Category: space-news

Title: Peering into Martian Depths: Mars Orbiter Maps Mysterious Chasms and Valleys

For over two decades, ESA’s Mars Express spacecraft has been sending breathtaking imagery and invaluable data back to Earth from Mars’s enigmatic surface. Its primary focus is the dynamic Acheron Fossae region, a vast network of chasms and valleys that offer intriguing insights into the Red Planet’s geological history.

The Acheron Fossae region, named after a river in Greek mythology believed to lead to the underworld, is a collection of deep, elongated depressions, stretching over a thousand kilometers. These chasms and valleys, some of which are deeper than Earth’s Grand Canyon, are believed to be the result of tectonic activity – the movement and deformation of a planet’s crust.

For over 20 years, the Mars Express spacecraft has been photographing and studying this region, providing scientists with unprecedented detail of its geological features. The spacecraft’s High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC) captures the Martian surface in stunning 3D, allowing scientists to analyze the topography of Mars in ways previously impossible.

These images are not just aesthetically pleasing; they hold keys to unlocking the mysteries of Mars’s past. By studying these chasms and valleys, scientists hope to better understand the history of Martian tectonic and volcanic activity, as well as the planet’s past water history.

The deep chasms in the Acheron Fossae region, for instance, suggest that the Martian crust was stretched and cracked open, likely due to volcanic activity beneath the surface. This opens up the possibility of Mars having been geologically active in the past, a notion that could have profound implications for the search for past life on Mars.

Meanwhile, the valleys suggest the presence of ancient water flows. By examining the patterns and features of these valleys, scientists can infer the direction and volume of past water flows, giving them invaluable insight into Mars’s climate history. This could help answer the burning question of whether Mars was once a wet world, potentially capable of supporting life.

The Mars Express spacecraft’s ongoing mission is a testament to human curiosity and our quest for knowledge about our solar system. Its exploration of the Acheron Fossae region is helping us unravel the mysteries of the Red Planet, one chasm and valley at a time.

As we continue to peer into these Martian depths, who knows what exciting discoveries lie ahead? With every new image and piece of data that Mars Express sends back, we inch closer to understanding our enigmatic neighbor in the cosmos.

The mysteries of Mars are slowly but surely unfolding before our eyes, thanks to the tireless work of the Mars Express spacecraft and the scientists who study its findings. As we continue our cosmic journey of discovery, one can only imagine what we will learn next about the intriguing history and geology of the Red Planet.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/mars-orbiter-looks-deep-into-chasms-and-valleys-on-the-martian-surface](https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/mars-orbiter-looks-deep-into-chasms-and-valleys-on-the-martian-surface).

Title: A Cosmic Conundrum: Light Pollution Threatens Global Observatories and Astronomical Studies

The cosmos, once a vast and unblemished canvas for astronomers, is steadily being tarnished by an ever-growing problem: light pollution. Recent findings suggest that artificial light produced by human activities is brightening the night sky by an alarming rate of up to 10% per year. This increase in ambient light is casting a veil over our view of the universe, making it increasingly difficult for astronomers to study celestial bodies and phenomena.

Light pollution, or the excessive and misdirected artificial light from street lamps, buildings, and vehicles, is a well-known issue among astronomers. However, the severity of its impact on astronomical research is only now becoming apparent. Observatories around the globe, once constructed in remote areas to avoid light interference, are now finding themselves engulfed by the encroaching glow of expanding urban areas.

The light interference from our cities and towns is so intense that it’s compromising the ability of telescopes to capture clear images of the cosmos. This is because artificial light scatters in the atmosphere, creating a skyglow that outshines faint astronomical objects. The result? It’s like trying to see stars through a foggy window – the light pollution obscures the subtle details that astronomers need to decipher the mysteries of the universe.

This escalating problem not only impacts astronomical research but also has profound effects on our environment and health. Light pollution disrupts the natural rhythms of wildlife and has been linked to a range of human health issues, including sleep disorders and reduced immune function.

Efforts are underway to combat this issue. Some cities have started implementing ‘dark sky’ initiatives, which involve adjusting street lighting to minimize upward and outward light spillage. In addition, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) is working globally to protect the night skies for present and future generations.

