Researchers propose that lunar swirls are caused by subsurface magma, which creates a magnetic anomaly. The team's experiments show that ilmenite can react and form iron metal under the right conditions, producing a magnetizing effect.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·DateJul 3, 2024
Researchers analyze crater chronology and radiometric dating to understand lunar impact flux, revealing a complex history of impacts that shaped the Moon's geology. The study aims to improve understanding of planetary evolution and orbital dynamics.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace: Science & Technology·DateJul 3, 2024
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
Astrophysicists record radio emissions from Earth and view it as an exoplanet to understand potential signals from intelligent life. The mission marks a major achievement for NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services program.
A new heat-switch device developed by Nagoya University's team enhances lunar-roving vehicles' operational lifespan under harsh Moon conditions. The innovative technology reduces power consumption while maintaining efficient daytime cooling performance and nighttime insulation, making it a critical component for future lunar missions.
SourceNagoya University·JournalApplied Thermal Engineering·DateJun 6, 2024
A team of researchers from NYU Abu Dhabi calls for expanded protections to preserve the environments of the Moon and Mars, addressing biological contamination and other issues. They also recommend compliance incentives to existing sustainability policies, citing potential benefits for terrestrial technology development.
SourceNew York University·JournalSpace Policy·DateJun 3, 2024
Researchers at China Institute of Atomic Energy have developed a more sensitive method to detect iron-60 in lunar samples, allowing for deeper understanding of cosmic events. The new technique has improved detection sensitivity better than 4.3 × 10−14 and potentially reaching 2.5 × 10−15.
SourceNuclear Science and Techniques·JournalNuclear Science and Techniques·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 26, 2024
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
Researchers at the University of Arizona used computer simulations and spacecraft data to study the moon's geology, finding that a dense layer of titanium-rich material sank into the interior and rose on the near side. The findings suggest that the moon 'turned itself inside out' during its formation.
SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 8, 2024
Climate change causes melting of ice sheet, resulting in loss of about 5,000 meteorites per year. Researchers call for urgent action to preserve the scientific value of meteorites and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 8, 2024
The Lunar Environment Monitoring System, developed by UMD researchers, will track seismic activity on the moon's surface during the upcoming Artemis III mission. The system's data will help prepare NASA for a long-term presence on other planetary bodies.
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
Researchers at Cornell University have devised a novel way to determine ocean temperatures of distant worlds based on the thickness of their ice shells. This technique can be used to enhance NASA's mission findings about Europa and Enceladus, two Jovian and Saturnian moons that could potentially support life.
SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·DateFeb 29, 2024
The commercial space sector has seen significant growth, with over 2,660 satellites launched into orbit in recent years. International collaborations are also expanding, enabling diverse perspectives and new ideas to emerge in science and space exploration.
Using machine learning and computational modeling, Washington State University researchers found six good candidates for solvents that can extract materials on the moon and Mars usable in 3D printing. The solvents, called ionic liquids, are salts in a liquid state.
SourceWashington State University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateJan 11, 2024
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
New research from the Max Planck Institute challenges previous claims of giant exomoons around Kepler-1625b and Kepler-1708b. The study uses a computer algorithm to analyze observations, finding that 'planet-only' interpretations are more conclusive than initially thought.
SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 2023
Researchers propose that ancient planet Theia collided with Earth billions of years ago, forming two continent-sized blobs of unusual material and the Moon. The blobs, known as large low-velocity provinces (LLVPs), are rich in iron and likely composed of different proportions of elements than the mantle surrounding them.
SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 2023
Researchers at Northwestern University and Field Museum analyzed lunar crystals to determine the Moon's age, finding it to be approximately 4.46 billion years old, 40 million years older than previous estimates. This discovery sheds light on the Moon's formation and its impact on the Earth's planetary system.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalGeochemical Perspectives Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Texas A&M University is collaborating on a research project to track objects in high Earth orbits, expanding space domain awareness capabilities. The Space University Research Initiative aims to develop new technology and systems to monitor objects influenced by the moon's gravity.
Researchers found a rare pathway allowing a moon fragment to reach Earth's quasi-satellite orbit. The study suggests that many more lunar fragments remain to be discovered among the near-Earth asteroid population.
SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 23, 2023
A proof-of-concept study demonstrates the viability of using lasers to melt lunar soil into a solid substance for paving. The technique could be used to mitigate dust issues and facilitate transport on the Moon by creating roads and landing pads.
SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 12, 2023
Scientists have found that magnetic contamination in lunar samples can be easily removed using standard techniques, disproving previous theories. The study's findings suggest that paleomagnetism is a powerful tool for understanding core processes and planetary evolution, enabling the long-term preservation of atmospheres.
SourceStanford University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 11, 2023
A team of scientists calculated that most of the Moon's permanently shadowed regions are younger than previously estimated and contain relatively young deposits of water ice. The findings suggest that current estimates for cold-trapped ices are too high, which could impact future missions to the Moon.
SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateSep 18, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.
