A new EU report highlights knowledge gaps in reducing risks linked to space weather and recommends policy, industry, and science collaborations to close these gaps. The report also emphasizes the need for early warning systems and better communication between science and industry.
NASA's Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) aims to establish a high-speed internet in space, enabling faster data rates and smaller communication systems. The technology has the potential to revolutionize space communications for missions to the moon, Mars, and beyond.
The James Webb Space Telescope is inspected for contamination using ultraviolet flashlights in a darkened clean room. The long exposure captures the technicians as 'ghostly wraiths', while a special light technique illuminates the primary mirror.
Alan Dressler, chair of the AURA Hubble Space Telescope (HST) and Beyond Committee, received the 2017 Carl Sagan Memorial Award for his leadership in research and policies advancing exploration of the Cosmos. The award recognizes the committee's influential report that led to the development of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope.
UTA researchers are developing a new mathematical theory to improve imaging technologies used in modern healthcare equipment, national security, and space exploration. The project has the potential to enhance image accuracy and lead to advances in cancer diagnosis and treatment, airport security, and space exploration.
Scientists from NASA and NCAR have shown that tracking coronal mass ejections can help detect solar energetic particles earlier than current forecasting techniques. This could provide critical warning time for astronauts in low-Earth orbit or interplanetary space.
A Florida State University researcher is leading a joint US-Russia project to study the effects of space travel on astronauts' vision and cardiovascular problems. The $750,000 grant will fund research using male mice sent to space, examining changes in lymphatic and vascular functions to understand the impact on vision.
The James Webb Space Telescope is set to undergo an earsplitting acoustic test, simulating the intense vibrations of launch. The team at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center has completed vibration testing and prepared the telescope for the test, which will push its limits.
The Colorado School of Mines and Virginia Tech are teaming up to develop an integrated approach to locating, characterizing, and visualizing mineral resources. The consortium aims to boost exploration success rates, advance mining operations, and cut costs while minimizing financial risk and environmental impact.
A University of Central Florida professor is collaborating with NASA to study the extraction of metals from Martian soil using molten regolith electrolysis. This process could produce oxygen and molten metals vital for future human space exploration.
The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) project is completing final testing on a new satellite that will extend NASA's Space Network capabilities. The addition of TDRS-M will provide nearly continuous coverage for an additional 15 years.
New research suggests that pure iron grains are extremely rare in the universe, contrary to previously thought, and may be forming invisible metal particles. A study published in Science Advances used a rocket-based experiment to simulate the formation of pure iron grains in space, revealing grain formation is highly unlikely.
Researchers now have unprecedented access to space-weather data from 23 GPS satellites, measuring charged particles and their impact on satellite operation. This data helps answer key questions about space weather events, enabling improved forecasting models.
A new tool called EEGGL helps map out the paths of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) before they reach Earth. The model is based on fundamental physics theory and takes into account the magnetic structure of CMEs, providing a better understanding of their behavior in space.
Scientists have made significant advancements in understanding the ionosphere, a region of Earth's atmosphere that reacts to changes from both space above and Earth below. Research reveals that the ionosphere can experience 'overcooling', causing rapid energy loss and collapse, which can disrupt satellite orbits.
The Space Network will transmit double the data in a single second than it ever has before, supporting new instruments with greater data flow requirements. The upgrade enables an increase in scientific output from the International Space Station, allowing for more sophisticated experiments to be conducted.
Four Kiel University instruments will measure electrons, protons and ions in the Solar Orbiter space probe. The instruments passed tests with flying colours, providing valuable insights into sun particle radiation and its effect on Earth.
Gene expression data from E. coli grown in space reveal reduced glucose uptake and increased extracellular acidity, suggesting altered bacterial behavior due to reduced transport of molecules.
The study investigates changes in perceptions about home in space and the development of a unique culture among astronauts. Researchers found that a shared space culture can help crew members respond to different situations, reducing stress and improving morale.
A new study published in mSphere found that the pathogenic fungus Aspergillus fumigatus behaves similarly in space as it does on Earth. The research, led by Benjamin Knox, compared fungal isolates from the International Space Station to reference isolates from earth and found no significant changes in growth or virulence.
Photonics may provide solutions to NASA's pressing challenges in future spaceflight, including improved space communications and reducing mission payloads. Laser communications have the potential to increase data rates at least 10 to 100 times better than RF systems.
