattered when it exploded, leaving filaments akin to tiny shards of glass behind,” said Danny Milisavljevic of Purdue University, who leads the research team, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “It’s really unbelievable after all these years studying Cas A to now resolve those details, which are providing us with transformational insight into how this star exploded.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/space-gas-stations-american-startup-aims-to-revolutionise-space-technology-668508">Space gas stations: American startup aims to revolutionise space technology</a></strong></p>

<p>According to NASA, one of the most noticeable differences in the newest image are clumps represented in bright orange and light pink which make up the inner shell of the supernova remnant.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="53e1faa9-1733-4451-8871-671894aa744c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202023-12-12T093405.613.png" /><br />
<em><strong>Photo credit:&nbsp;NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, Danny Milisavljevic (Purdue University), Ilse De Looze (UGent), Tea Temim (Princeton University)</strong></em></p>

<p>However, some debris is too tiny even for the Webb since they are around or less than 10 billion miles across when compared to the entirety of Cas A which is around 10 light-years across, or 60 trillion miles.&nbsp;</p>


NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope captured a stunning new image of a star that exploded in the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A (Cas A). The image was released by the American space agency to showcase the “Magic, Wonder, and Joy” of the holiday season, as a part of the first-ever White House Advent Calendar which was unveiled by Dr Jill Biden, NASA said.

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope captured a stunning new image of a star that exploded in the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A (Cas A). The image was released by the American space agency to showcase the “Magic, Wonder, and Joy” of the holiday season, as a part of the first-ever White House Advent Calendar which was unveiled by Dr Jill Biden, NASA said. Cas A is one of the most well-studied supernova remnants in the cosmos, with multiple telescopes over the years piecing the multiwavelength picture of the object’s remnant. The new image shows the intricate details of the expanding material colliding with the gas shed by the star before it exploded. About the new image Since infrared is invisible to our eyes, image processors and scientists translate these wavelengths of light which make it visible to us. This was also the case with the new image of Cas A where colours were assigned to different filters from NIRCam, each of which hinted at a different activity occurring within the object. ALSO READ | 12-billion-year-old and largest reservoir of water found floating around black hole “With NIRCam’s resolution, we can now see how the dying star absolutely shattered when it exploded, leaving filaments akin to tiny shards of glass behind,” said Danny Milisavljevic of Purdue University, who leads the research team, in a statement. He added, “It’s really unbelievable after all these years studying Cas A to now resolve those details, which are providing us with transformational insight into how this star exploded.” ALSO READ | Space gas stations: American startup aims to revolutionise space technology According to NASA, one of the most noticeable differences in the newest image are clumps represented in bright orange and light pink which make up the inner shell of the supernova remnant. Photo credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, Danny Milisavljevic (Purdue University), Ilse De Looze (UGent), Tea Temim (Princeton University) However, some debris is too tiny even for the Webb since they are around or less than 10 billion miles across when compared to the entirety of Cas A which is around 10 light-years across, or 60 trillion miles.

James Webb captures smashing images of a star that exploded

Beijing-based startup LandSpace Technology Corp. scored another success by sending a second rocket powered by a methane-based fuel into space.

For the first time ever, China's Methane Rocket sends 3 satellites into orbit

Scientists have spotted a giant hole in the Sun. This coronal hole is unlike the ones previously spotted in the sun. For starters, the gap is located in the Sun's equator, not the poles. It also does not help that the hole has surfaced at a very usual phase in the Sun's activity cycle. What does this mean for us? Should earthlings be worried?

A hole in the sun: Should you be worried?

The center of our Milky Way is crowded, with stars whipping around a black hole in a sea of UV and X-ray radiation.

Milky Way's mysteries: Milky Way's mysterious 'brick' region

<p>The coming weekend will be a significant one for Halley’s Comet, also called 1P Halley, as it will reach its farthest point from the sun and then again begin its long journey back towards the inner&nbsp;solar system. Halley's Comet is one of the most well-known comets in the world. It visits us every&nbsp;75 to 79 years, and like other comets,&nbsp;appears in the night sky when it reaches close to the sun.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Saturday (Dec 9), Halley’s Comet will be reaching aphelion - its most distant point from the sun - in its 75-year journey across the solar system. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>The comet which is now reaching its aphelion, is not going to be visible to earthlings for almost another 40 years.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/betelgeuse-one-of-skys-brightest-stars-with-vivid-red-glow-to-disappear-soon-heres-why-667450">Red supergiant star Betelgeuse will disappear soon, and an asteroid is to blame</a></strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>As it starts its long journey back into the inner solar system, it will be around 35 Earth-Sun distances, beyond the orbit of Neptune.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who will get to see Halley’s Comet in their lifetime?</strong></h2>

<p>To the human&nbsp;eye on Earth, Halley’s Comet will next be visible in the night sky in late July 2061 when it is likely to come much closer and may appear much brighter, than what it looked like in 1986, the last time it was here.</p>

<p>The comet was named after English astronomer Edmond Halley, who was the first to calculate its orbit and make predictions about its return in the 18th century. In human history, Halley’s Comet has made numerous appearances. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gaganyaan: India's first mission to send astronauts to space</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaganyaan-indias-first-mission-to-send-astronauts-to-space-648224/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<h2 class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><strong>Halley’s Comet's Christmas connection</strong></h2>

<p>Halley's Comet also has a&nbsp;Christmas connection and served as inspiration for the Bible story of “Star of Bethlehem".&nbsp;The story goes that Magi, the three wise men, followed&nbsp;a star from the East to Bethlehem while searching for the newborn king.&nbsp;Some believe that what they followed was Halley's Comet. However, there is no clarity on whether or not the bright star they followed indeed was Halley's Comet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Comets, which are not stars but star-like in appearance, offer a unique explanation as they move across the sky and could have guided the wise men,” said Dr. Minjae Kim, Research Fellow, Department of Physics, University of Warwick, speaking to Forbes.</p>

<p>“Halley’s Comet was visible in 12 BC, and Chinese and Korean stargazers recorded an object, possibly a comet or nova, around 5 BC, aligning with the estimated time of Jesus’ birth—between 6 BC&nbsp;and 4 BC," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;</em></p>


The coming weekend will be a significant one for Halley’s Comet, also called 1P Halley, as it will reach its farthest point from the sun and then again begin its long journey back towards the inner solar system.

The coming weekend will be a significant one for Halley’s Comet, also called 1P Halley, as it will reach its farthest point from the sun and then again begin its long journey back towards the inner solar system. Halley's Comet is one of the most well-known comets in the world. It visits us every 75 to 79 years, and like other comets, appears in the night sky when it reaches close to the sun. On Saturday (Dec 9), Halley’s Comet will be reaching aphelion - its most distant point from the sun - in its 75-year journey across the solar system. The comet which is now reaching its aphelion, is not going to be visible to earthlings for almost another 40 years. Also read: Red supergiant star Betelgeuse will disappear soon, and an asteroid is to blame As it starts its long journey back into the inner solar system, it will be around 35 Earth-Sun distances, beyond the orbit of Neptune. Who will get to see Halley’s Comet in their lifetime? To the human eye on Earth, Halley’s Comet will next be visible in the night sky in late July 2061 when it is likely to come much closer and may appear much brighter, than what it looked like in 1986, the last time it was here. The comet was named after English astronomer Edmond Halley, who was the first to calculate its orbit and make predictions about its return in the 18th century. In human history, Halley’s Comet has made numerous appearances. Watch: Gaganyaan: India's first mission to send astronauts to space Halley’s Comet's Christmas connection Halley's Comet also has a Christmas connection and served as inspiration for the Bible story of “Star of Bethlehem". The story goes that Magi, the three wise men, followed a star from the East to Bethlehem while searching for the newborn king. Some believe that what they followed was Halley's Comet. However, there is no clarity on whether or not the bright star they followed indeed was Halley's Comet. “Comets, which are not stars but star-like in appearance, offer a unique explanation as they move across the sky and could have guided the wise men,” said Dr. Minjae Kim, Research Fellow, Department of Physics, University of Warwick, speaking to Forbes. “Halley’s Comet was visible in 12 BC, and Chinese and Korean stargazers recorded an object, possibly a comet or nova, around 5 BC, aligning with the estimated time of Jesus’ birth—between 6 BC and 4 BC," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Halley’s Comet is gearing up for a return journey towards us. The wait is quite long though

<p>When our solar system formed, the Sun was the first to form out of clumps of gaseous clouds that came together, collapsed under their own gravity and eventually kickstarted nuclear fusion as more and more material 'fell' into the still-forming Sun. After the Sun was formed, the remaining material was still revolving around it. This 'protoplanetary' disc eventually gave rise to planets.</p>

<p>Researchers have used the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to click a space 'hamburger'. In a layman terms, this is the very first ice map of a protoplanetary disc around a young star.</p>

<h2><strong>Why study protoplanetary discs?</strong></h2>

<p>The protoplanetary disc around a young star can contain many elements. As reported in Space[dot]com, presence of ice in the protoplanetary disc helps matter clump together. This may in turn, help formation of planets or even comets around the star. Study of protoplanetary discs can reveal a lot about formation of our solar system and models of planet formation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | NASA satellites discover a 6-planet in-sync solar system</strong></p>

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<p>Making an ice-map of a protoplanetary disc using a telescope from Earth is very tough due to obstruction created by our water-molecule-loaded atmosphere. But from space, and with the help of a super-powerful telescope like JWST, what's impossibile soon ceases to remain impossible.</p>

<p>The team of researchers led by Ardjan Sturm, a scientist from Leiden University in the Netherlands, pointed JWST at a young star designated as HH 48 NE. It is 600 light-years away from us.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-strange-star-near-milky-way-black-hole-may-have-extra-galactic-origin-study-667207">A strange star near Milky Way's black hole may have extra-galactic origin: Study</a></strong></p>

<p>As the star passed through the protoplanetary disc, its light was filtered through the dust, ice and other material containing a variety of elements. Now each element absorbs and emits light in specific way, giving rise to somewhat of a 'signature' of that element. And by observing the spectrum, a picture can be 'painted' about what elements might be present in whatever the light is passing through.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-rare-elusive-red-sprite-snapped-astronaut-captures-unique-view-from-iss-667142">Rare, elusive 'red sprite' snapped: Astronaut captures unique view from ISS</a></strong></p>

<p>"The direct mapping of ice in a planet-forming disk provides important input for modeling studies that help to better understand the formation of our Earth, other planets in our Solar System and around other stars. With those observations, we can now begin to make firmer statements about the physics and chemistry of star and planet formation," said Ardjan Sturm, the lead author of the study as quoted on the website of Leiden University.</p>

<p>The image prepared by analysing the spetra resembles a hamburger complete with brown buns, green lettuce and more.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


When our solar system formed, the Sun was the first to form out of clumps of gaseous clouds that came together, collapsed under their own gravity and eventually kickstarted nuclear fusion as more and more material 'fell' into the still-forming Sun.

When our solar system formed, the Sun was the first to form out of clumps of gaseous clouds that came together, collapsed under their own gravity and eventually kickstarted nuclear fusion as more and more material 'fell' into the still-forming Sun. After the Sun was formed, the remaining material was still revolving around it. This 'protoplanetary' disc eventually gave rise to planets. Researchers have used the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to click a space 'hamburger'. In a layman terms, this is the very first ice map of a protoplanetary disc around a young star. Why study protoplanetary discs? The protoplanetary disc around a young star can contain many elements. As reported in Space[dot]com, presence of ice in the protoplanetary disc helps matter clump together. This may in turn, help formation of planets or even comets around the star. Study of protoplanetary discs can reveal a lot about formation of our solar system and models of planet formation. Watch | NASA satellites discover a 6-planet in-sync solar system × Making an ice-map of a protoplanetary disc using a telescope from Earth is very tough due to obstruction created by our water-molecule-loaded atmosphere. But from space, and with the help of a super-powerful telescope like JWST, what's impossibile soon ceases to remain impossible. The team of researchers led by Ardjan Sturm, a scientist from Leiden University in the Netherlands, pointed JWST at a young star designated as HH 48 NE. It is 600 light-years away from us. Also Read | A strange star near Milky Way's black hole may have extra-galactic origin: Study As the star passed through the protoplanetary disc, its light was filtered through the dust, ice and other material containing a variety of elements. Now each element absorbs and emits light in specific way, giving rise to somewhat of a 'signature' of that element. And by observing the spectrum, a picture can be 'painted' about what elements might be present in whatever the light is passing through. Watch | Rare, elusive 'red sprite' snapped: Astronaut captures unique view from ISS "The direct mapping of ice in a planet-forming disk provides important input for modeling studies that help to better understand the formation of our Earth, other planets in our Solar System and around other stars. With those observations, we can now begin to make firmer statements about the physics and chemistry of star and planet formation," said Ardjan Sturm, the lead author of the study as quoted on the website of Leiden University. The image prepared by analysing the spetra resembles a hamburger complete with brown buns, green lettuce and more. (With inputs from agencies)

'Cosmic burger': NASA's James Webb telescope clicks 'hamburger' in space

<p>A mystery surrounding a tomato lost in space came to an end after eight months, as the vegetable (or fruit) surprisingly showed up on the International Space Station (ISS). After an off-Earth harvest in March, NASA astronaut Frank Rubio had lost the remains of a tiny tomato.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"Our good friend Frank Rubio, who headed home [already], has been blamed for quite a while for eating the tomato. But we can exonerate him. We found the tomato," said NASA astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli, while speaking in a live-streamed event on Wednesday (Dec. 6) which celebrated the 25th anniversary of the ISS. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The minor incident of losing the tomato became a large inside joke for Rubio in NASA. The 1-inch-wide (2.5 centimetres) Red Robin dwarf tomato was among the Veg-05 experiment's final harvest that was tended by Rubio himself through some growing pains.</p>

<p>The samples of the tomatoes were received by each ISS astronaut after March 29. However, Rubio's share was kept in a Ziploc bag and it floated away before he could take a bite from it.&nbsp;</p>

<h4><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/as-halleys-comet-completes-75-years-of-journey-heres-how-it-can-be-visible-in-your-lifetime-667184">Halley’s Comet is gearing up for a return journey towards us. The wait is quite long though</a></h4>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>On September 13, the astronauts first discussed the missing tomato publicly when Rubio held his own event in space which marked a United States astronaut's unexpected record year in orbit.</p>

<p>"I spent so many hours looking for that thing," joked Rubio, amid the ISS livestream in September. "I'm sure the desiccated tomato will show up at some point and vindicate me, years in the future," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rubio looked for lost tomato for 18 to 20 hours&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The ISS is bigger than a six-bedroom house and things can float away easily to unexpected corners in microgravity. NASA usually follows the procedure of checking vent intakes for such objects. However, in a station filled with 25 years of stuff, it is easy to lose some items. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;European Space Agency released first images taken by Euclid's telescope</strong></p>

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<p>On October 13, Rubio was asked by reporters regarding the lost tomato, nearly two weeks after he returned home safely with his delayed crew after spending 371 days in space.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rubio said that the tomato was never found despite "18 to 20 hours of my own time looking for that."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The reality of the problem, you know — the humidity up there is like 17 per cent. It's probably desiccated to the point where you couldn't tell what it was, and somebody just threw away the bag," said Rubio, adding, "Hopefully somebody will find it someday: a little, shrivelled thing."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;</em></p>


A mystery surrounding a tomato lost in space came to an end after eight months, as the vegetable (or fruit) surprisingly showed up on the International Space Station (ISS).

