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How Axiom 4 Astronauts See Earth: Blue and White Jewel From Space

June 28, 2025, 5:00 pm

Peggy Whitson, one of the four astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) for the Axiom-4 mission, recently took to social media to share a breathtaking image of Earth. Captioning the post, she wrote, “I’ve missed the view.”

After their arrival, the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) crew members including Whitson, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, Slawosz Uznanski, and Tibor Kapu spent their first couple of hours getting accustomed to life on board the space laboratory. The seven-member “Expedition 73” crew assisted them through different systems and assisted them in preparing for future microgravity research.

As stated by Axiom Space, the crew initiated adaptation to microgravity life, working with the Expedition 73 crewmembers on handover procedures and emergency procedures in order to ensure seamless operations. They also transferred essential cargo and safety gear from the Dragon spacecraft to space station.

I’ve missed this view! #Ax4 pic.twitter.com/BEj1rSE7Yc

— Peggy Whitson (@AstroPeggy) June 27, 2025

On Friday, Whitson and her crew quickly started offloading scientific equipment and freezers loaded with samples from within Dragon. Those were installed on station incubators and refrigerators in anticipation of future experiments. As is the usual procedure for visiting spacecraft, station safety gear was temporarily relocated into Dragon.

Once docked, the Ax-4 crew members prepared their sleeping areas: Whitson slept in the ‘Airlock’, Shukla occupied ‘Dragon’, Uznanski in ‘Columbus’, and Kapu slept in the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM). They also began to install equipment for research activities, transferring samples into other modules to prepare for extensive analysis.

Day one for Group Captain Shukla was spent in redeveloping his new accommodations by transferring cargo from the Grace capsule into the ISS. His second day was to begin with experimental installations.

About the Axiom-4 Mission

Axiom-4 mission is the fourth private astronaut trip to the ISS. It was launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on a SpaceX Dragon capsule on a Falcon 9 rocket. The commander of the mission is Whitson, a retired NASA astronaut now working for Axiom Space. Uznanski of Poland (representing the European Space Agency) and Kapu of Hungary are the mission specialists on board, and Shukla is the mission pilot in the key role.

Asteroid 2003 MH4 Flyby: Speed, Size, and How Close It’ll Get to Earth

May 19, 2025, 3:18 pm

A huge asteroid, almost as broad as three football fields, is hurtling towards Earth for what NASA describes as a “close approach,” inciting increased scrutiny by world planetary defense specialists. Officially designated as Asteroid 2003 MH4, the 335-metre wide behemoth is set to fly by Earth on May 24, 2025, at an incredible velocity of 14 kilometres per second—sufficient to travel from Delhi to Mumbai within less than a minute.

‘Potentially’ Hazardous Asteroid

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) defines the asteroid as coming as close as 6.68 million kilometres to Earth. From a human point of view, that is very far. Astronomically speaking, however, it’s a close call. NASA defines anything larger than 150 metres in diameter and closer than 7.5 million kilometres to Earth as a “Potentially Hazardous Asteroid,” and 2003 MH4 definitely fits into that category. Researchers at NASA’s Centre for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) are closely monitoring its trajectory.

2003 MH4 is part of the Apollo family, a clan of Earth-crossing asteroids discovered for the first time in 1932. The family now consists of over 21,000 known members, some with orbits intersecting Earth’s path. These asteroids are monitored by a global network of ground-based telescopes and computer models that predict their paths.

Future Flybys Could Be Risky

In spite of its size and velocity, the asteroid is not an immediate threat of collision when it is scheduled to make its next pass. Still, scientists are on notice because of its size and orbital trajectory. The asteroid orbits the Sun in approximately 410 days, so it might make multiple close flybys in the future. A small adjustment in its path—perhaps from gravitational slingshots—might raise the odds of collision in the future.

“We’re monitoring its path closely not because of an imminent threat, but because its orbital characteristics make it worth watching,” scientists suggest.

