Category

Science & Space

Space exploration, scientific discoveries, astronomy, and physics.

259 articles

Science & Space

Cosmic Collisions Reshape Our View of Planet Formation

Astronomers are uncovering cosmic surprises, from planetary systems that defy formation rules to the echoes of the Moon's birth in distant star systems. Discoveries include a peculiar planetary arrangement, a hot Earth-sized world offering atmospheric insights, and a spectacular planetary collision. Meanwhile, new technologies aim to capture asteroids, and recent findings shed light on lunar magnetic fields and the intense radiation risks on Mars. Finally, a seven-hour gamma-ray burst and the chaotic dance of dwarf galaxies reveal the universe's dynamic and often violent nature.

4 weeks ago
Science & Space

Deadly Martian Soil May Harbor Hidden Life

New research suggests that the toxic, radiation-blasted surface of Mars might not be entirely devoid of life. Scientists are exploring how subsurface conditions, including salty brines and ice-covered layers, could potentially harbor microbial ecosystems.

1 month ago
Science & Space

New ‘Sulfur Worlds’ Exoplanets Discovered

Astronomers have identified a new class of exoplanets, 'sulfur worlds,' characterized by sulfur-rich atmospheres and potential magma oceans. The Vera C. Rubin Observatory is now sharing its sky alerts publicly, and the James Webb Space Telescope's latest mission proposals have been revealed. Updates on the Artemis missions and new evidence for asteroid material transfer are also discussed.

1 month ago
Science & Space

Sun Is Alone: Gaia and WISE Rule Out Stellar Companion

New data from NASA's WISE telescope and the European Space Agency's Gaia mission confirms our Sun is not part of a binary star system. Scientists also explore the challenges and prospects of lunar bases, from internet speeds to base locations, and ponder humanity's place in the vast, potentially inhabited universe.

1 month ago
Science & Space

Space Data Centers: Cooling Challenges Unpacked

The vacuum of space offers unique cooling challenges for data centers. While space is cold, heat dissipation relies solely on radiation, requiring careful calculations to balance incoming energy with outgoing heat. Engineers are exploring innovative designs and materials to make orbital computing a reality.

1 month ago
Science & Space

Antimatter Meteor Threat: Could Space Rocks Annihilate Earth?

Could rare meteors made of antimatter pose an existential threat to Earth? While theoretically possible, the harsh conditions of space make it highly unlikely for such objects to survive long enough to reach our planet. Antimatter's annihilation with regular matter releases immense energy, but its rarity and the vastness of space offer us protection.

1 month ago
Science & Space

Author Andy Weir Builds Worlds with Spreadsheets and Science

Author Andy Weir discusses how science fuels his fiction, detailing his use of extensive spreadsheets for complex calculations and his choice of real stars for 'Project Hail Mary.' He reflects on the iterative nature of writing and how scientific discoveries can both inspire and be superseded by new knowledge.

1 month ago