A mystery surrounding a tomato lost in space came to an end after eight months, as the vegetable (or fruit) surprisingly showed up on the International Space Station (ISS). After an off-Earth harvest in March, NASA astronaut Frank Rubio had lost the remains of a tiny tomato. "Our good friend Frank Rubio, who headed home [already], has been blamed for quite a while for eating the tomato. But we can exonerate him. We found the tomato," said NASA astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli, while speaking in a live-streamed event on Wednesday (Dec. 6) which celebrated the 25th anniversary of the ISS. The minor incident of losing the tomato became a large inside joke for Rubio in NASA. The 1-inch-wide (2.5 centimetres) Red Robin dwarf tomato was among the Veg-05 experiment's final harvest that was tended by Rubio himself through some growing pains. The samples of the tomatoes were received by each ISS astronaut after March 29. However, Rubio's share was kept in a Ziploc bag and it floated away before he could take a bite from it. Also read: Halley’s Comet is gearing up for a return journey towards us. The wait is quite long though On September 13, the astronauts first discussed the missing tomato publicly when Rubio held his own event in space which marked a United States astronaut's unexpected record year in orbit. "I spent so many hours looking for that thing," joked Rubio, amid the ISS livestream in September. "I'm sure the desiccated tomato will show up at some point and vindicate me, years in the future," he added. Rubio looked for lost tomato for 18 to 20 hours The ISS is bigger than a six-bedroom house and things can float away easily to unexpected corners in microgravity. NASA usually follows the procedure of checking vent intakes for such objects. However, in a station filled with 25 years of stuff, it is easy to lose some items. Watch: European Space Agency released first images taken by Euclid's telescope On October 13, Rubio was asked by reporters regarding the lost tomato, nearly two weeks after he returned home safely with his delayed crew after spending 371 days in space. Rubio said that the tomato was never found despite "18 to 20 hours of my own time looking for that." "The reality of the problem, you know — the humidity up there is like 17 per cent. It's probably desiccated to the point where you couldn't tell what it was, and somebody just threw away the bag," said Rubio, adding, "Hopefully somebody will find it someday: a little, shrivelled thing." (With inputs from agencies)

A tomato lost for 8 months on space station has finally been found, and it is a big deal

<p>SpaceX, under Elon Musk, is in the process of exploring a tender offer that values the private space exploration company at $175 billion or more. &nbsp;</p>

<p>A Bloomberg report, citing sources familiar with the matter, revealed that discussions are underway regarding insider shares, with the tender offer potentially ranging between $500 million to $750 million. The proposed share price is around $95 per share, though terms and the offer's size may evolve based on interest from both sellers and buyers within the company.</p>

<p>This valuation represents a significant premium compared to the $150 billion valuation SpaceX secured through a tender offer earlier this summer. &nbsp;</p>

<p>SpaceX, headquartered in Hawthorne, California, currently stands as the most valuable start-up in the United States, dominating the commercial space launch services market with its highly successful Falcon rockets. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to its achievements in space launches, SpaceX is recognised for its role in sending payloads into orbit for private-sector clients, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and various government agencies. The company's diverse portfolio includes the revolutionary Starlink service, providing internet from space. Anchored by a growing constellation of satellites in low-Earth orbit, Starlink has contributed to SpaceX's expanding influence in the broader space industry.</p>

<p>While details of the tender offer remain confidential, the move signifies SpaceX's continued efforts to leverage its market dominance and technological innovations to attract investment. The space exploration company has been at the forefront of industry advancements, and this financial manoeuvre further highlights its commitment to pushing boundaries and securing a prominent position in the evolving landscape of space exploration and satellite-based services. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from Bloomberg)</em></p>

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SpaceX, under Elon Musk, is in the process of exploring a tender offer that values the private space exploration company at $175 billion or more. A Bloomberg report, citing sources familiar with the matter, revealed that discussions are underway regarding insider shares, with the tender offer potentially ranging between $500 million to $750 million.

SpaceX, under Elon Musk, is in the process of exploring a tender offer that values the private space exploration company at $175 billion or more. A Bloomberg report, citing sources familiar with the matter, revealed that discussions are underway regarding insider shares, with the tender offer potentially ranging between $500 million to $750 million. The proposed share price is around $95 per share, though terms and the offer's size may evolve based on interest from both sellers and buyers within the company. This valuation represents a significant premium compared to the $150 billion valuation SpaceX secured through a tender offer earlier this summer. SpaceX, headquartered in Hawthorne, California, currently stands as the most valuable start-up in the United States, dominating the commercial space launch services market with its highly successful Falcon rockets. In addition to its achievements in space launches, SpaceX is recognised for its role in sending payloads into orbit for private-sector clients, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and various government agencies. The company's diverse portfolio includes the revolutionary Starlink service, providing internet from space. Anchored by a growing constellation of satellites in low-Earth orbit, Starlink has contributed to SpaceX's expanding influence in the broader space industry. While details of the tender offer remain confidential, the move signifies SpaceX's continued efforts to leverage its market dominance and technological innovations to attract investment. The space exploration company has been at the forefront of industry advancements, and this financial manoeuvre further highlights its commitment to pushing boundaries and securing a prominent position in the evolving landscape of space exploration and satellite-based services. (With inputs from Bloomberg) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

SpaceX initiates tender offer, eyes valuation of $175 billion in share sale

<p>Earlier this year, a Chinese company named Insta360 launched what it claims was the first ever 360-degree action camera into space, specifically into the low-Earth orbit (LEO) and captured some breathtaking visuals of Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The private space mission involved sending&nbsp;two Insta360 X2 cameras to capture incredible 360 views of the stars, the Milky Way, and our home planet and the results speak for themselves.</p>

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<h2><strong>About the mission</strong></h2>

<p>The cameras were attached to a solar-powered satellite and launched 500 kilometres into outer space and, as per the Chinese company, were orbiting the planet, as of October.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also noted the obstacles that the scientists and engineers identified and overcame as this was the first fully exposed camera in space and required a lot of preparation to make sure it worked in the harsh conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="896d6160-727d-41dd-93fc-2656db36c1d8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202023-12-01T112051.461.png" /></p>

<p><em><strong>(Photo credit: Insta360)</strong></em></p>

<p>The X2 cameras were made to withstand extreme temperatures as the satellite circles the globe every 90 minutes from the tropics and poles witnessing temperatures ranging between -70 degrees Celsius and 50 degrees Celsius.</p>

<p>Insta360 also made their cameras to be “radiation resistant” since unlike here on Earth they would be exposed to high-energy particles which can quickly burn out electronic components.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lastly, the cameras were made shock and vibration-resistant considering that even in the best conditions rocket launches are anything but a smooth ride, not to mention that once it is launched no one will be able to adjust it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was also made shock and vibration-resistant since it was important that the satellite structure did not obstruct the lenses from successfully shooting 360-degree footage with proper stitching, said the China-based company.</p>

<p>The project began in 2021, said the company, and it took 12 months to modify the action cameras out of which half of this time was spent on research and development. The satellite was initially scheduled to launch last year but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>


Earlier this year, a Chinese company named Insta360 launched what it claims was the first ever 360-degree action camera into space, specifically into the low-Earth orbit (LEO) and captured some breathtaking visuals of Earth.

Earlier this year, a Chinese company named Insta360 launched what it claims was the first ever 360-degree action camera into space, specifically into the low-Earth orbit (LEO) and captured some breathtaking visuals of Earth. The private space mission involved sending two Insta360 X2 cameras to capture incredible 360 views of the stars, the Milky Way, and our home planet and the results speak for themselves. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Insta360 (@insta360) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Insta360 (@insta360) × About the mission The cameras were attached to a solar-powered satellite and launched 500 kilometres into outer space and, as per the Chinese company, were orbiting the planet, as of October. It also noted the obstacles that the scientists and engineers identified and overcame as this was the first fully exposed camera in space and required a lot of preparation to make sure it worked in the harsh conditions. (Photo credit: Insta360) The X2 cameras were made to withstand extreme temperatures as the satellite circles the globe every 90 minutes from the tropics and poles witnessing temperatures ranging between -70 degrees Celsius and 50 degrees Celsius. Insta360 also made their cameras to be “radiation resistant” since unlike here on Earth they would be exposed to high-energy particles which can quickly burn out electronic components. Lastly, the cameras were made shock and vibration-resistant considering that even in the best conditions rocket launches are anything but a smooth ride, not to mention that once it is launched no one will be able to adjust it. It was also made shock and vibration-resistant since it was important that the satellite structure did not obstruct the lenses from successfully shooting 360-degree footage with proper stitching, said the China-based company. The project began in 2021, said the company, and it took 12 months to modify the action cameras out of which half of this time was spent on research and development. The satellite was initially scheduled to launch last year but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

PHOTOS | Earth looks unreal in images captured by first-ever 360-degree camera in space

<p>In a first, astronomers have found the swirling disk of material which is feeding a young star and is present in a galaxy, which is outside the Milky Way.<br />
<br />
The disk was found near-identical to those discovered near infant stars in the Milky Way and this helped scientists understand that the stars and planets are formed in other galaxies just like the ones in our galaxy.<br />
<br />
The young star, which has been just observed, is located in the Large Magellanic Cloud, which is a galaxy located 160,000 light-years away from the Milky Way and its system, which has been given the name HH 1177, is placed in a massive cloud of gas.<br />
<br />
The team, which was behind the discovery observed the system as part of the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), which is the largest astronomical project.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/evil-eye-in-the-sky-clicked-by-nasa-wows-netizens-663392">'Evil eye' in the sky clicked by NASA wows netizens</a></p>

<p>"When I first saw evidence for a rotating structure in the ALMA data, I could not believe that we had detected the first extragalactic accretion disc. It was a special moment," said researcher lead author and Durham University scientist Anna McLeod, in a statement, as reported by space.com.<br />
<br />
"We know discs are vital to forming stars and planets in our galaxy, and here, for the first time, we're seeing direct evidence for this in another galaxy,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Jet emerges from forming star, hinting at existence of disk</strong></h2>

<p>McLeod and his teammates were hinted about the existence of this system when a jet emerging from a forming star was spotted by the Multi Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE) instrument on ESO's Very Large Telescope (VLT).<br />
<br />
The instrument is able to make observations in the visible wavelength range as well as measure the wavelengths of light which are getting emitted from the object. "We discovered a jet being launched from this young massive star, and its presence is a signpost for ongoing disc accretion," said McLeod.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller, says report&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-evidence-suggests-size-of-the-sun-could-be-smaller-says-report-world-news-wion-656872/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The scientists measured the movement of dense gas around the star to confirm that an accretion disk is present in HH 1177.<br />
<br />
The gas, which is present at the centre of the accretion disc, is located close to the central object which is a young feeding star and is moving faster in comparison to the matter present on the disk's outskirts.<br />
<br />
"The frequency of light changes depending on how fast the gas emitting the light is moving towards or away from us," said team member and Liverpool John Moores University research fellow Jonathan Henshaw.<br />
<br />
"This is precisely the same phenomenon that occurs when the pitch of an ambulance siren changes as it passes you, and the frequency of the sound goes from higher to lower,” he added.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a first, astronomers have found the swirling disk of material which is feeding a young star and is present in a galaxy, which is outside the Milky Way. The disk was found near-identical to those discovered near infant stars in the Milky Way and this helped scientists understand that the stars and planets are formed in other galaxies just like the ones in our galaxy.

