Human stem cells from Adelaide University's Centre for Cancer Biology successfully travelled to the edge of space and back, providing new insights into cancer progression and early detection. The cells were exposed to microgravity for at least seven minutes, offering a unique opportunity to study their response.
NTU Singapore has successfully launched the CRIMSON-1 satellite, carrying pioneering perovskite solar cells and AI capabilities to test their performance in space. The satellite aims to evaluate lightweight perovskite solar technology and on-orbit AI-based image processing in extreme environments.
Researchers found a higher incidence of hip fractures in astronauts after long-duration spaceflights, occurring at a younger age than expected in non-astronauts. The study suggests the need for expanded assessment of long-term skeletal health in astronauts to safeguard their health ahead of planned long-duration space missions.
Carbon-based materials exhibit ultra-high thermal conductivity, low density, and low coefficient of thermal expansion, making them suitable for space optical remote sensors. Graphite materials show significant promise in heat dissipation and lightweighting, while carbon/carbon composites improve temperature homogenization.
A study investigated the effects of space exposure on intraocular lenses and surgical equipment, finding that most lenses showed no notable damage after a six-month orbital journey. The research aims to develop better packaging, shielding, and material selection strategies for space missions, as the cost of sending equipment to space i...
Research proposes a developmental roadmap for lunar robots, categorizing them into programmed and intelligent eras, with a focus on 'intelligence + new energy' empowerment. A comprehensive technological framework is established, encompassing key technologies such as environmental perception, autonomous decision-making, and precision ma...
The Roman Space Telescope will discover new exoplanets using the Coronagraph Instrument, which combines coronagraphs and adaptive optics for improved contrast ratios. The telescope will also investigate the history of the universe and the contributions of dark matter and dark energy.
Engineers at Texas A&M University, NASA, and Purdue University create algorithms for managing spacecraft traffic around Gateway, a lunar spaceport. The system balances fuel efficiency and operational demands to reduce the risk of collisions during space missions.
The Apophis asteroid will make a rare 38,000 km flyby of Earth in 2029, offering a unique chance for planetary science and defense. The flyby will provide direct evidence for the structural evolution of rubble-pile asteroids and demonstrate the feasibility of various exploration modes.
The 2029 Apophis flyby will offer a unique opportunity for planetary science and defense against a potentially hazardous asteroid. The event will provide insights into Apophis' physical state and expected effects on its orbit and spin, as well as potential surface material displacement and internal structural response.
The University of Hong Kong will host the 2028 Magnetospheres of Outer Planets (MOP) Conference, a premier global symposium in space physics. Hundreds of top scientists will convene in Hong Kong to explore international collaboration on major Jupiter exploration missions.
A team at the SETI Institute is developing a new method to identify resources in space using Raman spectroscopy, aiming to answer key questions such as what is there, how much is there, and where can it be found. This approach could potentially reduce costs and risks associated with space exploration and resource extraction.
The 46th COSPAR Scientific Assembly brought together over 3,000 participants to exchange the latest results in space research and strengthen international scientific collaboration. Key highlights included a Space Agency Leaders Roundtable, Humanity's Cross-Disciplinary Exploration panel, and the first-ever Dark and Quiet Skies event.
Dr. Olivier Mousis has been elected an Academician of the International Academy of Astronautics, a full member recognizing his distinguished contributions to space science and exploration. He leads research on the origin and evolution of the solar system at SwRI.
The panel discussed how advances in engineering are unlocking new scientific missions and driving breakthroughs. Emerging technologies, such as commercial capabilities and artificial intelligence, are reshaping the mission landscape.
A $1 million gift from Roger Krone establishes the University's first space systems endowment and laboratory, enhancing real-world learning experiences for students. The commitment will fund scholarships, research, and experiential learning opportunities in space systems engineering.
Researchers propose a multiple-moon-aided Jovian capture method utilizing solar gravity perturbation (SGP) to reduce velocity increments. The study uses four dynamic models and computes datasets to analyze the mechanism of SGP, revealing its influence on perijove radius change.
The Robotic Servicing of Geosynchronous Satellite (RSGS) payload successfully launched from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral U.S. Space Force Station. The mission aims to extend the life and resilience of satellites in geosynchronous orbit through on-orbit servicing.
A new UK-built instrument, MAGIC, will measure the Sun's magnetic field much farther upstream than current real-time space weather monitors. This mission aims to extend advance warning of severe solar storms from tens of minutes to several hours.
