Typhoon Hagupit continues to intensify as it moves through Micronesia, triggering warnings for strong winds and rough seas. The storm's maximum sustained winds have increased to 115.1 mph, with forecasters predicting it will peak at Category four on the Saffir-Simpson scale.
The Cloud-Aerosol Transport System (CATS) instrument on the International Space Station measures aerosols and cloud layers, providing data to improve air quality forecasts and track hazardous events like wildfires. This information will also feed into climate models to better understand Earth's energy balance.
Researchers have developed a comprehensive cognitive test battery, Cognition, to measure the impact of spaceflight stressors on astronauts' cognition. The 10-test battery will be administered to the first astronaut on the International Space Station on November 28.
Engineers at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center tested a 'tripod' supporting the James Webb Space Telescope's secondary mirror in a successful deployment. The system was designed to unfurl in space to 8 meters long and was tested using the Pathfinder backplane structure.
Scientists analyzed gravitational effects of the Moon on thermosphere to predict satellite collisions. Incorporating these results in atmospheric models can refine accuracy and keep satellites separate from space junk.
NASA's ISS-RapidScat tracked the winds of post-tropical cyclone Nuri as it moved parallel to Japan. The storm is now expected to bring strong winds and rough seas to Alaska's Aleutian Islands.
Kansas State University's Konza Prairie Biological Station will continue to conduct long-term ecological research with a renewed $6.76 million NSF grant. The grant supports research on the impact of land-use change, climatic variability, and restoration ecology on tallgrass prairie ecosystems.
Scientists are developing low-cost air-cleaning devices to replace expensive metals like platinum and palladium. Recent studies have shown promising results in improving indoor air quality, potentially alleviating symptoms of 'sick-building syndrome'
A series of articles published in New Space journal suggest that ordinary citizens can take short trips to the edge of space without significant health effects. The research also identifies potential challenges and risks associated with human commercial spaceflight.
The Integrated Science Instrument Module (ISIM) of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope withstood 116 days of extremely cold temperatures, simulating conditions found in space. The successful test ensures the telescope will function correctly at its final destination one million miles away from Earth.
A new paper by University of New Hampshire scientists warns that cosmic rays pose a significant threat to future manned deep-space exploration. The study finds that extremely low densities and magnetic field strengths in the solar wind create hazardous radiation levels that limit allowable days for astronauts behind spacecraft shielding.
Dartmouth researchers are developing a virtual reality-based relaxation system to help astronauts cope with stress on long-duration spaceflights. The Virtual Space Station program uses virtual reality, sounds, and smells to create immersive experiences that promote relaxation and calmness.
Scientists at NH Agricultural Experiment Station will apply DNA-based tools to create new rosaceous crop varieties, including strawberries, with improved product quality and disease resistance. The five-year grant aims to develop commercial scion and rootstock cultivars for local growers and organic production.
Researchers investigate degradation of essential vitamins over time in spaceflight foods, aiming to develop strategies to minimize loss. They'll use similar foods consumed by astronauts at the International Space Station to determine the impact of preparation and storage conditions on vitamin potency.
Two researchers from the Technical University of Munich have won an International Space Station Research Competition to study the structure of Hepatitis C virus proteins in microgravity. The project aims to identify new targets for medications and could lead to breakthroughs in treating the disease, which is prevalent in Egypt.
MIT researchers developed an algorithm to gauge space debris rotation using visual information, achieving high accuracy in most measures. The algorithm's probabilistic approach and Gaussian distribution modeling enable efficient collection of space trash, including thousands of broken satellites.
The Cloud-Aerosol Transport System (CATS) will provide critical measurements on the International Space Station, demonstrating new technology and proving inexpensive missions can make accurate climate predictions. The instrument will track aerosols over population centers and reveal shifts in global climate.
Researchers found that spaceflight temporarily alters the immune system of crew members, leading to depression in cell function and heightened activity. This can result in asymptomatic viral shedding, increased allergy symptoms, and persistent rashes.
Researchers at the University of Montana have improved computer models for estimating temperature across mountainous landscapes by creating a new climate dataset. This dataset uses weather station data, atmospheric weather model data, and satellite-based observations to estimate daily temperatures from 1948 to 2012.
A 10-year study of astronauts' sleep monitoring reveals widespread sleep deficiency and medication use in space. The research highlights the need for more effective countermeasures to promote adequate sleep and optimize human performance during space flights.
