Solar System
Articles tagged with Solar System
The depths of Neptune and Uranus may be “superionic”
Researchers discover quasi-one-dimensional superionic state of carbon hydride under extreme pressures and temperatures found deep inside ice giant planets. This finding has implications for heat and electricity movement through planetary interiors and could influence magnetic-field generation.
Spacecraft data reveals surprising detail about Saturn's magnetic "shield"
Researchers have confirmed that giant planets like Saturn operate under a unique magnetospheric regime, with a shifted cusp location due to its rapid rotation. This discovery alters models of magnetic reconnection and high-energy particle acceleration, revealing new insights into Saturn's auroral activity.
We are not alone: Our Sun escaped together with stellar “twins” from galaxy center
Researchers found our Sun joined a mass migration of similar stars 4-6 billion years ago, shedding light on galaxy evolution and the corotation barrier. The discovery reveals the time range over which the bar structure at the galactic center was formed.
Asteroid samples offer new insights into conditions when the solar system formed
Researchers analyzed Ryugu asteroid samples to understand magnetic field evolution in early solar system. The study found that 23 of 28 samples exhibited stable NRM components, providing critical information on the spatiotemporal evolution of magnetic fields.
New study finds that water makeup of Jupiter’s Galilean moons set at birth
A new international study finds that Io and Europa's contrasting water makeup was established at birth, contradicting the idea that it evolved over time. The research suggests that Io formed from dry materials and Europa accreted from ice-rich building blocks.
Tiny Mars’ big impact on Earth’s climate
Mars plays a measurable role in shaping Earth's long-term climate patterns, including ice ages, through its gravitational influence and orbital cycles. The study suggests that Mars' presence is necessary for the existence of major climate cycles, which have driven evolutionary changes on Earth.
Europa Clipper instrument uniquely observed interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS
The UVS instrument collected data on the comet's composition, including oxygen, hydrogen, and dust-related features. The unique sunward viewpoint provided a downstream view of the comet's tails, allowing researchers to gain insights into its geometries.
Novel SwRI-developed IMAP instrument delivers first-light data
The CoDICE instrument has successfully collected first-light data from IMAP, measuring energized particles from interstellar space, the solar wind, and solar energetic particles. This will provide a better understanding of our place in the universe by studying the interaction between the interstellar medium and the solar wind.
SwRI-led PUNCH mission producing unprecedented images of Sun
The PUNCH mission has made significant advancements in imaging the Sun's outer atmosphere and solar wind. The spacecraft has tracked enormous coronal mass ejections, providing a unique view of space weather events and their impact on our planet.
SwRI-led study provides insight into oscillations in solar flares
A SwRI-led study finds that quasi-periodic pulsations (QPPs) in solar flares are driven by dynamic oscillations in magnetic reconnection. This research could help refine traditional solar flare models, providing new insights into the mechanisms driving space weather.
Chang’e-6 meteorite relics shed light on solar system material migration
Scientists have discovered olivine-bearing clasts from a lunar regolith sample, shedding light on the migration of Carbonaceous Ivuna-type chondrites to the Earth-Moon System. The findings provide new insights into the origin of water on the lunar surface.
Planet formation depends on when it happens: UNLV model shows why
Researchers have created a new model that shows how planet formation timing influences planetary composition and density. The study suggests that older, rocky planets are less dense than younger ones due to the varying lifetimes of stars.
Can Hayabusa2 touchdown? New study reveals space mission’s target asteroid is tinier and faster than thought
Astronomers have discovered that the 1998 KY26 asteroid, targeted by Japan's Hayabusa2 mission, is only 11 meters wide and spins twice as fast as previously thought. This smaller size will make a touchdown manoeuvre more challenging for the spacecraft.
Reminder: Final media invitation for EPSC-DPS2025 and details of media briefings on RAMSES and Juno missions
The Europlanet Science Congress 2025 will feature press briefings on the RAMSES mission to asteroid Apophis and recent discoveries with the Juno Mission. These events aim to improve our ability to defend Earth from potential asteroid threats.
Tim Lichtenberg, Benoit Carry and Jean Schneider honored by new Europlanet career medals
Three planetary scientists have been awarded Europlanet Career Medals for their contributions to planetary science. Dr Tim Lichtenberg received the Early-Career Medal for his work on planetary formation and exoplanet evolution, while Dr Benoit Carry won the Mid-Career Medal for his research on asteroid structures and planetary defence.
