space research

New Study Challenges Planet Formation Models with PDS 70b’s Chemical Mystery

by
New Study Challenges Planet Formation Models with PDS 70b’s Chemical Mystery

New research on PDS 70b, a forming exoplanet located approximately 400 light-years away in the constellation Centaurus, suggests that prevailing models of planet formation may require revision. According to a study published in Astrophysical Journal Letters, astronomers found a mismatch between the chemical composition of the planet’s atmosphere and the surrounding protoplanetary disk from which … Read more

ISRO Cowpea Seeds Successfully Germinate in Space: Everything You Need to Know

by
ISRO Cowpea Seeds Successfully Germinate in Space: Everything You Need to Know

A major milestone was achieved by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) when cowpea seeds sent aboard the PSLV-C60 POEM-4 platform germinated under microgravity conditions within just four days of the mission’s launch. The experiment, part of efforts to study plant growth in space, is seen as a key step in understanding sustainable agricultural practices … Read more

Here’s How Astronauts Maintain Health in Space

by
Here’s How Astronauts Maintain Health in Space

Astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) undergo rigorous efforts to maintain optimal physical, cognitive, and sensory functions while adapting to the challenges of spaceflight. The impact of microgravity on human physiology is closely monitored through ongoing studies. These investigations aim to understand changes in muscle fitness, cardiovascular health, sensory perception, and cognitive performance to … Read more

Relativistic Electron Beams May Make Interstellar Travel Possible

by
Relativistic Electron Beams May Make Interstellar Travel Possible

A groundbreaking propulsion method has been proposed by scientists that could make interstellar travel achievable within a human lifetime. The vast distances between stars, coupled with the limitations of modern spacecraft, have made this a long-standing challenge for space exploration. Current chemical rockets and gravitational assists lack the capability to reach the speeds required for … Read more

New Supercomputer Set to Propel Electric Spacecraft Technology Forward

by
New Supercomputer Set to Propel Electric Spacecraft Technology Forward

The advancement of electric propulsion technology for spacecraft may soon overcome critical challenges, aided by supercomputer simulations. This propulsion method, relying on ion engines, is recognised for its efficiency and is increasingly adopted in missions beyond Earth’s atmosphere. By using electric currents to ionise gases like xenon, these systems generate thrust through a high-speed ion … Read more

Scientists Discover Hidden Clues to the Dark Universe in 3D Galaxy Maps

by
Scientists Discover Hidden Clues to the Dark Universe in 3D Galaxy Maps

New insights into the “dark universe,” which includes both dark matter and dark energyhave emerged from a new method of studying 3D maps of galaxies. Scientists have used sophisticated computer algorithms to analyse the relative positions of galaxies in a 3D framework, unveiling previously hidden information that could challenge or support the standard model of … Read more

AI Study Finds Organic Molecules on Ceres Likely Came from Asteroid Impacts

by
AI Study Finds Organic Molecules on Ceres Likely Came from Asteroid Impacts

The presence of organic molecules on the dwarf planet Ceres has been reassessed using AI analysis of data gathered by NASA’s Dawn spacecraft. Scientists have mapped regions rich in these compounds to determine whether they originated within Ceres or were delivered from external sources. Previously, it was believed that cryovolcanic activity on Ceres transported these … Read more

SpaceX and Vast want research proposals for Haven-1 station experiments

by
SpaceX and Vast want research proposals for Haven-1 station experiments

SpaceX and California-based space company Vast have announced a call for research proposals for experiments to be conducted aboard the upcoming Haven-1 space station and the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. The Haven-1 module is scheduled for launch in August on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocketwith a subsequent Crew Dragon mission transporting astronauts to the orbiting outpost. … Read more

James Webb Telescope Captures Neptune’s Auroras in Stunning Detail

by
James Webb Telescope Captures Neptune’s Auroras in Stunning Detail

Neptune’s elusive auroras have been captured for the first time in newly released images. It offers an unprecedented look at the ice giant’s atmospheric activity. After decades of conjecture, the occurrence of these auroras has been confirmed by direct visual evidence from the James Webb Space Telescope (Jwst). Their presence had been hinted at by … Read more

James Webb Telescope Captures Neptune’s Auroras in Stunning Detail

by
James Webb Telescope Captures Neptune’s Auroras in Stunning Detail

Neptune’s elusive auroras have been captured for the first time in newly released images. It offers an unprecedented look at the ice giant’s atmospheric activity. After decades of conjecture, the occurrence of these auroras has been confirmed by direct visual evidence from the James Webb Space Telescope (Jwst). Their presence had been hinted at by … Read more