Asteroid 2003 MH4 is only one of many space rocks that are being monitored on an ongoing basis. Asteroid Apophis, which at one time was thought to collide with Earth in 2029, was cleared as a potential threat following years of research. In the meantime, both 2024 YR4 and 2025 FA22 are being monitored. Of special interest is 2025 FA22, which is forecast to fly by close in 2089, although at the moment the chance of a collision is just 0.01%.

As the flyby date nears, scientists worldwide are getting set to closely monitor 2003 MH4. Although it won’t be a threat to Earth at this pass, it reminds us of a sobering fact: we reside in a volatile and possibly menacing solar system.

Spacecraft Launched to Venus in 1972 Could Plunge to Earth Soon

May 2, 2025, 5:44 pm

A Soviet Union-launched spacecraft, Kosmos 482, launched in 1972, originally meant for a mission to Venus, has instead found itself to enter Earth’s atmosphere after failing mid-flight. The 500 kg spacecraft has been stranded in Earth orbit for more than half a century and is projected to re-enter the planet uncontrolled on May 10, 2025.

Kosmos 482 was originally designed as a spherical capsule with a heat shield to withstand the harsh conditions of Venus. It suffered a malfunction, however, and it became stuck in orbit around the Earth, and scientists now cannot predict where it will crash and how much of it will be destroyed upon re-entry.

Potential Risk of Re-entry

Scientists such as Dutch researcher Marco Langbroek forecast the spacecraft to enter Earth’s atmosphere at velocities of about 242 km/h. Because of its comparatively slight size, Kosmos 482 poses a threat equivalent to that of a meteorite impact on the planet. Langbroek explained, “There is no need to panic, but the hazard isn’t entirely eliminated.”

Scientists are unable to determine the precise point where Kosmos 482 will crash. The spacecraft might crash anywhere from 51.7 degrees north to south latitude, spanning places such as London to Edmonton, Canada. As most of this region is comprised of ocean, scientists think it’s more probable that it will crash into water.

If the spacecraft’s heat shield remains intact during re-entry, there’s a chance the capsule could survive and reach Earth without burning up. However, Jonathan McDowell of the Harvard-Smithsonian Center warned that if the heat shield fails, the spacecraft could become an uncontrollable metal object hurtling from the sky.

Experts also have doubts if the capsule’s 53-year-old parachute system will work well. Earlier unplanned re-entries, including China’s booster rocket in 2022 and Tiangong-1 space station in 2018, primarily ended as debris falling on the sea.

NASA Discovers Asteroid Bennu Holds Secrets to Life Beyond Earth

February 2, 2025, 3:44 pm

Scientists have been on a quest for decades to find extraterrestrial life, but the latest NASA findings suggest the answer might be closer than expected. The asteroid Bennu, which was initially thought to be another space rock, has surprised scientists with its revelations. Samples recovered by the NASA OSIRIS-REx spacecraft showed that all essential life-building ingredients were widespread across the early solar system, from five of the nucleobases used in DNA and RNA to 14 of the 20 amino acids that must be built for protein production.

These findings, published in ‘Nature’ and ‘Nature Astronomy’, do not confirm the existence of alien life but do suggest that the building blocks for life were more common in the cosmos than previously thought. The discovery raises intriguing possibilities—could life have evolved elsewhere, perhaps on a distant planet or a hidden moon?

The samples from Bennu also revealed elevated amounts of formaldehyde and ammonia, two crucial elements that could, under the right conditions, help form complex compounds. This raises a question of whether life has been seeded throughout the solar system, not just on Earth, as a result of the spread of these compounds?

Previous meteorite samples contained similar life-supporting ingredients, but none had been studied as closely as Bennu’s pure samples. “The clues we’re finding are incredibly fragile and could never survive Earth’s contamination,” stated NASA’s Danny Glavin, highlighting the purity of the asteroid’s sample.