However, as our urban areas continue to expand and technology advances, the fight against light pollution becomes increasingly challenging. It’s a race against the growing glow, and astronomers are on the front lines, advocating for change before our window to the universe is completely obscured.

While the issue of light pollution is a complex one, it’s clear that collective action is needed. As individuals, we can contribute to the solution by being mindful of our own light usage, supporting dark sky initiatives, and advocating for responsible lighting policies. As we continue to reach for the stars, let’s not forget the importance of preserving our ability to see them.

This global dilemma serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between technological progress and the preservation of our natural environment. It also underlines the importance of astronomy – not just for scientific advancement, but as a reminder of our place in the grand scale of the universe.

Read more from the original source here: https://www.space.com/astronomy/light-pollution-is-encroaching-on-observatories-around-the-globe-making-it-harder-for-astronomers-to-study-the-cosmos.

In an engaging new book, author and science writer David Baron unpacks the fascinating history of the human obsession with the Red Planet. “The Martians,” Baron’s latest offering, delves into the turn-of-the-century Mars craze, a period marked by rampant speculation, scientific discovery, and public fascination with our planetary neighbor.

The Mars craze began 120 years ago, sparked by Italian astronomer Giovanni Schiaparelli’s observation of what he called “canali”, or channels, on the Martian surface. This term was later mistranslated into English as “canals,” suggesting the existence of intelligent life on Mars. This misinterpretation ignited the public’s imagination, plunging society into a Martian frenzy that permeated popular culture and scientific discourse alike.

“Scientists, writers, and the general public were all captivated by the idea of intelligent Martians constructing these canals,” Baron explained. “It was a time of great scientific advancement, and many saw Mars as the next frontier.”

In “The Martians,” Baron highlights the leading figures of this era, including Percival Lowell, the wealthy American astronomer who dedicated his life to studying Mars. Lowell’s passion for the Red Planet was so intense that he built an observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, specifically to observe Mars. His writings on the subject further fueled the Mars craze and influenced a generation of scientists and science fiction writers.

Baron also discusses the role of popular media in the Mars mania. Newspapers and magazines published vivid illustrations of Martian landscapes and speculated on the potential for interplanetary communication. Even the world of fiction was not immune to the Mars fever, with authors like H.G. Wells penning the classic “War of the Worlds.”

“Despite the lack of solid evidence, the idea of life on Mars was taken very seriously,” Baron said. “This period in history is a testament to the power of human curiosity and our inherent fascination with the unknown.”

However, the Mars craze was not to last. As telescopes improved and our understanding of the planet evolved, the notion of canals and an inhabited Mars was largely debunked. Today, the focus has shifted from Martian canals to searching for microbial life and planning manned missions to Mars.

“The Martians” is not merely a history book. It’s an exploration of humanity’s enduring fascination with space, the power of scientific discovery, and our incessant drive to understand the unknown. It serves as a reminder of the role of imagination in science, and the profound impact that our celestial neighbor has had on human culture and thought.

With the recent resurgence in interest around Mars, driven by advancements in space technology and ambitious plans for human colonization, “The Martians” is a timely reflection on our historical and ongoing relationship with the Red Planet.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/how-the-red-planet-craze-started-120-years-ago-interview-with-the-martians-author-david-baron](https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/how-the-red-planet-craze-started-120-years-ago-interview-with-the-martians-author-david-baron).

In anticipation of the two-episode premiere of the new series ‘Alien: Earth’, we had the chance to engage in an enlightening conversation with the brains behind this thrilling space odyssey – series creator Noah Hawley and executive producer David W. Zucker. The duo has set out to recreate the feeling of discovery that kept viewers on the edge of their seats during the original series.

Hawley, known for his innovative storytelling and creation of engaging narratives, is no stranger to the world of science fiction. Zucker, with his broad experience in the production of high-quality television, brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Together, they aim to craft a series that not only captivates viewers but also instills a sense of wonder about the cosmos and our place within it.

