Science: Top News and Headlines of the Day

ULA Vulcan Rocket Mission: Exploring the Moon’s Surface

8Jan

By Varun Kumar2 Comments

ULA Vulcan Rocket Mission: Exploring the Moon’s Surface

In a significant milestone for space exploration, United Launch Alliance (ULA) successfully launched its brand-new Vulcan Centaur rocket on its inaugural flight to the moon. This mission, named Cert-1, marks the first time an American spacecraft will venture to the lunar surface in over 50 years. On January 8, 2024, at 2:18 a.m. EST, the Vulcan Centaur rocket lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. Powered by two solid rocket boosters (SRBs) and two Blue Origin-built BE-4 first-stage engines, the rocket soared into the sky with nearly 2 million pounds of thrust. The 202-foot-tall rocket, accompanied by Pittsburgh-based company Astrobotic's Peregrine moon lander, embarked on its journey to the moon. Astrobotic's Peregrine lander is a robotic spacecraft carrying ...

First US Moon Lander Set to Launch Monday

7Jan

By Varun Kumar1 Comment

Science

First US Moon Lander Set to Launch Monday

The first US moon lander in over 50 years is scheduled to launch on Monday, January 8, 2024 at 2:18 AM ET. The Astrobotic lunar lander, Peregrine, will launch from Florida's Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on the United Launch Alliance's Vulcan Centaur Rocket. The Peregrine lander is a small robotic probe that will carry 20 experiments and international payloads, including six NASA instruments and a sensor valued at $108 million. The goal of the mission is to eventually turn the moon into a base for planetary travel. The Vulcan rocket that will carry the Peregrine has never flown before, but its manufacturer, United Launch Alliance, has had a 100% mission success rate with its predecessor rockets. Recent forecasts show about an 85% chance of clear weather for takeoff. Astroboti...

NASA Invites Public to Send Names Aboard Robotic Moon Rover

6Jan

By Varun KumarNo Comments

Science

NASA Invites Public to Send Names Aboard Robotic Moon Rover

NASA is inviting the public to send their names aboard its robotic moon rover. The rover, called the VIPER (Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover), is set to launch in late 2024. To participate, interested individuals can submit their names on NASA's website. The names will be etched onto a small chip, which will be attached to the rover. The chip will carry millions of names to the moon's south pole, where the VIPER will explore and search for water ice on the lunar surface. This initiative is part of NASA's efforts to engage the public in its missions and bring awareness to its scientific exploration. By including people's names on the rover, NASA allows individuals from all around the world to feel connected to the mission and be a part of the lunar exploration. NASA ...

6Jan

By Varun KumarNo Comments

Science

10 Tips to Safe Winter Storm

To stay safe during a winter storm, follow these guidelines: 1. Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with weather forecasts and warnings from reliable sources. Listen to local authorities and follow their instructions. 2. Prepare your home: Insulate your pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting. Ensure that your heating system is working properly and have alternative heating sources, such as a fireplace or space heater, in case of a power outage. Have emergency supplies like flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, and water stored. 3. Stock up on essentials: Before the storm hits, make sure you have enough food, medication, and other necessary supplies to last a few days. Have a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio to stay connected in case of power loss. 4. Create an e...

New Colours Images Reveal Neptune and Uranus

5Jan

By Varun KumarNo Comments

Science

New Colours Images Reveal Neptune and Uranus

Have you ever wondered what lies beyond our beautiful blue planet? Our solar system is a vast expanse of wonders, and two of its most intriguing members are Neptune and Uranus. Thanks to new colour images, scientists have uncovered fascinating details about these distant giants. Neptune, named after the Roman god of the sea, is the eighth planet from the Sun. It is strikingly beautiful with its intense blue hue, which is made possible by the presence of methane in its atmosphere. Captured by modern colour imaging techniques, the images of Neptune have revealed intricate cloud formations and ever-changing weather patterns. Uranus, the seventh planet from the Sun, presents a peculiar feature that sets it apart from the other planets in our solar system - its tilt. Unlike the rest of th...

30Dec

By Varun KumarNo Comments

Science

‘Devil Comet’ Eruption in Space

The Devil Comet, also known as Comet Pons-Brooks, is a space rock that's about the size of Mount Everest. It's nicknamed the "Devil Comet" because it erupts with horns, and its eruptions can create unique visual patterns when viewed through a telescope. The Devil Comet has erupted at least six times in 2023, most recently on December 15. Its eruptions appear to violently eject ice and gas every 15 days. The Devil Comet will be visible during the total solar eclipse on April 21, 2024. The massive comet, known as 12P, is 18.6 miles in diameter and filled with large amounts of gas and ice. Its cryovolcano, a vent that acts as a volcano, explodes when exposed to the sun. The blasts occur at 15-day intervals, with the next scheduled for Friday or Saturday. Scientists Find Evidence of a...