Articles tagged with Space Technology
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 new study has revealed chemical signatures of ancient Martian microbial life in the Bright Angel formation, a region of Jezero Crater known for its fine-grained mudstones rich in oxidized iron and organic carbon. The findings suggest that early microorganisms may have played a role in shaping these rocks through redox reactions.
Astronomers discovered a greedy white dwarf star consuming its closest celestial companion at an unprecedented rate. The study found that the super-dense white dwarf is burning brightly due to the mass transfer between the two stars, potentially leading to a massive explosion visible from Earth.
The University of Pittsburgh has received prestigious R&D World 100 Awards for two emerging technologies: VulcanAlloy and eMission Critical Sensor. These innovations can withstand high temperatures continuously approaching 500 degrees Celsius and identify rare earth elements in waste streams or feedstocks, respectively.
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.
The ITU Global Symposium for Regulators 2025 endorsed guidelines to build sustainable digital ecosystems for essential national services. The new guidelines outline key tools and frameworks to drive regulatory innovation and ensure prosperity for all.
Researchers have discovered warm space dust in a reservoir of hot gas surrounding the Makani galaxy, located 100 million years away. The study, led by University of Maryland astronomer Sylvain Veilleux, provides evidence that ejected dust particles can survive long journeys and may be an important ingredient in planet and star formation.
NASA successfully tested the Roman space telescope's solar panel system and its 'visor' mechanism, a novel approach to deployable solar arrays. The test paves the way for future deep space missions that require efficient and reliable power generation.
Researchers at Penn State and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory analyzed human deep space communications to determine the most likely places to detect signals from an extraterrestrial intelligence. They found that transmissions to deep space, including spacecraft near Mars, are more detectable than those intended for low-Earth orbit.
A new study suggests that space-based solar power could reduce Europe's need for land-based renewable energy by up to 80%, cutting energy storage needs by over two-thirds. The technology also saves money by reducing the cost of the entire power system, with estimated annual savings of €35.9 billion.
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.
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.
The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will feature a 'sunblock' shield made of lightweight yet stiff panels designed to limit heat transfer. The observatory's instruments will benefit from this design, which can detect faint signals from space.
Researchers developed a protective coating called PDAI2 to shield perovskite solar cells from space damage. The coating helps the cells survive in harsh conditions, allowing for longer operation times and improved efficiency.
Researchers have discovered star-shredding black holes in dusty galaxies, confirming that these events are powered by dormant black hole accretion. The study uses the James Webb Space Telescope to detect clear fingerprints of black hole activity in four galaxies, revealing key differences between active and dormant black holes.
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.
A new approach to Precise Point Positioning with Real-Time Kinematic (PPP-RTK) achieves centimeter-level accuracy using next-generation Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) constellations and signals. The method dramatically shortens convergence time, sometimes achieving near-instant fixes in various environments.
A team of undergrads at CU Boulder has created a digital twin for their robot, Armstrong, which is being used to train human operators on how to navigate the moon's surface. The study found that training in a digital environment resulted in faster task completion and reduced stress.
The project aims to improve propellant and life-support compound production in lunar and Martian environments. The researchers will evaluate the performance of a patent-pending electrolyzer developed with NASA support, testing its ability to produce fuel and oxygen.
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory has unveiled the first images of the sky obtained with its LSST camera, a 3200-megapixel resolution car-sized camera that can photograph 45 times the area of the full moon in just three nights. The high-definition images will provide unprecedented views of the southern sky and reveal faintest and furthest-...
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 Parker Solar Probe team received the 2024 Robert J. Collier Trophy for their record-breaking solar encounter, which included a closest approach of 3.8 million miles above the Sun's surface. The mission provided groundbreaking data and imagery on the solar wind, heliosphere, and coronal mass ejections.
The Roman Space Telescope has successfully completed vibration testing, passing a key milestone that brings it one step closer to answering cosmic mysteries. The team simulated launch conditions and tested the observatory's core portion, which will now undergo additional tests before being assembled with its outer portion.
The Rubin Observatory will revolutionize our knowledge of the solar system by detecting millions of small bodies, including asteroids, comets and other minor planets. The observatory's innovative software, Sorcha, predicts that it will map over 127,000 near-Earth objects, 5 million main-belt asteroids and 109,000 Jupiter Trojans.
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.
Seven Clusters of Excellence at LMU Munich have been approved for funding, covering a broad range of fields from systems neurology to quantum science. The successful clusters reflect the university's exceptional commitment and cooperation with partners.
A PolyU research team found a rapid decline in global soil moisture over the past 40 years, resulting in significant water loss and sea level rise. The study suggests that precipitation deficits, global warming, and changing rainfall patterns are key factors behind this depletion.
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.
Researchers develop novel method to combat malaria vector Anopheles stephensi using satellite imagery, machine learning and mobile apps. The strategy targets water sources during dry season to eradicate larvae.
A new satellite developed by Chalmers University of Technology will help monitor and measure the world's forest biomass. The system enables precise measurements of forest carbon stocks, aiding efforts to combat climate change.
Imperial scientists launched a miniature laboratory into Earth orbit to engineer microbes that can produce food, pharmaceuticals, fuel, and bioplastics in microgravity. This partnership aims to create environmentally friendly and affordable non-animal foods, reducing the cost of space travel.
A new study by Texas A&M University researchers has revealed insights into Mars' geological history and potential for ancient life. The team analyzed diverse volcanic rocks in the Jezero Crater, providing a window into the planet's distant past and signs of altered olivine.
Researchers at TU Wien have developed a new electrochemical synthesis method for MXene, overcoming the difficulties of producing this 'miracle material'. The new process uses electricity instead of toxic hydrofluoric acid, allowing for safer and more sustainable production.