According to Hawley and Zucker, ‘Alien: Earth’ is designed to mimic the feeling of discovery, a sentiment that was central to the experience of watching the original series. They are keen to ensure that the new series elicits the same sense of fascination and awe, sparking curiosity about the mysteries of the universe.

The creators spoke passionately about their desire to preserve the sense of the unknown that is integral to space exploration. As Hawley put it, “We want to recreate the feeling of watching through the foggy glass of a spaceship window, not knowing what lies beyond. It’s about capturing that sense of wonder, of the infinite possibilities that space holds.”

Zucker added, “Our aim is to make viewers feel like they’re embarking on a journey into the unknown, just like the characters in the series. We want to keep them guessing, to keep them engaged, and most importantly, to keep them in awe of the vastness and complexity of the universe.”

‘Alien: Earth’ promises an immersive experience that takes viewers on an enthralling journey into space, capturing the beauty, mystery, and danger of the cosmos. The series seeks to recreate the intrigue and excitement that has long been associated with space exploration, from the maiden voyages of the early astronauts to the current advancements in interstellar travel.

While the creators were careful not to reveal too much about what lies in store for ‘Alien: Earth’, it’s clear that they are dedicated to producing a series that resonates with viewers and inspires a new generation of space enthusiasts.

As we await the premiere of ‘Alien: Earth’, it’s evident that Hawley and Zucker are committed to capturing the spirit of the original series, while adding their unique spin. Their goal to ‘mimic the feeling of discovery’ is sure to make for a compelling watch that reignites our collective fascination with the final frontier.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/alien-earth-creators-noah-hawley-and-david-w-zucker-want-to-mimic-the-feeling-of-discovery-you-felt-when-watching-the-original-exclusive](https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/alien-earth-creators-noah-hawley-and-david-w-zucker-want-to-mimic-the-feeling-of-discovery-you-felt-when-watching-the-original-exclusive).

Title: Astronomers Turn Starlight Into a Tool for Gauging Earth’s Greenhouse Gases

In a breakthrough development, scientists have found a way to turn the tools of stargazing into sensors for measuring greenhouse gases in Earth’s atmosphere. This new technique, named Astroclimes, ingeniously repurposes astronomical instruments to contribute to climate science.

The Astroclimes algorithm, developed by a team of innovative scientists, is designed to harness the light from distant stars as they twinkle through Earth’s gaseous envelope. As starlight passes through our atmosphere, it interacts with the molecules present, including greenhouse gases. These interactions subtly change the starlight, and these changes can be read and analyzed by Astroclimes to provide an accurate measurement of greenhouse gas concentrations.

Traditionally, studying greenhouse gases has required specific, often expensive, instruments, as well as difficult data collection processes. However, Astroclimes could potentially revolutionize this field of study by making use of pre-existing astronomical equipment, which is widespread and often already collecting the necessary data.

The algorithm is a unique blend of astronomy and climatology and represents a significant step forward in interdisciplinary science. By cross-pollinating these two fields, the researchers have effectively created a new method to help us understand the health of our planet’s atmosphere and its ongoing changes.

Greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide and methane, are key players in global warming and climate change. They trap heat within our atmosphere, leading to a rise in global temperatures, melting ice caps, and a host of other environmental problems. Being able to accurately measure the concentrations of these gases in our atmosphere is crucial for creating effective strategies to combat climate change.

The Astroclimes algorithm is not just a theoretical development; it has already been tested and validated. The scientists compared the greenhouse gas measurements taken by Astroclimes with those from NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory 2 satellite, finding a high degree of correlation. This validation test proves that the algorithm can precisely measure greenhouse gas concentrations using starlight, marking a significant milestone in climate science.

This exciting development shows how the exploration of outer space can directly benefit our understanding of our own planet. While Astroclimes was developed to measure greenhouse gases, there’s potential for it to be refined to detect other atmospheric constituents in the future, broadening its applications even further.

It’s an exciting time to be gazing at the stars. The twinkling lights that have guided explorers for millennia are now helping us navigate the challenges of climate change. By turning our sights skyward, we can gain a better understanding of the world beneath our feet.