Solar Orbiter traces superfast electrons back to Sun
The European Space Agency-led Solar Orbiter mission has split energetic particles into two groups, tracing them back to distinct solar outbursts. Researchers found that one type of particle is connected to intense solar flares and the other to larger coronal mass ejections.
Planetary scientist decodes clues in Bennu’s surface composition to make sense of far-flung asteroids
A study of Bennu samples reveals the asteroid reflects light differently at red and blue wavelengths, offering insights into solar system evolution. The findings also enable future research on asteroid navigation and selection.
Scientists date the origin of Jupiter by studying the formation of “molten rock raindrops”
Researchers at Nagoya University and the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics have determined how molten rock droplets formed in Jupiter's early days. Their study shows that chondrule characteristics are influenced by the water content of impacting planetesimals, providing a clearer picture of solar system formation.
Asteroid Bennu is a time capsule of materials bearing witness to its origin and transformation over billions of years
The OSIRIS-REx sample return mission revealed asteroid Bennu's composition, history, and unique materials. Researchers found stardust from other stars and organic material formed in interstellar space, shedding light on the early solar system's formation.
Two different types of asteroids may actually share same origin story
Researchers find shared dusty layer of troilite on M- and K-type asteroids, suggesting they originated from similar large objects. Polarization studies reveal unique composition linking these distinct asteroid types.
Some young suns align with their planet-forming disks, others are born tilted
A study by researchers at UC Santa Barbara, Yale University and others found that a third of young stars have misaligned rotational axes with their protoplanetary disks. This challenges centuries-old assumptions about the alignment of stars and planets in our solar system and suggests that some stars may be born tilted.
New research suggests life could survive beneath the surface of mars and other planets using high energy particles from space
A new study from NYU Abu Dhabi found that high-energy particles from space, known as cosmic rays, could create energy needed to support life underground on planets and moons. This process, called radiolysis, can power life even in dark, cold environments with no sunlight.
Meteorological satellites observe temperatures on Venus
Researchers used Japan's Himawari-8 and -9 meteorological satellites to track temporal changes in Venus' cloud-top temperature, finding variations in thermal tides and planetary-scale waves. The study provides a new avenue for long-term multiband monitoring of solar system bodies.
SwRI’s Robin Canup receives 2025 AAS DDA Dirk Brouwer Career Award
Dr. Robin Canup, a leading expert in planetary science, has received the 2025 AAS DDA Dirk Brouwer Career Award for her groundbreaking research on planet and satellite formation, including the Earth-Moon system's origins.
New Horizons observations lead to first Lyman-alpha map from the galaxy V
The study provides a new look at the galactic region surrounding our solar system, revealing a roughly uniform background Lyman alpha sky brightness. The findings suggest hot interstellar gas bubbles may be regions of enhanced hydrogen gas emissions at a wavelength called Lyman alpha.
Japan’s Antarctic Meteorite Collection earns global recognition as IUGS Geo-collection
The National Institute of Polar Research's collection offers invaluable insights into the early solar system and planetary bodies. With over 13,000 classified meteorites, it advances global research on planetary evolution and solar system history.
NASA Solar Observatory sees coronal loops flicker before big flares
Scientists have identified flickering loops in the solar atmosphere that signal impending solar flares. The loops' brightness variability can be measured to predict flares with up to 80% accuracy, potentially providing 2-6 hours of warning time for astronauts and technology.
A rare Venus solar transit helps unravel exoplanet atmospheres
Researchers used rare data from a 2012 Venus solar transit to validate techniques for studying small exoplanets' atmospheres, similar to that of Venus. The study reveals signs of carbon dioxide in the Venusian atmosphere, which can be used to differentiate it from Earth's atmosphere.
Winds of change: James Webb Space Telescope reveals elusive details in young star systems
A team of astronomers discovered new insights into the forces that shape protoplanetary disks using the James Webb Space Telescope. They traced disk winds in unprecedented detail, revealing an intricate structure and a pronounced central hole inside each cone-shaped envelope of winds.
Rice researchers explore the effects of stellar magnetism on potential habitability of exoplanets
A new study by Rice University's David Alexander and Anthony Atkinson extends the definition of a habitable zone for planets to include their star's magnetic field. Only two exoplanets, K2-3 d and Kepler-186 f, meet all conditions for potential habitability, suggesting that stellar magnetism is a crucial factor in determining planetary...
