#PlanetaryScience

[elixir]

Two hours before its closest approach to Neptune in 1989, Voyager 2 captured this haunting glimpse of the distant blue world—our first real look at the planet’s ethereal beauty, suspended in the void, silent and untouchable.

[fuckyeahfluiddynamics]

Junggar Basin Aglow

The low sun angle in this astronaut photo of Junggar Basin shows off the wind- and water-carved landscape. Located in northwestern China, this region is covered in dune fields, appearing along the top and bottom of the image.  (Image credit: NASA; via NASA Earth Observatory) Read the full article

[mit]

As a star runs out of fuel, it will billow out to a million times its original size, engulfing any matter — and planets — in its wake. Scientists have observed hints of stars just before, and shortly after, the act of consuming entire planets, but they have never caught one in the act until now.

In a study appearing in Nature, scientists at MIT, Harvard University, Caltech, and elsewhere report that they have observed a star swallowing a planet, for the first time.

The planetary demise appears to have taken place in our own galaxy, some 12,000 light-years away, near the eagle-like constellation Aquila. There, astronomers spotted an outburst from a star that became more than 100 times brighter over just 10 days, before quickly fading away. Curiously, this white-hot flash was followed by a colder, longer-lasting signal. This combination, the scientists deduced, could only have been produced by one event: a star engulfing a nearby planet.

What of the planet that perished? The scientists estimate that it was likely a hot, Jupiter-sized world that spiraled close, then was pulled into the dying star’s atmosphere, and, finally, into its core.

A similar fate will befall the Earth, though not for another 5 billion years, when the sun is expected to burn out, and burn up the solar system’s inner planets. 🪐🌎☄️🔭🌌

Learn more about this here → https://news.mit.edu/2023/astronomers-spot-star-swallowing-planet-0503

and make sure to follow us on Tumblr!

[africa-space-com]

The role of lunar exploration in understanding Earth's history

Lunar exploration has long captured the imagination of scientists and space enthusiasts alike. But beyond the excitement of moon landings and potential colonies, exploring the moon plays a crucial role in helping us understand Earth's history. Here's how:

The Moon as a time capsule

The moon acts as a natural time capsule. Unlike Earth, which undergoes constant change due to weather, tectonic activities, and human influence, the moon's surface remains relatively undisturbed. This preservation allows scientists to study its surface and gain insights into the early solar system, including the formative years of our own planet.

Understanding Earth's early days

By examining lunar rocks and soil, scientists can learn about the conditions that prevailed in the early solar system. The similarities and differences between lunar and terrestrial samples can help us piece together the history of planetary formation. For instance, the analysis of moon rocks brought back by the Apollo missions revealed that both the Earth and the moon share a common origin, likely from a colossal impact event.

Impact history

The moon’s surface is dotted with craters, a record of countless impacts over billions of years. By studying these craters, scientists can understand the history of asteroid and comet impacts in our solar system. This information is crucial because the same impacts that shaped the moon have also affected Earth. Learning about these events helps us understand the frequency and scale of impacts that have influenced Earth’s geological and biological history.

Lunar geology and Earth's evolution

Moon exploration has uncovered much about the moon’s geology, which in turn informs our understanding of Earth's geological processes. The moon’s lack of atmosphere means that its surface has remained largely unchanged, preserving a pristine record of its geological history. By comparing this with Earth's dynamic geology, scientists can infer the processes that have shaped our planet over time.

The Moon as a mirror

The moon also serves as a mirror to study Earth. Observations of Earth from the lunar surface provide unique perspectives that are impossible to obtain from Earth itself. These observations help scientists understand Earth's atmosphere, weather patterns, and environmental changes from a different vantage point.

Preparing for the future

Lunar exploration is not just about looking back; it’s also about preparing for the future. By studying the moon, scientists and engineers are developing technologies and strategies that will be essential for future space exploration. This includes learning how to build sustainable habitats, utilize lunar resources, and protect astronauts from space radiation. These advancements will be crucial for future missions to Mars and beyond.

