Copernical Team
UAH plasma researcher explores key factors in Solar Corona heating through Alfven Waves
Syed Ayaz, a researcher at The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), has published a study in 'Scientific Reports' that builds on his pioneering research into kinetic Alfven waves (KAW) as a potential explanation for why the solar corona, the sun's outermost atmosphere layer, is vastly hotter than the sun's surface. This latest research deepens understanding of these electromagnetic waves a
NSO scientist reveals new hydrogen emissions in solar flares
Solar flares, some of the most powerful phenomena in the solar system, offer a unique chance to explore the Sun's atmospheric layers. Utilizing NASA's Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS), which operates in the far ultraviolet (FUV) range, researchers can closely examine molecular hydrogen (H2) emissions that occur during these energetic events. These emissions, originating near the boun
High-temperature decay reveals Sun's formation timeline
Have you ever wondered about the timeline for our Sun's formation? An international team of scientists has moved closer to an answer through an experiment at GSI/FAIR's Experimental Storage Ring (ESR). They successfully measured the bound-state beta decay of fully ionized thallium (205Tl81+), offering new insights into the production of radioactive lead (205Pb) in asymptotic giant branch (AGB) s
Hubble observes effects of Large Magellanic Cloud's Encounter with the Milky Way
The NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope has captured a compelling view of the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) after its interaction with the Milky Way's gaseous halo. Despite the impact stripping away most of its surrounding gas halo, the LMC has retained enough material to continue forming new stars - a testament to its substantial mass and resilience. The LMC, one of the Milky Way's closest nei
Scientists build spectral library to identify water on exoplanets
Cornell University researchers are constructing a library of basalt-based spectral signatures, examining chemical processes from Earth's hot mantle. This compilation aims to shed light on the composition of planets outside our solar system and potentially reveal water's presence on those exoplanets. "When the Earth's mantle melts, it produces basalts," explained Esteban Gazel, professor of
South Pole Safety: NASA seeks innovative Lunar rescue solutions
NASA is prioritizing astronaut safety in the harsh conditions of the Moon, with a focus on developing reliable systems for rescue operations during missions at the Lunar South Pole. With the Artemis III mission set to deploy two astronauts in this region, the agency is preparing for potential emergency scenarios that could incapacitate a crewmember due to medical issues, injuries, or accidents.
New milestone for FAA-licensed commercial space operations as regulatory update begins
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) concluded Fiscal Year 2024 with an unprecedented 148 licensed commercial space operations, marking a growth exceeding 30 percent compared to the previous year. Looking ahead, the FAA predicts this figure could more than double by FY 2028. In response to this rapid growth, the FAA is initiating an Aerospace Rulemaking Committee to revise its Part 450 laun
SpaceX launches 24 Starlink satellites in back end of coast-to-coast double launch
SpaceX launched 24 more Starlink satellites into orbit at 8:21 a.m. Thursday morning from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. SpaceX said in a statement, "On Thursday, November 14 at 8:21 a.m. ET, Falcon 9 launched 24 Starlink satellites, to low-Earth orbit from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. This was the 18th flight for the
Sierra Space and Oak Ridge Lab develop advanced thermal protection for spacecraft
Sierra Space has announced a significant advancement in thermal protection technology through its collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). This development, featuring spacecraft tiles that can endure the intense heat of atmospheric re-entry for numerous missions, aims to support the increasing pace of commercial space travel. The new Thermal Protec
Impulse Space plans trio of Falcon 9 launches with SpaceX
Impulse Space has entered into an agreement with SpaceX to conduct three launches using Falcon 9 rockets, aimed at advancing the deployment of its Helios and Mira spacecraft. The first mission, set for mid-2026, will mark the debut of the Helios vehicle. Helios will be loaded with up to 14 tons of liquid methane and liquid oxygen at SpaceX's Florida facilities before integration with Falco