Lehigh University has joined an international research consortium to advance commercial space research and innovation, with a focus on low-Earth orbit technology and microgravity science applications. The partnership aims to develop foundational technologies for future commercial platforms, including the Starlab space station.
The meeting will explore breakthroughs in diabetes prevention and treatment, as well as innovative approaches to monitoring astronauts' health in space. Researchers will also discuss potential targets for slowing or preventing Alzheimer's disease in people with Down syndrome, and advancements in cervical cancer screening.
Researchers at Okayama University of Science successfully recorded shrimp feeding behavior under simulated microgravity conditions. They found genetic analysis results appeared to be caused by exposure to a microgravity environment.
Researchers at UCF's College of Medicine have identified molecular changes in the liver that occur when space travelers experience radiation and microgravity, leading to accelerated aging. The study suggests that these changes could be treated with antagomirs, providing a promising future for therapies to combat age-related diseases.
The iMETRO Dynamic Simulation is an open-source platform that enables researchers to develop and test robotic systems for future space missions. By leveraging a digital twin of the NASA iMETRO facility, scientists can remotely create and test new robotic software and validate its performance with various hardware configurations.
Researchers used a brain vital signs framework to monitor cognitive and neurophysiological function in astronauts on a 17-day mission. The results showed minimal differences in accuracy and reaction time across various cognitive tasks, with no significant neurophysiological decline.
Alain Berinstain leads the consortium uniting eight universities to accelerate space-related research, innovation, and workforce development. Researchers focus on practical technologies and using space for Earth's benefit, including studies of human health in space.
Researchers create programmable neuromorphic hardware platform that mimics biological neurons at extremely low temperatures. This technology enhances quantum error correction and real-time control, paving the way for complex data processing in space.
A new telescope technology, featuring a metasurface component, can collect scientifically meaningful data from the Sun in a single snapshot. This technology solves problems in space missions by stabilizing telescopes and reducing costs.
The 46th Scientific Assembly and Associated Events (COSPAR 2026) will take place in Florence, Italy from August 1-9, 2026. The event will bring together leading scientists to discuss the future of space exploration, climate monitoring, and planetary science.
Researchers recreated solar wind in lab to study space weathering's impact on the moon's surface. They found that nanophase iron formation suggests solar wind plays a major role in shaping the lunar surface.
A Boston University researcher has designed a space-based system called StormWall to better protect against space weather. The system would fire chemical elements into the edge of Earth's magnetic field, temporarily fortifying defenses and deflecting potentially damaging storms.
A minimally invasive salvage technique using ultrasound-guided endoscopic retrieval successfully removes a deeply embedded cervical fish bone after failed open exploration. The method provides real-time navigation and higher accuracy with no radiation or significant trauma.
Researchers have created drink recipes that combine essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, to support astronauts' health during longer space missions. The customizable beverages offer mix-and-match flavors and sweetness levels, providing a potential solution for filling nutrient gaps in astronauts' diets.
The SETI Institute recognizes Dr. Matthew Tiscareno's outstanding achievements in astrobiology, technology, and exploration of life in the universe. His research has advanced understanding of solar system orbital dynamics and planetary rings.
A HKU research team will deploy a short-wavelength infrared spectrometer on the Tianwen-3 mission to search for biosignatures and hydrous minerals on Mars. The instrument aims to forecast dust storms, detect signs of life, and survey Martian resources.
Scientists have found that space debris loses altitude more quickly when the Sun is more active. This observation can help plan sustainable space operations and reduce the risk of collisions with satellites. The study used data from historic space junk objects launched in the 1960s to make this prediction.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 6, 2026
A team of researchers at Bielefeld University has developed a precise mathematical approach to plotting routes through space and time. The new method could help make space missions more efficient and also improve transportation systems on Earth.
The article presents a conceptual design for an in-situ energy station on Mars, which could alleviate power fluctuations and distribution issues. The system utilizes the Martian atmosphere as a working medium for power generation and storage, with potential to save over 20 tons of payload in future manned missions.
Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo developed a 5.8 GHz foldable antenna designed to provide high antenna gain while remaining compact enough for small satellites. The system aims to improve communication capabilities of small satellites used in applications such as space-based internet services and disaster monitoring.
A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology suggests that a fungus strain called Aspergillus calidoustus can survive the harsh conditions of space travel and Martian environments. The fungus was found to tolerate extreme temperatures, radiation, and pressure, making it a strong candidate for surviving the trip to Mars.