The Bennu samples possess a sense of mystery, too, in the form of an unknown anomaly – the specific number of left- versus right-handed amino acids, but only left-handed ones are used here on Earth. Such a particular result has plunged even deeper the mystery of ‘why left’ amino acids are favored in the universe. “This adds major strokes to the picture of a solar system brimming with life potential,” said NASA’s Jason Dworkin.

This raises the question: if life-generating conditions are found to be so widespread in the solar system, why haven’t we seen any extraterrestrial life yet? Are the origins of life perhaps far more universal and complex than we have ever imagined? It is one of the greatest mysteries in the search for life beyond Earth.

NASA: 84-Foot Space Rock Heading Toward Earth at High Speed

December 18, 2024, 1:33 pm

Astronomers are giving close attention to asteroid 2024 XS3 this week while it makes its fly-by past Earth on December 18. The 84-foot space rock, being referred to as a “near-miss,” though carries no risk of impact, science says.

The asteroid will pass Earth from a distance of 2,080,000 miles, which is over 16 times the distance between Earth and the Moon. Traveling at a speed of 23,423 miles per hour, it will make its closest approach at 01:54 AM IST. Experts reassure the public that this event is harmless but offers a unique observation opportunity.

Why Tracking Asteroids is Crucial

These asteroids, such as 2024 XS3, are leftovers from the early days of the solar system, 4.6 billion years ago. Their study can give important information on Earth’s history. With the memory of the asteroid impact that led to the extinction of the dinosaurs, scientists stress the importance of monitoring these objects.

Tools for Planetary Defence

NASA uses current and cutting-edge technologies including radar and tools from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory to track and measure NEOs. Also, missions like OSIRIS-REx, and Hayabusa2 have collected samples from the asteroid. This will help in answering how the solar system was formed.

For planetary defense, the closest pass of Asteroid 2024 XS3 is also important because there is nothing that can be threatened right now. However, events like these enhance knowledge about space.

December 7 Skywatching: How To Spot Jupiter At Its Closest To Earth

December 5, 2024, 2:03 pm

The largest planet in our solar system, Jupiter, will be at opposition on December 7. Opposition occurs when Earth lies directly between the Sun and Jupiter, making it possible to see the illuminated sun-facing side of the gas giant all night.

Closest Approach of Jupiter to Earth

On 6th December, Jupiter would be at a distance of about 611 million kilometres or 380 million miles from the Earth. It would therefore give an excellent opportunity to capture the atmospheric features of the planet and its Galilean moons. Sunlight reflecting off Jupiter takes just 34 minutes to reach the Earth, so Jupiter would, of course, be a beaming light in the nighttime sky for anyone who uses a telescope or binoculars.

Where and How to Observe Jupiter

Jupiter sets in the west-north-west not very far from the constellations Taurus at sunrise. For astronomers, this is the ideal time for observing its beautiful cloud bands and four biggest moons: Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto. The planet is also visible during opposition to observers using small telescopes or even mere binoculars.

What is Opposition?

Opposition is that phase in which a planet appears to be opposite the Sun as seen from Earth. In case of Jupiter, the result of this configuration is its entire illuminated side can be observed, almost like having a full moon. At such a vantage angle, observers get to observe the full disc of the planet, so grand against the night sky.

One-Month Observing Opportunity

Although December 7 is the opposition date, the entire month provides excellent viewing conditions for Jupiter. The increased brightness and visibility make it more present, and enthusiasts can expand an opportunity to marvel at its beauty even more.

Whether you’re an avid astronomer or a curious onlooker, this rare alignment serves as a reminder of the vast wonders of our solar system. Grab your telescopes and prepare for an unforgettable night of celestial observation.

Earth Rumbled For 9 Days After 650-Foot Tsunami Triggered By Rockslide

November 3, 2024, 2:27 pm

A significant landslide in Greenland’s Dickson Fjord in September 2023 initiated a tsunami that reverberated worldwide, resulting in seismic activity that lasted over a week.

Recent findings from the international Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite mission indicate that these tremors endured for nine days. This information provides researchers with valuable insights into the tsunami’s distinct features and far-reaching effects.