For those curious about the stars and our atmosphere, keep your eyes on the sky and stay tuned. The universe is full of surprises, and as this story shows, some of them can even help us protect our own planet.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/astronomers-use-starlight-to-measure-greenhouse-gases-in-earths-atmosphere](https://www.space.com/astronomy/astronomers-use-starlight-to-measure-greenhouse-gases-in-earths-atmosphere).

Title: The Fiery Enigma of ‘Lava Worlds’ Becomes the Latest Focus in Exoplanet Research

In the expanse of the universe, there’s a hot new topic that’s stirring up the world of exoplanet science—’lava worlds’. These are exotic planets that are heated to such extreme temperatures, their surfaces transform into molten lava. Thanks to new groundbreaking models and the unparalleled capabilities of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), scientists are now poised to delve deeper into the enigma of these fiery worlds, their evolution, and what they can reveal about the process of planetary formation across the galaxy.

Lava worlds, also known as ultra-hot exoplanets, are not new to scientists. However, their scorching temperatures and harsh environments have made them a challenge to study. These celestial bodies orbit so close to their host stars that their surfaces reach temperatures high enough to vaporize rock, leading to an environment of molten lava.

But why are these molten mysteries the hot ticket in exoplanet science today? The answer lies in what they can tell us about the formation and evolution of planets.

The study of these exotic worlds is expected to provide valuable insights into the process of planetary formation. Their extreme proximity to their star, which leads to their heated state, is believed to be a result of an inward migration after their formation. Thus, understanding this process could shed light on the migration patterns of planets, a key aspect of planetary formation and evolution.

The models that scientists have developed to study these planets are impressive, but the real game-changer is the JWST. The telescope, which is set to launch in November 2021, is designed with the capability to observe these worlds in unparalleled detail. The data from the JWST will provide a wealth of information, allowing scientists to test their models and theories about these enigmatic planets.

Moreover, the JWST’s advanced instruments will allow scientists to investigate the atmospheres of these lava worlds. This incredibly challenging task has been almost impossible until now. By analyzing the composition of these atmospheres, researchers hope to understand the processes at play on the surface of these ultra-hot exoplanets, including the mineral formation in such extreme conditions.

The exploration of lava worlds represents a new frontier in the study of exoplanets. As we continue to expand our knowledge of the universe, these fiery celestial bodies offer an intriguing peek into the diverse and often extreme conditions that can exist on planets beyond our solar system.

In the quest to understand the universe, the exploration of these exotic lava worlds brings us a step closer to understanding the mysteries of planetary formation and evolution. With the upcoming launch of the JWST and the continued development of sophisticated models, the future of exoplanet research is heating up.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/exoplanets/exotic-lava-worlds-are-a-hot-new-frontier-in-exoplanet-science](https://www.space.com/astronomy/exoplanets/exotic-lava-worlds-are-a-hot-new-frontier-in-exoplanet-science).

Title: Cosmic Rays Could Fuel Alien Life on Mars or Europa, Scientists Propose

In the quest to discover life beyond Earth, scientists have proposed an intriguing new theory. Alien life forms residing on Mars or Jupiter’s moon, Europa, might not require the sun’s energy to survive, as previously thought. These extraterrestrial organisms could instead be thriving off the energy derived from cosmic rays, according to a recent study.

Cosmic rays, high-energy particles originating from outer space, can strike the surface of Mars and Europa and interact with the water-ice present. This interaction releases electrons, which, the scientists propose, could provide the necessary energy for microbial life and encourage the formation of complex organic molecules.

Mars and Europa have long been the focus of astrobiologists due to the presence of water-ice on their surfaces. While the sun’s energy, essential for life as we know it on Earth, is considerably weaker on these celestial bodies, the constant barrage of cosmic rays could potentially provide an alternative energy source for life to evolve and sustain.

The idea of life existing on other planets has traditionally been linked to the presence of liquid water – a concept known as the ‘habitable zone’ or the ‘Goldilocks zone.’ However, this new research expands the potential for life beyond this zone, suggesting that even in the harsh, icy conditions of Mars and Europa, life could exist.