In a first, astronomers have found the swirling disk of material which is feeding a young star and is present in a galaxy, which is outside the Milky Way. The disk was found near-identical to those discovered near infant stars in the Milky Way and this helped scientists understand that the stars and planets are formed in other galaxies just like the ones in our galaxy. The young star, which has been just observed, is located in the Large Magellanic Cloud, which is a galaxy located 160,000 light-years away from the Milky Way and its system, which has been given the name HH 1177, is placed in a massive cloud of gas. The team, which was behind the discovery observed the system as part of the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), which is the largest astronomical project. Also read: 'Evil eye' in the sky clicked by NASA wows netizens "When I first saw evidence for a rotating structure in the ALMA data, I could not believe that we had detected the first extragalactic accretion disc. It was a special moment," said researcher lead author and Durham University scientist Anna McLeod, in a statement, as reported by space.com. "We know discs are vital to forming stars and planets in our galaxy, and here, for the first time, we're seeing direct evidence for this in another galaxy,” he added. Jet emerges from forming star, hinting at existence of disk McLeod and his teammates were hinted about the existence of this system when a jet emerging from a forming star was spotted by the Multi Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE) instrument on ESO's Very Large Telescope (VLT). The instrument is able to make observations in the visible wavelength range as well as measure the wavelengths of light which are getting emitted from the object. "We discovered a jet being launched from this young massive star, and its presence is a signpost for ongoing disc accretion," said McLeod. Watch: New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller, says report The scientists measured the movement of dense gas around the star to confirm that an accretion disk is present in HH 1177. The gas, which is present at the centre of the accretion disc, is located close to the central object which is a young feeding star and is moving faster in comparison to the matter present on the disk's outskirts. "The frequency of light changes depending on how fast the gas emitting the light is moving towards or away from us," said team member and Liverpool John Moores University research fellow Jonathan Henshaw. "This is precisely the same phenomenon that occurs when the pitch of an ambulance siren changes as it passes you, and the frequency of the sound goes from higher to lower,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

In a first, scientists discover planet-forming disk beyond Milky Way

<p>John McFall, the inaugural disabled astronaut and former British Paralympian, is undergoing tests by the European Space Agency (ESA) to assess potential air quality risks posed by his prosthetic leg within the International Space Station (ISS). His carbon-fibre&nbsp;socket and high-density foam components may emit gases over time, prompting scrutiny.</p>

<p>McFall's prosthetic leg, made of a carbon-fibre socket impregnated with resin and high-density foam made with polymers, could release gases that, in the ISS's recycled air, might accumulate over time. The ESA aims to determine if these materials meet NASA standards and if any risks can be mitigated for long-term space habitation.</p>

<p>This concern is part of a broader feasibility study by the ESA, exploring the impact of prosthetic use and amputee conditions in space. McFall's astronaut training is intertwined with this study, with a decision on his potential space mission contingent on the study's outcome in 2025.</p>

<h2><strong>Inclusivity in Space Exploration</strong></h2>

<p>McFall, who lost his right leg in a motorcycle accident at 19, is a seasoned Paralympian and views this opportunity as a groundbreaking step in making space exploration inclusive for individuals with physical disabilities. The decision to include a "para-astronaut" in space missions marks an unprecedented move for major Western space agencies.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-warns-of-solar-storm-hitting-earth-today-amid-increased-activity-fiery-eruptions-on-sun-662975">Also read |&nbsp;NASA warns of solar storm hitting Earth amid increased activity, fiery eruptions on Sun</a></p>

<h2><strong>What is NASA's protocol for astronauts who die in space?</strong></h2>

<p>Over the course of slightly more than 60 years, 20 individuals have lost their lives in the pursuit of space exploration. Despite the seemingly low figure considering the intricacies of human spaceflight, NASA's ambitious plans to revisit the Moon by 2025, the venture to Mars within the next decade, and the growing prominence of commercial spaceflight suggest a shifting landscape where the potential for mortality looms, as highlighted by the Conversation.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Supernova, the largest explosion, takes place in space</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/supernova-the-largest-explosions-takes-place-in-space-556889/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In the event of a fatality occurring during a mission in low Earth orbit or on the Moon, practical measures have been established. Rapid return mechanisms, such as capsules or crew expeditions, are in place to ensure the prompt return of the deceased individual's body to Earth, typically within hours or days. In these circumstances, the priority lies in crew safety and adherence to operational protocols rather than focusing on the preservation of the deceased's body.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


John McFall, the inaugural disabled astronaut and former British Paralympian, is undergoing tests by the European Space Agency (ESA) to assess potential air quality risks posed by his prosthetic leg within the International Space Station (ISS).

John McFall, the inaugural disabled astronaut and former British Paralympian, is undergoing tests by the European Space Agency (ESA) to assess potential air quality risks posed by his prosthetic leg within the International Space Station (ISS). His carbon-fibre socket and high-density foam components may emit gases over time, prompting scrutiny. McFall's prosthetic leg, made of a carbon-fibre socket impregnated with resin and high-density foam made with polymers, could release gases that, in the ISS's recycled air, might accumulate over time. The ESA aims to determine if these materials meet NASA standards and if any risks can be mitigated for long-term space habitation. This concern is part of a broader feasibility study by the ESA, exploring the impact of prosthetic use and amputee conditions in space. McFall's astronaut training is intertwined with this study, with a decision on his potential space mission contingent on the study's outcome in 2025. Inclusivity in Space Exploration McFall, who lost his right leg in a motorcycle accident at 19, is a seasoned Paralympian and views this opportunity as a groundbreaking step in making space exploration inclusive for individuals with physical disabilities. The decision to include a "para-astronaut" in space missions marks an unprecedented move for major Western space agencies. Also read | NASA warns of solar storm hitting Earth amid increased activity, fiery eruptions on Sun What is NASA's protocol for astronauts who die in space? Over the course of slightly more than 60 years, 20 individuals have lost their lives in the pursuit of space exploration. Despite the seemingly low figure considering the intricacies of human spaceflight, NASA's ambitious plans to revisit the Moon by 2025, the venture to Mars within the next decade, and the growing prominence of commercial spaceflight suggest a shifting landscape where the potential for mortality looms, as highlighted by the Conversation. Watch | Supernova, the largest explosion, takes place in space In the event of a fatality occurring during a mission in low Earth orbit or on the Moon, practical measures have been established. Rapid return mechanisms, such as capsules or crew expeditions, are in place to ensure the prompt return of the deceased individual's body to Earth, typically within hours or days. In these circumstances, the priority lies in crew safety and adherence to operational protocols rather than focusing on the preservation of the deceased's body. (With inputs from agencies)

This para-astronaut's prosthetic leg might poison the space station

<p>Space travel, while inspring, poses unique challenges to the human body. One particularly unsettling phenomenon experienced by astronauts is onycholysis, where fingernails seemingly detach after extravehicular activities (EVAs) in space.</p>

<p>Space conditions, devoid of Earth's familiar environment, introduce several physiological challenges. Onycholysis, the detachment of fingernails, is&nbsp;an unexpected consequence of space travel.</p>

<p>The condition, termed onycholysis, has proven to be a complex problem with ties to atmospheric pressure and spacesuit design.</p>

<p>The minimal ambient pressure in space necessitates the pressurisation of astronauts' spacesuits for safety during EVAs.</p>

<p>However, this creates a challenge for hands, leading to common injuries and onycholysis. The pressurised gloves, essential for survival, restrict movement, causing pain, muscle fatigue, and even severe injuries, reported Science Alert.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/experts-raise-fears-over-british-astronauts-prosthetic-leg-potentially-poisoning-space-station-663636">Also read |&nbsp;This para-astronaut's prosthetic leg might poison the space station</a></p>

<h2><strong>Persistent glove-related injuries</strong></h2>

<p>Studies reveal that hand injuries, including onycholysis, persistently occur during EVAs despite advancements in spacesuit design.</p>

<p>Regardless of glove models or mission specifics, astronauts frequently encounter hand-related issues during their extravehicular activities.</p>

<p>In a 2010 study about&nbsp;232 reported hand injuries in astronauts, a correlation was found between knuckle width and injury risk.</p>

<p>The study suggested that the design of spacesuit gloves, particularly their impact on knuckle mobility, plays a crucial role in hand injuries, including onycholysis.</p>

<p>Spacesuit gloves are intricate, and made&nbsp;of multiple layers designed for comfort, pressure regulation, movement, and protection from space hazards.</p>

<p>Despite these complexities, finding a glove design that minimises the risk of onycholysis has proven challenging.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/evil-eye-in-the-sky-clicked-by-nasa-wows-netizens-663392">Also read |&nbsp;'Evil eye' in the sky clicked by NASA wows netizens</a></p>

<p>Engineer Christopher Reid led a study examining 31 onycholysis injuries reported by astronauts, offering new insights. The research identified glove design as a significant factor, with one type associated with an 8.5 times higher risk of fingernail loss. Middle finger injuries, influenced by glove sizing and length, were predominant, and onycholysis appeared more likely in women than men.</p>

<p>While the study suggests that poor glove fit may contribute to onycholysis, the future looks promising with the development of new Artemis-era spacesuits.</p>

<p>These advancements aim to address issues related to glove design and fit, potentially minimising the risk of onycholysis among astronauts.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Space travel, while inspring, poses unique challenges to the human body. One particularly unsettling phenomenon experienced by astronauts is onycholysis, where fingernails seemingly detach after extravehicular activities (EVAs) in space.

Space travel, while inspring, poses unique challenges to the human body. One particularly unsettling phenomenon experienced by astronauts is onycholysis, where fingernails seemingly detach after extravehicular activities (EVAs) in space. Space conditions, devoid of Earth's familiar environment, introduce several physiological challenges. Onycholysis, the detachment of fingernails, is an unexpected consequence of space travel. The condition, termed onycholysis, has proven to be a complex problem with ties to atmospheric pressure and spacesuit design. The minimal ambient pressure in space necessitates the pressurisation of astronauts' spacesuits for safety during EVAs. However, this creates a challenge for hands, leading to common injuries and onycholysis. The pressurised gloves, essential for survival, restrict movement, causing pain, muscle fatigue, and even severe injuries, reported Science Alert. Also read | This para-astronaut's prosthetic leg might poison the space station Persistent glove-related injuries Studies reveal that hand injuries, including onycholysis, persistently occur during EVAs despite advancements in spacesuit design. Regardless of glove models or mission specifics, astronauts frequently encounter hand-related issues during their extravehicular activities. In a 2010 study about 232 reported hand injuries in astronauts, a correlation was found between knuckle width and injury risk. The study suggested that the design of spacesuit gloves, particularly their impact on knuckle mobility, plays a crucial role in hand injuries, including onycholysis. Spacesuit gloves are intricate, and made of multiple layers designed for comfort, pressure regulation, movement, and protection from space hazards. Despite these complexities, finding a glove design that minimises the risk of onycholysis has proven challenging. Also read | 'Evil eye' in the sky clicked by NASA wows netizens Engineer Christopher Reid led a study examining 31 onycholysis injuries reported by astronauts, offering new insights. The research identified glove design as a significant factor, with one type associated with an 8.5 times higher risk of fingernail loss. Middle finger injuries, influenced by glove sizing and length, were predominant, and onycholysis appeared more likely in women than men. While the study suggests that poor glove fit may contribute to onycholysis, the future looks promising with the development of new Artemis-era spacesuits. These advancements aim to address issues related to glove design and fit, potentially minimising the risk of onycholysis among astronauts. (With inputs from agencies)

This is what happens to astronauts' fingernails after a walk in space, and it's scary

<p>Making a bizarre hope, a retired physics professor in the Midwest has been planning to send his DNA to the moon's southern pole after his death. The man has been hoping that it may be used for cloning one day in the intergalactic zoo.<br />
<br />
86-year-old Ken Ohm, while speaking to the New York Times, had said that there are endless possibilities of his bizarre death.<br />
<br />
He pointed out that his contribution can eventually play an important role in an intergalactic zoo where he hopes that his replica has been caged as a human specimen.<br />
<br />
“I’m living with the uncertainty,” stated Ohm. Ohm also has the chance of having a thousand versions of himself cloned, similar to the Republic Army from “Star Wars”.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-worlds-astronomers-discover-two-new-hot-jupiters-heres-all-about-these-exoplanets-662475">Alien worlds: Astronomers discover two new 'hot Jupiters'. Here's all about these exoplanets</a></p>

<p>Ohm, who was a former baseball player and javelin thrower, had wished to become a NASA astronaut during the heyday of the Apollo programme in the 1960s. He said that he was rejected because of his height.<br />
<br />
“I did everything I was supposed to, except shrink,” Ohm lamented.<br />
<br />
As per the man, even if the results are not as expected, the thought that the generations ahead can now look at the moon and think that “Old Ken has his DNA up there” is enough to inspire him to do that.</p>

<h2><strong>Sending Earthling remains at affordable rates</strong></h2>

<p>Ohm, who has been a teacher for 50 years and has written several books related to the moon and Midwestern life, will be sending his DNA into space with the help of Celestis, which specialises in transferring Earthling remains and ashes to space on a rocket flight at “surprisingly affordable” rates which began at $2,495.<br />
<br />
A trip to deep space or the lunar surface costs around $13,000, which is slightly above the average funeral cost of about $10,000 in New York. Ohm is not the only one who wants to send his DNA into space.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre to mark 60th anniversary of first rocket launch from Thumba</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vikram-sarabhai-space-centre-to-mark-60th-anniversary-of-first-rocket-launch-from-thumba-661264/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Civilians, astronauts, and professional baseball players have made a commitment to an orbital end with Celestis. Celestis was set up in 1994 and has launched 17 “memorial” spaceflights since then.<br />
<br />
The next lunar flight of the company leaves from Cape Canaveral on Christmas Eve and will be landing on the northeastern end of the moon with remains and DNA.<br />
<br />
FDNY Battalion Chief Daniel Conlisk after his death wishes to send his remains into space along with those belonging to his wife Kathy, who died last year.<br />
<br />
It was her wish to have “our ashes mixed together and sent into space,” explained 76-year-old Conlisk.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Making a bizarre hope, a retired physics professor in the Midwest has been planning to send his DNA to the moon's southern pole after his death. The man has been hoping that it may be used for cloning one day in the intergalactic zoo.

