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  • Breaking Space News: Nov 3 - 9, 2024

Breaking Space News: Nov 3 - 9, 2024

Tardigrades - Our Key to Longevity? This Week In Space: Wooden Satellites, Space-Based Plastic Detection, Meteor Showers, Moon Racer, Military-Civilian Collaborations, Speed-Demon Of A Neutron Star, Deep-Space Mining, Mysteriously Synchronized Star Births And Much More!

Welcome back Explorer🚀,

Quite an eventful week went by!
Updates: This week, we've merged the Spotlight section with Images; make sure to explore some truly inspiring research and visuals. Don’t miss our guide for this Tuesday evening’s Taurid Meteor Shower, and go check out this 3D Map of our Solar Neighborhood!

Get to it now.
Space is here.

SCIENCE

 

RMIT Researchers Pioneer Satellite Tool to Combat Beach Plastic Pollution

Researchers at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) in Australia have developed a groundbreaking satellite imagery tool that can detect plastic debris on beaches from over 600 kilometers above Earth. The tool, known as the Beached Plastic Debris Index (BPDI), uses spectral analysis to distinguish plastics from sand and water, making it easier to identify and target cleanup efforts. This innovation addresses the significant challenge of plastic pollution on beaches, which often goes unnoticed and can severely impact local wildlife and ecosystems. The BPDI is expected to enhance cleanup operations, especially in remote areas where manual monitoring is difficult. The study was published in the Marine Pollution Journal.

A yellow spot highlights plastic debris on a blue satellite image of a pristine beach. The newly developed Beached Plastic Debris Index (BPDI) uses spectral analysis to enhance identification of plastics on beaches. (Credit: RMIT University/Maxar Technologies)

Challenging Cosmic Inflation: The Case for a Mirror Universe

Physicist Neil Turok has proposed an alternative to cosmic inflation, suggesting that a "mirror universe" running backward in time could explain the early universe's rapid expansion. Turok's hypothesis posits that the observed simplicity of the universe on large scales could be due to a symmetrical relationship with a counterpart universe that operates in reverse. This concept challenges the traditional notion of a singular Big Bang followed by inflation, aiming to address discrepancies between current theoretical models and observational data.

The mirror universe, with the big bang at the centre. (Credit: Neil Turok CC BY-SA)

The history of the universe according to the model of cosmic inflation. (Credit: Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)

By considering the existence of a mirror universe, Turok's theory offers a potentially simpler and more elegant explanation for cosmological phenomena, such as the uniformity of the cosmic microwave background and the distribution of galaxies. This approach, if validated, could reshape our understanding of the universe's origins and fundamental structure, providing new insights into the nature of time and space. Read his entire essay on The Conversation.

NASA Develops Quiet Space Fan to Improve Astronaut Comfort

NASA has developed a "Quiet Space Fan" to reduce noise inside crewed spacecraft, aiming to improve conditions for astronauts. The fan, designed at NASA's Glenn Research Center, is significantly quieter than commercial fans, reducing noise by about 10 decibels. The new fan specifically addresses the noise generated by the Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) ventilation, which has been a significant source of sound within the spacecraft.

The Quiet Space Fan prototype, initially developed at Glenn, to reduce noise inside spacecraft. The Quiet Space Fan helps to control noise that often comes from cabin ventilation and equipment cooling fans, and the research is being shared with industry. (Credits: NASA)

This innovation is expected to enhance communication, help astronauts hear alarms more clearly, and reduce the risk of hearing loss. The technology will be shared with industry for use in future commercial space stations, contributing to a more habitable and efficient space environment.

Taurid Meteor Shower Peaks This Week on November 12: Viewing Guide

The Taurid meteor shower, known for its slow-moving and bright fireballs, is peaking this week. Both the Northern and Southern branches of the Taurid meteor stream are active, producing about five meteors per hour, with increased fireball activity. The Southern Taurids peaked on November 5, while the Northern Taurids are expected to peak on November 12.

This image, captured in 2014 and provided by NASA, features a Taurid fireball observed at the NASA All Sky Fireball Network station in Tullahoma, Tennessee. (Credit: NASA via AP)

To best view the meteor shower, stargazers should watch after midnight, when the constellation Taurus is highest in the sky. Find a dark location away from city lights, and give your eyes about 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness. No special equipment is needed, just a comfortable chair and warm clothing. The moon's light will not interfere significantly, making this an ideal time to catch a glimpse of these celestial fireworks.