Lunar exploration offers a window into the past, providing valuable insights into Earth's history and the broader solar system. By continuing to explore and study the moon, we not only unravel the mysteries of our own planet’s origins but also pave the way for humanity’s future in space. The moon holds the keys to many questions about our past, present, and future, making its exploration a vital endeavor for scientific discovery and advancement.

[bloggerbapu]

Earth’s Temporary Second Moon: A Cosmic Visitor in Our Orbit.

[shuttech]

NASA’s Study Reveals Life Could Survive Under Mars’ Ice Sheets

NASA's latest study uncovers exciting possibilities for life beyond Earth, revealing that microbial life could potentially survive beneath the icy surfaces of Mars. Researchers utilized advanced modeling techniques to simulate the Martian environment, suggesting that subglacial lakes and liquid water trapped beneath the ice could provide the necessary conditions for life to thrive. This groundbreaking finding not only enhances our understanding of Mars' geological processes but also raises intriguing questions about the potential for extraterrestrial life in our solar system. As missions to explore Mars continue, this research emphasizes the importance of studying its icy regions, which may hold clues to the planet's past and the resilience of life in extreme environments.

https://shuttech.com/science/nasas-study-reveals-life-could-survive-under-mars-ice-sheets/

[futuretechnerd]

🌍 BREAKING DISCOVERY: Scientists have found a mysterious 'donut' structure inside Earth's core! 🕵️‍♂️ Using advanced seismic wave technology, we've uncovered a region where waves travel 2% slower. Could this change how we understand our planet's magnetic field? 🚀 Dive into this groundbreaking research in Science Advances! 📚

"Wait, there's a 'donut' inside Earth's core? Scientists reveal a hidden structure that's changing everything we know about our planet!"

Earth's core, seismic waves, donut structure, geophysics, magnetic field, lighter elements, silicon, oxygen, Science Advances, groundbreaking discovery, hidden inside Earth, seismic study, slow seismic waves, Earth science, planetary research, scientific breakthrough, mystery inside Earth, science innovation, core structure.

👀 Watch till the end to learn more about what lies beneath our feet! #EarthScience

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A post shared by FutureTechNerd (@su.rya_naidu)

[alexanderrogge]

Massimo Luciani - Pure sulfur discovered in Gediz Vallis on Mars:

CuriosityRover #GedizVallis #Mars #Sulfur #SolarSystemScience #PlanetaryScience #Geology #Astronomy

[chinascientist]

Pakistan and China launch space collaboration

A Long March 3B rocket carrying a multi-mission communication satellite for Pakistan blasts off from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Southwest China's Sichuan province, May 30, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to the China Scientist Awards!

Join us for the China Scientist Awards, a premier event in the realm of research. Whether you're joining virtually from anywhere in the world, this is your invitation to explore and innovate in the field of research. Become part of a global community of researchers, scientists, and professionals passionate about advancing research.Nomination Link: 

Our conference theme, "China Scientist Awards for a Connected Future," sets the stage for a year of discovery. Dive into groundbreaking research, engage with experts, and be part of the global conversation shaping the future of research.

China Scientist Awards chinascientist.net

For inquiries, contact us at contact@chinascientist.net

[ayumi-yoshioka]

月刊JICFuSムービーの音楽とサウンドを担当しました。今回は、 スーパーコンピュータ「富岳」を用いて火星の気象シミュレーションを行っている樫村博基さん（神戸大学｜惑星科学研究センター）のインタビュー映像です。

［ムービークレジット］ 研究者：樫村博基（神戸大学｜惑星科学研究センター） 制作：JICFuS（計算基礎科学連携拠点） 撮影協力：神戸大学、神戸大学惑星科学研究センター、理化学研究所計算科学研究センター（R-CCS） 撮影：南口雄一＆加藤元樹 音楽：「Canyon」吉岡亜由美 演出・製作：南口雄一

「月刊JICFuS」は筑波大学計算科学研究センター、高エネルギー加速器研究機構、国立天文台の3組織が合同で立ち上げた研究組織「JICFuS（計算基礎科学連携拠点）」が発行しているwebマガジンです。

I was in charge of the music and sound for the monthly JICFuS movies. This time, it’s an interview with Kashimura Hiroki (Kobe University| Planetary Science Research Center), who is conducting weather simulations on Mars using the supercomputer “Fugaku.”

