Articles tagged with Space Flight
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A study by RIT scientist Sukanya Chakrabarti found that the Antlia 2 dwarf galaxy's collision with the Milky Way produced the characteristic ripples in its outer disc. The discovery could help develop methods to hunt for dark galaxies and solve the long-standing puzzle of dark matter.
Subtropical Storm Andrea weakened and dissipated in just two days, losing its subtropical classification before reaching Tropical Storm status. The storm's location 370 km west southwest of Bermuda meant it posed no threat to coastal areas.
Andrea forms over western Atlantic on May 20, 2019, becoming 1st subtropical storm of 2019 Atlantic season. It is currently located 295 miles west-southwest of Bermuda, moving north at 5 knots with maximum sustained winds near 40mph.
A recent study published in Science found that a year-long mission to the International Space Station has a small but significant impact on the gut microbiome. The researchers discovered that the ratio of two dominant phyla of bacteria shifted during flight, but returned to normal after Scott Kelly's return to Earth.
The NASA Twins Study found no significant health differences for astronaut Scott Kelly after spending nearly a year in orbit. However, changes were observed in his DNA methylation and gene expression, particularly related to the immune system, which may persist after his return to Earth.
A new review of 12 spaceflight experiments and simulated microgravity studies found that microgravity does not hinder stem cell-dependent tissue regeneration, but rather accelerates it. This valuable in vivo data has implications for human tissue repair and regeneration during spaceflight.
A Southwest Research Institute-led team has discovered that the surface geology on asteroid Bennu is older than expected, with large impact craters and fractured boulders indicating ages of hundreds of millions of years. The OSIRIS-REx mission revealed ancient features on Bennu's surface while also showing signs of recent resurfacing.
NASA research finds that dormant viruses reactivate in over half of crew members on Space Shuttle and International Space Station missions. The reactivation rate increases with spaceflight duration, raising concerns for the success of deep-space missions. Effective prevention and treatment are crucial to safeguarding astronauts.
The CAPER-2 mission aims to understand how particles are accelerated in the aurora borealis by studying the interaction between electrons and atmospheric gases. The team hopes to uncover the fundamental physics behind this process, which is crucial for understanding space radiation and astrophysical phenomena.
A new study reveals spaceflight has limited impact on B-cell immunity, a crucial part of the immune system. Astronauts living on the International Space Station for 6 months showed unaffected B-cell immune competency, suggesting in-flight vaccine-based countermeasures may be effective.
Michael Krainak, leader of NASA's Laser and Electro-Optics Branch, is recognized for his innovative approach to applying emerging technologies to agency-priority spaceflight needs. His work on optical communications, photonic integrated chips, and laser-based technologies has significant potential for breakthrough capabilities.
Tropical Storm Tara formed on Oct. 14 over the eastern Pacific, moving west-northwest towards Mexico's Michoacan and Jalisco states. The storm is expected to slow down, strengthening in the next few days with maximum sustained winds near 45 mph.
Tropical Storm Nadine has formed in the Eastern Atlantic, with NASA's Suomi NPP satellite providing a visible image of the storm. The National Hurricane Center forecasts additional strengthening through Wednesday before weakening by early Thursday.
NASA's IMERG combined data from multiple satellites and visible imagery to create a composite picture of Tropical Storm Kong-Rey in the Northwestern Pacific Ocean. The heaviest rain fell around the center and northwest, with winds decreasing to 60 knots.
Tropical Storm Kirk is regenerating in the Lesser Antilles, bringing intense convective activity and heavy rainfall. The NASA GPM core satellite detected strong radar echoes of over 60 dBZ, indicating intense precipitation falling at rates of over 69 mm/h.
The James Webb Space Telescope has successfully connected its two halves, enabling them to communicate like they will in flight. This test was a significant step forward for the program and provided an opportunity for engineers to fix any issues before launch.
NASA used data from Super Typhoon Mangkhut to create a detailed map of the typhoon's rainfall. The analysis revealed heavy precipitation totals, including areas with over 700 mm of rain, and showed the storm's path through the western Pacific Ocean.
NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite captures Tropical Storm Barijat as a small and disorganized system with developing thunderstorms. The storm is forecast to steadily weaken after moving over southern China's Leizhou Peninsula.
The Global Precipitation Measurement mission found heaviest rainfall rates at 1.5 inches per hour around the storm's compact eye. Hurricane-force winds extend up to 25 miles from the center, while tropical-storm-force winds reach 115 miles out.
NASA's Suomi NPP satellite captured an elongated Tropical Depression Hector in the Northwestern Pacific Ocean on August 15. The storm is expected to continue decaying due to high vertical wind shear and forward motion.