The discovery of 500 bubbling methane vents off the US West Coast has revealed a giant methane seep along the entire coast of Washington, Oregon, and California. This finding has doubled the number of known methane-seeping vents in US waters, highlighting the need for further research to understand their impact on the environment.
A recent virtual reality study has found that our perception of space and our bodies plays a crucial role in regulating emotional experience and exploratory behavior. By manipulating sensory input on gait and spatial context, researchers have shown that this interplay can intensify or reduce fear and enhance exploration.
Researchers discovered that ultra-relativistic electrons are scattered into the atmosphere by electromagnetic ion cyclotron waves, while relativistic particles remain intact. This finding resolves a long-standing debate on electron loss mechanisms in the Van Allen Radiation Belts.
Dellingr will study Earth's outer atmosphere, creating a chemical and electromagnetic profile using its miniaturized mass spectrometer and magnetometer systems. The satellite's findings will help understand changes in our space weather and impact on satellites.
Researchers have developed a new approach to destroying hazardous space debris using laser impulses. By pushing the debris into the Earth's atmosphere, the debris can be destroyed, posing less of a threat to active communication and navigation satellites used by billions of people on Earth.
Scientists discovered an abundant and diverse ecosystem on the seafloor of the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, where deep-sea mining is planned. The study found that more than half of the species collected were new to science and relied on polymetallic nodules.
A new study by Florida State University researcher Michael Delp suggests that Apollo astronauts are experiencing higher rates of cardiovascular problems, likely caused by their exposure to deep space radiation. The study found that 43% of deceased Apollo astronauts died from a cardiovascular problem, four to five times higher than non-...
Tropical Storm Darby brought extremely heavy rainfall to northern Oahu, with estimated totals reaching up to 480 mm. The storm's track led to flash flooding and lightning damage on the island of Oahu.
A new UK-RAS Network white paper led by Professor Yang Gao showcases the future of space robotics, predicting autonomous robots will replicate insects, birds, animals, and even humans on future missions. The report highlights technological advancements with applications in sectors like healthcare, mining, agriculture, and more.
The Hubble Space Telescope has explored the farthest objects in the universe, unveiling a warping-of-space phenomenon predicted by Einstein. The telescope has magnified images of galaxies much farther away, allowing astronomers to study the early universe and understand dark matter.
A new concept in space telescope design proposes a modular structure and an assembly robot to build extremely large telescopes in space. The robotic system would enable tasks to be performed without astronaut fatigue.
A team of NASA scientists is developing a compact, low-cost telescope for CubeSats that will utilize a mirror made of carbon nanotubes in an epoxy resin. The technology aims to provide a sensitive instrument for quick exploratory missions or as part of a constellation of similar CubeSats.
The tiny radiation-resistant chips play a crucial role in the Jupiter Energetic Particle Detector Instrument (JEDI), measuring particle speed, energy, and position with time accuracy down to a fraction of a billionth of a second. Without these microchips, satellite electronics would be much heavier and require more shielding and power.
Researchers have discovered a massive helium gas field in the Tanzanian Rift Valley, ensuring a stable supply of this finite resource. The find, associated with volcanoes, has calculated a probable resource of 54 Billion Cubic Feet, enough to fill over 1.2 million medical MRI scanners.
A new exploration technique has discovered significant helium reserves in Tanzania, providing a much-needed supply to address the growing demand. The discovery could fill over 1.2 million medical MRI scanners, alleviating a critical shortage of this vital element.
Scientists have discovered a 'space tsunami' that creates the third Van Allen Belt, a region of intense radiation in space. This finding helps mitigate the effects of extreme space weather and has significant implications for satellite operations and human exploration.
A team led by University of Central Florida researcher Debashis Chanda is developing a novel infrared detection technology that could improve night vision, meteorology, and space exploration. The new detector will be tunable and able to see a range of bands, producing high-resolution images without the need for cooling.
A new agricultural monitoring system, AgriRover, utilizes Mars exploration technology to assess soil quality. The project, led by the University of Strathclyde, aims to enhance precision farming practices through force feedback-controlled robotic systems.
The TeSeR project aims to develop a cost-efficient and reliable removal module for satellites, reducing the risk of collision with space debris. Strathclyde is playing a significant role in this research, leveraging its expertise in satellite applications.