The Taurid meteor shower is visible from almost anywhere on Earth, except for the South Pole. For optimal viewing, head to rural areas with minimal light pollution, such as mountains or beaches. Patience is key, as it may take some time to spot meteors.

India's First Crewed Space Mission, Gaganyaan, Pushed to 2026, ISRO Cites Safety and Tech Challenges

India's Gaganyaan mission, aimed at launching its first astronauts into space, has been postponed to 2026. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) cited the need for caution and the challenges of developing indigenous technology as primary reasons for the delay. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath emphasized the importance of thorough testing to avoid issues similar to those experienced by Boeing's Starliner.

ISRO's Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3) rocket is set to transport a humanoid robot to space on a test flight later this year and will carry astronauts in 2026. (Credit: ISRO)

This postponement will allow ISRO to conduct a series of uncrewed test flights, beginning with the G1 mission in December. This mission will carry a humanoid robot named Vyomitra to test critical mission elements like reentry and parachute deployment, with a planned splashdown in the Bay of Bengal. The mission has received additional funding of 111 billion rupees ($1.32 billion USD) to complete these tests before the crewed mission.

The delay also provides more time for astronaut training. If successful, India will join the United States, Russia, and China as the fourth country to independently launch astronauts into space.

Japan's LignoSat On ISS: The World's First Wooden Satellite Begins Orbital Tests

In a groundbreaking development, Japanese researchers from Kyoto University, in collaboration with Sumitomo Forestry, have launched the world's first wooden satellite, LignoSat, into space. Named after the Latin word for "wood," this palm-sized satellite was launched aboard a SpaceX rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center and has since arrived at the International Space Station (ISS).

LignoSat was constructed from a Japanese timber traditionally used to make sword sheaths. (Credit: JIJI Press/AFP)

LignoSat is constructed primarily from honoki, a type of magnolia wood, using traditional Japanese woodworking techniques without screws or glue. The satellite aims to demonstrate the potential of timber as a sustainable material for space exploration, addressing the growing problem of space debris caused by conventional metal satellites1. When decommissioned, wooden satellites like LignoSat are expected to burn up upon re-entry, minimizing environmental impact.

Over the next six months, LignoSat will undergo key orbital tests to evaluate how wood performs in the extreme conditions of space, including temperature fluctuations and space radiation. The success of this mission could pave the way for future timber-based construction on the Moon and Mars, as part of a 50-year plan to build sustainable habitats in space.

China's Shenzhou-18 Crew Completes Mission On Tiangong, Bringing Back Key Scientific Data

China's Shenzhou-18 crew has completed a six-month mission aboard the Tiangong space station, returning to Earth with 55 categories of scientific samples, totaling over 75 pounds (34.6 kilograms). The crew, consisting of Ye Guangfu, Li Cong, and Li Guangsu, conducted 90 experiments in material science, life science, and space technology. These samples, including extreme-environment microbial samples and material combustion samples, are set for analysis at the Space Application Center of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Credit: China Global Television Network (CGTN)

Credit: China Global Television Network (CGTN)

This mission is part of China's broader strategy to establish itself as a significant player in space exploration, with ambitions to land a person on the moon by 2030. The Tiangong space station continues to serve as a platform for scientific research and potential international collaboration, despite challenges such as space debris. As China progresses in its space endeavors, the international community closely observes the outcomes and implications of its advancements.

New NASA Coronagraph CODEX to Unveil Solar Wind Secrets From ISS

NASA has sent the Coronal Diagnostic Experiment (CODEX) to the International Space Station (ISS) onboard SpaceX's 31st commercial resupply mission on November 5, 2024. This new generation solar coronagraph will block out the sun's bright light to reveal details in the sun's outer atmosphere, or corona. Unlike previous coronagraphs, CODEX will measure the temperature and speed of the solar wind, providing a fuller picture of the wind's properties. This data will help scientists understand what heats the solar wind to around 1.8 million degrees Fahrenheit and sends it streaming out from the sun at nearly a million miles per hour. The launch coincided with the sun's solar maximum phase, offering unique observational opportunities.