SWOT gathered water elevation data in Dickson Fjord on September 17, 2023, just a day after the landslide. By contrasting this data with measurements taken under calm conditions on August 6, scientists identified substantial variations in water levels, as reported by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Visually represented data indicated that water levels were up to 1.2 meters (4 feet) higher on the north side of the fjord compared to the south. The tsunami was triggered when approximately 25 million cubic meters (880 million cubic feet) of rock and ice fell into the fjord, which is part of a network of waterways along Greenland’s eastern coastline.

According to a study published in Science Journal, the landslide generated a wave reaching about 200 meters (650 feet) in height.

The Dickson Fjord, characterized by its steep cliffs rising over 1,830 meters (6,000 feet) and a depth of roughly 540 meters (1,772 feet), contained the tsunami’s energy. In this restricted area away from the open ocean, the tsunami’s energy couldn’t easily dissipate, causing the wave to oscillate back and forth every 90 seconds for nine days. This oscillation produced tremors detected by seismic instruments located thousands of kilometers away, known as a seiche.

The SWOT mission, which launched from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base in December 2022, played a crucial role in collecting this data. This mission was a collaborative project led by NASA and the French space agency CNES, with contributions from the Canadian and UK space agencies.

Massive Asteroid to Pass by Earth on October 24, NASA Confirms

October 22, 2024, 8:48 am

NASA has revealed that an asteroid named 363305 (2002 NV16) is expected to fly past Earth on October 24 at 9:17 PM IST. This near-Earth object (NEO) is about 175 meters wide, which is roughly the size of a large building. The asteroid is travelling at a significant speed of 17,542 kmph.

Safe Distance from Earth

The asteroid will pass Earth at a distance of 4.52 million kilometres, which is more than 11 times the distance between Earth and the Moon (384,400 kilometres). Although classified as a potentially hazardous asteroid (PHA) due to its size and proximity, NASA assures there is no risk of collision during this flyby.

NASA’s Planetary Defense Program

Monitoring NEOs like this one is part of NASA’s planetary defense program, which focuses on tracking near-Earth asteroids and comets. This program plays a crucial role in cataloguing these objects and assessing any potential risks they may pose to Earth.

Recent Flyby of Asteroid 2024 TY21

Just a few days earlier, on October 19, another asteroid named 2024 TY21 flew past Earth. It passed at a safe distance of approximately 1.35 million kilometres. The asteroid, around 40 feet in diameter, which is similar in size to a bus, posed no threat to the planet.

Understanding Near-Earth Objects (NEOs)

NEOs are objects like asteroids or comets that can come close to the Sun, within 195 million kilometres, bringing them near Earth’s orbit. Most NEOs are asteroids, ranging in size from a few metres to about 40 kilometres. Some of these, classified as PHAs, are larger than 140 metres and are given special attention due to their potential threat if they approach Earth’s orbit.

NASA’s Efforts in Asteroid Deflection

NASA is working on missions aimed at deflecting potentially dangerous asteroids. Two major projects include:

DART (Double Asteroid Redirection Test): This mission aims to demonstrate asteroid deflection by crashing a spacecraft into an asteroid, testing a method to change its course.

NEO Surveyor: A future space telescope is being developed to discover and track potentially hazardous asteroids, focusing on identifying those up to 30 million miles away from Earth.

These initiatives are part of NASA’s ongoing efforts to protect Earth from any possible future asteroid threats.

Watch: Here’s What the Comet Returning to Our Solar System After 80,000 Years Looks Like

October 16, 2024, 1:37 pm

Astrophotographers worldwide have immortalized the appearance of a comet that has returned to our solar system after 80,000 years. Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), a bright and elusive celestial body, was visible in the night sky on Sunday when it reached its closest distance to Earth—approximately 70.81 million kilometers.

Dubbed the “comet of the century,” this rare celestial event captivated stargazers across the globe. Its brightness allowed for naked-eye visibility over the weekend, and social media users shared spectacular images of the comet. Below are some glimpses of this cosmic phenomenon.

