Jonathan I. Lunine, a renowned planetary scientist, will testify before the President's Commission on Implementation of U.S. Space Exploration Policy about detecting other Earths around nearby stars. He suggests developing medium-sized optical and infrared space telescopes, the Terrestrial Planet Finder, which could discover habitable ...
Researchers have identified three new Geophagus fish species in South America, shedding light on the region's biodiversity and ecosystem importance. The discoveries add to ongoing efforts to catalog the approximately 4,475 freshwater fish species found in the region.
Research at Texas Agricultural Experiment Station has led to a patent for derivatives of DIM, a natural compound derived from certain vegetables, to treat cancer. These compounds have shown promise in inhibiting the growth of breast, pancreatic, colon, bladder, and ovarian cancer cells in laboratory studies.
NASA will conduct thousands of experiments at its new $34 million Space Radiation Laboratory to develop materials and countermeasures protecting spacecraft crews from harmful space radiation. The laboratory, built in cooperation with the Department of Energy's Brookhaven National Laboratory, simulates the harsh space environment.
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) researchers have developed a new metal-stamping test station with an X-ray stress measurement system. This equipment enables detailed maps of stresses and strains as sheets of steel and other metals are punched, stretched or otherwise shaped.
A UB engineer developed software that can pinpoint leak locations on the space station and estimate hole sizes. This helps speed up the process of identifying source modules, which is crucial for astronauts' safety.
A study by OSU researchers found that their weather forecasting tool, AMPS, outperformed competing models in predicting extreme weather conditions at the South Pole. This achievement has implications for extending the limited summer research season and improving polar forecasting skills.
A Texas forestry sciences researcher has developed a two-dimensional warping model based on the mechanics of layered composites, enabling factory managers to make changes in manufacturing processes. The model uses commercial spreadsheet software to calculate and plot overall linear expansion and out-of-plane warping of wood-based panels.
Researchers are using Arabidopsis plant mutants to study salt stress in plants and potential connections to HIV research. Mutants with altered genes have been identified, offering insights into the mechanisms behind these complex conditions.
Research by the USDA Forest Service Southern Research Station sheds light on red-cockaded woodpecker conservation, revealing a preference for older pine trees with resin-rich bark. The study also shows that converting loblolly pine stands to longleaf pines can increase available food for endangered woodpeckers.
Jeneene Sams, a NASA space product manager, works with companies to conduct experiments in space that improve their products and ultimately people's lives. She sponsors two commercial experiments: one on growing zeolite crystals that can store hydrogen, a pollution-free fuel, and another testing a fire-fighting system in microgravity.
Researchers at the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station have discovered a promising new treatment for eliminating mistletoe from urban trees. The plant hormone has shown to be effective in controlling up to 90% of mistletoe infestations, with potential applications for widespread use across the United States.
Researchers at USC's ISI Polymorphic Robotics Laboratory have developed modular robot units programmed with
NASA's space station has successfully grown its first commercial farming experiment - soybeans grown in microgravity. The experiment, conducted by DuPont, aims to accelerate crop development and improve crop yields.
A Texas Agricultural Experiment Station study found that early planting, even in September, can give slash pine trees a growing head start towards better survivability. Container-grown trees showed more than 90% survival after the first year, compared to 60% for bare-root trees.
The University of Houston has a rich history of space research, with contributions to NASA's Exobiology Program and the National Space Biomedical Research Institute. Researchers are planning to go back to the moon and Mars to develop space outposts.
Researchers from CU-Boulder will conduct cell biology experiments in microgravity, mimicking normal functioning kidney cells and studying molecular responses to infections. Plant growth experiments will also explore the role of gravity on plant development, with potential applications in timber and pharmaceutical industries.
Active mountains, despite constant uplift, do not get taller because of erosion forces balancing uplift and sediment transport. Researchers found that river erosion rates closely match the rate at which rocks move up, with abrasion by suspended particles doing most of the down cutting.
Space weather events, caused by solar storms, are damaging satellites and power grids due to increasing technological challenges. Scientists are working on predicting and mitigating these effects with new observations, simulations, and predictive models.
Dr. Sharon Cobb is leading the development of a Materials Science Research Rack on the International Space Station, which will allow scientists to study material properties in low-gravity conditions. The rack's furnaces will be used to melt and solidify various materials, with data collected for characterization on Earth.
