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Space

Explore the vast cosmos with our space news blog. Stay updated with the latest cosmic discoveries, space missions, and astronomical wonders.

An X-class solar flare was hurled out by the sunspot AR3615 yesterday, NOAA forecasters say. (NASA) Space 

Alert: X-class solar flare causes radio blackout over Pacific Ocean as solar storm approaches Earth

Adriana Marais,

In recent days, the threat of a geomagnetic storm affecting Earth has been on the rise. This comes shortly after the planet experienced its most powerful solar storm since 2017, resulting in a 9-hour-long geomagnetic storm. The Sun has become more unpredictable in recent months as solar cycle 25 approaches its peak. With this peak approaching, NASA predicts an increase in solar phenomena such as solar particles, CMEs, solar flares, solar storms, and geomagnetic storms in terms of both frequency and intensity. NASA has now reported that a recent solar…

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Asteroid 2024 FK, Asteroid 2024 FB1, and another space rock are set to fly by Earth today. (Pixabay) Space 

NASA reveals that three asteroids may pass by Earth today; Details on speed, size, distance, and more available

Adriana Marais,

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory is constantly monitoring asteroid approaches, with three asteroids predicted to pass very close to Earth on March 28. Another batch of asteroids is currently on its way and expected to pass our planet today. It is crucial to keep track of celestial objects like asteroids and comets to prevent potential impacts that could cause significant damage. Today, three asteroids are forecasted to pass Earth in close proximity, so it is important to stay informed about their size and speed during these close approaches. Asteroid 2024 FK:…

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Asteroid 2024 EO3 and Asteroid 2024 FN1 belong to the Apollo group of asteroids, while Asteroid 2024 ES4 belongs to the Amor group, says NASA. (Pexels) Space 

Three asteroids set to pass Earth closely today, NASA reports; Details on speed, size, and more

Jim Hendler,

Yesterday, Earth had a close encounter with three asteroids, none of which were deemed dangerous. The largest asteroid was 150 feet wide, nearly the size of an airplane. These near misses highlight the potential danger of celestial objects like asteroids and comets, emphasizing the importance of monitoring their paths. NASA, utilizing advanced technology, has identified three asteroids expected to pass by Earth on March 28. Asteroid 2024 EO3: Details NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies, or CNEOS, is responsible for calculating the trajectories of celestial bodies such as asteroids and…

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Scientists rally to advocate for the preservation of Chandra X-ray observatory, highlighting its vital role in unraveling cosmic mysteries. (NASA/CXC/M.Weiss) Space 

Proposed budget cuts put NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory in jeopardy of an uncertain future

Febin Mathew

The future of the Chandra X-ray spacecraft, a vital tool in modern astronomy, is in jeopardy due to NASA’s proposed budget cuts for FY25. In a letter to the Chandra community, Patrick Slane, the director of the Chandra X-ray Center, highlighted the serious consequences of the potential loss of the spacecraft. Since its launch in 1999, Chandra has been a groundbreaking force in X-ray astronomy, enabling scientists to study black holes and other celestial phenomena. If Chandra is discontinued, it would be a significant setback for researchers who depend on…

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Asteroid 2024 EA3 belongs to the Apollo group of Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs), says NASA. (Pixabay) Space 

NASA reports that a 150-foot asteroid will narrowly pass by Earth today; Find out more information

Febin Mathew,

In recent weeks, Earth has experienced various celestial events, including the vernal equinox and the approaching peak of solar cycle 25, resulting in heightened solar activity. Additionally, there have been several close approaches by asteroids, although they do not pose the same threat as solar storms. It is crucial to closely monitor these space rocks to anticipate any potential collision risks. NASA’s advanced technology has revealed a 150-foot asteroid expected to pass by Earth today, March 27, with a narrow margin. Asteroid 2024 EA3 According to NASA, Asteroid 2024 EA3…

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A solar storm threat has been observed with possibility of X-class solar flares being hurled out towards Earth. (Pixabay) Space 

Warning: Sunspot AR3615 may release X-class solar flares towards Earth

Nitin Misra,

A strong geomagnetic storm hit Earth on Sunday following a recent X-class solar flare and Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) from the Sun. With the solar maximum approaching, there is a higher likelihood of more frequent and intense solar phenomena like solar storms, CMEs, and solar flares. There is a potential threat of another X-class solar flare causing a solar storm in the coming days. Solar storm warning According to a SpaceWeather report, the geomagnetic storm that hit Earth on March 24 was the strongest since 2017. Although that threat is…

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Asteroid 2024 EA3 and Asteroid 2024 EO4 belong to the Apollo group of asteroids, says NASA. Check other details. (Pixabay) Space 

NASA reveals two asteroids to pass by Earth soon; Learn about their size and speed