The solar system may have passed through dense interstellar clouds 2 million years ago, altering Earth’s climate
Astrophysicists calculate that two million years ago, the solar system encountered a cold, harsh interstellar cloud, which may have interfered with the sun's solar wind and affected Earth's climate. The heliosphere, a protective plasma shield, was compressed in such a way that it briefly placed Earth outside its influence.
Dating the Solar System’s giant planet orbital instability using enstatite meteorites’
A University of Leicester-led study suggests that the orbital instability of the giant planets in our Solar System occurred between 60-100 million years after its beginning, based on analysis of enstatite meteorites. This instability is believed to have led to the formation of the Moon and may have impacted the habitability of Earth.
Juno spacecraft measures oxygen production on Jupiter’s moon, Europa
The Juno spacecraft has directly measured charged oxygen and hydrogen molecules from Europa's atmosphere, providing key constraints on the potential oxygenation of its subsurface ocean. The findings suggest that oxygen is continuously produced in the surface ice shell, with an estimated 12 kg per second, which could support habitability.
Fledgling planets discovered around a newly formed star
Researchers have discovered a multi-planet system that provides a rare glimpse into the formation of planets around a young star. The system consists of six confirmed planets and potentially a seventh, all forming under similar conditions at an age of just 700 million years.
UTSA researchers reveal faint features in galaxy NGC 5728 though JWST image techniques
Researchers at UTSA's Department of Physics and Astronomy have used deconvolution algorithms to enhance images of galaxy NGC 5728 obtained by the James Webb Space Telescope. The study reveals a faint extended feature that could be part of an outflow from a supermassive black hole interacting with the host galaxy.
Does lightning strike on Venus? Maybe not, study suggests
A team of space physicists used NASA's Parker Solar Probe to analyze whistler waves, finding they originated from disturbances in Venus' weak magnetic fields. The results support a previous study that failed to detect radio waves generated by lightning strikes on the planet.
Phosphate, a key building block of life, found on Saturn’s moon Enceladus
Researchers have found high levels of phosphates in the water on Saturn's moon Enceladus, a key component of DNA and cell membranes. The discovery increases the chances of finding habitable worlds across the galaxy, as Enceladus can support life over a wider range of distances from its star.
Are Earth and Venus the only volcanic planets? Not anymore.
Astronomers have discovered an Earth-sized planet, LP 791-18d, with active volcanoes that could sustain an atmosphere, potentially allowing for liquid water and life. The planet's unique tidal locking creates a permanent day and night side, with the night side possibly experiencing condensation of water vapor.
How did Earth get its water?
Researchers propose that early interactions between the magma ocean and a molecular hydrogen proto-atmosphere could have given rise to Earth's signature features, including its abundant water. The study suggests that even dry rocky material collisions would generate large quantities of water through these atmospheric-magma interactions.
Scientists observe flattest explosion ever seen in space
Astronomers have observed an extremely rare and aspherical Fast Blue Optical Transient (FBOT) explosion 180 million light years away. The explosion, similar to a flat disc shape, challenges scientists' current understanding of stellar explosions.
First results from ESO telescopes on the aftermath of DART’s asteroid impact
The ESO VLT observed the aftermath of the DART impact, showing that the ejected cloud was bluer than the asteroid itself, indicating fine particles. The team found no signs of ice or DART spacecraft propellant, but detected changes in light polarization suggesting altered surface composition.
The planet that could end life on Earth
A recent experiment by UC Riverside astrophysicist Stephen Kane demonstrates that a terrestrial planet in this location would have disastrous effects on the solar system. The simulation found that such a planet could destabilize Earth's orbit, making it far less habitable and potentially ejecting Mercury and Venus from the solar system.
Solar System formed from “poorly mixed cake batter,” isotope research shows
Researchers have discovered that primitive meteorites contain a different mix of potassium isotopes than those found in other, more-chemically processed meteorites. This suggests that the Solar System was formed from a 'poorly mixed cake batter' of materials, with some planets receiving a unique blend of elements from distant sources.
Hubble detects ghostly glow surrounding our solar system
Astronomers using Hubble Space Telescope data found a small but significant excess of light in the sky, equivalent to the glow of 10 fireflies. This residual glow could be caused by a tenuous sphere of dust from comets falling into the solar system, adding a new component to the known architecture of the solar system.