Making a bizarre hope, a retired physics professor in the Midwest has been planning to send his DNA to the moon's southern pole after his death. The man has been hoping that it may be used for cloning one day in the intergalactic zoo. 86-year-old Ken Ohm, while speaking to the New York Times, had said that there are endless possibilities of his bizarre death. He pointed out that his contribution can eventually play an important role in an intergalactic zoo where he hopes that his replica has been caged as a human specimen. “I’m living with the uncertainty,” stated Ohm. Ohm also has the chance of having a thousand versions of himself cloned, similar to the Republic Army from “Star Wars”. Also read: Alien worlds: Astronomers discover two new 'hot Jupiters'. Here's all about these exoplanets Ohm, who was a former baseball player and javelin thrower, had wished to become a NASA astronaut during the heyday of the Apollo programme in the 1960s. He said that he was rejected because of his height. “I did everything I was supposed to, except shrink,” Ohm lamented. As per the man, even if the results are not as expected, the thought that the generations ahead can now look at the moon and think that “Old Ken has his DNA up there” is enough to inspire him to do that. Sending Earthling remains at affordable rates Ohm, who has been a teacher for 50 years and has written several books related to the moon and Midwestern life, will be sending his DNA into space with the help of Celestis, which specialises in transferring Earthling remains and ashes to space on a rocket flight at “surprisingly affordable” rates which began at $2,495. A trip to deep space or the lunar surface costs around $13,000, which is slightly above the average funeral cost of about $10,000 in New York. Ohm is not the only one who wants to send his DNA into space. Watch: Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre to mark 60th anniversary of first rocket launch from Thumba Civilians, astronauts, and professional baseball players have made a commitment to an orbital end with Celestis. Celestis was set up in 1994 and has launched 17 “memorial” spaceflights since then. The next lunar flight of the company leaves from Cape Canaveral on Christmas Eve and will be landing on the northeastern end of the moon with remains and DNA. FDNY Battalion Chief Daniel Conlisk after his death wishes to send his remains into space along with those belonging to his wife Kathy, who died last year. It was her wish to have “our ashes mixed together and sent into space,” explained 76-year-old Conlisk. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Man to send DNA to moon after death to get his clone created in space

<p>An international team of astronomers, with the use of NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), discovered two new "hot Jupiter" exoplanets.<br />
<br />
The newly-discovered alien worlds, which have been named TOI-4377 b and TOI-4551 b, are both orbit distant red-giant stars. The discoveries were reported in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society on November 8.<br />
<br />
TESS, which was launched in April 2018, has been conducting a survey of nearly 200,000 of the brightest stars near the sun. The survey is aimed at searching for transiting exoplanets, which range from small, rocky worlds to gaseous giants.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-deep-space-optical-comm-achieves-first-light-as-it-sends-and-receives-data-661088">Laser message reaches Earth from nearly 10 million miles away in space</a></p>

<p>To date, it has identified around 7,000 candidate exoplanets (TESS Objects of Interest, or TOI), among which 402 have so far been confirmed.<br />
<br />
A team of astronomers, headed by Filipe Pereira of the University of Porto, Portugal, confirmed spotting another two TOIs with the help of TESS. A transit signal was identified by them in the light curve of red-giant stars which are called TOI-4377 and TOI-4551, and are located 1,486 and 704 light years away.<br />
<br />
In follow-up radial velocity observations, with the use of ground-based telescopes, the astronomers verified the planetary nature of these signals. "The planets were found during a search for transits around bright, low-luminosity red-giant branch stars observed by TESS in the southern ecliptic hemisphere," the researchers said, in the paper.</p>

<h2><strong>Researchers label exoplanets as 'hot Jupiters'</strong></h2>

<p>The radius of TOI-4377 b is about 1.35 Jupiter radii and it has a mass of some 0.96 Jupiter masses. The planet has been observed to be orbiting its host every 4.38 days, from a distance of 0.058 AU, and its equilibrium temperature.<br />
<br />
The radius of planet TOI-4551 b is about 6 per cent larger compared to Jupiter, while its mass is nearly 1.49 Jupiter masses. As per the observations, TOI-4551 b has an orbital period of nearly 10 days.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;SpaceX launches 22 Starlink satellites into orbit, launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base | WION</strong></p>

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<p>They are both nearly 3.5 times larger compared to the sun and have effective temperatures of nearly 5,000 K. It has been estimated that TOI-4377 is nearly 3.88 billion years old, and TOI-4551 is around 1 billion years older.<br />
<br />
Concluding the observations, the papers' authors stated that TOI-4377 b and TOI-4551 are both classified as "hot Jupiters" and are an example of giant alien worlds which have short orbital periods.<br />
<br />
"All in all, the two newly confirmed planets enrich the existing population of known hot Jupiters orbiting evolved hosts. They should prove particularly relevant to demographic studies of short-period giant planets around red-giant stars, where only a handful of planets are known," explained the researchers.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An international team of astronomers, with the use of NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), discovered two new "hot Jupiter" exoplanets. The newly-discovered alien worlds, which have been named TOI-4377 b and TOI-4551 b, are both orbit distant red-giant stars.

An international team of astronomers, with the use of NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), discovered two new "hot Jupiter" exoplanets. The newly-discovered alien worlds, which have been named TOI-4377 b and TOI-4551 b, are both orbit distant red-giant stars. The discoveries were reported in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society on November 8. TESS, which was launched in April 2018, has been conducting a survey of nearly 200,000 of the brightest stars near the sun. The survey is aimed at searching for transiting exoplanets, which range from small, rocky worlds to gaseous giants. Also Read: Laser message reaches Earth from nearly 10 million miles away in space To date, it has identified around 7,000 candidate exoplanets (TESS Objects of Interest, or TOI), among which 402 have so far been confirmed. A team of astronomers, headed by Filipe Pereira of the University of Porto, Portugal, confirmed spotting another two TOIs with the help of TESS. A transit signal was identified by them in the light curve of red-giant stars which are called TOI-4377 and TOI-4551, and are located 1,486 and 704 light years away. In follow-up radial velocity observations, with the use of ground-based telescopes, the astronomers verified the planetary nature of these signals. "The planets were found during a search for transits around bright, low-luminosity red-giant branch stars observed by TESS in the southern ecliptic hemisphere," the researchers said, in the paper. Researchers label exoplanets as 'hot Jupiters' The radius of TOI-4377 b is about 1.35 Jupiter radii and it has a mass of some 0.96 Jupiter masses. The planet has been observed to be orbiting its host every 4.38 days, from a distance of 0.058 AU, and its equilibrium temperature. The radius of planet TOI-4551 b is about 6 per cent larger compared to Jupiter, while its mass is nearly 1.49 Jupiter masses. As per the observations, TOI-4551 b has an orbital period of nearly 10 days. Watch: SpaceX launches 22 Starlink satellites into orbit, launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base | WION They are both nearly 3.5 times larger compared to the sun and have effective temperatures of nearly 5,000 K. It has been estimated that TOI-4377 is nearly 3.88 billion years old, and TOI-4551 is around 1 billion years older. Concluding the observations, the papers' authors stated that TOI-4377 b and TOI-4551 are both classified as "hot Jupiters" and are an example of giant alien worlds which have short orbital periods. "All in all, the two newly confirmed planets enrich the existing population of known hot Jupiters orbiting evolved hosts. They should prove particularly relevant to demographic studies of short-period giant planets around red-giant stars, where only a handful of planets are known," explained the researchers. (With inputs from agencies)

Alien worlds: Astronomers discover two new 'hot Jupiters'. Here's all about these exoplanets

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<p>Indian and Japanese space agencies have been working on a lander-rover mission to explore the moon. Known as LUPEX (Lunar Polar Exploration Mission), this mission is currently in its planning phase. The latest details to emerge from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) suggest that the mission could live for 100 days on the lunar surface, which is more than five times the mission life of India's successful lunar mission Chandrayaan-3. LUPEX could also involve a massive lunar rover&nbsp;that weighs 350 kg. For scale, the Chandrayaan-3 rover 'Pragyan', weighed 26 kg. These preliminary details were shared recently by Nilesh Desai, director, Space Applications Centre, ISRO.</p>

<p>Addressing students and faculty at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Desai elaborated on the plans related to the LUPEX mission. He said that the Japanese H3 rocket would be used for launching this mission, which would eventually land at the exact lunar south pole (90-degree latitude) and explore the permanently shadowed regions in the vicinity of the south pole, by performing drilling and in-situ experiments.</p>

<p>Notably, the Chandrayaan-3 Vikram lander had touched down near the 70-degree latitude of the moon and it was the closest that any craft had landed to the unexplored lunar south pole. He added that the lunar lander would be built by ISRO and it would carry a Japanese-built lunar rover. The permanently shadowed areas at the lunar south pole are of significance, as they are widely believed to contain ice and other minerals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the third Indian lunar mission lasted for its planned mission life of 14 Earth days (1 lunar day), he said that LUPEX was being planned for a mission life of nearly 100 Earth days. The LUPEX rover is also meant to explore a 1km x 1km area at the lunar south pole, as opposed to the 500m x 500m exploration area that was chosen for Chandrayaan-3.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chandrayaan-3-successfully-completed-fortnight-long-mission-643062"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Chandrayaan-3 successfully completed fortnight-long mission</strong></a></p>

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<p>Sharing insights into the payloads that the ISRO-built lander would carry, he said that it would have a ground penetrating radar, mid-infrared spectrometer and Raman Spectrometer, Permittivity and thermophysical investigation for Moon's aquatic scout (PRATHIMA) payloads. In addition to this, there would also be Japanese sensors, he said. For the Chandrayaan-3 landing mission, the Space Applications Centre(SAC), Ahmedabad, has contributed 11 systems, of which eight were camera systems, Desai added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ishii Yasuo, vice president of the Japanese Space Agency JAXA had earlier told&nbsp;<em>WION&nbsp;</em>about how the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 would offer further confidence for the Indo-Japanese moon mission and its progress. Likewise, Nilesh Desai mentioned that the Japanese moon mission 'Moon Sniper' that is travelling to the moon is aiming to demonstrate a precise landing within a small area.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-remote-areas-may-soon-get-eutelsat-oneweb-satellite-internet-661237"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India’s remote areas may soon get Eutelsat-OneWeb satellite internet</strong></a></p>

<p>Desai said that LUPEX would be looking to do something similar and attempt to land at the rim of a lunar crater. The lunar south polar region has very harsh and unpredictable terrain that comprises 2km-tall mountains, deep craters, and boulders, thereby making any landing attempt immensely challenging.</p>

<p>However, it must be remembered that such a joint mission requires various phases of detailed discussion, and technical consultations before it can even proceed to the hardware being finalised, developed, integrated, tested and readied. In such cases, scientists from both agencies are required to visit the facilities of the other and work together on crucial aspects of the mission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It would be safe to say that a mission of this kind that involves close cooperation between two space agencies, would take a handful of years to materialise. Given that this mission is years away, the various science outcomes and lessons learnt from Chandrayaan-3 could be implemented in LUPEX&nbsp;to make it more advanced and thereby derive more science and data from the lunar South Pole.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Indian and Japanese space agencies have been working on a lander-rover mission to explore the moon. Known as LUPEX (Lunar Polar Exploration Mission), this mission is currently in its planning phase.

Indian and Japanese space agencies have been working on a lander-rover mission to explore the moon. Known as LUPEX (Lunar Polar Exploration Mission), this mission is currently in its planning phase. The latest details to emerge from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) suggest that the mission could live for 100 days on the lunar surface, which is more than five times the mission life of India's successful lunar mission Chandrayaan-3. LUPEX could also involve a massive lunar rover that weighs 350 kg. For scale, the Chandrayaan-3 rover 'Pragyan', weighed 26 kg. These preliminary details were shared recently by Nilesh Desai, director, Space Applications Centre, ISRO. Addressing students and faculty at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Desai elaborated on the plans related to the LUPEX mission. He said that the Japanese H3 rocket would be used for launching this mission, which would eventually land at the exact lunar south pole (90-degree latitude) and explore the permanently shadowed regions in the vicinity of the south pole, by performing drilling and in-situ experiments. Notably, the Chandrayaan-3 Vikram lander had touched down near the 70-degree latitude of the moon and it was the closest that any craft had landed to the unexplored lunar south pole. He added that the lunar lander would be built by ISRO and it would carry a Japanese-built lunar rover. The permanently shadowed areas at the lunar south pole are of significance, as they are widely believed to contain ice and other minerals. While the third Indian lunar mission lasted for its planned mission life of 14 Earth days (1 lunar day), he said that LUPEX was being planned for a mission life of nearly 100 Earth days. The LUPEX rover is also meant to explore a 1km x 1km area at the lunar south pole, as opposed to the 500m x 500m exploration area that was chosen for Chandrayaan-3. Watch | Chandrayaan-3 successfully completed fortnight-long mission × Sharing insights into the payloads that the ISRO-built lander would carry, he said that it would have a ground penetrating radar, mid-infrared spectrometer and Raman Spectrometer, Permittivity and thermophysical investigation for Moon's aquatic scout (PRATHIMA) payloads. In addition to this, there would also be Japanese sensors, he said. For the Chandrayaan-3 landing mission, the Space Applications Centre(SAC), Ahmedabad, has contributed 11 systems, of which eight were camera systems, Desai added. Ishii Yasuo, vice president of the Japanese Space Agency JAXA had earlier told WION about how the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 would offer further confidence for the Indo-Japanese moon mission and its progress. Likewise, Nilesh Desai mentioned that the Japanese moon mission 'Moon Sniper' that is travelling to the moon is aiming to demonstrate a precise landing within a small area. Also read | India’s remote areas may soon get Eutelsat-OneWeb satellite internet Desai said that LUPEX would be looking to do something similar and attempt to land at the rim of a lunar crater. The lunar south polar region has very harsh and unpredictable terrain that comprises 2km-tall mountains, deep craters, and boulders, thereby making any landing attempt immensely challenging. However, it must be remembered that such a joint mission requires various phases of detailed discussion, and technical consultations before it can even proceed to the hardware being finalised, developed, integrated, tested and readied. In such cases, scientists from both agencies are required to visit the facilities of the other and work together on crucial aspects of the mission. It would be safe to say that a mission of this kind that involves close cooperation between two space agencies, would take a handful of years to materialise. Given that this mission is years away, the various science outcomes and lessons learnt from Chandrayaan-3 could be implemented in LUPEX to make it more advanced and thereby derive more science and data from the lunar South Pole.