[Movie Info] Scientist: Hiroki Kashimura, Kobe University | Center for Planetary Science Thanks to: Kobe University, Center for Planetary Science,RIKEN Center for Computational Science Produced by JICFuS Camera by Yuichi Minamiguchi & Motoki Kato Music by Ayumi Yoshioka “Canyon” Directed by Yuichi Minamiguchi

“Monthly JICFuS” is a web magazine published by JICFuS (Joint Institute for Computational Fundamental Science), a research organisation jointly established by the University of Tsukuba’s Research Centre for Computational Science, the High Energy Accelerator Research Organisation and the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan.

[observervoice2024]

🌎🔬Harold Urey (29 April 1893 – 5 January 1981) was an American physical chemist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1934.🎂👨‍🔬

[mit]

On Sept. 26, 2022, at precisely 6:14 p.m. ET, a box-shaped spacecraft no bigger than a loveseat smashed directly into an asteroid wider than a football field. The planned impact knocked the space rock off its orbit, showing for the first time that an asteroid can potentially be deflected away from Earth. This shows the final five-and-a-half minutes of images before the collision.

read more here → 

3Q: What we learned from the asteroid-smashing DART mission

[africa-space-com]

Mars dust storms: understanding and mitigating their impact

Mars, our intriguing neighbor in the solar system, has fascinated scientists and dreamers alike for generations. One of the many challenges of exploring and potentially living on Mars is its frequent and intense dust storms. These storms can cover the entire planet, affecting visibility, equipment, and even solar power generation. Let's dive into what these storms are, why they matter, and how we can mitigate their impact.

What are Mars dust storms?

Mars dust storms are massive events where strong winds lift the planet’s fine dust particles into the atmosphere. These storms can be local, regional, or even global, sometimes enveloping Mars for weeks or months. Unlike Earth, Mars lacks vegetation and large bodies of water to keep dust in place, making the Martian surface particularly prone to these storms.

Why do they matter?

Visibility and navigation

During a dust storm, visibility on the Martian surface can drop to almost zero. This makes navigation for rovers and potential human explorers extremely difficult. Imagine trying to drive through a blizzard, but instead of snow, you’re surrounded by tiny dust particles that can obscure everything around you.

Equipment damage

Martian dust is not just a visibility issue; it can be abrasive and corrosive. The fine particles can infiltrate machinery, clogging moving parts and reducing the lifespan of equipment. For instance, NASA’s Spirit rover faced significant challenges due to dust accumulation, which eventually contributed to its end.

Power generation

Many Mars missions rely on solar panels for energy. Dust accumulation on these panels can drastically reduce their efficiency. During dust storms, the thick clouds of dust can block sunlight, cutting off power sources for critical systems. This was a significant challenge for the Opportunity rover, which lost contact with Earth during a planet-wide dust storm in 2018.

How can we mitigate their impact?

Advanced design

Designing equipment that can withstand the harsh conditions of Mars is crucial. This includes using materials that are resistant to abrasion and developing seals that prevent dust from entering sensitive components. Rovers and other machines may need self-cleaning mechanisms to keep dust off solar panels and cameras.

Energy solutions

Diversifying energy sources can help mitigate the impact of dust storms. While solar power is a popular choice, incorporating nuclear power or other alternative energy sources can provide a reliable backup during long periods of low sunlight.

Weather forecasting

Improving our ability to predict dust storms can help mission planners prepare and react appropriately. Just as we have weather satellites on Earth, similar technology on Mars could provide advanced warnings, allowing equipment to be powered down or repositioned to minimize damage.

Human adaptation

Future human explorers will need to be equipped with habitats and suits designed to handle the dust. This includes air filtration systems to keep living spaces dust-free and protective gear to prevent inhalation and skin contact.

Mars dust storms are a formidable challenge for exploration and potential colonization. By understanding their nature and developing innovative solutions to mitigate their impact, we can continue to explore the Red Planet safely and effectively. As we advance our technology and knowledge, the dream of living and working on Mars becomes ever more achievable.

Exploring Mars is not just about overcoming obstacles but also about embracing the spirit of discovery and innovation. With each step forward, we get closer to turning the vision of life on Mars into a reality.