Space motion sickness affects 70% of first-time space travelers, causing nausea, vomiting, and cognitive impairment. Researchers are testing four drugs to find a safe alternative that reduces symptoms without affecting reaction time or memory.
John Uri, a NASA scientist, has led research on the International Space Station since childhood. He oversaw 52 investigations in various scientific disciplines, including medical research and material science.
Scientists are exploring the potential of Antarctica's subglacial lake to test sterile drilling techniques, which could also be used on Mars. The permafrost site is 2.8 kilometers below South Pole Station and contains a frozen mixture of ice and sediment.
A team of scientists led by Indiana University's Alan Kostelecky aims to determine if Albert Einstein's theory of relativity holds true. By comparing extremely precise clocks in zero gravity, they may find changes that contradict the theory, revolutionizing our understanding of space and time.
Scientists will study the properties of materials in low-gravity conditions to improve industry's high-tech products. Bubbles trapped in solid samples can cause internal cracks, diminishing a material's strength.
NASA's new Microgravity Science Glovebox will enhance the Space Station's science capabilities by providing a facility for safely working with fluids, flames, particles, and fumes. The glovebox supports low-cost, small investigations from multiple disciplines, including materials science and biotechnology.
The American Cancer Society has awarded a $768,000 grant to Dr. Gloria Borgstahl to study the molecular processes that cause breast cancer. She is conducting related experiments on the International Space Station to understand how good cells turn bad and develop new treatments for the disease.
Astronauts experience orthostatic intolerance after space flight, characterized by lightheadedness and dizziness. UT Southwestern researchers found that heart shrinking and becoming stiff is the primary cause, contrary to previous research suggesting a malfunction of the sympathetic nervous system.
Giant icebergs, unprecedented ice conditions, are posing a significant threat to Antarctic penguin colonies. The Adelie colony at Cape Crozier is expected to fail this year due to the destruction of their breeding area, while Emperor Penguin colonies are also struggling to raise chicks.
A study is underway to test the effectiveness of zoledronate, a bisphosphonate medication, in preventing bone loss in spinal cord injury patients. The results could also have implications for astronauts on long-duration space missions, where bone loss is a significant concern.
A new suite of experiments will be delivered to the International Space Station by Space Shuttle Endeavour, broadening scientific research onboard the orbiting space laboratory. The experiments are expected to lead to insights in various fields such as bone disorder treatments, plant growth, and cancer cell formation.
Marietta Cleckley, a high school biology teacher from New York, joins Texas A&M University researchers at McMurdo Station to study human impact on the Antarctic environment. She will conduct field activities and teach students remotely via the World Wide Web.
Researchers will study 12 astronaut crew members before, during and after space missions to assess cardiac mass, compliance and relaxation. Findings may help prevent cardiac atrophy and arrhythmias in individuals confined to long-term bed rest or with conditions associated with cardiac stiffness.
Celera Genomics has adopted Aura's OPUS software to streamline its development processes, saving time and resources. The partnership demonstrates the practical applications of innovative technologies developed for space exploration.
Menkes' disease is a fatal illness caused by copper deficiency, affecting male infants typically, causing death by age 3. Researchers now study the normal function of the gene involved in development and what causes its absence or defect., The disease is named for John Menkes who first described it at Columbia University in 1962.
Researchers are developing a compact machine called AMPDXA to precision measure tissue mass, bone density and geometry. This instrument will aid in preventing weakened bones and fractures for astronauts returning to Earth or landing on another planet.
Researchers examine how personality, culture, and group dynamics influence behavior and health outcomes in isolated environments. They also investigate the risks of space radiation exposure on astronauts' bodies, aiming to identify traits that maximize crew functioning and reduce individual and group problems.
A virtual-reality training tool is being developed to help astronauts learn techniques for navigating complex spacecraft and maintaining orientation in microgravity environments. The device tests users' ability to maintain spatial awareness and navigate through various modules.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory have developed a system to measure magnetic and electrical fields over large areas of the ionosphere, providing the first continuous monitoring of electric currents between space and the upper atmosphere. The advanced system will enable improved understanding and foreca...
