The Curiosity rover has found organic molecules called thiophenes, which, on Earth, are associated with biological systems. Are they evidence for once-living microbes on Mars? Source: https://earthsky.org/space/thiophenes-organic-molecules-curiosity-rover-mars-life…
Tag: Carl Sagan
‘Pale Blue Dot’ Revisited
cusco shares a report: For the 30th anniversary of one of the most iconic views from the Voyager mission, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, is publishing a new version of the image known as the “Pale Blue Dot.” The updated image uses modern image-processing software and techniques while respecting the intent of those who planned the image. Like the…
Today, 30th anniversary of the Pale Blue Dot
On February 14, 1990, the Voyager 1 spacecraft acquired one of the most iconic images ever taken from space, an image of our planet Earth seen from Saturn. The image is now known as the Pale Blue Dot. Source: https://earthsky.org/space/february-14-1990-pale-blue-dot-image-voyager…
Awesome nightscape photos from New Mexico’s Very Large Array
Observatories make great locales for nightscape photography. Tips from an astrophotographer’s trip to the Very Large Array in New Mexico to help you plan an observatory astrophotography adventure – plus awesome photos. Source: https://earthsky.org/space/nightscape-photos-very-large-array-vla-observatory…
Could microbes be affecting Venus’ climate?
Unusual dark patches in Venus’ atmosphere – called “unknown absorbers” – play a key role in the planet’s climate and albedo, according to a new study. But what are they? That’s still a mystery. Source: https://earthsky.org/space/could-microbes-be-affecting-venus-climate…
Whoa. It’s been 30 years since our 1st and last visit to Neptune
On today’s date – August 25, 1989 – Voyager 2 passed only 4,950 kilometers (3,000 miles) above Neptune’s north pole. It was its closest approach to any planet in its Grand Tour of the outer solar system. Source: https://earthsky.org/space/voyager-2-neptune-flyby-august-25-1989…
Arecibo Observatory gets $12.3 million grant
Arecibo in Puerto Rico was completed in 1963. In recent years, it has weathered multiple hurricanes. The emergency supplemental funds – supported by the U.S. Congress – represent an investment in the future of this large, famous and much-loved radio dish. Source: https://earthsky.org/human-world/arecibo-observatory-12-3-million-grant-upgrade…
Breakthrough Listen’s new search for alien lasers
For the last few decades, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence has focused on detecting radio signals. But a new collaboration between Breakthrough Listen and VERITAS will focus on looking for laser-like flashes of light. Source: https://earthsky.org/space/breakthrough-listen-seti-optical-beacons-technosignatures…
Lightsail 2 set to launch in June
“We are go for launch!” said Planetary Society CEO Bill Nye. Funded by space enthusiasts, LightSail 2 aims to accomplish the 1st-ever, controlled solar sail flight in Earth orbit next month. Source: https://earthsky.org/space/lightsail-2-1st-controlled-solar-sail-flight…