NASA has successfully miniaturized passive thermal-control technology for CubeSats, overcoming challenges of regulating temperature in smaller satellites. The new device, tested through various cycles, will be flight-tested on the Dellingr spacecraft and enables longer-term space exploration missions.
A study by Michigan State University found that residents with ocean views experience significantly lower levels of psychological distress compared to those with green space. The researchers suggest that blue spaces may have a calming effect on the mind, while human-made areas in green spaces may not.
The James Webb Space Telescope's primary mirror is the largest yet sent into space, made of 18 beryllium segments coated with a thin layer of gold. The telescope will study the formation of solar systems capable of supporting life on planets similar to Earth, as well as the evolution of our own solar system.
A new test has been developed to identify shale gas hazard in groundwater by fingerprinting methane gas with unique natural gas signatures. This will enable responsible exploration and extraction practices, addressing public concerns over water contamination.
A new project, NANOBED-MX, will offer researchers and entrepreneurs access to space technology with minimal investment. The program builds on the UKube-1 CubeSat experience and aims to unlock commercial opportunities in developing countries.
New Horizons provided three years of measurements of the solar wind, filling a crucial gap between what other missions see closer to the sun and what Voyager spacecraft see further out. The data helps round out our picture of the sun's influence on space, including the origins of radiation hazards for astronauts.
A Kansas State University engineer has developed a paperlike battery electrode made from glass-ceramic that improves the performance of tools for space exploration and unmanned aerial vehicles. The electrode has high cycling efficiency and can function at low temperatures, making it suitable for long-duration missions.
Researchers at USC and JPL are launching fungi into space to explore their potential as novel therapeutics for use both in space and on Earth. The study aims to discover new compounds that could be used to develop medicines for astronauts and potentially address life-threatening diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's.
The James Webb Space Telescope has completed critical cryogenic testing on its science instruments, a crucial step towards launch. The observatory will capture faint light from the universe's first objects after the Big Bang once launched into space.
Japanese researchers grew protein crystals in space using interferometry to measure growth rate and dissolution properties. The results showed an increased growth rate despite expected suppression of solution convection, which may be due to suppressed transport speed of impurity molecules.
Physics students at Umeå University are developing an instrument to measure the electric field of the lunar surface, a first for the Moon. The project aims to provide more knowledge about the electric field, crucial for future missions to the Moon and other celestial bodies.
The James Webb Space Telescope's sole secondary mirror was successfully installed onto the telescope at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. The mirror is supported by three struts and made of beryllium coated with gold to efficiently reflect infrared light.
Goddard's Network Integration Center coordinates communications for Near Earth and Space Networks, ensuring reliable data transmission from space to ground. The center has been operational since Project Mercury and supports human spaceflight missions, including those in low-Earth orbit and beyond.
A new simulation code was developed to accurately predict coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and their impact on space weather. The model successfully validated using observational data from the 2003 Halloween CME events, enabling accurate predictions of magnetic fields and arrival times.
The James Webb Space Telescope is being assembled over the next two years, with recent installations of primary mirror segments and upcoming tests at NASA Goddard and Johnson Space Center. The telescope will undergo end-to-end optical testing in a simulated cryo-temperature environment before final assembly and launch preparation.
NASA is inviting the public to participate in the #WeTheExplorers campaign by submitting artworks that reflect their spirit of exploration. The artworks will be saved on a chip on the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft, which is scheduled to launch in September and travel to asteroid Bennu.
Scientists from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center are developing a model called Solar Shield to simulate how space weather affects the US power grid. By analyzing coronal mass ejections and solar wind streams, researchers can predict when and where geomagnetic storms will occur, allowing for proactive measures to protect the grid.
The Heliophysics CubeSat will measure incoming radiation that can affect Earth's radio communications, satellite electronics, and power grids. The satellite will provide unprecedented insight into the sun's impact on our planet.
The Southwest Research Institute\u2019s CuSP microsatellite will observe interplanetary magnetic fields and energetic particles in the solar wind. The mission aims to improve simulations of space weather, helping scientists understand its impact on power grids and space technology.
The James Webb Space Telescope's 18 primary flight mirror segments are being installed using a high-precision robotic arm, requiring fraction-of-a-millimeter accuracy. The team uses lasers to measure distance and a coordinate system to place each segment, achieving precision better than the thickness of a piece of paper.