[global-education]

🚀 What If We Nuked Mars? 🌌

Have you ever wondered what would happen if we unleashed the power of nuclear weapons on the Red Planet, Mars? 💥🔴

Mars has always been a subject of fascination for astronomers, scientists, and space enthusiasts alike. It's often the topic of discussions regarding colonization, terraforming, and the search for extraterrestrial life. But what if we considered a more radical approach to altering the Martian landscape?

🛸 Exploring the Hypothetical Scenario 🤔

In this imaginative journey, we'll delve into the idea of "nuking" Mars, exploring the potential consequences, challenges, and the ethical implications of such an audacious endeavor.

🌌 The Martian Challenge 🪐

Mars, with its thin atmosphere, frigid temperatures, and lack of liquid water, presents significant challenges for human colonization. The idea of nuking Mars has been proposed as a way to kickstart its transformation into a more hospitable world. But would it work, and what would be the repercussions?

🌋 Triggering Terraforming 🔥

One proposed idea is to detonate nuclear bombs on Mars' polar ice caps. The intense heat generated by the explosions could potentially release vast amounts of water vapor and carbon dioxide, enhancing the planet's atmosphere and potentially creating conditions conducive to life.

🌡️ Climate Change on Mars 🌬️

Nuking Mars would cause a substantial rise in temperature, which could, over time, melt the polar ice and create liquid water reservoirs. However, this process would take centuries, if not millennia, and require countless nuclear detonations.

🚀 The Ethical Dilemma 🤷‍♂️

The idea of deliberately altering another planet raises profound ethical questions. Should we be tampering with the natural evolution of celestial bodies? What about the potential risks to future missions or unforeseen consequences?

🪐 A Risky Proposition 🌠

Nuclear explosions on Mars could release radioactive fallout, contaminate the planet's surface, and pose risks to future missions. Additionally, the long-term effects on the Martian environment are uncertain, making this a high-stakes gamble.

🌌 Martian Evolution 🌱

Mars, over billions of years, has developed its own unique geology and potentially a hidden history of life. Nuking the planet could obliterate valuable scientific clues about the past and potentially jeopardize any existing microbial life.

🛠️ Technological Hurdles 🧪

Apart from the ethical and environmental concerns, there are immense technological challenges associated with nuking Mars. The logistics of transporting nuclear payloads, ensuring accurate detonations, and guaranteeing the safety of Earth and Mars are complex.

🔭 Alternatives to Nuking 🌿

Before we embark on such a radical course of action, there are alternative methods to consider for terraforming Mars. These include the use of greenhouse gases, orbital mirrors, and other technologies that could gradually transform the planet without the risks associated with nuclear explosions.

🌌 The Future of Mars Exploration 🌠

As humanity's interest in Mars continues to grow, discussions around its future intensify. Space agencies, private companies, and international collaborations are actively working on missions that may one day pave the way for sustainable Martian exploration.

🔥 Conclusion: Exploring the Unthinkable 🚀

The idea of nuking Mars remains a provocative and highly controversial concept. While it may offer a radical solution to making the Red Planet more Earth-like, the ethical, environmental, and technological challenges cannot be overlooked.

Let's keep exploring Mars, but perhaps with a more cautious approach, respecting the planet's natural evolution and the potential for scientific discoveries that await us.

[shuttech]

A New ‘Mini-Moon’ is Heading for Earth — But It Won’t Stay for Long

A new ‘mini-moon’ is making its way toward Earth, captivating skywatchers and space enthusiasts alike! This temporary visitor, a small asteroid captured by our planet’s gravitational pull, is expected to pass by soon but won’t linger for long. While mini-moons are relatively common, each arrival offers a unique opportunity to observe and learn about these fascinating celestial objects. As it approaches, scientists are eager to study its characteristics and behavior. Don't miss your chance to catch a glimpse of this cosmic phenomenon before it continues its journey through the solar system! Keep your eyes on the sky and stay tuned for updates on this exciting event!

https://shuttech.com/science/a-new-mini-moon-is-heading-for-earth-but-it-wont-stay-for-long/