“Our research demonstrates that life can tap into the energy provided by cosmic rays, even in places where sunlight is scarce or nonexistent,” said one of the researchers. “This significantly broadens the areas of our solar system considered habitable.”

However, it is important to note that this theory remains speculative at present. The next step for scientists is to find direct evidence of these processes happening on Mars or Europa. Testing this theory would require advanced technology and sophisticated missions, such as NASA’s upcoming Perseverance Rover mission to Mars and the planned Europa Clipper mission. These missions aim to investigate the existence of microbial life and the presence of organic molecules on these celestial bodies.

This discovery is a significant step forward in the search for extraterrestrial life, emphasizing that life is resilient and can adapt to different energy sources. It also highlights the importance of exploring our solar system and beyond, as our understanding of life’s possibilities continues to evolve.

In the pursuit of discovering life beyond our planet, we might have to redefine our understanding of where life can exist and what it needs to survive. As scientists continue to unravel the mysteries of the universe, it becomes increasingly clear that life’s potential reaches far beyond the confines of our blue planet.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/science/alien-life-on-mars-or-europa-could-survive-off-cosmic-rays-instead-of-the-sun-scientists-suggest](https://www.space.com/science/alien-life-on-mars-or-europa-could-survive-off-cosmic-rays-instead-of-the-sun-scientists-suggest).

Title: Ranking the Best Space Flight Simulation Games

Have you ever dreamed of exploring the cosmos, navigating through nebulae, and skipping across alien worlds? Thanks to the rapid advances in technology, you can now experience the thrill of space exploration from the comfort of your home. With an array of space flight simulation games available, you can take on the role of a brave astronaut or a cunning space trader, dabble in interstellar politics, or simply wander among the stars.

At the top of the list, there’s no surprise to find ‘Elite Dangerous.’ This game offers an open-world experience, featuring a realistic 1:1 scale Milky Way galaxy. As a player, you can engage in trade, exploration, combat, and a range of other activities. The game’s detailed graphics and physics-based spaceship controls, makes it one of the most immersive space flight simulations to date.

Next up is ‘Kerbal Space Program,’ a game that is as educational as it is entertaining. This physics-based space flight simulator allows players to design and build their own spacecraft, then launch them into the cosmos to carry out a variety of missions. The game’s cute little green aliens, the Kerbals, add a touch of humor to the scientific and technical challenges.

Following closely is ‘Star Wars: Squadrons.’ This game offers players a chance to relive their childhood fantasies of piloting X-Wings and TIE fighters. With a thrilling story mode and intense multiplayer dogfights, it’s a must-play for Star Wars fans and space sim enthusiasts alike.

‘No Man’s Sky,’ a game that met initial criticism following its release in 2016, has since undergone numerous updates and improvements. The game now offers a vast, procedurally-generated universe to explore, filled with unique planets, alien species, and complex ecosystems. Its unique art style and sense of awe-inspiring scale make it a standout entry in the genre.

Last but not least, ‘EVE Online’ is a game that truly exemplifies the phrase “living a second life.” In this massively multiplayer online game, players can engage in a variety of activities like mining, trading, exploration, and combat. It’s known for its player-driven economy and intricate political systems, offering an unrivaled level of depth and complexity.

These are just a few of the top-rated space flight simulation games, offering a range of experiences from the realistic to the fantastical, the scientific to the action-packed. So why not buckle up and take a voyage into the cosmos? The stars are waiting for you, right from the comfort of your virtual cockpit!

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-games/best-space-flight-simulation-games-ranked](https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-games/best-space-flight-simulation-games-ranked).

Title: Harnessing the Power of Solar Sails for Space Weather Warnings

As the era of technology advances, humanity grows increasingly reliant on satellites for everything from GPS navigation to maintaining electrical grids. However, these critical technologies remain at the mercy of space weather – cosmic storms that can disrupt or entirely knock out these systems. But what if we had a way to receive earlier warnings of these space weather threats? Enter the spacecraft equipped with a solar sail.

A solar sail, as the name suggests, is a type of spacecraft propulsion method that makes use of the sun’s radiation pressure. Just as a sailboat is powered by the wind, a solar sail is pushed by the light particles, or photons, emitted by the sun. This propulsion method allows a spacecraft to travel in space without fuel, using only the sun’s energy.