A team of international researchers discovered a new type of cool burning flame in space that could lead to cleaner and more efficient engines for cars. The discovery was made on the International Space Station using microgravity, which allowed the flames to burn at cooler temperatures without producing pollutants.
Researchers found that fruit flies' Toll pathway failed to respond to a fungal infection in space, while the Imd pathway remained robust. This knowledge may help NASA develop countermeasures for astronauts' weakened immune systems during long-duration space missions.
The International Space Station's third annual research conference recognized three notable technology applications in 2013. The SPHERES-Slosh investigation demonstrated improved spacecraft designs by simulating fluid movement in microgravity, while a laser communication system was tested for high-speed transmission between the space s...
Researchers on the International Space Station made significant discoveries about the effects of microgravity on the human body, including protein crystal growth and wound healing. Their work has the potential to improve pharmaceutical treatments and advance our understanding of diseases.
Researchers honored for advancements in vaccine development, understanding spaceflight effects on human performance, and STEM education programs. The International Space Station provides a unique platform for scientific discovery and innovation.
The University of Alaska Fairbanks' Institute of Arctic Biology is welcoming European Union scientists to conduct research at the Toolik Field Station and Barrow Environmental Observatory. The scientists will study various topics, including climate change, biodiversity, and carbon cycling in Arctic environments.
The Solar Ultraviolet Imager and Extreme Ultraviolet and X-ray Irradiance Sensors have completed integration with the GOES-R spacecraft, enabling it to observe sun and space weather. This development enhances the prediction capabilities of NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center, aiding in understanding and mitigating space weather impa...
Researchers will use the ForceShoe to measure exercise loads and ground reaction forces, aiming to understand how joint forces differ between Earth-based exercises and those in microgravity. The goal is to recommend optimal exercise regimens for safe bone and muscle strength maintenance during spaceflight.
A Los Alamos National Laboratory team verified air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from two coal-fired power plants in the Four Corners area using space-based techniques. The study found that emissions from the San Juan Generating Station are less polluting than those from the nearby Four Corners Generating Station.
A new international standard for wood packaging material has significantly reduced insect stowaways, with a 52% drop in infestation rates. The International Phytosanitary Standard ISPM 15 has achieved near-100% reduction in insect stowaways in some countries.
The Hydrogen Fueling Infrastructure Research and Station Technology (H2FIRST) project aims to reduce the cost and time of fueling station construction, increase station availability, and improve reliability. NREL and Sandia will share their hydrogen research expertise to develop low-cost, high-performance materials and components.
Recent NASA studies found that spore-forming bacteria like Bacillus pumilus can survive in space for up to 18 months, surviving harsh conditions including UV radiation and extreme temperatures. These hardy organisms may be able to carry life between planets via lithopanspermia.
Research conducted by Erja Portegijs and colleagues found that physical function and sense of autonomy are independent determinants of life-space mobility in older people. Life-space mobility, which reflects an individual's opportunities to participate in society, is affected by both physical limitations and psychological factors.
The National Academy of Sciences' Institute of Medicine has developed ethics principles and responsibilities to guide NASA in implementing health standards for spaceflights beyond low Earth orbit. The guidelines aim to mitigate risks faced by astronauts on extended stays on the International Space Station and Mars missions.
Matthew Burton, a University of Houston industrial design student, has developed an adapter system called 'Connect' that makes inserting and removing plugs easier for people with disabilities. The system recently earned first place in the International Housewares Association's 2014 Student Design Competition.
The James Webb Space Telescope features a primary mirror composed of 18 smaller lightweight mirror segments, each with precise actuators to align and shape the mirror. The segments are designed to work together as one giant mirror, capturing light from distant galaxies and stars in space.
Researchers reveal that a combination of solar eruptions led to the formation of a powerful storm. The STEREO mission helped detect key features, providing new insights into the causes of extreme space weather events.
A new Cooperative Research Centre will use lasers to track and remove space debris in low orbits around the Earth. The initiative aims to reduce collision risks for satellites, space stations, and spacecraft.
The Australian National University-led Cooperative Research Centre for Space Environment Management will track space debris, improve predictions of space debris orbits, and predict potential collisions in space. The center aims to reduce the rate of debris proliferation and remove debris using ground-based lasers.
NASA successfully tested remote robotic oxidizer transfer technology, enabling robots to replenish hazardous propellant in satellites. The technology has the potential to extend satellite life, mitigate orbital debris, and aid commercial satellite servicing.