India-Japan Moon mission LUPEX could break the records of Chandrayaan-3

<p>In a significant development in the Indian telecom and space sector, private firm Eutelsat-OneWeb has received the necessary clearances to beam 4G-speed internet from their satellites into Indian territory and the country's territorial waters.</p>

<p>At present, the company is awaiting satellite spectrum allocation from the Government of India. The firm has a constellation of more than 640 satellites, placed 1200kms above the earth's surface.</p>

<p>Notably, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), played a role in placing 72 of these satellites into orbit at a crucial time for the company.</p>

<p>Eutelsat-OneWeb is the first to receive this clearance in India at a time when there have been reports of Elon Musk's Starlink and Mukesh Ambani's JioSpaceFiber (a partnership between Reliance Jio and SES) also attempting to foray into this segment in India.</p>

<p>While not much is known about the progress of Starlink's India presence and the ground hardware for the same, recent reports have indicated a technical setback faced by SES, temporarily affecting the functionality of the O3b mPower satellites and thereby the JioSpaceFiber venture.</p>

<p>Eutelsat-OneWeb aims to provide internet services to the rural and unconnected areas, territorial waters of India on a 24/7 basis. The total quantum of internet speed that can be provided would be 21Gbps, they added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bharti Group Chairman and Vice-President (Co-Chair) of the Board of Directors of Eutelsat Group, Sunil Bharti Mittal, said, “We are pleased to note the Indian space regulator’s green light to launch Eutelsat-OneWeb’s commercial satellite broadband services in India. This will be a critical step forward to meet India’s ambition of providing internet connectivity for all and will enable the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of Digital India. Eutelsat OneWeb is ready to deploy as soon as it receives the final spectrum authorization to launch commercial services.”</p>

<p>“As a next logical step, we are sanguine that the government will soon take the decision on satellite spectrum allocation to pave the way for the commencement of next-generation satellite communications in India,” said Lt. Gen AK Bhatt (Retd), who serves as the Director General of the Indian space industry body, Indian Space Association.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, IN-SPACe, the government-run facilitator and regulator for private space firms in India said that it has authorised Eutelsat-OneWeb constellation to enable the provisioning of its capacity in India for providing communication services.</p>

<p>However, the IN-SPACe authorisation provided to the firm has a validity period of five years and is subject to the assignment of the spectrum by the Indian Government's Department of Telecommunication (DoT) for both the gateways(ground-based stations that communicate with the satellites) and user terminal operations, and other requisite regulating licenses and approvals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read </strong>|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarakhand-tunnel-rescue-rescuers-release-first-visuals-of-trapped-workers-taken-via-endoscopic-camera-660965">WATCH I Uttarakhand tunnel rescue: First visuals of trapped workers taken via endoscopic camera released</a></p>

<p>Eutelsat-OneWeb said they have also obtained in-principle approval to establish and operate two gateways in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, which would secure the provision of vital high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity to customers across India, once services are rolled out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Low Earth orbit satellites, such as those operated by Eutelsat-Oneweb, circle the Earth at an altitude of 600-1200kms, travelling at high speeds of approximately 28,000kmph.</p>

<p>Therefore, a single satellite would be visible from one point on Earth only for a handful of minutes, which means that each satellite offers coverage only over a small area at a time.</p>

<p><strong>Also read </strong>|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iceland-volcanic-eruption-may-happen-with-30-minute-warning-met-office-661221">Iceland volcanic eruption may happen with 30-minute warning: Met Office</a></p>

<p>In order to operate any service from LEO, one would require a fleet of satellites covering the earth and performing a sort of endless relay race - where one takes over after the other.</p>

<p>This is precisely why Eutelsat-OneWeb operates more than 640 satellites in its fleet. Being close to the earth, it is possible to rapidly beam down internet signals from these satellites and enable internet usage on-board flights, ships, and even in remote areas (where terrestrial communication connectivity is sparse) for high-speed utilities such as video-calling, online gaming, etc.</p>

<p>In contrast, geostationary satellites are perched at 36,000-km above the Earth's surface. When looked at from the blue planet, they always appear to be in a constant position at all times. This is because they move at the same speed at the earth's rotation.</p>

<p>Being as far above from the Earth, three equally-spaced geostationary satellites are capable of providing near-total global coverage. However, the regions near the earth's poles would find it very challenging to receive signals from these satellites. Also, there is a considerable amount of lag due to the long distance between the satellite and Earth. Therefore, it is not ideal for telephony and video-calling, online gaming, etc.</p>


In a significant development in the Indian telecom and space sector, private firm Eutelsat-OneWeb has received the necessary clearances to beam 4G-speed internet from their satellites into Indian territory and the country's territorial waters.

In a significant development in the Indian telecom and space sector, private firm Eutelsat-OneWeb has received the necessary clearances to beam 4G-speed internet from their satellites into Indian territory and the country's territorial waters. At present, the company is awaiting satellite spectrum allocation from the Government of India. The firm has a constellation of more than 640 satellites, placed 1200kms above the earth's surface. Notably, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), played a role in placing 72 of these satellites into orbit at a crucial time for the company. Eutelsat-OneWeb is the first to receive this clearance in India at a time when there have been reports of Elon Musk's Starlink and Mukesh Ambani's JioSpaceFiber (a partnership between Reliance Jio and SES) also attempting to foray into this segment in India. While not much is known about the progress of Starlink's India presence and the ground hardware for the same, recent reports have indicated a technical setback faced by SES, temporarily affecting the functionality of the O3b mPower satellites and thereby the JioSpaceFiber venture. Eutelsat-OneWeb aims to provide internet services to the rural and unconnected areas, territorial waters of India on a 24/7 basis. The total quantum of internet speed that can be provided would be 21Gbps, they added. Bharti Group Chairman and Vice-President (Co-Chair) of the Board of Directors of Eutelsat Group, Sunil Bharti Mittal, said, “We are pleased to note the Indian space regulator’s green light to launch Eutelsat-OneWeb’s commercial satellite broadband services in India. This will be a critical step forward to meet India’s ambition of providing internet connectivity for all and will enable the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of Digital India. Eutelsat OneWeb is ready to deploy as soon as it receives the final spectrum authorization to launch commercial services.” “As a next logical step, we are sanguine that the government will soon take the decision on satellite spectrum allocation to pave the way for the commencement of next-generation satellite communications in India,” said Lt. Gen AK Bhatt (Retd), who serves as the Director General of the Indian space industry body, Indian Space Association. On Tuesday, IN-SPACe, the government-run facilitator and regulator for private space firms in India said that it has authorised Eutelsat-OneWeb constellation to enable the provisioning of its capacity in India for providing communication services. However, the IN-SPACe authorisation provided to the firm has a validity period of five years and is subject to the assignment of the spectrum by the Indian Government's Department of Telecommunication (DoT) for both the gateways(ground-based stations that communicate with the satellites) and user terminal operations, and other requisite regulating licenses and approvals. Also read | WATCH I Uttarakhand tunnel rescue: First visuals of trapped workers taken via endoscopic camera released Eutelsat-OneWeb said they have also obtained in-principle approval to establish and operate two gateways in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, which would secure the provision of vital high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity to customers across India, once services are rolled out. Low Earth orbit satellites, such as those operated by Eutelsat-Oneweb, circle the Earth at an altitude of 600-1200kms, travelling at high speeds of approximately 28,000kmph. Therefore, a single satellite would be visible from one point on Earth only for a handful of minutes, which means that each satellite offers coverage only over a small area at a time. Also read | Iceland volcanic eruption may happen with 30-minute warning: Met Office In order to operate any service from LEO, one would require a fleet of satellites covering the earth and performing a sort of endless relay race - where one takes over after the other. This is precisely why Eutelsat-OneWeb operates more than 640 satellites in its fleet. Being close to the earth, it is possible to rapidly beam down internet signals from these satellites and enable internet usage on-board flights, ships, and even in remote areas (where terrestrial communication connectivity is sparse) for high-speed utilities such as video-calling, online gaming, etc. In contrast, geostationary satellites are perched at 36,000-km above the Earth's surface. When looked at from the blue planet, they always appear to be in a constant position at all times. This is because they move at the same speed at the earth's rotation. Being as far above from the Earth, three equally-spaced geostationary satellites are capable of providing near-total global coverage. However, the regions near the earth's poles would find it very challenging to receive signals from these satellites. Also, there is a considerable amount of lag due to the long distance between the satellite and Earth. Therefore, it is not ideal for telephony and video-calling, online gaming, etc.

India’s remote areas may soon get Eutelsat-OneWeb satellite internet

<p>SpaceX lost communication with its Starship rocket minutes after it entered space, for the first time, during its second launch attempt. As per reports, the mission is presumed to have failed.&nbsp;“We have lost the data from the second stage… we think we may have lost the second stage,” SpaceX’s livestream host John Insprucker reportedly said.</p>

<p>The booster, which was supposed to have water landing exploded. SpaceX said the booster saw a "rapid unscheduled disassembly shortly after stage separation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>SpaceX founder Elon Musk made another attempt to launch the groundbreaking rocket, Starship, after the April setback.&nbsp;The rocket's initial flight in April garnered attention for all the wrong reasons, as it lost control and exploded just four minutes after takeoff in Texas.</p>

<p>Engineers at Musk's SpaceX implemented modifications to enhance Starship's reliability. The much-anticipated lift-off took place from Boca Chica, a coastal town, within a 20-minute window starting at 13:00 GMT.</p>

<p>The mission objective is consistent with the previous failed attempt made by Starship in April this year. Should the launch go according to the plan, the spacecraft is poised to complete nearly a full revolution around the Earth.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-without-oxygen-this-is-when-our-planet-will-lose-an-oxygen-rich-atmosphere-660107">Earth without oxygen? This is when our planet will lose an oxygen-rich atmosphere</a></p>

<p>The purpose of the mission is to send the top part of the two-stage vehicle, known as the Ship, around the Earth.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Liftoff of Starship! <a href="https://t.co/qXnGXXZP5k">pic.twitter.com/qXnGXXZP5k</a></p>
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<p>Starship, a cutting-edge two-stage super heavy-lift launch vehicle, and spacecraft, stands as the tallest and most powerful. The primary goal behind Starship's design is full reusability, with both stages intended to be recovered and reused.</p>

<p>The uncrewed craft is expected to make an ocean splashdown near Kauai, one of the Hawaiian islands.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mars-vanishes-in-rare-celestial-event-will-come-back-after-2-weeks-660104">Mars vanishes in rare celestial event, will come back after 2 weeks</a></p>

<p>Success with Starship could mark a revolutionary breakthrough, media reports said adding that this achievement would align with Musk's ambitious goal of establishing a human settlement on Mars by facilitating more efficient transport of people and supplies.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-arming-israel-as-pro-palestinian-rallies-take-place-in-country-660124">Pak arming Israel as pro-Palestinian rallies take place in country?</a></strong></p>

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<p>Musk's vision is a fully reusable rocket capable of placing over a hundred tonnes into orbit in a single launch, dramatically reducing the cost of space activities. As per a post by SpaceX on the X social media platform, Starship was fully loaded with more than 4500 metric tonnes (10 million pounds) of propellant.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


SpaceX lost communication with its Starship rocket minutes after it entered space, for the first time, during its second launch attempt. As per reports, the mission is presumed to have failed.

SpaceX lost communication with its Starship rocket minutes after it entered space, for the first time, during its second launch attempt. As per reports, the mission is presumed to have failed. “We have lost the data from the second stage… we think we may have lost the second stage,” SpaceX’s livestream host John Insprucker reportedly said. The booster, which was supposed to have water landing exploded. SpaceX said the booster saw a "rapid unscheduled disassembly shortly after stage separation." SpaceX founder Elon Musk made another attempt to launch the groundbreaking rocket, Starship, after the April setback. The rocket's initial flight in April garnered attention for all the wrong reasons, as it lost control and exploded just four minutes after takeoff in Texas. Engineers at Musk's SpaceX implemented modifications to enhance Starship's reliability. The much-anticipated lift-off took place from Boca Chica, a coastal town, within a 20-minute window starting at 13:00 GMT. The mission objective is consistent with the previous failed attempt made by Starship in April this year. Should the launch go according to the plan, the spacecraft is poised to complete nearly a full revolution around the Earth. Also Read | Earth without oxygen? This is when our planet will lose an oxygen-rich atmosphere The purpose of the mission is to send the top part of the two-stage vehicle, known as the Ship, around the Earth. Liftoff of Starship! pic.twitter.com/qXnGXXZP5k — SpaceX (@SpaceX) November 18, 2023 × Starship, a cutting-edge two-stage super heavy-lift launch vehicle, and spacecraft, stands as the tallest and most powerful. The primary goal behind Starship's design is full reusability, with both stages intended to be recovered and reused. The uncrewed craft is expected to make an ocean splashdown near Kauai, one of the Hawaiian islands. Also Read | Mars vanishes in rare celestial event, will come back after 2 weeks Success with Starship could mark a revolutionary breakthrough, media reports said adding that this achievement would align with Musk's ambitious goal of establishing a human settlement on Mars by facilitating more efficient transport of people and supplies. Watch | Pak arming Israel as pro-Palestinian rallies take place in country? × Musk's vision is a fully reusable rocket capable of placing over a hundred tonnes into orbit in a single launch, dramatically reducing the cost of space activities. As per a post by SpaceX on the X social media platform, Starship was fully loaded with more than 4500 metric tonnes (10 million pounds) of propellant. (With inputs from agencies)