The Tsuchinshan-ATLAS comet… last visible from Earth 80,000 years ago. pic.twitter.com/8FjZPISknU

— Graig Salerno (@GraigSalerno) October 13, 2024

Don’t forget to try to spot the Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS tonight! This is the last chance to see it for 80,000 years pic.twitter.com/0fU6t6OB3u

— Anna Margaret (@itsannamargaret) October 16, 2024

Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS over Tucson, AZ ☄️

?: Donna Ruthruff @abc15 pic.twitter.com/X3FQYBFUYu

— Jorge Torres (@JorgeTWeather) October 16, 2024

My comet photo this evening from home in Westlake Village, CA. 100mm, f4.5, ISO 1000, 2.5 seconds. (Comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) pic.twitter.com/LIabGEXnlH

— William Reid (@stormbruiser) October 13, 2024

Some more Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS for your feed this morning. pic.twitter.com/d6ZyjlfrLV

— Jim Tang (@wxmann) October 15, 2024

The name C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) is derived from two separate observations. The comet was first spotted by the Purple Mountain Observatory in China, known as “Tsuchinshan” in Mandarin, on January 9, 2023. The Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) later detected it in February. Astronomers confirmed that both observations were of the same comet, resulting in its current name.

With an orbital period of approximately 80,000 years, this comet last passed through our solar system when early humans were migrating out of Africa. If unaltered by gravitational forces, it is expected to return in the year 82,024. Until then, the comet will remain visible in the night sky through Sunday, October 20.

C/2023 A3 is believed to have originated from the Oort Cloud, a region filled with icy bodies at the outermost edge of our solar system. During its journey, the comet has been seen passing through the constellation Serpens Caput and later moving close to the M5 globular cluster. By the end of this month, it will appear to move into the constellation Ophiuchus from Earth’s perspective.

How To Watch Earth’s ‘Second Moon’ From India

September 30, 2024, 4:03 pm

Earth has gained a temporary companion in space—a ‘mini moon’ or ‘second moon’ named Asteroid 2024 PT5. Discovered in August 2024, this asteroid, approximately the size of a bus, was captured by Earth’s gravity on Sunday. While this space rock will only remain in orbit for about two months, its presence highlights the dynamic environment surrounding our planet. The asteroid, measuring around 10 meters in diameter, won’t be visible to the naked eye and can only be observed using advanced telescopes.

Short-Lived Orbit Around Earth

Asteroid 2024 PT5 is expected to stay in Earth’s orbit until November 25, after which it will break free and continue its journey through space. Unlike our Moon, this temporary companion will not complete a full orbit around Earth before drifting away. It’s part of the Arjuna asteroid group, which shares a similar path around the Sun with Earth. While its stay is brief, it’s not the first mini moon to be captured by Earth’s gravity. A similar event occurred in 2020 when another small asteroid was temporarily drawn into Earth’s orbit.

Can You See the Mini Moon from India?

Unfortunately, spotting this second moon is beyond the capabilities of standard telescopes. The asteroid is too small and faint to be visible without the aid of large, professional-grade equipment. Even for those with access to powerful telescopes, viewing conditions must be ideal. For the general public, images from professional observatories will be the only way to glimpse this rare visitor.

Mystery of the Mini Moon’s Origins

Scientists are still investigating the origins of 2024 PT5. While it is classified as an asteroid, some experts speculate that it could be a fragment of our Moon that broke off in the distant past. This uncertainty adds an intriguing layer to the discovery, as researchers continue to explore the possibilities surrounding its origin.

A Cosmic Visitor Set to Return in 2055

Although 2024 PT5 will soon leave Earth’s orbit, it is expected to pass by again in 2055. Its return will offer scientists another chance to study this fascinating object. In the meantime, the discovery of this mini moon serves as a reminder of the countless space rocks that fly near Earth. Thousands of asteroids, both large and small, pass close to our planet every year, and ongoing observation efforts help scientists track and understand these cosmic travelers.

