China has launched a brand new Moon relay satellite tv for pc. Missions on the far aspect of the Moon can’t talk with Earth and not using a relay satellite tv for pc. Queqiao-2 launched this week to supply that relay resolution for China’s lunar exploration program. The mission’s objectives embrace supporting the upcoming Chang’e-6 lunar farside pattern return mission, scheduled to launch in 2024. Pictured: China’s Chang’e-5 spacecraft captured this view of Earth over the far aspect of the Moon on Oct. 28, 2014. Picture credit score: CAST.
The DART influence modified asteroid Dimorphos’ form and orbit. Observe-up observations of the asteroid have discovered proof that when the DART (Double Asteroid Redirection Take a look at) mission deliberately smashed into Dimorphos in 2022, it did extra than simply change its orbit round its dad or mum asteroid, Didymos. Dimorphos appears also to have changed shape, from a comparatively symmetrical object to a “triaxial ellipsoid” — one thing extra like an rectangular watermelon. Pictured: Dimorphos previous to influence, imaged by DART. Picture credit score: NASA / Johns Hopkins APL.
City micrometeorite hunters are looking rooftops for cosmic mud. 1000’s of tons of micrometeorites fall to Earth annually, largely tiny particles between 50 micrometers to 2 millimeters in diameter. These fall all over the place, however are extra simply present in locations which might be massive, inaccessible, and largely untouched. Antarctica is an effective place for micrometeorite hunters, however so are cathedral roofs.
For those who dream of being an astronaut, put together for area complications. A brand new research from Leiden College Medical Middle within the Netherlands has discovered that astronauts with no prior historical past of complications may experience migraines and tension headaches whereas spending longer durations (over 10 days) in area. These complications are seemingly attributable to the vestibular system, which impacts stability and posture, attempting to adapt to indicators it’s receiving from the physique that battle with the indicators it expects.