The CODEX coronagraph is shown during optical alignment and assembly. (Credit: CODEX Team/NASA)

Intuitive Machines Unveils Moon RACER for Artemis Missions

Intuitive Machines has unveiled its Moon RACER (Reusable Autonomous Crewed Exploration Rover), a next-generation lunar terrain vehicle designed for NASA's Artemis program. The vehicle, which made its public debut at Space Center Houston, is a fully electric, cross between the Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle and a souped-up golf cart. It features a hazard avoidance system, autonomous operation mode, and a robotic arm for picking up rocks. The Moon RACER can tow a trailer, carry two astronauts, and is equipped with communication antennas. The vehicle will undergo testing at Meteor Crater in Arizona, simulating lunar conditions.

Intuitive Machines' Moon RACER drivable demo unit is revealed in front of the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft outside Space Center Houston in Texas on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024. (Credit: collectSPACE)

NanoAvionics' MP42 Satellite Survives Space Impact and Shows Off Damage In A Selfie

A small satellite, MP42, operated by Lithuania-based NanoAvionics, recently survived an impact with an unidentified object in space. The satellite, which has been orbiting Earth since April 2022, captured a selfie showing a 6-millimeter hole in one of its solar panels. The company isn't sure whether the puncture was caused by space debris or a micrometeoroid, but the incident underscores the growing concern over orbital clutter. Despite the damage, the satellite continues to function normally, highlighting the resilience of modern spacecraft.

MILITARY

 

Japan and Poland Sign Agreement To Join U.S. Military’ Satcom Network

Japan and Poland have formalized agreements to join the U.S. military's Wideband Global Satcom (WGS) satellite network, a move aimed at enhancing global communication capabilities for military operations. The WGS system, operated by the U.S. Space Force, currently consists of 10 satellites in geostationary Earth orbit, providing high-capacity communication services. The inclusion of Japan and Poland is intended to bolster the network's reach and resilience, particularly in light of increasing geopolitical tensions and threats from anti-satellite technologies developed by countries such as Russia and China. While this expansion underscores the growing importance of international collaboration in space, it also raises questions about the implications of such alliances for global security and the balance of power in space.

Drawing of the U.S. Military's Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) satellites; both the Block I and Block II versions of the WGS are illustrated. (Credit: U.S. Air Force)

Commercial Firms Join U.S. Space Command’s Intelligence Sharing Cell

U.S. Space Command has expanded its intelligence-sharing program with commercial firms, adding five new companies to its Commercial Integration Cell (CIC). The CIC, which was established in 2015, now includes Earth observation company BlackSky, space intelligence contractor Kratos, space tracking firm LeoLabs, radar satellite operator Iceye, and satellite communications provider Telesat. The expansion aims to enhance responses to satellite abnormalities and space threats by leveraging commercial technologies in military missions. The CIC has grown from 10 to 17 members, with more expected to join soon. This strategic partnership is intended to improve national security and foster collaboration between the military and commercial space sector. The effectiveness of such collaborations was demonstrated during the Russian cyberattack on Viasat at the start of the Ukraine invasion.

Rocket Lab's Neutron Rocket Aims for U.S. Military Space Launch Contracts Amid Mystery Launch TO LEO

Rocket Lab has confirmed its plans to compete for Pentagon launch contracts with its new medium-lift rocket, Neutron. This move aims to challenge SpaceX's current dominance in military space launches. The U.S. Space Force's National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 Lane 1 program, valued at $5.6 billion over five years, seeks to diversify its launch providers. Rocket Lab's CEO, Peter Beck, expressed confidence in Neutron's capabilities, despite uncertainties surrounding its launch infrastructure. The company's Electron rocket has a notable track record, with 49 successful launches out of 53 attempts since 2017. This bid reflects the military's efforts to meet growing national security demands and reduce reliance on a single provider.

A rendering of Rocket Lab's Neutron medium-lift rocket. (Credit: Rocket Lab)

Meanwhile, Rocket Lab successfully conducted its 12th mission of 2024, named "Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes," from its New Zealand launch site on November 5, 2024. The mission, which deployed a single satellite into low Earth orbit for an undisclosed commercial customer, was completed in under 10 weeks from contract signing to launch. This rapid turnaround highlights Rocket Lab's capacity for quick, responsive missions. The company continues to push the limits of small satellite launches as it develops its larger, partially reusable Neutron rocket for future endeavors.