Starship loses contact with SpaceX, booster explodes minutes after launch

<p>In a first, scientists have detected a soft green glow in the night sky of Mars that can be seen with our human eyes.<br />
<br />
The European Space Agency's (ESA) ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter mission while orbiting around Mars spotted the Martian night sky filled with light in the optical spectrum.<br />
<br />
As per the scientists, the light is so bright in the polar regions that there is a possibility of human explorers seeing it if the night sky is clear of clouds.<br />
<br />
"These observations are unexpected and interesting for future trips to the Red Planet," stated planetary scientist Jean-Claude Gerard of the University of Liege in Belgium.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-can-now-produce-oxygen-on-mars-all-thanks-to-an-ai-powered-robot-chemist-658247">Scientists can now produce oxygen on Mars, all thanks to an AI-powered robot chemist</a></p>

<p>In the solar system's atmospheres, the nightglow has been a relatively common phenomenon. Scientists have seen infrared and ultraviolet nightglow in the night sky on Mars and have also observed dayglow caused by the atmospheric absorption and energy released from solar radiation in the visible spectrum on Mars.<br />
<br />
However, "no nightglow spectrum has been observed so far in the visible domain," wrote the researchers. "Scattered solar light hinders such measurements from Earth's ground and no space-borne instrument has observed the Mars visible nightglow,” they added.<br />
<br />
Gerard and his team, intrigued by the discovery of ultraviolet and infrared nightglow and ultraviolet and visible dayglow on Mars, looked into data gathered by Trace Gas Orbiter which pointed at the instruments at the edge of the atmosphere which found signs of nightglow across visible ultraviolet wavelengths.</p>

<h2><strong>Nightglow seen in the south pole during Martian winter</strong></h2>

<p>The visible nightglow was seen during the Martian winter at the south pole between altitudes of 40 and 60 kilometres (25 to 37 miles).<br />
<br />
The researchers stated that this was a result of oxygen atoms which had combined into dioxygen (O2) after getting transported from the sunny Martian day and emitted a glow in the process – one which was bright enough that it was visible from the ground.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Scientists surprised by source of largest quake detected on Mars</strong></p>

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<p>"This O2 nightglow should be observable from a Martian orbiter as well as from the Martian surface with the naked eye under clear sky conditions. These observations pave the way to future global observations of the Martian atmospheric circulation with simpler lower-cost instrumentation,” the researchers wrote.<br />
<br />
All varieties of atmospheric glows are tracers of atmospheric circulation, chemistry, and processes. The atmosphere of Mars is very thin and finding out what it contains will help scientists know why and where the rest of it went.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a first, scientists have detected a soft green glow in the night sky of Mars that can be seen with our human eyes. The European Space Agency's (ESA) ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter mission while orbiting around Mars spotted the Martian night sky filled with light in the optical spectrum.

In a first, scientists have detected a soft green glow in the night sky of Mars that can be seen with our human eyes. The European Space Agency's (ESA) ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter mission while orbiting around Mars spotted the Martian night sky filled with light in the optical spectrum. As per the scientists, the light is so bright in the polar regions that there is a possibility of human explorers seeing it if the night sky is clear of clouds. "These observations are unexpected and interesting for future trips to the Red Planet," stated planetary scientist Jean-Claude Gerard of the University of Liege in Belgium. Also read: Scientists can now produce oxygen on Mars, all thanks to an AI-powered robot chemist In the solar system's atmospheres, the nightglow has been a relatively common phenomenon. Scientists have seen infrared and ultraviolet nightglow in the night sky on Mars and have also observed dayglow caused by the atmospheric absorption and energy released from solar radiation in the visible spectrum on Mars. However, "no nightglow spectrum has been observed so far in the visible domain," wrote the researchers. "Scattered solar light hinders such measurements from Earth's ground and no space-borne instrument has observed the Mars visible nightglow,” they added. Gerard and his team, intrigued by the discovery of ultraviolet and infrared nightglow and ultraviolet and visible dayglow on Mars, looked into data gathered by Trace Gas Orbiter which pointed at the instruments at the edge of the atmosphere which found signs of nightglow across visible ultraviolet wavelengths. Nightglow seen in the south pole during Martian winter The visible nightglow was seen during the Martian winter at the south pole between altitudes of 40 and 60 kilometres (25 to 37 miles). The researchers stated that this was a result of oxygen atoms which had combined into dioxygen (O2) after getting transported from the sunny Martian day and emitted a glow in the process – one which was bright enough that it was visible from the ground. Watch: Scientists surprised by source of largest quake detected on Mars "This O2 nightglow should be observable from a Martian orbiter as well as from the Martian surface with the naked eye under clear sky conditions. These observations pave the way to future global observations of the Martian atmospheric circulation with simpler lower-cost instrumentation,” the researchers wrote. All varieties of atmospheric glows are tracers of atmospheric circulation, chemistry, and processes. The atmosphere of Mars is very thin and finding out what it contains will help scientists know why and where the rest of it went. (With inputs from agencies)

In a first, scientists detect eerie green glow in night sky of Mars

In an exclusive interview with WION's Moohita Kaur Garg, Harvard Professor and UFO expert Avi Loeb provides a unique perspective on why hasn't humanity heard the figurative knocking on its celestial doors. He answers the age-old question: Have aliens been among us all along?

Are Peruvian Alien Mummies Real or a Clever Hoax? Expert Weighs In!

<p>Stars, galaxies, and their celestial names are above humans and our inherent bigotry...or are they?&nbsp;</p>

<p>A group of scientists has called for the renaming of galaxies named after a 16th-century explorer, who they say left behind a "violent colonialist legacy".&nbsp;</p>

<p>They say that science is for everyone and that astrological objects should not be named after someone with the stain of slavery on their legacy.</p>

<h2><strong>All in the name?</strong></h2>

<p>The Large and Small Magellanic Clouds, dwarf galaxies in the Milky Way, are named after 16th-century Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan.</p>

<p>Visible to the naked eye from the Southern Hemisphere, these galaxies, as per claims, were "discovered" by Magellan and his crew between 1519 and 1522. They apparently discovered them during their first circumnavigation of the world.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-pooh-pooh-claims-that-extinct-ancient-human-homo-naledi-buried-its-dead-658437">Scientists pooh-pooh claims that extinct ancient human 'Homo naledi' buried its dead</a></strong></p>

<p>However, a group of astronomers from the United States say that this narrative is false that the galaxies were known to indigenous people for years, and that they had "names and legends for these systems that predate Magellan by thousands of years".</p>

<h2><strong>Why not Magellan's name?</strong></h2>

<p>Writing in the American Physical Society journal, Mia de los Reyes, an assistant professor of astronomy at Amherst College, Massachusetts, said: "The beauty of these starry objects is clouded by their names."</p>

<p>It's not just the names of these galaxies they want changed. The twin Magellan telescopes in Chile may also need a name change.</p>

<p>Describing Magellan as "a coloniser, a slaver and a murderer," Reyes writes: "I and a coalition of astronomers are calling for the scientific community to rename these galaxies, as well as other astronomical objects, institutions, and facilities that bear his name."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/trouble-in-space-soaring-costs-of-nasas-mars-sample-return-mission-risks-other-projects-657819">Trouble in space: Soaring costs of NASA's Mars Sample Return Mission risk other significant projects</a></strong></p>

<p>"I and many other astronomers believe that astronomical objects and facilities should not be named after Magellan, or after anyone else with a violent colonialist legacy," she adds.</p>

<p>However, not everyone likes the idea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A conservative MP for Harrow East, Bob Blackman, as per The Telegraph, has labelled the calls to rename these galaxies as "absolute nonsense".</p>

<p>He says that given that so many historical figures had their feet in the slave trade, we may not "have many left" that don't hurt someone's sensibilities.</p>

<p>"We can all look back on various different people's involvement in the slave trade, but the reality is that if you’re going to start renaming everything that involved everyone from the slave trade, you won’t have many left."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Stars, galaxies, and their celestial names are above humans and our inherent bigotry...or are they? A group of scientists has called for the renaming of galaxies named after a 16th-century explorer, who they say left behind a "violent colonialist legacy".

Stars, galaxies, and their celestial names are above humans and our inherent bigotry...or are they? A group of scientists has called for the renaming of galaxies named after a 16th-century explorer, who they say left behind a "violent colonialist legacy". They say that science is for everyone and that astrological objects should not be named after someone with the stain of slavery on their legacy. All in the name? The Large and Small Magellanic Clouds, dwarf galaxies in the Milky Way, are named after 16th-century Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan. Visible to the naked eye from the Southern Hemisphere, these galaxies, as per claims, were "discovered" by Magellan and his crew between 1519 and 1522. They apparently discovered them during their first circumnavigation of the world. Also read | Scientists pooh-pooh claims that extinct ancient human 'Homo naledi' buried its dead However, a group of astronomers from the United States say that this narrative is false that the galaxies were known to indigenous people for years, and that they had "names and legends for these systems that predate Magellan by thousands of years". Why not Magellan's name? Writing in the American Physical Society journal, Mia de los Reyes, an assistant professor of astronomy at Amherst College, Massachusetts, said: "The beauty of these starry objects is clouded by their names." It's not just the names of these galaxies they want changed. The twin Magellan telescopes in Chile may also need a name change. Describing Magellan as "a coloniser, a slaver and a murderer," Reyes writes: "I and a coalition of astronomers are calling for the scientific community to rename these galaxies, as well as other astronomical objects, institutions, and facilities that bear his name." Also read | Trouble in space: Soaring costs of NASA's Mars Sample Return Mission risk other significant projects "I and many other astronomers believe that astronomical objects and facilities should not be named after Magellan, or after anyone else with a violent colonialist legacy," she adds. However, not everyone likes the idea. A conservative MP for Harrow East, Bob Blackman, as per The Telegraph, has labelled the calls to rename these galaxies as "absolute nonsense". He says that given that so many historical figures had their feet in the slave trade, we may not "have many left" that don't hurt someone's sensibilities. "We can all look back on various different people's involvement in the slave trade, but the reality is that if you’re going to start renaming everything that involved everyone from the slave trade, you won’t have many left." (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists call to rename Magellan galaxies alleging their namesake had a violent legacy

<p>Devil Comet with horns, the colossal, cryovolcanic comet three times the size of Mount Everest, has once again experienced an explosive event as it makes its way towards our planet Earth.</p>

<h2><strong>Devil Comet with horns</strong></h2>

<p>The colossal comet got the name after two devil-like horns were observed during its previous outbursts. However, this time astronomers did not spot signs of a dark lane in the comet's coma — a hazy cloud which surrounds its nucleus.</p>

<p>It is also known as 12P/Pons-Brooks and just a couple of days back (on Tuesday), it exploded for the fourth time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronomers-baffled-by-mysterious-space-explosions-called-tasmanian-devil-659479">Dead star called 'Tasmanian devil' releasing signs of life months after explosion</a></strong></p>

<p>As per an Earth.com report, experts say this might've been its biggest outburst yet. Daily Mail reports that this caused the comet to abruptly brighten more than 100 times, to shine as bright as the Elliptical Galaxy located some 600 million light-years from Earth.</p>

<p>Described as a 'cold volcano', the space rock is about 18 miles in diameter. It is called a cold volcano because it violently ejects ice and gas.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Previous explosions of Devil Comet</strong></h2>

<p>The last outburst of the so-called Devil Comet happened only two weeks back.</p>

<p>As per Elliot Herman, who has been tracking the comet, "Comet 12P appears to be manifesting more frequent outbursts, a new outburst only two weeks from the prior outburst is now apparent."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-a-first-scientists-detect-eerie-green-glow-in-night-sky-of-mars-659465">In a first, scientists detect eerie green glow in night sky of Mars</a></strong></p>

<p>"This new outburst is the fourth since the July outburst began the show. Gaps due to cloudy nights."</p>

<p>Its previous outbursts were observed on July 20, and October 5th and the last one happened on November 1st.</p>

<p>The comet will reach its closest point in its orbit of Earth in June 2024. However, it is not a danger to the planet. As estimates say, it will pass by at a safe distance.</p>

<p>Following this, the devil&nbsp;comet with horns will not return for decades, until the year 2095.</p>


Devil Comet with horns, the colossal, cryovolcanic comet three times the size of Mount Everest, has once again experienced an explosive event as it makes its way towards our planet Earth.

Devil Comet with horns, the colossal, cryovolcanic comet three times the size of Mount Everest, has once again experienced an explosive event as it makes its way towards our planet Earth. Devil Comet with horns The colossal comet got the name after two devil-like horns were observed during its previous outbursts. However, this time astronomers did not spot signs of a dark lane in the comet's coma — a hazy cloud which surrounds its nucleus. It is also known as 12P/Pons-Brooks and just a couple of days back (on Tuesday), it exploded for the fourth time. Also read | Dead star called 'Tasmanian devil' releasing signs of life months after explosion As per an Earth.com report, experts say this might've been its biggest outburst yet. Daily Mail reports that this caused the comet to abruptly brighten more than 100 times, to shine as bright as the Elliptical Galaxy located some 600 million light-years from Earth. Described as a 'cold volcano', the space rock is about 18 miles in diameter. It is called a cold volcano because it violently ejects ice and gas. Previous explosions of Devil Comet The last outburst of the so-called Devil Comet happened only two weeks back. As per Elliot Herman, who has been tracking the comet, "Comet 12P appears to be manifesting more frequent outbursts, a new outburst only two weeks from the prior outburst is now apparent." Also read | In a first, scientists detect eerie green glow in night sky of Mars "This new outburst is the fourth since the July outburst began the show. Gaps due to cloudy nights." Its previous outbursts were observed on July 20, and October 5th and the last one happened on November 1st. The comet will reach its closest point in its orbit of Earth in June 2024. However, it is not a danger to the planet. As estimates say, it will pass by at a safe distance. Following this, the devil comet with horns will not return for decades, until the year 2095.