Sanjay Patil,

NASA has reported that in recent weeks, there have been multiple instances of asteroids passing by Earth. These space rocks, which typically orbit the Sun in their own path, can be influenced by a planet’s gravitational pull, causing them to veer off course and approach Earth. This can result in asteroids being knocked out of the main belt between Mars and Jupiter, sending them in various directions across the orbits of other planets. NASA has identified two asteroids currently on a trajectory towards Earth, with an expected close pass by…

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Earth faces a severe G4 geomagnetic storm, potentially disrupting radio communication, according to a recent NOAA alert. (Unsplash) Space 

Earth experiences intense G4 Geomagnetic storm, potential for radio blackouts and auroral displays due to solar storm

Nitin Misra

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a warning about a strong G4 geomagnetic storm that occurred on Sunday, which could lead to disruptions in radio communications. The NOAA reassured the public that although the storm’s intensity may vary, there is no need to panic. It is recommended to stay updated on the storm’s development by visiting the NOAA’s website. NOAA’s alert urges infrastructure users to take mitigation measures against potential impacts, including increased voltage control issues and potential impacts to satellite operations. G4 on NOAA’s 5-point scale,…

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NASA-ISRO mission NISAR faces launch delay as a vital component undergoes a special coating process for temperature control. (NASA/JPL-Caltech) Space 

Launch delay for ISRO’s Nisar mission as crucial component sent back to NASA for thermal precautions

Adarsh V.K,

The NISAR mission, a collaboration between NASA and ISRO, has faced a setback, causing a delay in its launch schedule. The mission, which was highly anticipated, is now aiming for a late April launch date. The Earth observation satellite to be launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Center on India’s southeast coast is in the final stages of preparations. A key aspect of mission readiness is the application of a special coating to the satellite’s 39-foot (12-meter) diameter radar antenna reflector. This important contribution by NASA is a component that…

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Prof Murthy expresses delight at having an asteroid named after him for his work on NASA's New Horizons mission. (IIA) Space 

Indian professor honored by IAU with asteroid named after him for his contributions to astronomy

Adarsh V.K

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) has recognized Prof Jayant Murthy, a distinguished Indian astrophysicist from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in Bengaluru, by naming an asteroid after him. The asteroid, formerly known as “2005 EX296,” has been officially renamed “(215884) Jayantmurthy” by the IAU’s Working Group on Small Bodies Nomenclature. Located between Mars and Jupiter, this asteroid completes a full orbit around the Sun every 3.3 years. Professor Murthy’s contributions to the New Horizons mission Professor Murthy, who will retire from IIA in 2021 but will continue as an…

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With Pushpak viman's successful launch, ISRO enters the realm of reusable rockets, aiming to reduce costs and minimize space debris. The craft has been dubbed as Swadeshi space shuttle. (PTI) Space 

ISRO launches Pushpak Viman, a Swadeshi space shuttle, marking a significant move into reusable rocket technology

Adarsh V.K

ISRO has reached a major milestone by successfully launching and landing the Pushpak viman, a winged rocket the size of an SUV that is commonly referred to as the “Swadeshi space shuttle.” The test, which took place in Karnataka, involved the precise landing of the Pushpak viman on a runway after being released from an Air Force helicopter. This achievement represents a significant step forward in India’s efforts to enter the reusable rocket market, indicating a promising development in the country’s space exploration initiatives. ISRO chief S Somanath expressed satisfaction…

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Asteroid 2024 EU4 belongs to the Aten group of Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs), says NASA. (Pixabay) Space 

NASA reveals massive 420-foot asteroid approaching Earth; Find out its proximity

Adarsh V.K,

There has been a high number of asteroids passing near Earth recently, with up to four space rocks flying past in a single day. Although most of these asteroids do not pose a danger, it is important to track them to reduce uncertainties. NASA has shared information about a 420-foot wide asteroid that will have a close encounter with Earth tomorrow, March 23. Asteroid 2024 EU4 Asteroid 2024 EU4 is just one of many space rocks orbiting the Sun’s main asteroid belt, which lies between the orbits of Jupiter and…

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NASA’s James Webb Telescope and Hubble Space Telescope to study the Universe’s expansion rate and reveal the truth behind the discrepancy indicated by the so-called Hubble Tension. (ESA/Hubble & NASA, M. Sun⁣) Space 

NASA’s James Webb Telescope and Hubble Space Telescope to investigate the truth behind the Universe’s expansion rate in Hubble Tension.