Japan's H3 Rocket Launches Military Communications Satellite

Japan has successfully launched the Kirameki 3 military communications satellite using its H3 rocket, marking the fourth flight of this medium-lift vehicle. The launch took place from Tanegashima Space Center on November 4, 2024, with the satellite deployed into geostationary orbit approximately 29 minutes after liftoff. Developed by JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, the H3 rocket is designed to replace the aging H-2A and aims to be more cost-effective and competitive in the international commercial launch market. Despite a failed inaugural launch in March 2023, the H3 has now achieved two consecutive successful flights. The Kirameki 3 satellite is expected to enhance Japan's military communication capabilities, particularly in the X-band frequency, which offers improved resilience against weather-related disruptions.

US Military Conducts Election Night ICBM Test

On the night of the presidential election, the United States military conducted a test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) from Vandenberg Space Force Base. The missile traveled over 4,200 miles to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site in the Marshall Islands, showcasing the readiness and reliability of the nation's nuclear deterrent capabilities. This test was carried out by a joint team from the US Air Force and Navy.

An unarmed Minuteman III ICBM launched during an operational test on Election night, at Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. (Credit: U.S. Space Force photo by Airman 1st Class Olga Houtsma)

The timing of the test coincided with heightened global tensions, following recent missile tests by North Korea, China, and Russia. The US Space Force emphasized that the test was a routine and periodic activity, scheduled months in advance, and not a response to current world events. The successful test highlighted the nation's strategic capabilities and the importance of maintaining a credible nuclear deterrent.

Australia Cancels $5.3 Billion USD Military Satellite Project with Lockheed Martin, Shifts Focus to Multi-Orbit Satellite System

Australia has decided to cancel its $7 billion AUD ($5.3 billion USD) military satellite project with Lockheed Martin, shifting its focus to a multi-orbit satellite communication system. The project, originally announced in April 2023, was intended to establish Australia's first sovereign-controlled satellite communications network over the Indo-Pacific region. However, the Australian Department of Defence cited the rapidly changing landscape of space technologies and emerging threats as key factors for this change in direction.

The shift from a single geostationary orbit (GEO) system to a multi-orbit approach aims to enhance the resilience and adaptability of Australia's satellite communications. This strategy will involve distributing satellites across low-Earth orbit (LEO), medium-Earth orbit (MEO), and GEO, which is expected to reduce vulnerabilities and improve response times.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has highlighted that while the defense budget is increasing, the government is focused on making strategic investments. Despite the cancellation, Australia plans to invest between $9-12 billion AUD ($13.87 billion USD) in developing space capabilities to address both current and future threats.

This decision has prompted criticism from defense analysts and industry experts, who argue that it may hinder Australia's long-term defense goals. Nevertheless, the government maintains that this approach will ensure secure and resilient communication channels for the Australian Defence Force.

COMMERCIAL

 

SpaceX Dragon Executes First-Ever ISS Orbit Raising

SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft recently achieved a significant milestone by performing its first-ever orbit-raising maneuver for the International Space Station (ISS). On November 8, 2024, the Dragon cargo vehicle, part of SpaceX's 31st commercial resupply mission, fired its thrusters for approximately 12.5 minutes to boost the ISS's orbit1. This maneuver, which raised the station's altitude by about 7/100 of a mile at apogee and 7/10 of a mile at perigee, is typically done using Russia's Soyuz and Progress vehicles.

Credit: NASA/Don Pettit

This successful reboost not only marks a new capability for the Dragon spacecraft but also serves as a precursor to a larger mission. NASA has contracted SpaceX to develop a deorbit vehicle to safely guide the ISS into the Pacific Ocean after 20304. The data collected from this reboost will inform the design of this future vehicle.

The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carrying the Dragon spacecraft lifts off from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Tuesday, Nov. 4, on the company’s 31st commercial resupply services mission for the agency to the International Space Station. Liftoff was at 9:29 p.m. EST. Dragon will deliver several new experiments, including the Coronal Diagnostic Experiment, to examine solar wind and how it forms. Dragon also delivers Antarctic moss to observe the combined effects of cosmic radiation and microgravity on plants. Other investigations aboard include a device to test cold welding of metals in microgravity, and an investigation that studies how space impacts different materials. (Credit: SpaceX)

The ISS, which has been in continuous use for nearly 25 years, is expected to be retired by 2030 due to aging technology and rising maintenance costs. This milestone also reduces U.S. reliance on Russia for ISS operations, a significant step given the geopolitical tensions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 20224