Researchers have discovered that some tumors behave less aggressively in microgravity compared to on Earth, sparking hope for new cancer treatments. The unique conditions of space exploration offer insights into genetic and cellular processes that cannot be replicated on land.
The James Webb Space Telescope is nearing completion, with all 18 primary mirror segments and four science instruments delivered to NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. The telescope will be the most powerful space telescope ever built, capable of observing distant objects in the universe.
Researchers discovered that fruit flies' biochemical pathway to fight fungal infections is compromised after space flight, while bacterial infection defense remains intact. The study offers a promising lead in understanding the impact of microgravity on human immune systems, paving the way for future research with astronauts.
Mayo Clinic researcher Abba Zubair is sending human stem cells into space to see if they grow more rapidly than on Earth. The experiment aims to expand the population of stem cells that can induce regeneration of neurons and blood vessels in patients who have suffered a hemorrhagic stroke.
The final three of 18 primary mirrors for the James Webb Space Telescope have arrived at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. The mirrors, built by Ball Aerospace, will form a 6.5-meter-diameter primary mirror when integrated with a stable structure.
The Solar Ultra-Violet Imager (SUVI) is a new telescope that will observe the sun in extreme ultraviolet wavelengths, identifying active regions, solar flares, and eruptions. This will improve space weather forecasting, enabling earlier warnings for potential impacts on Earth's power grids, communication systems, and orbiting satellites.
A team of astronomers from Cardiff University has discovered a noble gas molecule, argon hydride, in the Crab Nebula. The find provides new insights into the chemistry of outer space and challenges previous assumptions about the conditions necessary for such molecules to form.
Two studies examine the effects of spaceflight on mouse eyes, revealing oxidative stress as a key mechanism behind eye damage. Researchers found genes involved in response to oxidative stress and potential indicators of optic nerve damage, highlighting the need for countermeasures to protect astronauts' vision.
Kansas State University researchers are developing wearable medical sensors to monitor astronauts' vital data, such as breathing rate or muscle activity. The team is also creating a specialized wireless network for the biosensors to communicate with each other and a space station.
NASA's Operation IceBridge is conducting a daily survey flight through Nov. 26, collecting data on Antarctic land and sea ice. The mission aims to track changes in polar ice, including the Siple Coast and Ross Sea areas.
CRaTER, an instrument on NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, has made detailed measurements of radiation in deep space. The findings provide crucial data on the high-energy hazards at and around the moon, enabling astronauts to shield against radiation.
Scientists from UNH have published comprehensive findings on space-based radiation hazards using a UNH-led detector aboard NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. The data provide critical information on the radiation hazards faced by astronauts on extended missions to deep space like Mars.
The Alternative Fueling Station Locator App allows iPhone users to select an alternative fuel and find the closest stations within a 30-mile radius. The app draws information from the Clean Cities' Alternative Fuels Data Center, containing over 15,000 alternative fueling stations nationwide.
Guoquan Wang, a UH professor, has received an $168,000 NSF grant to develop GPS and LiDAR education at the university. The project includes creating an upper-level applications course and augmenting field methods courses with real-time GPS and seismic instruments.
A new study published in The FASEB Journal found that microgravity accelerates biological aging, causing inflammation among endothelial cells, which leads to atherosclerosis and cell senescence. The research highlights the challenges of sending humans deeper into space for longer periods.
Researchers at NASA and the University of Florida create single fixation protocol to study plant growth in space, allowing analysis of both molecular and morphological features. The new method uses RNA later and low-temperature scanning electron microscopy to preserve tissues without damage.
NASA's Operation IceBridge will now operate from McMurdo Station in Antarctica, expanding its reach and measuring previously inaccessible areas. The new setup aims to improve knowledge of the continent's ice mass balance.
NASA has accepted its newest Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) into the network, replenishing an aging fleet essential for space exploration. The new satellite will provide critical real-time communication support for NASA's human spaceflights, International Space Station activities, and various science missions.
The Firestation experiment will study the link between lightning and terrestrial gamma ray flashes (TGFs), which are brief but intense bursts of gamma rays produced in Earth's atmosphere. The study aims to understand the cause and effect mechanisms behind TGFs and their relationship with lightning.
The Japanese vehicle delivers new hardware to NASA's Robotic Refueling Mission (RRM), enabling the demonstration of satellite-servicing activities and cryogen replenishment. The RRM team will work with the Dextre robot to test intermediate steps leading up to cryogen transfer.