Tropical Storm Wukong formed on July 22 and took on a distinctive comma shape, characterized by powerful thunderstorms around its low-level center. The storm is expected to strengthen to 60 knots (69 mph) before moving north and turning extra-tropical off the coast of Japan.
Tropical Storm Aletta formed on June 5 over the Eastern Pacific Ocean, with NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite capturing its development. The storm strengthened into a tropical depression and later a tropical storm, moving westward at 7 mph, expected to become a hurricane by June 7.
Researchers from Kazan Federal University and Tbilisi State University investigate conditions for soliton formation in the solar corona and Earth's ionosphere. They successfully mathematically prove the possibility of soliton emergence, with significant implications for space navigation and safety.
Carbon nanotubes are proving to be highly versatile for all types of spaceflight applications, including analyzing the chemical properties of rocks and soil on airless bodies. The nanotechnology works as envisioned, emitting enough electrons to excite samples and offering significant improvements over existing instruments.
A new study found that microgravity during spaceflights has a more significant negative impact on skeletal muscle than low oxygen environments. Researchers suggest that therapeutic and rehabilitative interventions should focus on correcting inactivity rather than hypoxia.
The remnant low pressure area of Tropical Cyclone Iris appears more circular and organized, with a consolidating banding of thunderstorms. The storm's remnants are forecast to turn southwest and may regenerate in the next few days, potentially regaining tropical cyclone status.
A new study reveals that spaceflight triggers cellular adaptations in heart cells, paving the way for novel stem cell therapies. Researchers found altered calcium signaling pathways that could be harnessed to improve heart repair.
Tropical Depression Jelawat continues to face southerly vertical wind shear, causing its convection to remain displaced to the north. By March 27, it had developed into a tropical depression with sustained winds near 34.5 mph.
Changes in eye structure occur in astronauts after prolonged spaceflight, including a shift in Bruch membrane opening and increase in retinal thickness closer to the optic nerve head rim margin. These changes may be caused by microgravity-associated orbital and cranial fluid shifts.
A team of researchers from the University of Pittsburgh's NSF Center for Space, High-performance, and Resilient Computing has developed a radiation-resistant computer capable of high-performance computing in space. The system will be launched on the International Space Station and is nearly three times more powerful than its predecessor.
The development of freezing techniques for bone marrow, pioneered by NASA engineer Tom Williams, has revolutionized transplant medicine. The technique allows donor marrow to be transported over long distances without cell death.
A slab of sandstone at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center contains over 70 preserved tracks of mammals and dinosaurs, including small theropods and pterosaurs, providing a rare glimpse of their interaction. The discovery sheds light on ancient times on Earth and offers insights into prehistoric life.
The NASA GOLD Mission observes the dynamic intermingling of space and Earth's uppermost atmosphere, seeking to understand what drives change in this critical region. The mission provides fast observations to monitor hour-by-hour changes in space weather and improves forecasting models for satellites, astronauts, and life on Earth.
NASA has selected the Comet Astrobiology Exploration Sample Return and Dragonfly mission for concept development under the New Frontiers program. The CAESAR mission aims to return a sample from a comet to study its origin and history, while the Dragonfly mission will explore Saturn's moon Titan and its prebiotic chemistry.
NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement mission observed strong storms and heavy rainfall on Tropical Storm Saola, with rain rates exceeding 66 mm per hour in feeder bands. The storm showed significant structural improvement over the course of several hours, with peak intensity predicted for the following day.
Hurricane Maria continues to move in a northerly direction with an asymmetric distribution of convection due to southwesterly vertical wind shear, according to NASA. The storm's eye became filled with high clouds on September 22 before clearing again on the next day.
Hurricane Jose is slowly moving northward off the U.S. East Coast, producing dangerous surf and rip currents along the coast of North Carolina and Long Island. The storm's movement and strength are being closely monitored by NASA's GPM satellite and NOAA's GOES East satellites.
Tropical Storm Norma is bringing rough ocean conditions and rain to Baja California, Mexico. The National Hurricane Center warns of life-threatening surf and rip current conditions due to the storm's proximity to the coast.
Typhoon Talim's large eye was a distinctive feature in NASA's 3D image, showing intense rainfall on the western side and weaker rain to the east. Wind shear has pushed the upper-level eye northwest of the lower-level eye, with strongest storms on the western side.
Tropical Storm Jose is producing high surf and life-threatening rip currents along the U.S. East coast, with swells affecting Bermuda, the Bahamas, and Puerto Rico. The storm is forecast to become a hurricane in the next 48 hours, with maximum sustained winds near 70 mph.