Jim Hendler

Scientists are grappling with a puzzling discrepancy known as the “Hubble Tension,” which suggests that the universe is expanding at a faster rate than previously thought. To address this issue, NASA’s James Webb Telescope and Hubble Space Telescope are teaming up to analyze high-resolution data and uncover the root of the problem. Cosmologists are working to resolve the inconsistencies and improve the accuracy of our understanding of the universe’s expansion. The expansion rate of the universe According to a NASA report, the Hubble Space Telescope has been studying the current…

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A CME grazed Earth’s magnetic field during today’s early hours, NASA has revealed. (NASA) Space 

Alert issued for geomagnetic storm as Earth grazes CME; Stay informed about today’s solar storm risk

Adriana Marais,

As Earth enters the Vernal Equinox, solar activity is becoming more frequent and impactful. As we near the solar maximum, these occurrences are expected to increase. Recently, the Sun released a massive Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) towards Earth, dubbed the ‘Canyon of Fire’ by NASA. This CME posed a potential threat of a solar storm. Now, experts have confirmed that the CME has reached Earth, prompting a geomagnetic storm alert. Geomagnetic storm alert NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured the CME’s ejection on March 17, according to a SpaceWeather report. It…

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Asteroid 2024 FK1 belongs to the Aten group of Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs), says NASA. (Pixabay) Space 

NASA reveals a 60-foot asteroid will pass by Earth at a distance of 1.03 million kilometers; Learn about its approaching speed

Febin Mathew,

NASA reported that up to four asteroids flew by Earth yesterday, with the largest one measuring nearly 140 feet wide, similar in size to an aircraft. These near misses by Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) highlight the ongoing risk posed by celestial bodies and emphasize the importance of tracking their paths. Utilizing its sophisticated telescopes, NASA has identified another asteroid set to pass by Earth on March 22. Stay informed about this upcoming celestial event. Asteroid 2024 FK1: Details According to NASA, this asteroid is just one of many in the main…

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Excitement and fascination abound as NASA scientists analyze samples from asteroid Bennu, offering glimpses into the ancient history of our solar system. (NASA) Space 

Study reveals building blocks of life found in samples collected from asteroid Bennu by NASA’s OSIRIS-REx

Sanjay Patil

NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission has made a groundbreaking discovery by collecting samples from asteroid Bennu, revealing valuable insights into the origins of life. Analysis of the ancient sample has revealed the presence of carbon and water, indicating that the building blocks of life on Earth may also be found within this celestial body. Ingredients of life found in asteroid Bennu samples The OSIRIS-REx mission exceeded expectations by not only meeting but exceeding its goal of collecting 60 grams of asteroid material. The bonus material found on the end of the collector,…

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From vibrant X-ray hues to intricate spiral arms, NASA's images of the Whirlpool Galaxy invite us to marvel at the mysteries of deep space. (NASA) Space 

Chandra and Hubble telescopes capture stunning image of Whirlpool Galaxy shared by NASA

Adriana Marais

NASA has released a breathtaking collection of photos displaying the stunning beauty of the Whirlpool Galaxy, offering a glimpse into the mesmerizing mysteries of our universe. These captivating images, posted on Instagram, provide a fresh perspective of this celestial wonder, captured by different space telescopes like the Chandra X-ray Observatory and the Hubble Telescope. NASA captured the Whirlpool Galaxy The Whirlpool Galaxy, located about 30 million light-years from Earth, stands out as one of the brightest spiral galaxies in the night sky. NASA’s composite images, made from data collected by…

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NASA's MESSENGER mission provides crucial insights into Mercury's polar regions, uncovering the presence and characteristics of ice deposits. (NASA) Space 

NASA’s Messenger mission discovers ice on Mercury, revealing unexpected facts about the planet.

Sanjay Patil

New findings from NASA’s MESSENGER mission have raised questions about what we thought we knew about Mercury, the tiniest planet in our solar system. Despite its close proximity to the Sun and blistering surface temperatures, recent radar images suggest that there may be ice near Mercury’s poles, challenging previous assumptions. This discovery is similar to what has been found on the Moon, shaking up our understanding of these celestial bodies. Observations from the NASA MESSENGER mission These surprising discoveries enabled ground-based studies using advanced tools such as the Arecibo radio…

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Asteroid 2024 EY3 belongs to the Aten group of Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs), as per NASA. (Pixabay) Space 

NASA reveals that an asteroid the size of an aircraft will pass close to Earth today; Find out more information

Febin Mathew,

Over the past few days, there have been multiple instances of asteroids approaching Earth closely. Just yesterday, up to four space rocks passed by the planet at a near distance. While none of them collided with the surface, their close flybys serve as a reminder of the importance of monitoring these asteroids for potential impact threats. This responsibility falls on NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), which tracks Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) like asteroids and comets. Using advanced technology, NASA predicts that an asteroid the size of an aircraft will…

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Asteroid 2024 BD7 belongs to the Apollo group of Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs), as per NASA. (Pixabay) Space 

NASA reveals that a building-sized asteroid will pass Earth today at a close distance

Sanjay Patil,

According to NASA, four asteroids flew past Earth yesterday, with the largest being Asteroid 2024 BD7, nearly 140 feet wide, comparable in size to an aircraft. Today, March 19, the US Space Agency has identified one asteroid on a trajectory towards Earth, larger than any of yesterday’s asteroids. Learn more about this asteroid, which is the size of a building, including its speed, size, and proximity to Earth. Asteroid 2024 BD7 NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies, or CNEOS, has named the incoming asteroid as Asteroid 2024 BD7. This organization…

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