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed mathematical formulas to reduce vibrations on spacecraft, enabling autonomous decision-making without human programming. The technology will be tested on the International Space Station, which is currently under construction with a budget of $50 billion and expected completion in five years.
Researchers found American astronauts and mission control personnel reported lower emotional health scores compared to their Russian counterparts. The study suggests steps NASA can take to boost morale, such as rotating leadership roles among three-person crews.
Sverdrup Technology has been awarded a $300 million contract by NASA to provide engineering, scientific and technical services at the Marshall Space Flight Center. The contract covers support for space transportation systems, including the Space Shuttle and International Space Station.
The MACE-II experiment, launched on September 8 aboard the space shuttle Atlantis, will test techniques for predicting motion and controlling vibrations in zero gravity. With multiple months of testing, researchers will interact with the experiment remotely to refine its performance.
University of Colorado at Boulder researchers will study the effects of spaceflight on neural development in fruit flies and investigate gene expression in kidney cells. The experiments, sponsored by NASA and the National Institutes of Health, aim to understand nerve growth and development, as well as tissue engineering applications.
NASA has awarded four small businesses 90-day contracts to develop concepts and requirements for a potential backup capability to provide access to the International Space Station. The study aims to enhance the station's operational flexibility by launching within a week if primary delivery methods are unavailable.
Researchers are studying zeolites, crystals that can produce more gasoline from a barrel of oil, reducing dependence on petroleum. In microgravity, larger crystals are grown, providing insights into their structure and potential for efficient fuel production.
The National Space Science and Technology Center will bring together scientists, engineers, and educators to work on common goals of technology advancements. The center will provide expertise and advanced research opportunities for NASA's mission and the growing medical research sector in Alabama.
A new screening test combining blood and ultrasound exams can identify over 90% of Down syndrome cases in the first trimester of pregnancy. The test, Ultrascreen, has the advantage of detecting more cases earlier than traditional tests.
The program, celebrating its 20th anniversary, allows high school seniors to work with NASA mentors and conduct meaningful research, fostering career aspirations in math, science, and engineering. Over 90% of participants go on to graduate from college, paving the way for future success.
Crystals grown in space may produce better semiconductor materials due to reduced gravity effects. The 'detached growth' process, performed on the space shuttle, has produced pencil-thin crystals with uniform distributions.
Nine companies have been selected to participate in a $15 million NASA Research Announcement effort titled the Second Generation Reusable Launch Vehicle Risk Reduction Definition Program. This research will explore possible Earth-to-orbit launch vehicles, in-space orbit transfer vehicles, and ground and flight operations.
Visitors to NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center will enjoy live performances by country, rock, pop, and gospel artists while exploring rocket firings, space exhibits, and facility tours. The event also features appearances by NASA astronauts and real space flight hardware.
The NASA Marshall Open House offers a daylong space adventure with interactive exhibits, including a Space Shuttle Pavilion, magnetic levitation track and International Space Station mockup. Meet astronauts, robots and celebrities, and participate in activities like the Astronaut Moon Bounce.
The Cangaroo II telescope detects gamma rays emitted by black holes and their surrounding electric and magnetic fields. Researchers aim to study the enormous effect of black holes on galaxy energy and evolution.
Detecting active regions on the far side of the Sun allows for up to two weeks' advance warning of strong solar winds. The method uses Lyman alpha radiation to track sunspot activity and predict severe space weather.
A new NASA web site features women who are making history with their contributions to microgravity research. The site profiles women from diverse backgrounds and expertise, including astronauts, scientists, engineers, and more.
Researchers compared two measuring techniques to quantify the effects of atmospheric particles on climate change. They found agreement between methods within 20% during polluted conditions, paving the way for more accurate global measurements.
NASA has awarded $22 million in grants to 65 researchers to explore the effects of microgravity on materials science. The research will be conducted both on Earth and in space, with a focus on understanding fundamental physical and chemical processes.
A new analysis by Futron estimates the risks faced by NASA's space station crew, including serious illness, deaths, and accidents inside the station. The consultancy predicts a 93% probability that a micrometeorite impact will cause disaster if it occurs.
Researchers compared local and remote aerosol measurement techniques to better understand their chemistry and physics. The study used a combination of ground-based instruments and satellite lidar to analyze pollution levels and their impact on climate change.