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$$$·Science·Solar System·Space Debris·Stars

Unlocking the Cosmos: How Laser-Powered Lightsails Could Propell Us to the Stars

Caltech scientists are advancing laser-driven lightsail technology for interstellar travel. Ultrathin sails could transport tiny spacecraft to distant systems like Alpha Centauri. Research focuses on the interaction between lasers and delicate membranes at the Kavli Nanoscience Institute. Innovative measurement techniques are used

9 February 2025

$$$·Earth·International Space Station·Science·Space Debris·Stars

Elon Musk’s Cosmic Public Relations Stunt Takes a Dark Turn

A Harvard-Smithsonian team mistakenly identified Elon Musk’s Tesla Roadster as a new asteroid. The Tesla, launched into orbit in 2018, is now adrift in space. 52% of Americans have an unfavorable view of Musk, a significant decline from the previous year. 60%

30 January 2025

$$$·Life·Space Missions

SpaceX Invites Innovators to Transform Human Health in Space

SpaceX is seeking innovative research proposals focused on improving human health during long-duration space missions. Proposals may explore uses of virtual and augmented reality for enhancing fitness and mental wellness among astronauts. The initiative emphasizes understanding human adaptation to space to address

30 January 2025

$$$·Life·Moons·Planets·Science·Space Missions

NASA Astronauts Triumphantly Remove Stubborn Radio Unit in Epic Spacewalk

Astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore successfully removed a faulty radio communications unit during a 5-hour and 26-minute spacewalk. This mission overcame previous failures by two prior teams, showcasing persistence and ingenuity. Williams utilized the Canadarm2 robotic arm, while Wilmore worked directly

30 January 2025

$$$·Discoveries·Earth·News·Space Missions·Space Telescopes

A Space Rock with a 1.3% Chance of Catastrophe: Is Earth in Danger?

2024 YR4 is a 200-foot asteroid with a potential impact date of December 22, 2032. There is a 1.3 percent chance of collision with Earth. The asteroid ranks three on the Torino Impact Hazard scale, indicating a moderate risk. Experts believe a

30 January 2025

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Kaja Kallas: How a Tiny Nation’s Leader Became a Titan of EU Diplomacy

Kaja Kallas serves as the EU’s foreign affairs chief, representing 450 million people. Her childhood in Soviet-occupied Estonia shapes her strong opposition to Russia’s influence. Rising acts of suspected sabotage in Europe are viewed as reflective of Russia’s ambitions. Kallas advocates for

30 January 2025

$$$·Life·Rockets·Science·Space Missions

Blast Off: Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Prepares for an Out-of-This-World Mission

Gp Capt Shubhanshu Shukla will participate in the Axiom-4 mission to the ISS in spring 2025, marking a significant milestone for India in space exploration. His training involves international collaboration, offering valuable experiences for India’s forthcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight program. Shukla aims

30 January 2025

$$$·Life·Space Missions

Indian Pilot Set to Conquer Space in Upcoming Axiom Mission

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will be the second Indian to travel to space, leading the Axiom Mission 4. The mission is scheduled for spring 2025, launching from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Shukla is also involved with India’s Gaganyaan Mission, showcasing

30 January 2025

$$$·Discoveries·Life·Moons·Space Missions

NASA’s Astounding Discovery: Did Asteroids Seed Life on Earth?

The OSIRIS-REx mission has provided important discoveries about asteroid Bennu, including evidence of primordial water and organic molecules. Findings suggest that asteroids may have been essential in delivering life’s building blocks to Earth. Bennu’s sodium-rich minerals indicate it may have once contained

30 January 2025

$$$·Engineering·Galaxies·Life·Space Missions

SpaceX Delay Keeps Retired Navy Pilots in Orbit for 10 Months

The mission of the retired Navy captains has unexpectedly extended to 10 months due to a delay from SpaceX. They are experiencing the breathtaking views of space while coping with the emotional challenges of prolonged separation from home. The delay highlights unforeseen

30 January 2025

$$$·Life·Mars·Moon·Planets·Space Missions

Europe’s Bold Leap: The Argonaut Lunar Lander Aims for the Moon

Thales Alenia Space has secured a €862 million contract with ESA for the Argonaut Lunar Lander project. The Argonaut is designed to deliver crucial cargo and scientific instruments to the Moon. The propulsion module, developed in Belfast, is key to the lander’s

30 January 2025