NASA's Terra satellite and NOAA's GOES East satellite monitored the movement of Irma's remnant clouds, tracking their path across the Midwest, Pennsylvania, New England, and upstate New York. The low-pressure system associated with the remnants is expected to slide off the U.S. East coast on Friday.
Typhoon Talim's powerful storm system was observed by NASA's Terra satellite on Sept. 14, revealing a large open eye surrounded by intense thunderstorms. The storm is expected to make landfall in Japan and move northwards, prompting warnings from China and Japan.
Hurricane Jose was found to have extremely intense downpours within its powerful convective storms, with rain falling at rates of over 8.9 inches per hour. The GPM satellite's 3D cross-section revealed storm tops reaching altitudes greater than 10.85 miles high.
Hurricane Jose is being affected by strong northerly vertical wind shear as it makes a slow clockwise loop in the Atlantic Ocean. The storm's low-level center is located at the northern edge of a large area of thunderstorms.
A NASA study found that astronaut blood parameters, such as red blood cells and oxygen-carrying proteins, remained higher than pre-flight levels even after adapting to microgravity. The study collected whole blood samples from 31 astronauts over up to six months on the International Space Station.
NASA's Suomi NPP satellite captured a nighttime infrared image of Hurricane Irma on Sept. 11, showing the storm's large extent over Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and the Carolinas. The storm has weakened to a tropical storm but can still cause significant impacts, with maximum sustained winds near 65 mph.
Hurricane Katia made landfall in Mexico as a Category 1 hurricane with maximum sustained winds near 75 mph. The remnants of the storm were quickly dissipating over eastern Mexico, with some areas still experiencing heavy rainfall.
A Potential Tropical Cyclone 10 is expected to bring heavy rains and tropical-storm-force winds to the North Carolina coast, particularly in areas such as Wilmington. The system's track will take it along the Mid-Atlantic region before moving out to sea, with a high chance of it becoming extratropical by Aug. 30.
Kenneth remains a well-organized gale-force tropical low pressure area with maximum sustained winds near 40 mph. The storm is moving north-northwestward towards the north and weakening over the next couple of days.
Typhoon Hato made landfall in mainland China around 0300 UTC on Aug. 23, with NASA's Aqua satellite capturing a visible image of the storm just three hours later. The image showed powerful thunderstorms surrounding the center of circulation, providing critical weather updates for affected areas.
Remnants of former Tropical Storm Harvey are being tracked by NASA's GOES-East satellite as they move west across the Caribbean Sea. The National Hurricane Center predicts a medium chance of re-forming into a tropical cyclone within two days.
Tropical Depression Thirteen-E formed on Aug 18 near latitude 14.8 North, longitude 116.5 West. The depression is expected to strengthen and reach hurricane strength by the end of the weekend, with maximum sustained winds near 35 mph.
The Global Precipitation Measurement mission detected extremely heavy rainfall in Tropical Storm Harvey, with rates reaching almost 5.8 inches per hour. The satellite's radar showed powerful convective storms west of the storm's center, creating a 3D image of the rainfall structure.
Potential Tropical Cyclone 9 is organizing east of the Lesser Antilles, with heavy rainfall expected to cause life-threatening flash floods and mudslides. The system is expected to move through the Windward Islands and into the eastern Caribbean Sea on August 18.
Tropical Storm Jova formed on August 11, but just two days later, it was being torn apart by strong vertical wind shear. The storm weakened into a post-tropical cyclone by August 14, with maximum sustained winds near 35 mph and an estimated minimum central pressure of 1005 millibars.
Tropical Depression Eight strengthened into Tropical Storm Gert, showing better-organized bands of thunderstorms spiraling into its center. The storm is forecast to strengthen further and potentially become a hurricane by Wednesday.
The five sunshield layers of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope have been fully installed, providing precise temperature control for the telescope's infrared sensors. The layers work together to reduce temperatures by approximately 570 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring optimal performance for observing distant objects in the universe.
Scientists have discovered over 2,000 pulsars, which are rapidly spinning dense stellar corpses that appear to pulse at Earth. The Neutron star Interior Composition Explorer mission will reveal how nature's fundamental forces behave within the cores of these objects.
Tropical Storm Irwin is moving north-northwestward in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, with its structure remaining well-organized despite declining deep convection. The storm is expected to continue weakening and eventually degenerate into a remnant low, with forecasters predicting this will occur by Tuesday, August 1.
NOAA's GOES-West satellite captured an infrared image of Hurricane Hilary on July 27, revealing the storm remains somewhat sheared. The National Hurricane Center expects slight weakening during the next 48 hours, with Hilary expected to be at or near hurricane strength until the weekend.