Europlanet Prize for Public Engagement 2022 awarded to the ‘Planets In Your Hand’ Tactile Exhibition
The Europlanet Prize for Public Engagement 2022 was awarded to Dr. Kosmas Gazeas and the team behind 'Planets In Your Hand', an interactive tactile exhibition that provides a multisensory experience of planetary surfaces. The exhibition has been traveling to schools, universities, and organizations, reaching thousands of visitors.
Analysis of particles of the asteroid Ryugu delivers surprising results
The analysis of particles from asteroid Ryugu has revealed a high carbon content, similar to the Sun, and the presence of rare earth metals in concentrations 100 times higher than elsewhere in the solar system. The findings suggest that Ryugu originated from a parent asteroid formed in the outer solar nebula.
Hopping space dust makes asteroids look rougher
Asteroids like Bennu and Ryugu appear rough due to the loss of fine-grained regolith caused by tiny space dust grains hopping around on their surfaces. This process may help small asteroids migrate faster through space, affecting their orbits.
Why Venus rotates, slowly, despite sun’s powerful grip
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.
Perseverance records the first ever sounds from Mars
Perseverance mission has recorded the first ever sounds from Mars, showing that the planet is quiet due to low natural sound sources. The rover's microphone captured sounds within the human audible spectrum, including shock waves and helicopter flights.
The secret of Venus may be hidden in the heat of the night
A study led by Pedro Machado reveals a significant difference in wind speed at two altitudes, suggesting energy transfer from the lower layers to the atmosphere. The team collected measurements of wind speed parallel to the equator and at the altitude of the bottom of the cloud deck, providing new insights into Venus' climate.
Tracking down the forces that shaped our solar system’s evolution
Researchers have uncovered the truth behind the missing volatiles in meteorites, revealing a massive shockwave phenomenon that stripped elements from planetary building blocks. This finding has significant implications for our understanding of Earth's geochemical evolution and the Solar System's youth.
Scientists find evidence the early solar system harbored a gap between its inner and outer regions
A new analysis suggests that a gap existed within the protoplanetary disk around 4.567 billion years ago, near the asteroid belt, affecting the composition of infant planets. The team found that meteorites from the outer region had stronger magnetic fields than those from the inner region.
Meet the 42: ESO images some of the biggest asteroids in our Solar System
The study of 42 asteroids provides detailed images and shapes, revealing a variety of asteroid types, including spherical and elongated objects. The densities of the asteroids vary significantly, suggesting different compositions and origins, supporting theories of substantial migration and distinct region formation in the Solar System.
Prestigious NSF CAREER award supports integration of research, undergraduate training in parallel computing
The NSF CAREER award will support Mike Gowanlock's research on developing new parallel algorithms to process large data volumes from the Legacy Survey of Space and Time. The grant also funds a new undergraduate course teaching parallel computing using GPUs, ensuring graduates have skills for future generation computer systems.
Magnetic patterns hidden in meteorites reveal early Solar System dynamics
Scientists have developed a novel technique to analyze magnetites in meteorites, providing a historical record of the early Solar System's dynamics. By studying the Tagish Lake meteorite, researchers infer that the parent body formed in the Kuiper Belt and moved to the asteroid belt after Jupiter's formation.
Hundreds of copies of Newton's Principia found in new census
A new survey more than doubles the known number of copies of Isaac Newton's groundbreaking science book, challenging the idea that it was only read by expert mathematicians. The research suggests that the Principia was widely read and comprehended in 17th-century Europe.
Iron-rich meteorites show record of core crystallization in system's oldest planetesimals
Researchers uncover new details about the oldest planetary objects in our Solar System, which formed iron-rich meteorites. The distinct chemical signatures of these meteorites can be explained by core crystallization in their parent bodies, deepening our understanding of the geochemistry occurring in the Solar System's youth.
Artificial intelligence predicts which planetary systems will survive
A Princeton astrophysicist has developed an AI model, SPOCK, to predict the stability of planetary systems. By combining simplified models with machine learning methods, researchers can quickly eliminate unstable configurations, reducing computational time by factors of 100,000.
Here and gone: Outbound comets are likely of alien origin
Astronomers analyzed two outbound comets and found their paths align with an interstellar origin scenario. The results suggest that these comets likely came from outside the Solar System, improving our understanding of the outer Solar System's origins.