First-Ever FCC Approval for Commercial Deep-Space Mining Mission Granted to AstroForge for Odin Mission

AstroForge, an asteroid-mining startup, has made significant strides with its Mission 2, following the launch of its first mission, Brokkr-1, in April 2023. The company recently received the first-ever FCC license for a commercial deep-space mission, paving the way for its upcoming Odin mission. This mission aims to rendezvous with a near-Earth asteroid in early 2025, marking a milestone in commercial space exploration. Despite initial setbacks, including a failed vibration test, AstroForge accelerated in-house development to ensure mission success. The Odin spacecraft, weighing 100 kilograms, will be a secondary payload on Intuitive Machines' IM-2 moon mission. This mission will image the asteroid's surface, setting the stage for future mining operations.

The Odin spacecraft, rapidly constructed in just a few months following the abandonment of the original design. (Credit: AstroForge)

Odin Spacecraft render. (Credit: AstroForge)

Axiom Space Explores India and Europe for Space Station Launches

Axiom Space, a U.S.-based startup, is exploring partnerships with India and European nations to support its ambitious project to build a private space station. The company is in talks with India's space agency, ISRO, and private launch companies to potentially use Indian rockets for transporting raw materials needed for the space station. This move is part of Axiom's strategy to diversify its supply chain and ensure the best fit for its missions.

Credit: Axiom Space

India's space sector has recently opened to private players, and ISRO has announced the transfer of its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) technology to private industries. This transfer aims to enable the production of smaller, more affordable rockets by the private sector. Indian startups like Skyroot and Agnikul Cosmos are already developing multi-stage rockets capable of carrying payloads into low Earth orbit.

Axiom's collaboration with India and Europe signifies a growing trend of international partnerships in the space industry, as companies seek to leverage global expertise and resources to advance their space missions. This global approach is expected to foster innovation and competition, ultimately benefiting the broader space community.

Maxar Intelligence Sells Sensor Technology Division to US Government Contractor ARKA Group

Maxar Intelligence has sold its Radar and Sensor Technology (RST) group to ARKA Group, a government contractor based in Danbury, Connecticut. The RST group, located in Ypsilanti, Michigan, specializes in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology, which uses radar to create high-resolution images of the Earth's surface. This acquisition will enhance ARKA's capabilities in remote sensing, moving target indication, and geospatial intelligence, supporting U.S. government-led programs. Maxar Intelligence will continue to integrate SAR data into its commercial products, maintaining its focus on high-resolution imaging and partnerships with companies like Umbra.

Vast Space, Sierra Space, Viasat, Gilmour in Global Space Collaborations

In recent developments within the space sector, Vast Space, based in California, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Czech government to explore potential partnerships on future human spaceflight projects. This agreement could enable Czech astronaut Aleš Svoboda to fly on a Vast mission to the International Space Station (ISS) or Vast's Haven-1 commercial space station. The collaboration aims to advance the Czech space industry and inspire young people to pursue STEM careers.

Meanwhile, Sierra Space, headquartered in Louisville, Colorado (U.S.), is expanding its spaceplane fleet by establishing an in-house mission control center, enhancing its capabilities for future missions. This move is expected to streamline operations and improve mission efficiency.

In the competitive satellite internet market, Viasat, located in Carlsbad, California, is seeking additional low Earth orbit (LEO) capacity from Telesat to bolster its offerings against rivals like Starlink. This strategic move highlights the growing demand for high-speed internet connectivity in remote areas.

Virgin Galactic, based in Tustin, California, is also in the spotlight as it seeks to raise funds ($300 million USD) to accelerate the growth of its spaceplane fleet. The company aims to expand its fleet to support more commercial spaceflights and research missions.

Virgin Galactic's mothership aircraft, VMS Eve, supports its suborbital spaceplanes. The company aims to raise $300 million, primarily for developing a second mothership. (Credit: Virgin Galactic)

Additionally, Gilmour Space Technologies, headquartered in Queensland, Australia, has secured a license from the Australian Space Agency for its first orbital launch of the Eris small launch vehicle, marking a significant milestone as it prepares to enter the commercial space launch market. This achievement underscores the increasing interest and investment in space exploration and commercialization.

On November 5, Gilmour Space announced that it has obtained a license from the Australian Space Agency to conduct the inaugural launch of its Eris rocket.