Devil Comet with horns, hurtling towards Earth, has exploded a fourth time

<p>Japanese space startup Ispace Inc is set to embark on its second lunar mission as early as 2024 despite the setback of its failed attempt in April to land a rover on the moon.&nbsp;The upcoming mission is scheduled to launch on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, possibly in the northern hemisphere winter of 2024, according to statements from the Tokyo-based company.</p>

<p>Ispace's CEO Takeshi Hakamada spoke of the importance of the experience and data gained from the initial mission, even while&nbsp;not achieving a successful moon landing.</p>

<p>“We may not have landed on the moon the first time, but the experience and data we gained are vital,” Chief Executive Officer Takeshi Hakamada reportedly said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-eam-jaishankar-discusses-pro-khalistani-extremism-with-uk-leaders-659411">India's EAM Jaishankar discusses pro-Khalistani extremism with UK leaders</a></p>

<p>The payload of the lander, named 'Resilience,' includes various components such as a water electrolyser, a module for experimenting with food production, a deep space probe, a commemorative metal plate based on the Japanese anime series <em>Gundam</em>, and a micro-rover developed by Ispace, media reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rover has a weight of around 5 kilogrammes and is 26 centimetres tall. It is also equipped with a high-definition camera to capture lunar surface images along with a shovel for collecting lunar rocks.</p>

<h2><strong>Mission improvements</strong></h2>

<p>Acknowledging the challenges faced during the first attempt, Ispace said that improvements would be incorporated into the Mission 2 flight model.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/situation-may-worsen-in-icelands-sinking-town-lava-likely-to-flow-from-fissures-for-weeks-warn-experts-659392">Situation may worsen in Iceland's sinking town, lava likely to flow from fissures for weeks, warn experts</a></p>

<p>These enhancements include necessary "software validation, expanding the landing simulation range, and additional field testing of radar sensors" to improve mission accuracy. Ispace's announcement follows the success of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's H2-A rocket launch in September.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-raids-gazas-al-shifa-hospital-for-second-day-659422">Israel raids Gaza’s Al-Shifa Hospital for second day</a></strong></p>

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<p>Ispace, founded in 2010, is competing with other companies, such as Intuitive Machines Inc. and Astrobotic Technology Inc., in the race to place the first commercial lander on the moon. Despite the growing interest in commercial space endeavours, challenges still persist with a lack of rockets with sufficient payload capacity leading to delays and cancellations of launch plans.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Japanese space startup Ispace Inc is set to embark on its second lunar mission as early as 2024 despite the setback of its failed attempt in April to land a rover on the moon.

Japanese space startup Ispace Inc is set to embark on its second lunar mission as early as 2024 despite the setback of its failed attempt in April to land a rover on the moon. The upcoming mission is scheduled to launch on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, possibly in the northern hemisphere winter of 2024, according to statements from the Tokyo-based company. Ispace's CEO Takeshi Hakamada spoke of the importance of the experience and data gained from the initial mission, even while not achieving a successful moon landing. “We may not have landed on the moon the first time, but the experience and data we gained are vital,” Chief Executive Officer Takeshi Hakamada reportedly said. Also Read | India's EAM Jaishankar discusses pro-Khalistani extremism with UK leaders The payload of the lander, named 'Resilience,' includes various components such as a water electrolyser, a module for experimenting with food production, a deep space probe, a commemorative metal plate based on the Japanese anime series Gundam, and a micro-rover developed by Ispace, media reports said. The rover has a weight of around 5 kilogrammes and is 26 centimetres tall. It is also equipped with a high-definition camera to capture lunar surface images along with a shovel for collecting lunar rocks. Mission improvements Acknowledging the challenges faced during the first attempt, Ispace said that improvements would be incorporated into the Mission 2 flight model. Also Read | Situation may worsen in Iceland's sinking town, lava likely to flow from fissures for weeks, warn experts These enhancements include necessary "software validation, expanding the landing simulation range, and additional field testing of radar sensors" to improve mission accuracy. Ispace's announcement follows the success of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's H2-A rocket launch in September. Watch | Israel raids Gaza’s Al-Shifa Hospital for second day × Ispace, founded in 2010, is competing with other companies, such as Intuitive Machines Inc. and Astrobotic Technology Inc., in the race to place the first commercial lander on the moon. Despite the growing interest in commercial space endeavours, challenges still persist with a lack of rockets with sufficient payload capacity leading to delays and cancellations of launch plans. (With inputs from agencies)

Second moon mission by Japan's Ispace to take flight as early as 2024 after April setback

<p>Russia has been planning to send cosmonauts to the Moon for the first time in history. The cosmonauts are likely to go to the Moon in the next decade and intend to construct a moon base from 2031, as per the Russian corporation which is responsible for manned space flights, as reported by state news agency TASS.</p>

<p>Vladimir Solovyov of RKK Energia presented a draft plan and stated that Russia has been planning manned missions to the moon, which includes the first landing on the moon by a Russian along with building a moon base, &nbsp;stated TASS on Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putins-daughter-criticises-laws-adopted-during-fathers-regime-658562">Vladimir Putin’s daughter criticises laws adopted during father’s regime</a></p>

<p>"Preparations for the deployment of a lunar base - 2031-2040," quoted TASS in the draft plan as saying. The plan further emphasised exploiting the resources of the moon.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's weakening space programme</strong></h2>

<p>In August, the first moon mission carried out by Russia in 47 years failed after its Luna-25 spacecraft went out of control and crashed into the moon. The failure underscored the problems which have crept inside their once mighty space programme. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian space agency's head had stated that the Luna-25 spacecraft had crashed because its engines failed to shut down correctly, and he also held the decades-long pause in the country's lunar exploration for the mishap.</p>

<p>The pilotless Luna-25 was set to land on August 21 while it had aimed to achieve the feat of becoming the first spacecraft to touch down on the moon's south pole, an area where scientists have suggested precious elements and major reserves of frozen water may exist.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russian shelling kills three people</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-russian-shelling-kills-three-people-658541/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In 1969, US astronaut Neil Armstrong became the first person to walk on the moon, however, it was the Luna-2 mission of the Soviet Union which was the first spacecraft to reach the surface of the moon in 1959, and the Luna-9 mission in 1966 became the first to make a soft landing on the moon. &nbsp;</p>

<p>On April 12, 1961, Yuri Gagarin became the first human to go into outer space, however, Soviet cosmonauts never did a human landing on the moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia has been planning to send cosmonauts to the Moon for the first time in history. The cosmonauts are likely to go to the Moon in the next decade and intend to construct a moon base from 2031, as per the Russian corporation which is responsible for manned space flights, as reported by state news agency TASS.

Russia has been planning to send cosmonauts to the Moon for the first time in history. The cosmonauts are likely to go to the Moon in the next decade and intend to construct a moon base from 2031, as per the Russian corporation which is responsible for manned space flights, as reported by state news agency TASS. Vladimir Solovyov of RKK Energia presented a draft plan and stated that Russia has been planning manned missions to the moon, which includes the first landing on the moon by a Russian along with building a moon base, stated TASS on Wednesday. ALSO READ | Vladimir Putin’s daughter criticises laws adopted during father’s regime "Preparations for the deployment of a lunar base - 2031-2040," quoted TASS in the draft plan as saying. The plan further emphasised exploiting the resources of the moon. Russia's weakening space programme In August, the first moon mission carried out by Russia in 47 years failed after its Luna-25 spacecraft went out of control and crashed into the moon. The failure underscored the problems which have crept inside their once mighty space programme. The Russian space agency's head had stated that the Luna-25 spacecraft had crashed because its engines failed to shut down correctly, and he also held the decades-long pause in the country's lunar exploration for the mishap. The pilotless Luna-25 was set to land on August 21 while it had aimed to achieve the feat of becoming the first spacecraft to touch down on the moon's south pole, an area where scientists have suggested precious elements and major reserves of frozen water may exist. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Russian shelling kills three people In 1969, US astronaut Neil Armstrong became the first person to walk on the moon, however, it was the Luna-2 mission of the Soviet Union which was the first spacecraft to reach the surface of the moon in 1959, and the Luna-9 mission in 1966 became the first to make a soft landing on the moon. On April 12, 1961, Yuri Gagarin became the first human to go into outer space, however, Soviet cosmonauts never did a human landing on the moon. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia plans to send cosmonauts to Moon for first time in next decade

<p>There may have been not one, but two Big Bangs that brought the universe into existence billions of years ago, a new research study has claimed.</p>

<p>A team of scientists argue that after the first Big Bang, another transformative event occurred that flooded the cosmos with mysterious dark matter. The astronomers are dubbing it the "Dark Big Bang”.</p>

<p>Dark matter is the hypothetical component of the universe whose presence is discerned from its gravitational attraction rather than its luminosity.</p>

<p>It doesn't interact with light or electromagnetic fields in any way and toughly makes up 30.1 per cent&nbsp;of the known universe. The reset is dark energy (69.4 per cent) and “ordinary” visible matter (0.5 per cent).</p>

<p>Ever since the theory was first postulated in 1933 by Swiss-American astronomer Fritz Zwicky, astronomers have been unable to explain why clusters of galaxies move in ways that our existing standard model of physics can't account for.</p>

<h2><strong>Dark Big Bang&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In a yet-to-be-peer-reviewed paper on the preprint database arXiv, the scientists have suggested that a "Dark Big Bang" may have "occurred when the universe was less than one month old."</p>

<p>"People always assume everything is created at the same time in a single big bang, but who really knows?" Katherine Freese, physics professor at the University of Texas at Austin, who co-authored the paper told&nbsp;New Scientist.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/revolutionary-scientists-have-developed-two-promising-medications-for-bad-cholesterol-658497">'Revolutionary': Scientists have developed two promising medications for 'bad' cholesterol</a></p>

<p>The team argues that the event could've triggered several different kinds of dark matter, including "darkzillas" —a reference "Godzilla"— which are monstrously sized particles 10 trillion times the mass of a single proton.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-pooh-pooh-claims-that-extinct-ancient-human-homo-naledi-buried-its-dead-658437">Scientists pooh-pooh claims that extinct ancient hominid 'Homo naledi' buried its dead</a></p>

<p>The scientists say that the current gravitational wave experiments do not have the capacity to find signatures of the Dark Big Bang, expressing hope that another probe of gravitational waves using distances to far-flung pulsars, known as Pulsar Timing Arrays like the NANOGrav experiment, might just be able to do the trick.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


There may have been not one, but two Big Bangs that brought the universe into existence billions of years ago, a new research study has claimed. A team of scientists argue that after the first Big Bang, another transformative event occurred that flooded the cosmos with mysterious dark matter.

There may have been not one, but two Big Bangs that brought the universe into existence billions of years ago, a new research study has claimed. A team of scientists argue that after the first Big Bang, another transformative event occurred that flooded the cosmos with mysterious dark matter. The astronomers are dubbing it the "Dark Big Bang”. Dark matter is the hypothetical component of the universe whose presence is discerned from its gravitational attraction rather than its luminosity. It doesn't interact with light or electromagnetic fields in any way and toughly makes up 30.1 per cent of the known universe. The reset is dark energy (69.4 per cent) and “ordinary” visible matter (0.5 per cent). Ever since the theory was first postulated in 1933 by Swiss-American astronomer Fritz Zwicky, astronomers have been unable to explain why clusters of galaxies move in ways that our existing standard model of physics can't account for. Dark Big Bang In a yet-to-be-peer-reviewed paper on the preprint database arXiv, the scientists have suggested that a "Dark Big Bang" may have "occurred when the universe was less than one month old." "People always assume everything is created at the same time in a single big bang, but who really knows?" Katherine Freese, physics professor at the University of Texas at Austin, who co-authored the paper told New Scientist. Also read | 'Revolutionary': Scientists have developed two promising medications for 'bad' cholesterol The team argues that the event could've triggered several different kinds of dark matter, including "darkzillas" —a reference "Godzilla"— which are monstrously sized particles 10 trillion times the mass of a single proton. Also read | Scientists pooh-pooh claims that extinct ancient hominid 'Homo naledi' buried its dead The scientists say that the current gravitational wave experiments do not have the capacity to find signatures of the Dark Big Bang, expressing hope that another probe of gravitational waves using distances to far-flung pulsars, known as Pulsar Timing Arrays like the NANOGrav experiment, might just be able to do the trick. (With inputs from agencies)

There may have been a second Big Bang, new study claims

<p>Elon Musk's SpaceX on Saturday (Nov 11) launched its Transporter-9 mission, a 'rideshare' flight that carried 90 payloads.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With this, SpaceX delivered over 1,000 tonnes into the orbit, which&nbsp;Musk&nbsp;says is a new 'world record'.</p>

<h2><strong>Musk claims world record</strong></h2>

<p>A few hours after the space flight took off from California, Elon Musk took to X, formerly Twitter, to announce that with this "Falcon has delivered over 1000 tonnes to orbit this year, a world record".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/trouble-in-space-soaring-costs-of-nasas-mars-sample-return-mission-risks-other-projects-657819">Trouble in space: Soaring costs of NASA's Mars Sample Return Mission risk other significant projects</a></strong></p>

<p>In another post, Musk claimed that SpaceX's delivery could only be followed by the Soviet Union at its "peak" and in modern times can be compared to China — which he said has only undertaken one fourth of the payload.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is significantly more than any country has launched with their entire rocket fleet in a year. Second is peak Soviet Union at ~500 tons.<br />
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For a present day comparison, the rest of the world has delivered ~250 tons to orbit so far this year, mostly by China.</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1723425755739082961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"This is significantly more than any country has launched with their entire rocket fleet in a year. Second is peak Soviet Union at ~500 tonnes."</p>

<p>"For a present day comparison, the rest of the world has delivered ~250 tonnes to orbit so far this year, mostly by China."</p>

<h2><strong>The space 'rideshare'</strong></h2>

<p>The Transporter-9 was launched by SpaceX's Falcon-9 rocket from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 10:49 am local time (1:49 pm EST; 1849 GMT) on November 11.</p>

<p>As per SpaceX mission details, this was "the 12th launch and landing of this Falcon 9 stage booster."</p>

<p>The 90 payloads included CubeSats, MicroSats, and orbital transfer vehicles, which, according to the mission description, will deploy more spacecraft at a later stage.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/curiosity-remains-strong-nasa-curiosity-rover-clocks-4000-days-in-mars-punishingly-cold-environment-656736">'Curiosity remains strong': Curiosity rover clocks 4,000 days in Mars' 'punishingly cold environment'</a></strong></p>

<p>"During this mission, 90 payloads were expected to deploy from Falcon 9 across 89 deployments, and 86 deployments have been confirmed," added the mission description on the SpaceX website.</p>

<p>Transporter 9, as per space.com, is SpaceX's 82nd orbital mission this year. This year, the rocket maker has broken its own previous record of 61 launches — in 2022. While the mission's 90 payloads are for sure hefty, Elon Musk's company holds the record of sending 143 satellites to orbit — with its Transporter-1 mission in January 2021.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Elon Musk's SpaceX on Saturday (Nov 11) launched its Transporter-9 mission, a 'rideshare' flight that carried 90 payloads. With this, SpaceX delivered over 1,000 tonnes into the orbit, which Musk says is a new 'world record'.

