The SQUIRE project deploys quantum spin sensors on the China Space Station to search for pseudomagnetic fields induced by exotic interactions. These interactions can induce energy shifts in atomic energy levels, which can be detected as pseudomagnetic fields by quantum spin sensors.
A multidisciplinary team of undergraduate students designed and built a mini satellite to study the solar wind and improve space weather forecasting. The 3UCubed satellite launched into space, providing valuable hands-on experience and opening doors to future opportunities in space-related careers.
A novel method enhances deep reinforcement learning for autonomous UAV navigation by regulating exploration noise on a global level and considering specific situations during navigation tasks. The approach achieves superior decision-making in complex environments and balances danger, smoothness, and efficiency.
A team of scientists highlights the importance of human exploration in the three deeps – deep space, deep sea, and deep Earth. The establishment of a collaborative research alliance aims to advance interdisciplinary cooperation, data sharing, and AI-powered innovation.
New supercomputer simulations from the Texas Advanced Computing Center have found improved estimates of ice mass Enceladus is losing to space. The findings help with understanding and future robotic exploration of what's below the surface of the icy moon, which might harbor life.
A recent study found that most new lunar landslides were triggered by endogenic moonquakes, rather than new impacts or thermal weathering. The research team discovered 41 new landslides in the eastern Imbrium Basin, a region with known seismic activity.
CCOR-2 is designed to provide high-fidelity coronal imaging and detect Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) closer to the solar disk. This will enable accurate measurements of coronal density and velocity, ultimately improving space weather forecasting capabilities.
The mission will investigate Earth's geocorona, the outermost layer of the atmosphere, to reveal how it evolves under the influence of the Sun and space weather. This research has direct applications for satellites, communications, navigation, and human space exploration.
A UTEP geologist is part of a team mapping the moon using state-of-the-art data and AI. The goal is to create accurate maps for NASA's Artemis missions, which aim to send astronauts to the south pole for the first time.
The SpIRIT nanosatellite has successfully completed its initial phase, marking a significant achievement for Australia's place in the global space industry. The satellite will now transition to scientific observation, scanning large areas of space using its HERMES X-ray detector to spot cosmic explosions called gamma rays bursts.
The University of Surrey and National Central University will collaborate on live missions and space hardware, providing practical experience for students. This partnership aims to address the global space industry skills shortage through career professional development and degree programmes.
The SwRI-built Solar Wind Plasma Sensor (SWiPS) and Space Weather Follow-On Magnetometer (SWFO-MAG) will capture real-time data on solar wind and magnetic field changes to monitor space weather phenomena. This data will support NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center and help predict potential impacts on Earth's magnetic field.
Researchers from UC3M and the Spanish Space Agency conducted a parabolic flight campaign to study microgravity's effects on human body, testing an innovative technique to protect cardiovascular and ocular health. The results will be crucial for future space exploration and could have applications on Earth for treating vascular diseases.
A European consortium presents an innovative mission concept to explore the moon's hidden caves using three heterogeneous robots that collaborate autonomously. The mission aims to map and collect data in extreme environments, with promising applications for future lunar or Mars missions.
A new propulsion system developed by Tohoku University's Kazunori Takahashi has successfully demonstrated the ability to remove space debris without physical contact. The system uses a bidirectional plasma ejection type electrodeless plasma thruster, which can decelerate targeted space debris and force it out of orbit in about 100 days.
A Chinese team developed OSSMC, a modularized satellite system that tackles orbital congestion by sharing resources and collaborating globally. The system stabilizes at approximately 48,000 satellites, reducing collision risks and space debris while promoting equitable access to space resources.
A new study found that automatic chest compression devices can effectively perform CPR on a floating manikin, reaching depths of up to 53mm. This finding contradicts current NASA emergency protocols and suggests space agencies may need to reconsider their guidelines for treating cardiac arrest in space.
A study published in the journal Joule estimates that space-based solar power could reduce Earth-based renewable energy costs by 7-15% and offset up to 80% of wind and solar power by 2050. The heliostat design, with higher potential for continuous solar energy capture, would outperform wind and solar power.
Researchers found that behavioral flexibility is related to exploration and dispersal in great-tailed grackles. Individuals with greater flexibility exhibit more exploratory behavior, which facilitates their ability to adapt to new environments and expand their geographic range.
The "HippoBox" project aims to investigate neuroplastic changes in the hippocampus using brain organoids in real weightlessness. The research could provide new insights into cognitive health of space travelers and potential treatments for depression and dementia.
