Asteroids, the remnants of our Solar System’s formation, are key to understanding cosmic history. Recent breakthroughs in meteorite research have unveiled compelling evidence linking over 90 percent of the meteorites that have recently landed on Earth to their parent bodies in the asteroid belt. This article explores these findings, their implications for planetary science, and
Space
Lightning storms are iconic natural phenomena, captivating and terrifying in equal measure. Our understanding of these electrical tempests has evolved significantly, revealing that their effects extend far beyond the surface of the Earth, penetrating into the realms of space weather. Recent research conducted by a team of scientists at the University of Colorado has uncovered
In the vast, desolate landscape of Mars, the Perseverance rover continues its mission to explore and gather data on the Red Planet. Its work has unearthed many fascinating photographs that reveal the planet’s geological history. However, one recent image has sparked considerable interest due to its eerie resemblance to a human head. Captured on September
Humankind’s ventures into space have always captured our imagination, with NASA’s Apollo missions representing the zenith of human achievement in space exploration. Specifically, the historic Apollo 17 mission in 1972 marked the final instance humans walked on the Moon, leading to an almost half-century hiatus in lunar activity. Fast forward to today, and the lunar
The Sun is not just a fiery orb but a dynamic entity that undergoes significant variations, impacting our planet profoundly. NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), along with the Solar Cycle Prediction Panel, have recently announced the commencement of solar maximum, the peak phase of the Sun’s 11-year activity cycle. This is
The field of planetary science has reached a significant milestone, illuminating the origins of a large majority of meteorites that fall to Earth. Recent studies conducted by an international team of scientists have elucidated the parental bodies of over 90 percent of meteorites, showcasing our understanding of these celestial travelers. This article delves into the
Since its inaugural launch in 2011, the X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV) has captured the imagination of space enthusiasts and speculation from analysts worldwide. Developed by Boeing and operated by the United States Space Force (USSF), this cutting-edge, reusable spacecraft is designed to operate in low Earth orbit (LEO) and push the boundaries of what
The ever-expanding frontiers of astronomy have continuously captivated researchers and enthusiasts alike, particularly with the discovery of exoplanets and their complexities. Among these celestial wonders lies the intriguing case of WASP-49b, an exoplanet uniquely positioned around a yellow dwarf star, WASP-49, approximately 635 light-years away from Earth. Recent observations indicate that this gas giant may
In a monumental step forward for space exploration, NASA has initiated its ambitious Europa Clipper mission, dedicated to uncovering the mysteries of Europa, one of Jupiter’s most intriguing moons. The spacecraft, launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket, is on a journey toward what scientists believe to be a hidden ocean beneath Europa’s icy facade.
M-class stars, commonly referred to as red dwarfs, constitute a significant portion of the universe’s stellar population. These stars, known for their small size and cooler temperatures compared to the Sun, are fascinating not only because of their abundance—accounting for approximately 70% of the celestial entities in our Milky Way—but also due to their long
Earth, often described as a luminous blue marble, is a remarkable sight amidst the vast tapestry of the universe. To many, this image exists only in photographs and documentaries, as the experience of witnessing our planet from space remains a privilege reserved for a select few. The accounts of these astronauts, documenting their celestial adventures,
Geomagnetic storms are natural phenomena triggered by the Sun, particularly during periods of heightened solar activity. These storms are primarily caused by coronal mass ejections (CMEs)—large expulsions of plasma and magnetic fields from the solar corona. When such a CME reaches Earth, it interacts with the planet’s magnetic field, resulting in disruptions that can have
The sun, a colossal sphere of plasma, continuously influences the heliosphere, and at times, this influence manifests in dramatic ways. US forecasters are bracing for significant solar activity as a coronal mass ejection (CME) is projected to impact Earth soon, ushering in the potential for mesmerizing auroras across unusually far southern locales. As we delve
The study of Near-Earth asteroids presents an unparalleled opportunity to explore the mysteries of our solar system and the fundamental laws governing it. Bennu, a noteworthy asteroid, has recently seized the interest of astrophysicists for more reasons than one. Beyond its physical composition and proximity to Earth, new investigations of Bennu’s tracking data hint at
In the vastness of our universe, exoplanets reveal themselves as peculiar treasures, challenging our understanding of planetary formation and composition. One such celestial body, WASP-107b, has recently captured the scientific community’s attention due to its bizarre characteristics. Situated approximately 200 light-years away from Earth, this planet, which can be likened to a giant puff of
Ceres, the largest dwarf planet residing in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, presents a tantalizing mystery rooted in its icy potential. Once perceived merely as an asteroid, Ceres defies simplistic categorization with its spherical shape and substantial size—making it nearly half the diameter of Pluto. Recent studies suggest that Ceres’s surface may contain