Copernical Team
China opens first simulated environment for space research
In an impressive stride toward advancing its space research capabilities, China has unveiled its first Space Environment Simulation and Research Infrastructure (SESRI) facility, marking a significant milestone in the nation's aerospace endeavors. This cutting-edge facility, developed through a collaboration between the Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT) and the China Aerospace Science an
Study reveals potential for life's building blocks from Mars' ancient atmosphere
In a groundbreaking study that could redefine our understanding of life's potential on ancient Mars, scientists from Tohoku University have unveiled research indicating that organic materials discovered on the Red Planet may have originated from atmospheric formaldehyde. This discovery, published in Scientific Reports, suggests a plausible pathway for the formation of biomolecules-organic compou
NASA and SpaceX complete docking system tests for Lunar Starship Lander
In a pivotal advancement for lunar exploration, NASA and SpaceX have recently concluded qualification testing for a docking system integral to the Artemis campaign's success. This campaign aims to lay the groundwork for sustained scientific exploration on the Moon, requiring seamless transfers between spacecraft for lunar landings. The testing phase marks a significant step forward in ensuring t
MAPHEUS 14 high-altitude research rocket takes flight
On 27 February 2024 at 8:27 CET the MAPHEUS 14 high-altitude research rocket, operated by the German Aerospace Center, successfully launched from the Esrange Space Center near Kiruna, Sweden. The high-altitude rocket reached an altitude of 265 kilometres and provided approximately six and a half minutes of microgravity for its scientific payload - a total of 14 experiments which were all safely
As mission ends, US lunar lander could still 'wake' back up
The US spacecraft that touched down on the Moon last week and is currently running on solar power will soon be "put to sleep" once lunar night kicks in, mission officials said Wednesday. But while the mission that saw the first ever Moon landing by a private company is coming to an end, Intuitive Machines CEO Steve Altemus told reporters that there are hopes to "wake it up" in about three we
One week left to apply for the ESA Young Graduate Trainee Programme
The ESA Young Graduate Trainee call for applications closes on 7 March 2024. Don’t hesitate to apply and kick-start your career in space today! Positions are available in engineering, science, IT and business services.
How will space transform the global food system?
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), global agricultural production will need to increase by 60% by 2050 to meet the food demands of the growing global population.
A new satellite called Copernicus Hyperspectral Imaging Mission for the Environment, or CHIME, is being developed to support EU policies on the management of natural resources – ultimately helping to address the global issue of food security.
CHIME will carry a unique visible to shortwave infrared spectrometer to provide routine hyperspectral observations to support new and enhanced services for sustainable agricultural and biodiversity management, as well as soil property characterisation.
Proba-3's laser-precise positioning
Study Offers Improved Look at Earth's Ionosphere
New measuring techniques will enable improved measurements of the Earth's ionosphere, a key to studying and reducing the impact of space weather. Radio signals have been used to study the density of plasma since the 1920s. Transmitting radio sources include ground-based ionosondes (special radar for the examination of the ionosphere), astronomical phenomena such as pulsars and more recently spac
SPACECENT Hosts Second Annual CENTCOM Theater Space Forum with Global Experts
In a strategic move to bolster space capabilities within the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) operations, the U.S. Space Forces Central (SPACECENT) recently convened the second annual CENTCOM Theater Space Forum. This significant gathering, held at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, saw the participation of over 140 space experts from the five branches of the U.S. Defense Department, multi