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.
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.
A team of researchers used JWST to study the exotic atmosphere of LTT 9779 b, revealing reflective clouds on its cooler western hemisphere. The planet's asymmetrical dayside reflectivity is driven by powerful winds that transport heat and cloud formation.
Researchers from Politecnico di Milano and Georgia Tech analyzed NASA's DART mission to asteroid Dimorphos, revealing a viable mechanism for ejecta evolution and understanding the impact of an asteroid's shape on deflection. The studies suggest that sending multiple smaller impactors can increase the asteroid push while reducing costs.
A team of researchers from Kyushu University discovered that about 60% of molecular clouds in the Small Magellanic Cloud had a filamentary structure, while 40% were 'fluffy' with higher temperatures. This finding provides new insights into star formation in early-universe-like environments.
Global glacier mass loss has increased by 36% since 2000, with 6,542 billion tons lost between 2000 and 2023. This results in an 18 mm annual contribution to global sea-level rise, making glaciers the second-largest contributor after ocean warming.
A recent UBC study found that there's a 26% annual chance of space rocket junk re-entering the atmosphere and passing through a busy flight area, highlighting the potential for uncontrolled debris to disrupt flights. The researchers emphasize the need for policymakers to take action to address this issue.
Lauren Berger, a Texas A&M University doctoral student, has been awarded a prestigious FINESST grant from NASA to study Martian dunes. She aims to analyze the shapes and patterns of compound dunes on Mars using high-resolution images, comparing them to similar dunes on Earth.
The regulation of ocean-floor mining may hold key lessons for the management of space debris and mining on the Moon. International discussions on space traffic management and active debris control could help prevent space debris from orbiting the Moon and Mars. Effective regulations are crucial to ensuring sustainable space activities.
Caltech researchers have developed a platform to characterize ultrathin membranes that could be used in lightsails for interstellar space travel. The team's experiments mark the first step towards achieving this audacious goal, which aims to reach ultrafast speeds and explore distant star systems.
Combining data from two major surveys of the universe's evolutionary history reveals a small discrepancy between expected clumpiness and observed matter distribution. This deviation could suggest unaccounted-for physics influencing cosmic structure formation, such as dark energy.
Adam Leroy, a professor of astronomy at Ohio State University, has been recognized with the 2025 Henry Draper Medal for his groundbreaking work on the interstellar medium and its relationship to star formation in nearby galaxies. His research has provided unprecedented detail on the physical nature of this material, advancing our under...
A study from the University of Michigan suggests that organic solar cells made with small molecules can withstand radiation without degrading, outperforming traditional silicon-based systems. The cause of degradation in others may be preventable by filling electron traps with other atoms.
Experts propose an 18th SDG to protect Earth's orbit from accumulating debris, citing the need for global consensus and mechanisms for enforcement. The proposal builds on earlier calls for a legally-binding treaty to safeguard the planet's orbital environment.
NASA has successfully integrated its Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope's payload into the Roman spacecraft, paving the way for transformative cosmic observations. The telescope will undergo extensive testing to ensure proper function and performance in space.
The University of Texas at San Antonio has launched the Center for Space Technology and Operations Research, which will advance engineering, technology, and operations supporting space missions. The center will address growing demands from civil, commercial, and national security space agencies and companies.
The Roman Space Telescope has successfully integrated its telescope, instruments, and spacecraft components at NASA Goddard. The observatory will focus cosmic light and send it to its instruments, revealing billions of objects in space and time.
The partnership aims to promote STEM education and careers among African students, increasing student engagement, identity, and career awareness. CMU-Africa and Challenger Center will expand the reach of Virtual Missions across the continent, focusing on underserved areas.
The University of Leicester is collaborating with NASA to develop a novel Radioisotope Power System design and conduct laboratory tests. This collaboration aims to improve the efficiency of electrically heated simulators and Stirling convertor technologies, enabling spacecraft to venture into new frontiers. The project builds on previo...
Rice engineers create a new thermal emitter that achieves efficiencies of over 60% despite practical design constraints, opening possibilities for more sustainable industrial processes and renewable energy growth. The technology could inform the development of grid-scale alternative storage solutions and power space applications.
The In-Space Physical AI Workshop, held at Rice University's Ion District, brought together top scientists and experts to explore AI applications in space. Key findings included the potential of AI to streamline spacecraft navigation and crew health management.
SwRI's novel Space Weather Solar Coronagraph (SwSCOR) will provide early detection and characterization of Earth-directed coronal mass ejections (CMEs), helping to predict geomagnetic storms and protect Earth assets. The instrument suite includes rapid data reduction software, delivering processed images to NOAA forecasters within minu...
A proof-of-concept study has demonstrated that off-the-shelf thermoelectric generators can convert CO2 into useful fuels and chemicals. The temperature differences encountered in various environments, from geothermal installations to the Martian surface, could power this conversion.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a system that uses a silent amplifier and record-sensitive receiver to pave the way for faster and improved space communication. The system opens up new communication opportunities in space, allowing for error-free data transmission over long distances.
Researchers developed a system to effectively split transmissions from a single antenna array into multiple beams without additional hardware, allowing satellites to overcome the one-to-one user ratio. This enables significant reductions in cost and power consumption, potentially leading to fewer satellites, smaller satellites, or both.
The article proposes a novel finite-time ESO for noncooperative target surrounding control in spacecraft formation. A new manifold is defined and an observer is used to estimate the unknown dynamics. The state equation of the proposed FTESO is obtained, which enables the controller to fulfill the surrounding mission rapidly.