Logos Space Secures Funding For Broadband Megaconstellation Amidst Astronomers' Fresh Concerns

Logos Space, a new megaconstellation startup led by former Google executive Milo Medin, has secured early financial backing to deploy 1,000 satellites for global broadband coverage. The company aims to serve government and enterprise customers with a constellation of 1,067 satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO), higher than SpaceX's Starlink but lower than OneWeb. Logos has applied to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for permission to operate 3,960 satellites.

This development comes in the backdrop of a recent letter, where astronomers are urging the FCC to halt satellite megaconstellation launches, citing concerns about light pollution and its impact on astronomical observations. The growing number of satellites in LEO has raised significant issues for both professional and amateur astronomers, who fear that the night sky could be irreversibly altered.

The FCC, which established a standalone Space Bureau last year to handle the surge in satellite applications, faces a challenging balancing act between promoting innovation and protecting scientific research. As Logos and other companies push forward with their ambitious plans, the debate over the environmental and scientific implications of satellite megaconstellations continues to intensify.

SPOTLIGHT

 

Radiation-Resistant Tardigrades: How a New Tardigrade Species Could Revolutionize Space Travel

Chinese scientists have discovered a new tardigrade species, Hypsibius henanensis, which reveals unique mechanisms for surviving extreme radiation exposure. This species, found in Henan Province, can endure radiation levels up to 1,000 times higher than what would be lethal for humans. Researchers identified 14,701 genes in H. henanensis, with nearly 30% unique to tardigrades. Key findings include the activation of 2,801 genes involved in DNA repair, production of antioxidant proteins, and a unique protein called TRID1 that repairs DNA damage.

A Tardigrade. (Credit: Olympus)

The discovery of Hypsibius henanensis and its radiation resistance has important implications for space missions. Understanding how these tardigrades repair DNA and produce antioxidants could lead to new radiation protection strategies for astronauts, crucial for long-duration missions like those to Mars or the Moon.

The unique protein TRID1 in H. henanensis holds promise for DNA repair therapies, potentially revolutionizing cancer treatment and other DNA damage-related conditions. Studying these microorganisms may also enhance our understanding of life's limits and the potential for survival in extreme environments, aiding the search for extraterrestrial life. The researchers published their findings in the journal Science.

In A First Astronomers Discover Synchronized Star Birth in Ancient Galaxy

Astronomers have recently uncovered striking evidence of synchronized star formation in ancient galaxies. This challenges the conventional belief that star formation diminishes as galaxies age. A team led by Almudena Prieto from the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC) found regions with extremely young stars forming within the ancient galaxy NGC 1386. These stars, just 4 million years old, were discovered in isolated groups yet appeared to form simultaneously.

NGC 1386, a 53-million-light-year distant spiral galaxy in Eridanus, reveals peculiar star formation. Combining data from the VLT Survey Telescope (VST) and the Atacama Large Millimetre/Submillimetre Array (ALMA), astronomers found new stars forming in its central regions. Astronomer Almudena Prieto’s team identified synchronized star clusters within a blue ring, formed 4 million years ago, a first for a galaxy with mostly old stars. ALMA data also shows a golden ring of gas clouds ready to birth a second batch of stars in 5 million years, indicating NGC 1386 is far from dormant. (Credit: ESO/ALMA (ESO/NAOJ/NRAO)/A. Prieto et al./Fornax Deep Survey)

These images show the central region of the old galaxy NGC 1386. Left: visible light view from the Hubble Space Telescope. Right: the same view combined with ALMA radio data. White circles indicate young star clusters, appearing as faint brightness points. The visible light image shows dark filaments—streams of star-forming material. The ALMA data reveals these filaments as bright, blueish regions containing molecular hydrogen. (Credit: HST/ALMA. Composition: Gabriel Pérez Díaz, SMM, IAC).

NGC 1386, located around 53 million light-years from Earth, showcases a phenomenon where star clusters, despite being spatially separated, share similar masses, ages, and sizes. These clusters are nurtured by filaments of gas and dust, which transport star-forming material from the galaxy's outer disk to its center. This indicates that even old galaxies can still organize and utilize their resources to initiate new bursts of star formation. The results have been published in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.

This discovery challenges previous beliefs and suggests that aged galaxies may still experience star formation, indicating potential ongoing stellar activity and evolution.