Monitoring Earth’s Space Neighborhood

The presence of 2024 PT5 demonstrates the complexity and activity of Earth’s space environment. As scientists keep a close eye on objects like this mini moon, they continue to gain insight into the mechanics of our solar system and the ever-changing forces at play. The temporary capture of 2024 PT5 highlights the importance of monitoring near-Earth objects, contributing to our understanding of the broader cosmos.

Rare ‘Mini Moon’ Sighted: 10-Meter Asteroid To Orbit Earth | Check Details

September 29, 2024, 7:04 pm

Earth’s moon will soon be joined by a “mini moon,” an asteroid measuring approximately 10 meters, roughly the size of a school bus. This mini moon, designated 2024 PT5, will swing by Earth on Sunday and be temporarily captured by our planet’s gravity, orbiting for about two months.

Astronomers at Complutense University of Madrid first identified the space rock in August using a powerful telescope situated in Sutherland, South Africa.

According to Richard Binzel, an astronomer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, these fleeting mini moons are likely more prevalent than we realize. The last known mini moon was detected in 2020. “This happens with some frequency, but we rarely see them because they’re very small and very hard to detect,” he noted. “Only recently has our survey capability reached the point of spotting them routinely.”

The discovery, made by Carlos de la Fuente Marcos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos, was published by the American Astronomical Society. While this mini moon won’t be visible to the naked eye or through amateur telescopes, it “can be observed with relatively large, research-grade telescopes,” Carlos de la Fuente Marcos explained in an email.

Binzel, who was not part of the research team, mentioned that it remains unclear whether the space rock originated as an asteroid or was “a chunk of the moon that got blasted out.”

The mini moon is expected to circle Earth for nearly 57 days but will not complete a full orbit. It will depart on November 25, continuing its journey through space, with a predicted return in 2055.

Earth May Have Had a Ring Like Saturn, New Evidence from Hidden Craters Suggests

September 16, 2024, 2:22 pm

In a recent paper published in Earth & Planetary Science Letters, researchers have proposed that Earth may have had a ring around 466 million years ago, which persisted for millions of years. This theory could explain some mysteries in Earth’s geological history.

Evidence for a Ring Around Earth

The idea is based on a pattern of impact craters found near the equator, which suggests they are related to a single event rather than being randomly distributed. Researchers believe a large asteroid likely broke apart near Earth, scattering debris that eventually formed a ring. Over millions of years, fragments from the ring fell to Earth, causing craters and tsunamis.

How Rings Form

Rings form when a small body, such as an asteroid, gets too close to a planet and is torn apart by gravitational forces. This debris forms a ring around the planet’s equator, and over time, the larger fragments fall to the planet’s surface, creating craters. This same process may explain the pattern of craters and meteorite debris found in Earth’s sedimentary rocks from that period.

Potential Climate Impact

At the time of this possible ring formation, Earth’s continents were arranged differently, with many close to the equator. The ring could have shaded parts of the planet, potentially contributing to global cooling. Around 465 million years ago, Earth entered the Hirnantian Ice Age, one of the coldest periods in its history. Researchers are now creating models to understand how this ring might have influenced Earth’s climate.

This ongoing research could help solve the puzzle of whether a ring around Earth played a role in this significant cooling period.

Watch: YouTuber Sends GoPro To ‘Near Space’ With Balloon, Captures Stunning Earth Views

September 10, 2024, 10:36 pm

Imagine launching a balloon with a GoPro so high that it captures breathtaking images of Earth’s curvature from the edge of space. This is exactly what YouTuber BloonStu accomplished by sending a GoPro into “near space” using a high-altitude balloon. As it rose close to the boundaries of space, it recorded stunning visuals of our planet. Known for its durability and sharp imagery, the GoPro excelled in this unique experiment, reaching new heights as it was lifted far above the clouds, reducing them to tiny specks below.

As the camera ascended, it revealed a spectacular view of Earth from an extraordinary perspective, showcasing the planet’s beauty set against the vastness of space.

