#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

[naturalscientist]

Alien Life? A Distant Planet's Secret!  #sciencefather #science #scientist

Astronomers have recently detected what might be a potential sign of life 🌱 on a distant exoplanet 🌍 orbiting a star far beyond our solar system. Using advanced telescopes 🔭, scientists observed unusual chemical signatures—specifically dimethyl sulfide (DMS)—a gas that, on Earth, is only produced by living organisms 🧬. While this discovery doesn’t confirm alien life 👽 just yet, it adds an exciting piece to the cosmic puzzle 🧩. Researchers are urging caution 🚨, reminding everyone that further investigation is needed to rule out non-biological sources. Still, this breakthrough fuels the hope that we might not be alone in the universe 🌌✨.                                                

Natural Scientist Awards 

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[pekasnugs]

One year on this giant, blistering hot planet is just 16 hours long

🧬 ..::Science & Tech::.. 🧬 A newly discovered “ultrahot Jupiter” has the shortest orbit of any known gas giant

[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.

[tmarshconnors]

“Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.”

Carl Edward Sagan was an American astronomer, planetary scientist, and science communicator. His best-known scientific contribution is his research on the possibility of extraterrestrial life, including the experimental demonstration of the production of amino acids from basic chemicals by exposure to light. 

Born: 9 November 1934, Brooklyn, New York, United States

Died: 20 December 1996 (age 62 years), Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington, United States.

Popularised Science Through “Cosmos” Sagan co-wrote and hosted Cosmos: A Personal Voyage (1980), a groundbreaking TV series that brought astronomy and the wonder of the universe into millions of homes. It became one of the most-watched PBS series in history.

Worked on NASA Missions He played a major role in several NASA missions, including the Mariner, Viking, Voyager, and Galileo programs. He helped design messages for extraterrestrial life, like the Golden Record aboard Voyager.

Pioneer of Planetary Science Sagan was instrumental in explaining the greenhouse effect on Venus, the seasonal changes on Mars, and the nature of Saturn's moon Titan. He essentially helped define planetary science as a field.

Wrote the Novel Contact His 1985 science-fiction novel Contact (later made into a film starring Jodie Foster in 1997) tackled the philosophical and scientific implications of contact with extraterrestrial life.

Advocated Against Nuclear Weapons Sagan warned about “nuclear winter”—the potential climate effects of widespread nuclear war. He used his platform to push for nuclear disarmament during the Cold War, blending science with social responsibility.

[vibewire]

Sights on a new flyby for New Horizons – Astronomy Now

In 2019, NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft flew past Arrokoth, the most distant and primitive object ever explored. Now, as it ventures further, chief scientist Alan Stern shared exciting updates. New Horizon targeted Arrokoth in a close flyby in 2019.  Read more

[think-otb]

Did you know that wood is actually rarer than diamonds? It sounds unbelievable, but in the vast universe, this simple Earthly resource is incredibly special. While trees may seem abundant on Earth, the process that forms wood—photosynthesis—requires a very specific set of conditions. Wood needs sunlight, water, and a planet at just the right distance from its star. In contrast, diamonds are made from carbon and high pressure, both of which are found abundantly throughout the cosmos.

From carbon asteroids to dying neutron stars, diamonds can form in many places in the universe. But wood? It relies on the delicate balance of life, liquid water, and the right atmosphere, making it something truly unique to our planet.

In this video, we explore why, in the grand scheme of the universe, a branch in your yard is actually rarer than all the diamonds you could ever find!

[alexanderrogge]

Paul Scott Anderson - More evidence for ancient ocean on Mars from Chinese rover:

UtopiaPlanitia #Mars #Ocean #ZhurongRover #Zhurong #CNSA #CAS #WaterOnMars #LifeOnMars #RedPlanet #Topography #Geology #PlanetaryScience #Astronomy

[naturalscientist]

Strawberry Moon: June's Celestial Wonder!  #sciencefather #researchawards #scientist #fullmoon 

🌕 June 2025 Full Moon: It’s been years since we’ve seen a full moon quite like this! The night sky lit up with an ethereal glow as the Strawberry Moon rose in all its brilliance 🌌✨. With its soft amber hue and low horizon position, the moon appeared larger and more golden than usual—an awe-inspiring sight for skywatchers and photographers alike 📷🌙. This breathtaking lunar moment, untouched by city lights or cloud cover, reminded many of timeless nights spent stargazing under open skies 🌠🌾. Whether you watched from a mountaintop, a quiet backyard, or through a telescope, this full moon was a celestial treat worth remembering 🌍🔭💫.

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[pekasnugs]

Nanograins make for a seismic shift

🧬 ..::Science & Tech::.. 🧬 A new study finds curious properties of tiny crystals hold clues to earthquake formation

[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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[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.