The Korea University College of Medicine Myokine Research Center has signed a MOU with MFC to jointly develop therapeutics for muscle loss in astronauts. The center aims to preserve muscle health in long-duration deep space missions, including Mars exploration.
The NRL launched three advanced experimental payloads aboard the STPSat-7 mission, including LARADO to detect orbital debris, GOSAS for improved navigation reliability, and GARI-1C to pave the way for future defense applications. This mission marks a significant step forward in advancing US space-based capabilities.
Researchers from Sun Yat-sen University and TianQin Research Center propose a novel method for detecting Earth's free oscillations using the TianQin space-borne gravitational wave detector. Through numerical simulation and Bayesian parameter estimation, they demonstrate clear detection of seismic events with high signal-to-noise ratios...
The Ocean Discovery League has announced a global strategy to visually explore 10,000 strategically selected locations across the deep seafloor. By achieving this ambitious goal, scientists will unlock new discoveries about biodiversity, ecosystem function, and environmental change.
Researchers propose a terrain-aware framework for optimizing laser power-beaming networks in lunar permanently shadowed regions. The approach balances coverage, connectivity, and cost constraints to enable sustainable exploration tasks.
Researchers propose a new framework for jointly optimizing coverage, connectivity, and cost in laser power-beaming networks. The team's terrain-aware approach advances system-level design of laser power-beaming networks for extreme exploration tasks in the Moon's permanently shadowed regions.
The Curtin Frontier Institute for Geoscience Solutions (CFIGS) aims to transform WA's economic future in critical minerals through sustainable exploration. The institute offers tailored services, practical insights, and advanced analytical expertise to support efficient and sustainable resource development.
Rice University has been selected to lead the US Space Force Strategic Technology Institute 4 (SSTI) with a $8.1 million cooperative agreement. The Center for Advanced Space Sensing Technologies (CASST) will focus on developing advanced remote sensing and sensemaking technologies from space. The research team will integrate existing te...
NYCST has selected projects for Round 2 funding, focusing on groundbreaking space-related technology development and supply-chain resilience. The consortium aims to address workforce shortages and mature critical technologies through partnerships between industry and top-tier research institutions.
The University of Portsmouth, in partnership with SARsatX and the Saudi Space Agency, is developing an Earth observation satellite mission concept aimed at supporting climate science and environmental resilience. The project combines academic and technical expertise to address shared environmental challenges.
A NASA-funded project is testing whether fungi can be grown into building materials for construction on the moon and Mars. Researchers are exploring in-situ resource utilization, using local materials to support exploration and long-term habitation.
The launch of Mauve marks a new era for astronomical data and collaborations, enabling researchers to study stars in ultraviolet and visible light. The satellite will investigate magnetic activity, stellar flares, and exoplanet habitability.
A global team of scientists, led by University of Houston microbiologist Madhan Tirumalai, has identified the critical role of biofilms in human space exploration. Biofilms could influence astronaut health, drug delivery and space agriculture, while also posing risks to astronaut health.
The University of Texas at Arlington has launched the Center for Space Physics and Data Science, expanding undergraduate and graduate degree programs in space physics and data science. The center will train students across six focus areas, preparing them for careers in the rapidly growing space industry.
The lack of widely accepted standards for managing reproductive health risks in space is a pressing concern. Limited reliable data from human studies shows that space can be hostile to human biology, with conditions like altered gravity, cosmic radiation, and circadian disruption affecting reproductive processes.
A critically stressed fault has been identified in the Karoo Basin, which could be perturbed by potential shale gas exploration. The researchers used data from geophones and previously collected geophysical data to characterize and interpret the seismicity in the area.
NTU Singapore is launching three new space projects under the Space Access Programme to accelerate the commercialization of space technologies. The projects include an AI-enabled satellite, a nanosatellite testing next-generation solar cells, and another nanosatellite with advanced propulsion systems.
A study aboard the International Space Station reveals how microgravity affects microbial metabolism and limits the efficiency of biological manufacturing processes. Microbes produce less melanin due to impaired transport and utilization of tyrosine, a molecular precursor required for melanin synthesis.
SPARK Microgravity plans to build Europe's first dedicated commercial orbital cancer lab, allowing researchers to run experiments impossible on Earth. This will accelerate the path from discovery to therapy, with microgravity enabling 3D tumor growth and revealing new drug targets.
Researchers have discovered a new type of organic crystal that can repair itself after being damaged at extremely low temperatures. The material, which can function up to 150°C, has potential applications in outer space, deep-sea operations, and polar research due to its unique molecular structure.