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The first launch of Ariane 6 is a collective success for all of Europe. First flights are no easy thing, but Europe now has a heavy-lift rocket able to launch any mission into any orbit. From Earth observation satellites that monitor our changing climate, predict the weather and assist emergency responders during disasters; to communication and navigation systems that keep Europeans in touch and in the right place; to deep space telescopes and explorers expanding our understanding of the Universe and our place within it – Ariane 6 has restored Europe’s autonomous access to space.

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A duo of interacting galaxies known as Arp 142 commemorates the second science anniversary of the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope.

Image: The Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission takes us over the Hainan Strait in southern China.

London, UK (SPX) Jul 11, 2024
A recent study emphasizes the urgent need for countries and international organizations to leverage existing international law to address rising concerns about the militarization of outer space. The militarization of space is escalating, with the potential to become a battleground. Nations are testing anti-satellite (ASAT) weapons, and satellites could become significant targets during con

Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jul 11, 2024
Booz Allen Hamilton (NYSE: BAH) reports that its corporate venture capital arm, Booz Allen Ventures, LLC, has made a strategic investment in Quindar, a commercial space technology startup focused on automating satellite operations. This investment supports Booz Allen's VoLT business strategy-emphasizing velocity, leadership, and technology-and underscores the importance of integrating advanced t

Sydney, Australia (SPX) Jul 12, 2024
A state-of-the-art astronomical satellite, developed through a collaboration between China and France, has successfully detected three gamma-ray bursts, the Chinese Academy of Sciences announced. The Space Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM) detected a gamma-ray burst on the morning of June 27, shortly after its Gamma-ray Burst Monitor was activated for testing. The satellite also observed two

London, UK (SPX) Jul 12, 2024
A recent study published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society proposes that galaxies possess a "heart and lungs" mechanism that regulates their growth and prevents them from becoming overly large. This finding sheds light on why galaxies are not as massive as previously anticipated. The research, conducted by astrophysicists at the University of Kent, suggests that gala

Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jul 12, 2024
Planetary scientists are suggesting an updated definition of a planet to replace the current, sun-centric one deemed outdated by many researchers. Established in 2006 by the International Astronomical Union (IAU), the existing definition states that a celestial body must orbit the sun within our solar system to be classified as a planet. However, scientists recognize the prevalence of cele

Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jul 12, 2024
Imagine gazing into the night sky and observing millions of galaxies spanning a vast expanse of space. Consider the thrill of searching for exoplanets or witnessing the explosive deaths of stars. In the upcoming years, two U.S.-funded telescopes will make these observations possible. Ahead of their operational debut, a Duke researcher is spearheading an initiative under the OpenUniverse pr

Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jul 12, 2024
Launch preparations for NASA's Europa Clipper mission are moving forward. The spacecraft, which arrived at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida in May, recently had its high-gain antenna installed. "Engineers with NASA's Europa Clipper mission continue to conduct extensive testing of transistors that help control the flow of electricity on the spacecraft." This follows concerns that thes