A Purdue University experiment is investigating how reduced gravity affects boiling and condensation, crucial for long-term space habitats. The research aims to provide data needed to answer decades-old questions about these phenomena in weightlessness.
Researchers have developed a new method to estimate river flow rates on Mars and Titan, utilizing satellite observations and mathematical equations. The technique allows for predictions of river flow times, sediment size, and potential support for life, shedding light on these celestial bodies' geological pasts.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 10, 2023
For over a billion years, the sun's atmospheric tide countered the moon's gravitational pull, keeping Earth's rotational rate steady and day length at 19.5 hours. This balance was disrupted by climate change, resulting in our current 24-hour day stretching to over 60 hours if not for the pause.
SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 5, 2023
An international group of experts has developed a planetary protection policy to safeguard Earth from potential threats and avoid compromising the search for lifeforms on other celestial bodies. The policy aims to prevent biological and organic contamination of space missions, ensuring the safety of our planet.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 4, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
A new study reveals that Earth's day length may have stalled at 19 hours between 2-1 billion years ago due to tidal resonance caused by the Moon and Sun's opposing forces. This flatlined period could have allowed for a stable atmosphere, enabling photosynthetic bacteria to produce more oxygen each day.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 12, 2023
Researchers develop artificial photosynthesis devices to convert sunlight into oxygen, potentially supplementing space travel with sustainable energy. These devices mimic plants' natural process, recycling carbon dioxide and producing oxygen using only sunlight.
SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 9, 2023
The Chang'e project has successfully mapped the Moon's surface, composition and inner workings, providing new insights into its evolution and potential resources. Future research aims to unlock the secrets of water ice and lunar material composition.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateMay 26, 2023
Researchers at the University of Birmingham are studying how humans can live and operate on Mars, simulating conditions using a unique facility 1.1 km below the surface. The project aims to investigate biomedical procedures for treating tissue damage in space crews.
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·Journalnpj Microgravity·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2023
A new study found that coastal light pollution causes corals to spawn one to three days closer to the full moon, reducing the likelihood of fertilized eggs surviving and producing new adult corals. This disrupts the natural spawning cycle, which is critical for reef recovery after mass bleaching events.
SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalNature Communications·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 15, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.
An international team of researchers analyzed medieval texts and ice core data to date some of the largest volcanic eruptions in history. They found that five lunar eclipses occurred within a year or so of major volcanic eruptions, providing new information about the most volcanically active period in Earth's history.
SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·TypeNews article·DateApr 5, 2023
Researchers have found a new water reservoir on the Moon, discovered in impact glass beads, which can buffer the lunar surface water cycle. The study suggests that these beads can store and release solar wind-derived water, indicating their potential for in-situ resource utilization.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 27, 2023
Researchers have identified tens of thousands of molecular 'puzzle pieces' in two meteorites, including a larger amount of oxygen atoms than expected. This analysis provides a unique window into the origin of life itself and sheds light on the formation of the universe.
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
A team of global experts has developed a new navigation system for lunar rovers using lithium niobate chips, which can detect tiny changes in laser light to measure movement without external signals. This technology also has potential applications on Earth, such as remotely detecting the ripeness of fruit.
SourceRMIT University·JournalScience·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 18, 2023
Researchers found high ferric iron content in agglutinate glass from lunar soil returned by China's Chang'e-5 mission. The discovery challenges previous knowledge about lunar ferric iron and suggests ongoing charge disproportionation reactions, leading to progressively increasing ferric iron on the Moon's surface.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJan 9, 2023
Researchers identified seven exotic igneous clasts in Chang'e-5 samples, providing critical information about the Moon's lithological diversity and regolith gardening process. The findings indicate that there are still unknown geological units on the moon, which may aid future lunar exploration missions.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Astronomy·DateDec 28, 2022
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
A joint research team from China has discovered high concentrations of hydrogen and low deuterium/hydrogen ratios in lunar soil grain rims consistent with solar wind origin. This finding suggests that the bulk water content in Chang'e-5 lunar soils is around 46 ppm, which could be higher in polar regions.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 26, 2022
Astronauts in space can lose up to 20% of muscle mass after two weeks due to microgravity. Researchers are exploring the use of extracellular vesicles, which contain restorative chemicals, to trigger post-exercise recovery without traditional exercise.
SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·DateDec 13, 2022
Researchers developed a new lidar technique using 3D flash lidar combined with super-resolution algorithm for hazard avoidance during landing. The technique improved the precision and safety of robotic vehicles on Mars, enabling them to navigate through challenging environments.
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Researchers detected sub-microscopic magnetite and metallic iron particles in Chang'E-5 lunar soil through electron microanalysis. This discovery provides direct evidence for the formation of native magnetite in lunar samples and sheds light on the origin of Moon's magnetic anomalies.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 4, 2022
University of Central Florida researchers have discovered a method that uses microwaves to melt lunar soil, coupled with beneficiation technology, may be the best option for building safe and economical lunar landing pads. This approach could increase microwave absorption by up to 80% using magnetic fields, making it more energy-effici...
SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNew Space·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2022
Wynne's work identifies key questions and answers needed to study Martian caves, which could hold secrets of life and provide insights into Earth's formation. Caves may also serve as radiation shielding for astronaut habitats on the Moon and Mars.
SourceNorthern Arizona University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·DateNov 16, 2022
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
A new model accounts for the interplay of forces acting on newborn planets, explaining two puzzling observations: the radius valley and peas in a pod. The research suggests that giant impacts, like the one that formed our moon, are probably a generic outcome of planet formation.
SourceRice University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 7, 2022
Researchers analyzed fluid dynamics and electrically conducting fluids to conclude the Earth must have been magnetized before or as a result of its formation. This discovery could help narrow down theories on the Earth-Moon system, with implications for future research.
SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 2, 2022
Researchers at Nagoya University identified the pheromone PGE2 involved in puffer fish spawning behavior, which is synchronized with the lunar cycle. The study found that applying PGE2 to puffer fish triggers their characteristic writhing motion during spawning.
SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022
Researchers at UCF's COSMOS Lab developed a method to create strong bricks from lunar regolith using 3D printing and binder jet technology. The bricks can withstand extreme space environments and are suitable for constructing off-world structures, paving the way for sustainable space construction.
SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalCeramics International·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 25, 2022
Researchers found that mantle melting-point depression due to fusible components could generate young lunar volcanism. The Chang'E-5 samples, returned in 2020, revealed surprisingly young volcanic activity only 2 billion years old, contradicting the long-held assumption that the Moon has been geologically dead since then.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 21, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
A Curtin-led research team found asteroid impacts on the Moon millions of years ago coincide with large meteorite impacts on Earth, such as the one that wiped out dinosaurs. The study also reveals that major impact events on Earth were accompanied by smaller impacts, providing new insights into asteroid dynamics.
SourceCurtin University·JournalScience Advances·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 28, 2022
Researchers found large impacts can fracture a planet's crust, introducing porosity that increases its potential for life. This discovery has implications for early Earth and Mars, suggesting life could have survived in pore spaces during intense impact periods.
SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 17, 2022
Scientists at the University of Delaware have developed a new type of cement that can be used to build structures on the moon or Mars. The geopolymer cement is made from clay-like topsoil materials found on these planets and has been shown to be durable enough for vertical launch pads.
SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalAdvances in Space Research·DateAug 10, 2022
The Chang'E-5 team found hydroxyl signals in lunar rocks and soil, indicating the presence of indigenous water on the Moon's surface. The bulk of this water is contained in apatite minerals, suggesting a lunar origin.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 14, 2022
Researchers found that baby leatherback hatchlings are less sensitive to light than loggerheads, leading to circling behavior and delayed ocean entry. This difference may be an adaptation for detecting prey or habitats in the open ocean.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalAnimal Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2022
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
Researchers from CU Boulder suggest that ancient moon volcanoes may have spewed out huge amounts of water vapor, forming stores of ice on the lunar surface. This discovery adds to evidence that the moon may be awash in more water than previously believed, with potential implications for future lunar missions.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateMay 17, 2022
Researchers at the University of Florida have grown plants in soil from the Moon, a major milestone in lunar exploration. The study found that plants can sprout and grow in lunar regolith, but also experience stress due to its unique chemical composition.
SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2022
Sandia researchers have designed a reliable and resilient microgrid for NASA's Artemis lunar base, which will sustain astronauts, mining, and fuel processing. The system utilizes distributed energy resources like solar panels and wind turbines, with a focus on efficient power management and scalability.
Researchers have discovered that lunar soil can convert carbon dioxide into oxygen and fuels, paving the way for sustainable space exploration. The team proposes an 'extraterrestrial photosynthesis' strategy using lunar soil to electrolyze water and produce desired products.
SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022
The study suggests that Venus' atmosphere plays a crucial role in determining its rotation speed, with fast winds dragging along the surface and slowing it down. This has significant consequences for the sweltering Venusian climate, with average temperatures of up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 20, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.
Researchers propose that a colossal ancient impact near the Moon's south pole created a heat plume that concentrated rare-Earth elements on the nearside, contributing to the formation of volcanic plains. This explanation sheds light on the Moon's most enduring mystery.
SourceBrown University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 8, 2022
New research investigates electrolysis efficiency on the Moon and Mars, finding that lower gravity reduces oxygen production by 11%. The study provides valuable insights for establishing life support systems and power budgets for future human settlements.
SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 8, 2022
For the first time, astronauts in orbit successfully controlled a robot on the ground using haptic feedback, simulating geological exploration missions. This breakthrough enables more complex investigations of planetary surfaces without human exposure to danger.
SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOpen Astronomy·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2022
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
Researchers found that only certain types of planets can form large moons in respect to their host planets. They propose that smaller planets are better candidates to host fractionally large moons. This study provides constraints for future observations and sheds light on the formation of Earth's unique moon.
SourceUniversity of Rochester·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2022