Summary NASA gave Blue Origin the job of carrying VIPER to the Moon after earlier plans collapsed. The rover will drill and scan the lunar south pole to see where water ice is stored underground. Results from the mission could guide Artemis crews on where to build safe bases in the 2030s. NASA confirmed that […]
Moon
Posted inSpace Exploration
China Achieves First Daylight Laser Ranging to Lunar Satellite, Advancing Space Navigation
Summary China proved it can track a lunar-bound satellite with lasers even under full daylight conditions. The breakthrough means spacecraft can be monitored continuously without waiting for nighttime. This progress strengthens China’s plans for future Moon missions and long-distance navigation in space. China has achieved a world first in space navigation by successfully firing a […]
Posted inSpace Science
NASA Plans to build a Nuclear Power Plant on Moon by 2030s
Summary NASA plans to place a nuclear reactor on the moon to provide steady power for long-term human missions. International rivals, including China and Russia, are pursuing similar lunar energy systems. Technical challenges and budget constraints could slow progress toward this ambitious goal. NASA is set to build a nuclear power plant on the moon […]
Posted inSpace Science
Chinese scientists use Sunlight to extract Water from Lunar Soil
A team of Chinese researchers has found a way to turn lunar soil into water, oxygen, and even rocket fuel. That might sound like science fiction, but it’s a real step toward building self-sufficient Moon bases, and it could save future space missions a lot of money. The trick lies in the lunar regolith, the dusty […]
Posted inCelestial Events
November Supermoon is the last supermoon of 2024: Don’t miss!
The Beaver Moon, also the last supermoon of 2024, will rise in India at approximately 2:58 AM IST on November 16, 2024, as reported by TOI. Due to its proximity to Earth, this full moon is notable for being both larger and brighter than usual making it a significant event for skywatchers across the country. […]
Posted inExplained
What is the colour of the Moon?
When we look up at the moon during the night, we see a light grey color of the moon with some dark grey spots, and when we see the moon during the pre-dawn or pre-evening period, we see a faint and light shade of the moon surrounded by a blue sky. During the full moon, […]
Posted inCelestial Events
Stunning Photos Capture Rare Supermoon Harvest Moon Eclipse on September 17-18, 2024
The rare combination of a supermoon and the harvest moon eclipse on September 17-18, 2024, captivated observers around the world. The partial lunar eclipse coincided with the harvest moon, enhancing its visual impact and leaving witnesses amazed by the celestial display. Photographers, both professional and amateur, captured some remarkable images of the event. Highlights include […]
Posted inSpace Science
Chinese Scientists Publish First Study on Lunar Soil from Chang’e 6, Revealing Unique Composition of Moon’s Far Side
Summary China has shared the first close look at lunar soil collected from the moon’s far side. The samples reveal differences in minerals and structure compared to soil from the near side. These insights will help in planning astronaut safety and equipment for future lunar missions. China’s team of scientists has released the first research […]
Posted inCelestial Events
Partial Lunar Eclipse and Rare Super Harvest Moon Captivate Skywatchers Worldwide
Summary A partial lunar eclipse occurred on September 17–18, coinciding with the Harvest Moon and a Supermoon. The event was visible across much of the world, offering a rare celestial spectacle. Unlike solar eclipses, this type of event is safe to observe directly with the naked eye. A rare astronomical event unfolded on September 17–18, […]
Posted inSpace Science
IAU Backs Creation of Lunar Time Zone as NASA Targets 2026 for Moon Standard Time
Summary The IAU has backed plans to create a single time standard for the Moon by 2026. This system, called Lunar Coordinated Time, will prevent errors in navigation and communication. It marks an important step toward supporting future international missions and lunar settlements. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) has joined efforts to establish a dedicated […]