Mars' Ancient Dynamo: A Longer Lasting Magnetic Field Strengthens Case for Ancient Life

New research from Harvard University suggests that Mars' magnetic field, crucial for supporting life, may have lasted significantly longer than previously thought. The study, published in Nature Communications, indicates that Mars' magnetic field could have persisted until about 3.9 billion years ago, compared to earlier estimates of 4.1 billion years. This extended timeline overlaps with the period when Mars had liquid water on its surface, making it a more likely candidate for ancient life.

In this image taken by the Viking 1 orbiter in June 1976, the translucent layer above Mars’ dusty red surface is its atmosphere. Compared to Earth’s atmosphere, the thin Martian atmosphere is a less powerful shield against quick-moving, energetic particles that pelt in from all directions – which means astronauts on Mars will need protection from this harsh radiation environment. (Credit: NASA/Viking 1)

An artist’s concept: the solar wind interacts with the Mars upper atmosphere, but is deflected past Earth by a global magnetic field.

The researchers used advanced simulations and computer modeling to estimate the age of Mars' dynamo, the global magnetic field generated by convection in the planet's iron core. They found that the magnetic field could have shielded Mars from harmful cosmic rays, creating a habitable environment. The study challenges previous theories that Mars' magnetic field weakened early, proposing instead that the magnetic field lasted longer and experienced polarity reversals.

This discovery opens new possibilities for understanding Mars' ancient history and its potential to have supported life. The findings also highlight the importance of planetary magnetic fields in maintaining habitable environments.

Speed Demon: Neutron Star Spins at Record-Breaking 716 Times Per Second

Astronomers have discovered one of the fastest-spinning stars in the universe, a neutron star in the binary system 4U 1820-30. This star spins an astonishing 716 times per second, making it one of the fastest-spinning objects ever observed. The discovery was made using NASA's Neutron Star Interior Composition Explorer (NICER) telescope, which recorded 15 thermonuclear bursts from the system between 2017 and 2021.

4U 1820-30 is an X-ray burst source located in the globular cluster NGC 6624 (New General Catalogue). This source is believed to be a neutron star in an ultracompact binary system with a white dwarf companion, with an orbital period of 685 seconds. (Credit: Max-Planck-Institut für extraterrestrische Physik (MPE))

The neutron star's rapid rotation was detected through oscillations in the bursts, indicating a spin frequency of 716 Hz. This finding challenges the theoretical upper limit for neutron star spin speeds, previously thought to be around 730 rotations per second. The neutron star, located about 26,000 light-years away in the constellation Sagittarius, is part of a binary system with a white dwarf star. The proximity of the two stars allows the neutron star to pull material from its companion, leading to explosive thermonuclear bursts. The team's research was published on October 25, 2024, in The Astrophysical Journal.

Hubble and Webb Explore Vega's Unusual System: No Planets Around the Bright Young Star, Data Challenges Planet Formation Theories

In the 1997 film "Contact," adapted from Carl Sagan's novel, scientist Ellie Arroway (portrayed by Jodi Foster) travels through a space-alien-constructed wormhole to the star Vega, where she finds herself amid a debris-filled halo with no visible planets. Turns out the filmmakers may have been right.

Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and Hubble Space Telescope have been studying the star Vega, located about 25 light-years from Earth in the constellation Lyra. Despite expectations of finding planets around Vega, the observations have revealed a surprisingly smooth, nearly 100-billion-mile-diameter, pancake-like disk of cosmic debris with no signs of planets. This finding challenges previous assumptions about planet formation and suggests that Vega's system is unique compared to other circumstellar disks observed.

[Left]: Hubble Space Telescope's false-color image of a 100-billion-mile-wide dust disk around Vega, featuring reflected light from smoke-sized particles in the periphery and a central black spot blocking the star's glow. [Right]: James Webb Space Telescope captures the warm dust glow in a disk halo 23 billion miles out, with notable features including an outer disk (7-15 billion miles), an inner disk with a brightness dip (3.7-7.2 billion miles), and a central black spot due to data saturation. (Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, S. Wolff (University of Arizona), K. Su (University of Arizona), A. Gáspár (University of Arizona))

A Hubble Space Telescope false-color view of a 100-billion-mile-wide disk of dust around the summer star Vega. Hubble detects reflected light from dust that is the size of smoke particles largely in a halo on the periphery of the disk. The disk is very smooth, with no evidence of embedded large planets. The black spot at the center blocks out the bright glow of the hot young star. (Credit: NASA, ESA, STScI, S. Wolff (University of Arizona))