Elon Musk's SpaceX on Saturday (Nov 11) launched its Transporter-9 mission, a 'rideshare' flight that carried 90 payloads. With this, SpaceX delivered over 1,000 tonnes into the orbit, which Musk says is a new 'world record'. Musk claims world record A few hours after the space flight took off from California, Elon Musk took to X, formerly Twitter, to announce that with this "Falcon has delivered over 1000 tonnes to orbit this year, a world record". Also read | Trouble in space: Soaring costs of NASA's Mars Sample Return Mission risk other significant projects In another post, Musk claimed that SpaceX's delivery could only be followed by the Soviet Union at its "peak" and in modern times can be compared to China — which he said has only undertaken one fourth of the payload. This is significantly more than any country has launched with their entire rocket fleet in a year. Second is peak Soviet Union at ~500 tons. For a present day comparison, the rest of the world has delivered ~250 tons to orbit so far this year, mostly by China. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 11, 2023 × "This is significantly more than any country has launched with their entire rocket fleet in a year. Second is peak Soviet Union at ~500 tonnes." "For a present day comparison, the rest of the world has delivered ~250 tonnes to orbit so far this year, mostly by China." The space 'rideshare' The Transporter-9 was launched by SpaceX's Falcon-9 rocket from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 10:49 am local time (1:49 pm EST; 1849 GMT) on November 11. As per SpaceX mission details, this was "the 12th launch and landing of this Falcon 9 stage booster." The 90 payloads included CubeSats, MicroSats, and orbital transfer vehicles, which, according to the mission description, will deploy more spacecraft at a later stage. Also read | 'Curiosity remains strong': Curiosity rover clocks 4,000 days in Mars' 'punishingly cold environment' "During this mission, 90 payloads were expected to deploy from Falcon 9 across 89 deployments, and 86 deployments have been confirmed," added the mission description on the SpaceX website. Transporter 9, as per space.com, is SpaceX's 82nd orbital mission this year. This year, the rocket maker has broken its own previous record of 61 launches — in 2022. While the mission's 90 payloads are for sure hefty, Elon Musk's company holds the record of sending 143 satellites to orbit — with its Transporter-1 mission in January 2021. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk claims 'world record' for SpaceX delivering over 1,000 tonnes to orbit in 2023

<p>NASA's ambitious Mars Sample Return mission, which is one of the most complex space endeavours, is in jeopardy.</p>

<p>As per a report in The Guardian, the space mission faces soaring costs that threaten a budget crisis for the space agency.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the Mars Sample Return mission?</strong></h2>

<p>The Mars Sample Return mission aims to collect rock samples from Mars using unmanned probes and robot rovers, which will be sent back to Earth for analysis to search for signs of life. The mission involves the first-ever space launch from another planet and the first-ever rendezvous in orbit around another planet.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/curiosity-remains-strong-nasa-curiosity-rover-clocks-4000-days-in-mars-punishingly-cold-environment-656736">'Curiosity remains strong': Curiosity rover clocks 4,000 days in Mars' 'punishingly cold environment'</a></strong></p>

<p>It relies on the robot rover Perseverance, which is already on Mars collecting rock samples. These samples will be stored in titanium tubes and, in a few years, a lander will be sent to Mars to collect the tubes and place them in orbit around Mars.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An Earth return orbiter, built by the European Space Agency, will then ferry the samples back to Earth.</p>

<h2><strong>The soaring costs</strong></h2>

<p>An independent review panel, set up by NASA, found that the mission's budget expectations were "unrealistic". It warned that the mission, whose cost&nbsp;was originally estimated at $4.4 billion, is likely to rise to $8-11 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This, it said, could put other NASA missions at risk of cancellation.</p>

<p>"There is currently no credible, congruent technical, nor properly margined schedule, cost and technical baselines that can be accomplished with the likely available funding," said the panel's report. &nbsp;</p>

<p>It concluded that there is "near zero probability" of NASA's plan succeeding on its current budget.</p>

<p>The rising costs have already led to the postponement of other NASA-funded projects, including the Veritas mission to study Venus and the Geospace Dynamics Constellation mission to study the upper atmosphere.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexican-congress-deems-three-fingered-mummies-real-but-refrains-from-confirming-alien-origins-656555">Mexican congress deems three-fingered mummies 'real,' but refrains from confirming alien origins</a></strong></p>

<p>"You are cutting the artery, the lifeblood of our science," said plasma physicist Allison Jaynes of Iowa University while talking to the journal Science.</p>

<p>Scientists and experts express concerns about the impact on NASA's overall scientific endeavours.</p>

<p>"All of NASA science is taking a hit because of the Mars Sample Return burden," she added.</p>

<h2><strong>What is causing this increase in cost?</strong></h2>

<p>Challenges, including underestimating the size of the spacecraft needed to take samples off Mars, complexities in preventing contamination, and supply shortages, have contributed to the cost escalation, reports The Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, the mission also failed to take into consideration the steps that would need to be undertaken to prevent Earth bacteria and viruses from contaminating soil samples from Mars. It didn't account for Martian lifeforms infecting our planet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While some leading scientists have called for the mission's cancellation, others emphasise its transformative potential. Despite the budget crisis, supporters argue that the mission's scientific significance warrants its continuation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


NASA's ambitious Mars Sample Return mission, which is one of the most complex space endeavours, is in jeopardy. As per a report in The Guardian, the space mission faces soaring costs that threaten a budget crisis for the space agency.

NASA's ambitious Mars Sample Return mission, which is one of the most complex space endeavours, is in jeopardy. As per a report in The Guardian, the space mission faces soaring costs that threaten a budget crisis for the space agency. What is the Mars Sample Return mission? The Mars Sample Return mission aims to collect rock samples from Mars using unmanned probes and robot rovers, which will be sent back to Earth for analysis to search for signs of life. The mission involves the first-ever space launch from another planet and the first-ever rendezvous in orbit around another planet. Also read | 'Curiosity remains strong': Curiosity rover clocks 4,000 days in Mars' 'punishingly cold environment' It relies on the robot rover Perseverance, which is already on Mars collecting rock samples. These samples will be stored in titanium tubes and, in a few years, a lander will be sent to Mars to collect the tubes and place them in orbit around Mars. An Earth return orbiter, built by the European Space Agency, will then ferry the samples back to Earth. The soaring costs An independent review panel, set up by NASA, found that the mission's budget expectations were "unrealistic". It warned that the mission, whose cost was originally estimated at $4.4 billion, is likely to rise to $8-11 billion. This, it said, could put other NASA missions at risk of cancellation. "There is currently no credible, congruent technical, nor properly margined schedule, cost and technical baselines that can be accomplished with the likely available funding," said the panel's report. It concluded that there is "near zero probability" of NASA's plan succeeding on its current budget. The rising costs have already led to the postponement of other NASA-funded projects, including the Veritas mission to study Venus and the Geospace Dynamics Constellation mission to study the upper atmosphere. Also read | Mexican congress deems three-fingered mummies 'real,' but refrains from confirming alien origins "You are cutting the artery, the lifeblood of our science," said plasma physicist Allison Jaynes of Iowa University while talking to the journal Science. Scientists and experts express concerns about the impact on NASA's overall scientific endeavours. "All of NASA science is taking a hit because of the Mars Sample Return burden," she added. What is causing this increase in cost? Challenges, including underestimating the size of the spacecraft needed to take samples off Mars, complexities in preventing contamination, and supply shortages, have contributed to the cost escalation, reports The Guardian. Furthermore, the mission also failed to take into consideration the steps that would need to be undertaken to prevent Earth bacteria and viruses from contaminating soil samples from Mars. It didn't account for Martian lifeforms infecting our planet. While some leading scientists have called for the mission's cancellation, others emphasise its transformative potential. Despite the budget crisis, supporters argue that the mission's scientific significance warrants its continuation. (With inputs from agencies)

Trouble in space: Soaring costs of NASA's Mars Sample Return Mission risk other significant projects

India is among the leading space powers in the world and possesses end-to-end space capability India designs and launches its own rockets and satellites to rip the benefits of space applications. In order to help friendly nations in the neighborhood India is offering them training and support to harness the power of space. Take a look.

India's ISRO and Mauritius Innovation & Research Council sign a pact

<p>In an astonishing discovery, the astronomers have found a mysterious galaxy which is eerily similar to our own.<br />
<br />
The distant galaxy, which is known as ceers-2112, was identified by an international team of researchers recently by analysing the images taken by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) Near Infrared Camera.<br />
<br />
Although the images did not reveal anything other than a hazy blob, after astronomers carried out further investigation by using a range of wavelengths, they saw a complex and barred spiral structure which appeared very similar to the Milky Way.<br />
<br />
The galaxies are present in all manner of sizes, shapes and luminosities and some of them are blobby and large, some are irregular and small, and some are stretched out and gigantic.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-worlds-nasas-telescope-hunts-down-8-super-earths-to-solve-cosmic-puzzle-656913">Alien worlds: NASA's telescope hunts down 8 'super-Earths' to solve cosmic puzzle</a></p>

<p>Galaxies like the Milky Way swirl, as its gas and stars remain concentrated in radiating lines which curve like cosmic ribbons that appear trailing from a spinning gymnast.<br />
<br />
Although different factors influence the shape of a galaxy, which can be monolithic collisions or the crowding of neighbours, it has been understood for a long time that complex shapes take time to form.</p>

<h2><strong>Astronomers believe galaxy ceers-2112 has 'matured'</strong></h2>

<p>As per the observations, barred spiral galaxies like the Milky Way did not exist before 8 billion years. However, a measure of stretched light from a newly found galaxy suggests that it may have existed two billion years after the Big Bang.<br />
<br />
Even though the galaxy is still too faint to observe the details of its spiralling arms, a thickened bar seen by the astronomers in its centre is enough to convince them ceers-2112 is well-developed for its age.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Cosmic journey: Space balloons &amp; space station visit part of the tour</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cosmic-journey-space-balloons-space-station-visit-part-of-the-tour-636823/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"Nearly all bars are found in spiral galaxies," stated Alexander de la Vega, who is an astronomer at the University of California, Riverside.<br />
<br />
"The bar in ceers-2112 suggests that galaxies matured and became ordered much faster than we previously thought, which means some aspects of our theories of galaxy formation and evolution need revision,” he added while speaking to science alert.<br />
<br />
The galaxies are generally major concentrations of gas and dust which come together under gravity. The debris itself provides some of that gravity, and a significant proportion of it is believed to be made of dark matter.<br />
<br />
After enough material gets collected in one spot, nuclear fusion takes place which helps in the formation of stars and planets.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In an astonishing discovery, the astronomers have found a mysterious galaxy which is eerily similar to our own. The distant galaxy, which is known as ceers-2112, was identified by an international team of researchers recently by analysing the images taken by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) Near Infrared Camera.

In an astonishing discovery, the astronomers have found a mysterious galaxy which is eerily similar to our own. The distant galaxy, which is known as ceers-2112, was identified by an international team of researchers recently by analysing the images taken by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) Near Infrared Camera. Although the images did not reveal anything other than a hazy blob, after astronomers carried out further investigation by using a range of wavelengths, they saw a complex and barred spiral structure which appeared very similar to the Milky Way. The galaxies are present in all manner of sizes, shapes and luminosities and some of them are blobby and large, some are irregular and small, and some are stretched out and gigantic. ALSO READ | Alien worlds: NASA's telescope hunts down 8 'super-Earths' to solve cosmic puzzle Galaxies like the Milky Way swirl, as its gas and stars remain concentrated in radiating lines which curve like cosmic ribbons that appear trailing from a spinning gymnast. Although different factors influence the shape of a galaxy, which can be monolithic collisions or the crowding of neighbours, it has been understood for a long time that complex shapes take time to form. Astronomers believe galaxy ceers-2112 has 'matured' As per the observations, barred spiral galaxies like the Milky Way did not exist before 8 billion years. However, a measure of stretched light from a newly found galaxy suggests that it may have existed two billion years after the Big Bang. Even though the galaxy is still too faint to observe the details of its spiralling arms, a thickened bar seen by the astronomers in its centre is enough to convince them ceers-2112 is well-developed for its age. WATCH | Cosmic journey: Space balloons & space station visit part of the tour "Nearly all bars are found in spiral galaxies," stated Alexander de la Vega, who is an astronomer at the University of California, Riverside. "The bar in ceers-2112 suggests that galaxies matured and became ordered much faster than we previously thought, which means some aspects of our theories of galaxy formation and evolution need revision,” he added while speaking to science alert. The galaxies are generally major concentrations of gas and dust which come together under gravity. The debris itself provides some of that gravity, and a significant proportion of it is believed to be made of dark matter. After enough material gets collected in one spot, nuclear fusion takes place which helps in the formation of stars and planets. (With inputs from agencies)

Milky Way's twin? Astronomers spot mysterious galaxy that looks eerily similar to our own

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