Eventually, the balloon burst at a high altitude. To recover the footage, BloonStu “used a spot GPS tracker in the payload to track where the payload fell after the balloon burst” and “retrieved it with the GoPro and its recorded footage inside.”

You can watch the video here:

The YouTuber ensured that all procedures were followed, adhering to Federal Aviation Administration regulations and informing the Flight Standards District Office ahead of the launch. The video caption stated, “All designed and launched by myself. All FAA regulations were followed, the FSDO was notified and given all the details, and a NOTAM [Notice to Air Missions] was even filed with Ft Worth center for balloon activity.”

As for the motivation behind the project, BloonStu explained, “Mostly, I had free time and needed a project/hobby to keep me engaged; secondly, space is neat.”

Geologists Trace 1.8 Billion Years Of Plate Tectonics Shaping Continents | Watch

September 7, 2024, 2:09 pm

A study published in ‘Geoscience Frontiers’ has reconstructed around 40% of Earth’s plate tectonics history with unprecedented precision. This groundbreaking research, led by Xianzhi Cao from the Ocean University of China, features a unique animation illustrating the dynamic changes in continental positions over time.

The animation begins with a familiar world map, showing India rapidly drifting southward and parts of Southeast Asia forming the ancient continent of Gondwana in the Southern Hemisphere. “It starts with the map of the world familiar to everyone. Then India rapidly moves south, followed by parts of Southeast Asia as the past continent of Gondwana forms in the Southern Hemisphere,” explains Alan Collins, a co-author of the study.

The visual journey continues through time, revealing how Gondwana and the supercontinent Pangaea, which formed about 200 million years ago and included North America, Europe, and northern Asia, evolved from earlier tectonic activities. It also highlights the emergence of the supercontinent Rodinia, which formed from the breakup of an even older supercontinent called Nuna around 1.35 billion years ago.

Watch:

Earth’s unique plate tectonics play a crucial role in shaping its landscape, creating mountains, earthquakes, and oceans, and distributing essential elements like phosphorus, which supports DNA structure. “Plate tectonics also exposes rocks that react with carbon dioxide in the atmosphere,” Collins notes. “Rocks locking up carbon dioxide is the main control on Earth’s climate over long time scales – much, much longer than the tumultuous climate change we are responsible for today.”

This research enhances our understanding of how Earth’s internal processes interact with surface systems that support life, revealing how essential nutrients became available and fueled the evolution of complex life. For instance, mountains formed during Nuna’s creation may have provided vital ingredients for early life forms.

However, this study only covers the last 40% of Earth’s plate tectonics history, leaving much of the planet’s 4.6-billion-year history yet to be unraveled.

Viral Timelapse: 24 Hours On Earth Captured From Space | Watch

September 4, 2024, 1:31 pm

As humanity makes strides in space exploration, we continue to uncover new perspectives on our planet, revealing its extraordinary beauty and enigmas. A recent timelapse video from the Himawari-8 satellite offers a mesmerizing glimpse of Earth, compressing a full day’s rotation into just seconds.

Shared widely on the social media platform X by the account @wonderofscience, the footage captures Earth’s rotation on its axis, transitioning seamlessly from daylight to darkness across the globe. The video illustrates how sunlight traverses the planet, lighting one side while the other falls into shadow. This stunning sequence provides a unique view of Earth’s daily cycle.

Watch the Viral Video:

A day passing on planet Earth seen from 36,000 kilometers (22,000 miles) by the satellite Himawari-8. (Watch full screen) pic.twitter.com/CU6GU9AuEM

— Wonder of Science (@wonderofscience) August 27, 2024

The video, filmed from an altitude of 36,000 kilometers, has quickly gained popularity, garnering lakhs of views and thousands of likes. Many viewers have been captivated by the visual splendor, particularly the impressive cloud formations and the dynamic interplay of light and shadow.