This is a James Webb Space Telescope view of a 100-billion-mile-wide disk of dust around the star Vega. The disk is remarkably smooth and there is no debatable evidence for planet formation taking place. Webb resolves the glow of warm dust in a disk halo, at 23 billion miles out. The outer disk (analogous to the solar system's Kuiper Belt) extends from 7 billion miles to 15 billion miles. The inner disk extends from the inner edge of the outer disk down to close proximity to the star. There is a notable dip in surface brightness of the inner disk from approximately 3.7 to 7.2 billion miles. The black spot at the center is due to lack of data from saturation. (Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, K. Su (University of Arizona), A. Gáspár (University of Arizona))

Vega, one of the brightest stars in the northern sky, is famed for providing the first observational evidence of material orbiting a star—potentially forming planets. Initially hypothesized by Immanuel Kant in 1775, this was confirmed in 1984 when NASA's IRAS detected excess infrared light from a dust disk extending twice Pluto's orbital radius. The dust disk was thought to be a potential site for planet formation. However, recent observations show no distinct rings or gaps that would indicate the presence of planets. Instead, the disk appears featureless and smooth, raising questions about why Vega has not formed planets despite being old enough to do so.

These findings are prompting astronomers to rethink the variety and range of exoplanet systems and could offer new insights into the processes of planet formation. Two papers from the University of Arizona team will be published in The Astrophysical Journal.

Icy Mars Rivers: How Carbon Dioxide Cycles Shaped Ancient Water Flow

New research suggests that ancient Mars, despite its icy conditions, once had rivers and lakes due to a unique carbon dioxide cycle. Around 3.6 billion years ago, carbon dioxide froze out of Mars' atmosphere and formed a thick layer over the water ice at the poles. This layer acted as an insulator, trapping heat from Mars' interior. This increased the pressure on the ice, causing roughly half of Mars' total water inventory to melt and flow across its surface. This process occurred without the need for climatic warming, challenging previous assumptions about Mars' ancient climate and hydrology. The research paper, led by Planetary Science Institute (Arizona, U.S.) Research Scientist Peter Buhler, was published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Planets.

Revealing the Heat Map of Our Cosmic Backyard: A New 3D View of the Hot Gas Bubble Surrounding Our Solar System

Astronomers have unveiled a detailed 3D map of the Local Hot Bubble (LHB), a vast region of low-density, million-degree hot gas encompassing our solar system. Using data from the eROSITA All-Sky Survey, researchers identified a significant temperature gradient within the LHB, characterized by both hot and cold spots. This gradient is likely the result of supernova explosions that have intermittently reheated the bubble over millions of years. Additionally, the map has revealed a fascinating "interstellar tunnel" pointing toward the constellation Centaurus, which may link the LHB to a neighboring superbubble, offering a broader understanding of the interstellar medium. The team's 3D model of our solar neighborhood can be explored here.

3D model of the solar neighbourhood. The colour bar represents the temperature of the LHB as coloured on the LHB surface. The direction of the Galactic Centre (GC) and Galactic North (N) is shown in the bottom right. The link to the interactive version can be found at the bottom of the page. (Credit: Michael Yeung / MPE)

3D structure of the LHB with colours indicating its temperature. The two surfaces indicate the measurement uncertainty of the LHB extent: the most probable extent most likely lies between the two. The location of the Sun and a sphere of 100 parsec radius are marked for comparison. (Credit: Michael Yeung / MPE)

The eROSITA telescope, located at the L2 Lagrange point about 1.5 million kilometers from Earth, has been instrumental in these observations. Exchanges between the solar wind and particles in Earth's geocorona emit X-ray photons similar to those proposed to originate from the LHB. However, at L2, away from Earth, eROSITA, the first X-ray telescope to observe the universe from outside the geocorona, can rule out potential X-ray 'noise' from these interactions in its observations. Notably, it shares this space with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), making the L2 point a hub for groundbreaking astronomical research. The discovery, spearheaded by the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics, sheds new light on the structure and dynamics of our cosmic neighborhood. This breakthrough not only enhances our understanding of the environment surrounding our solar system but also provides critical insights into the processes that shape our galaxy. The related research has been published in the journal Astronomy and Astrophysics.

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