But how does this technology help with space weather warnings? To understand this, we need to take a quick detour into the realm of space weather. Space weather largely consists of solar storms – eruptions of high-energy particles from the sun. These particles can wreak havoc on the satellites that orbit Earth, disrupting communication systems and GPS navigation. In severe cases, they can even cause blackouts by overloading electrical grids.

Currently, our early warning system for these solar storms relies on satellites located at the Lagrange point L1 – a point in space where the gravitational forces of the Earth and the sun balance, allowing a satellite to ‘hover’ in one location. These satellites provide us with a lead time of about an hour to prepare for incoming solar storms.

A spacecraft equipped with a solar sail, however, could provide us with a much longer lead time. Because of its propulsion method, a solar sail spacecraft can travel ‘upstream’ against the solar wind – the constant stream of particles flowing out from the sun. By positioning itself closer to the sun, the spacecraft can detect solar storms earlier, providing us with more time to prepare and protect our technologies.

In a world increasingly dependent on technology, this could be a game-changer. Early warnings could allow us to put protective measures in place, minimizing the disruption caused by solar storms and ensuring the continued functioning of our critical systems.

While the technology is still in its early stages, the future looks promising. Solar sails hold the potential to revolutionize not just space travel, but our understanding and management of space weather as well. As we continue to explore the final frontier, we may find that the key to protecting our technologies lies not in the Earth, but in the sun and the spacecraft that sail its cosmic winds.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacecraft-equipped-with-a-solar-sail-could-deliver-earlier-warnings-of-space-weather-threats-to-earths-technologies](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacecraft-equipped-with-a-solar-sail-could-deliver-earlier-warnings-of-space-weather-threats-to-earths-technologies).

Title: August Moon: A Guide to the Four Major Lunar Phases

Join us on a captivating journey through the cosmos as we explore August’s moon in each of its four major phases. This celestial spectacle offers a unique opportunity to witness the moon’s dynamic face and the various phenomena that occur during its monthly cycle.

The lunar show kicks off with the New Moon phase on August 1st, where our celestial companion is located between the Earth and the Sun, rendering it almost invisible to the naked eye. However, this phase offers an excellent backdrop for viewing the Perseid meteor shower, one of the highlights of the August night sky.

Following the New Moon phase, we enter the First Quarter phase on August 7th. During this phase, the right half of the Moon is illuminated, forming a discernible half-circle. This is the perfect time to observe the Moon’s surface features, such as the Tycho crater, which is easily visible due to the shadows cast by the sun’s light.

Next up is the Full Moon phase on August 15th. During this phase, the Moon is fully illuminated, presenting a stunning spectacle. It’s the best time to observe the Sea of Tranquility, the landing site of the Apollo 11 mission, where Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin took mankind’s first steps on the lunar surface.

Lastly, the Last Quarter phase takes place on August 23rd. The left half of the Moon is illuminated during this phase, providing a unique perspective of lunar highlands like the Apennine Mountains, a rough and rugged terrain that provides a striking contrast to the smoother lunar seas.

Each phase offers its own distinct viewing opportunities, making the moon a fascinating object to observe throughout the month. From meteor showers to craters and mountain ranges, August’s moon serves as a celestial stage for a host of astronomical wonders.

Whether you’re an avid stargazer or a casual observer, we invite you to take a moment to look up at the night sky and marvel at the beauty and mystery of our closest celestial neighbor. With a pair of binoculars, a telescope, or even just your naked eye, you’ll be privy to a cosmic performance that has been captivating humanity for millennia.

Remember, the moon is more than just a radiant orb in the night sky. It’s a dynamic world with a geography as diverse and complex as our own. So, venture out into the August night, gaze up at the moon, and let yourself be awestruck by the celestial splendor of our universe.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/stargazing/august-moon-heres-what-to-look-for-during-all-4-major-moon-phases](https://www.space.com/stargazing/august-moon-heres-what-to-look-for-during-all-4-major-moon-phases).