A Houston Methodist research study reveals that 85% of astronauts on the International Space Station experienced at least one nasal or sinus issue, with 75% reporting nasal congestion. The study highlights the need for preventative measures and treatments tailored to space travel.
The SETI Institute has awarded a new education grant to Girl Guides South Africa, providing professional development for staff and volunteers in space science. The project aims to empower girls and women through STEM education and career awareness.
The University of Surrey has launched a new Space Institute to tackle urgent global challenges, focusing on climate, resilience, and secure connectivity. The Institute aims to train 10% of the UK's future space workforce and support small space companies through postgraduate degrees and professional courses.
The LPP, COSPAR, and IAU have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on lunar science and ethics. The partnership aims to develop principles and practices for balanced approaches to lunar activities, with a focus on promoting international cooperation and science-informed space policies.
The Moon-Rice project is developing a super-dwarf rice variety that can thrive in microgravity and produce high yields, addressing nutritional deficiencies in space. Researchers are also exploring ways to enrich the protein content of the crop to support astronaut health.
The UK is launching its first solar storm monitor, UK-ODESSI, to strengthen its position in space weather observation and forecasting. The mission will deploy a suite of homegrown scientific instruments on a low-cost spacecraft in low-Earth orbit, including a coronagraph and high-energy particle instrument.
A UK-led mission plans to recreate artificial solar eclipses in space to study the Sun's atmosphere and shed light on space weather. The MESOM mission would use a mini-satellite and the Moon's shadow to capture unprecedented views of the Sun's corona.
A team of researchers has developed a heat sink system using a wax-based phase change material to efficiently cool electronics in space. The system has shown promising results in its first satellite experiments, with the melting wax significantly increasing the time that electronics can operate within a safe temperature range.
The NOM4D project seeks to transform space infrastructure development by manufacturing precision metal structures in orbit. Researchers are developing laser-forming technology to overcome size and weight limitations of rocket cargo, enabling more efficient construction in space.
Nine European high school students spent months in an isolated habitat simulating life on Mars, developing essential skills like problem-solving and collaboration. The EXPLORE project aims to inspire a passion for STEAM subjects and prepares the next generation for actual space missions.
The UC Davis-designed payload is a dynamic digital twin that models the current condition and predicts the future condition of the spacecraft's power system. The satellite will monitor its own health in space using sensors to assess voltage and measurements of the batteries it is running on.
The PUNCH mission has successfully imaged a huge solar eruption, providing unprecedented views of coronal mass ejections and the solar wind. The spacecraft constellation is enabling scientists to better understand and predict space weather events that can disrupt communications and endanger satellites.
Researchers argue that space exploration mirrors historical patterns of land appropriation and ecological harm, sidelining Indigenous knowledge systems and rights. They call for a fundamental shift towards collaboration, consultation, and mutual benefit.
The Second International Conference on Space Science and Technology was held in Suzhou, bringing together over 300 experts from around the world to discuss cutting-edge research and innovative applications in the aerospace field. The conference focused on key technologies and explored solutions to global aerospace research challenges.
Researchers developed a multilayer device with high absorptivity in H/K bands and low emissivity in MWIR/LWIR bands, while utilizing VLWIR for efficient radiative heat dissipation. The device successfully concealed thermal radiation and reflected signals, achieving significant temperature reductions.
A new reinforcement learning framework, clustered reinforcement learning (CRL), is proposed to guide agents in exploring environments with large state spaces or sparse rewards. By dividing states into clusters based on novelty and quality, CRL enhances exploration efficiency.
Researchers have developed a payload named China Space Station Atom Interferometer (CSSAI) to realize the space cold atom gyroscope measurements, achieving uncertainty of rotational measurement better than 3.0×10⁻⁵ rad/s and resolution of acceleration measurement better than 1.1×10⁻⁶ m/s².
The SEMACRET project developed socially and environmentally sustainable means of exploring critical raw materials in the EU. Research results refined ore deposit models, optimizing regional prospectivity modeling and advanced geophysical imaging inversion algorithms.
Roman Space Telescope successfully completes thermal vacuum test to ensure precise instrument temperatures. The telescope is set to connect major parts in November and complete final tests by the end of the year.
A groundbreaking study estimates that only a minuscule fraction of the deep seafloor has been imaged, with less than 0.001% of the ocean floor having visual records. This limited exploration is largely due to high costs and geographical bias in ocean exploration efforts.
A study comparing wild and zoo-housed Sumatran orangutans reveals that orangutans living in zoos engage in more frequent, more diverse, and more complex exploration than their wild counterparts. Zoo-housed orangutans show a richer repertoire of actions and are more likely to use tools or manipulate multiple objects at the same time.
The University of Leicester and NASA's Glenn Research Center have successfully combined cutting-edge radioisotope power system technology with high-efficiency power convertor technology, demonstrating a new breed of space nuclear power systems.
Researchers and mission planners must optimize hyperspectral data utilization in lunar exploration to unlock new scientific insights and support long-term goals. The study highlights the importance of precise mineral identification and surface parameter retrieval from high-resolution spectral data.
The Extant Life Volumetric Imaging System (ELVIS) will test a new holographic microscope on the International Space Station to analyze the adaptability and resilience of microorganisms. The system aims to reveal how life might persist on distant moons and planets, significantly enhancing our search for life outside Earth.
Researchers from Tsinghua University sent 2D materials and field-effect transistors into orbit aboard China's reusable recoverable satellite, Shijian-19. The materials maintained their structural integrity, exhibiting stable switching characteristics after a 14-day space flight.
Researchers created solar cells using simulated Moon dust, converting sunlight into energy efficiently and withstanding radiation damage. The new panels produced up to 100 times more energy than traditional solar panels, cutting launch mass by 99.4% and transport costs by 99%.
PERSEI Space's technology uses electrodynamic tethers to de-orbit satellites without fuel, increasing efficiency and reducing space debris. The company is leading a demonstration mission for 2026 to test its equipment.
Scientists successfully fermented miso on the International Space Station, discovering differences in bacterial communities and flavor profiles compared to Earth-made miso. The study's findings suggest that food fermentation can thrive in space, opening up new possibilities for astronaut well-being and performance.
The ISS National Lab has launched the Orbital Edge Accelerator program, investing up to $500,000 in six startups for space-based innovation and research & development. The selected startups will receive mentorship and the opportunity to launch an ISS National Lab-sponsored investigation.
A recent study by Chris O'Meara from the University of Exeter Law School argues that existing laws can be used to limit when and how states may lawfully target satellites using ASAT technologies. This could help address pressing international concerns regarding space militarization and the fear of wars between states.
The study analyzed microbial communities on the China Space Station, revealing common characteristics of environmental microorganisms during long-term human residence. The findings provide a baseline for microbial safety measures and advance research consensus on microbial adaptation capabilities in space.
Researchers from Emory University are using the International Space Station to study cardiac cells and accelerate the development of cell-based regenerative therapies. The team's findings have led to multiple peer-reviewed publications and could significantly advance methods to produce cardiac cells for heart disease treatment.
The ISS National Lab's new podcast, 'Between a Rocket & a Hard Space', offers exclusive insights from scientists, engineers, and visionaries on the future of space research. The first episode explores the groundbreaking science happening on the International Space Station, including its impact on medicine, technology, and industry.
Crew-9 astronauts conducted research on protein crystallization studies and a new drug for Alzheimer's, dementia, and Parkinson's. They also supported student-led experiments, contributing to the next generation of explorers.
The Crew-10 mission will support cutting-edge biomedical investigations and NSF-funded physical science projects through the ISS National Lab. Astronauts will conduct experiments on the International Space Station, with findings benefiting humanity and driving commerce in low Earth orbit.
Scientists at the University of Birmingham warn that increasing CO2 levels could lead to a decrease in 'space sustainability' due to changes in the Earth's upper atmosphere. The research suggests that as the atmosphere cools, it contracts, reducing satellite density and potentially increasing the risk of collisions.
Researchers from Würzburg have demonstrated quantum tornadoes in momentum space using ARPES. This discovery could pave the way for new quantum technologies, such as orbitronics, which rely on electrons' orbital torque to transmit information.
Researchers developed Automatic Process Explorer (APE) to overcome biases in traditional kinetic Monte Carlo simulations, revealing nearly 3,000 processes on Palladium surfaces. APE's machine-learning integration enhances simulation accuracy, leading to more efficient catalysts for energy production and pollution control.
The Texas-France Space Hub is a three-year initiative that fosters global partnerships in aerospace, expanding commercial space presence in both countries. The program includes a six-month accelerator program based in Paris and Houston, helping emerging French companies connect with industry leaders and essential resources.
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a Ti-Al-based superelastic alloy with exceptional strength and flexibility, operating from -269°C to +127°C. This breakthrough material holds significant potential for applications in space exploration and medical technology.