This timelapse not only highlights the planet’s natural beauty but also demonstrates the technological advancements that enable us to observe Earth from such an extraordinary perspective.

Massive Asteroid The Size Of Two Football Fields Set For Close Encounter With Earth On September 15

September 2, 2024, 11:43 am

An asteroid roughly the size of two football fields is scheduled for a close approach to Earth this month. According to the New York Post, the 720-foot-wide asteroid, designated 2024 ON, will pass by our planet at a distance of approximately 620,000 miles on September 15. Although this may seem like a vast distance, it is surprisingly close in astronomical terms—equivalent to just 2.6 times the distance between the Earth and the Moon. Despite this proximity, it poses no threat to our planet.

The Virtual Telescope Project notes that such a close encounter occurs roughly once every 10 years on average.

Skygazers in the northern hemisphere will have the opportunity to witness this rare and spectacular event, as the asteroid will be visible starting at 2:30 p.m. ET on September 15. The Virtual Telescope will offer a live feed of the event, and with clear skies, observers may also spot it using telescopes or strong binoculars.

This flyby of asteroid 2024 ON presents a unique and valuable opportunity for astronomers to gather essential data on its composition, velocity, rotation period, and orbital path. Such information is crucial for refining predictive models of Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) and enhancing our understanding of the complex dynamics of the solar system.

As NASA explains, asteroids are remnants from the formation of the solar system 4.6 billion years ago. “Not all asteroids are the same size and shape,” NASA notes. “Because asteroids are formed in different locations at different distances from the sun, no two asteroids are alike.” While most asteroids are composed of various types of rocks, some contain clays or metals, such as nickel and iron.

NASA maintains a continuous watch on near-Earth objects (NEOs) and updates a database tracking their trajectories. Asteroids with diameters larger than 150 meters (492 feet) and that come closer than 4.6 million miles (7.4 million kilometers) are classified as potentially hazardous asteroids (PHAs).

In its ongoing mission to study and mitigate potential asteroid threats, NASA is developing asteroid deflection technologies. The Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) mission aims to test the feasibility of using a kinetic impactor spacecraft to change the course of an asteroid in space.

Earth’s Core Is Now Moving Backwards Due To Its Slow Down, Reveal Scientists

July 6, 2024, 7:39 pm

In a giant breakthrough, scientists have confirmed that the earth’s core is now slowing down, so much so, that it is now moving backwards.

As per the new study in nature, the scientists have confirmed the slowdown and backs the idea that earth is following 70-year-old cycle.

But scientists are still don’t know that when and if the earth’s rotation will change its direction.

According to experts, this backtracking happened in the last 40 years and this time they have the ‘ most definitive evidence’ that the earth is indeed moving in a reverse direction.

The Evidence of Earth’s Core Moving In Backward Direction

According to John vidale and his teams, the seismic waves derived from earthquakes and nuclear tests, usually goes through inner core.

They further revealed that around 100 earthquakes, which took place between 1991 and 2023 in South Sandwich Islands at South Atlantic Ocean have occurred in same location at same fautlines.

As per Vidale, the changes in waveforms can be seen as earth’s inner core moves. Thus, concluding that backtracking is indeed happening.

How Will It Affect Us?

According to scientists, the days might become longer as earth’s rotation might have slowed down. However, these changes are too small to be noticed.

Since backtracking is happening for the last 40 years, the possibility of such a huge change will be less.

This Giant Swamp Creature Was The Top-Predator Before Dinosaurs

July 4, 2024, 6:03 pm

Long before dinosaurs dominated the Earth, another formidable predator reigned supreme in its environment. Meet Gaiasia, a colossal creature resembling a salamander that prowled the Permian swamps.

If you’re envisioning a small, cute axolotl, Gaiasia jennyae was far from it. This ancient amphibian measured approximately 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in length and boasted a skull and jaw structure capable of capturing large prey.

“Gaiasia jennyae was much larger than a human, likely inhabiting the bottom of swamps and lakes,” explained Jason Pardo, co-lead author of the study. “Its large, flat head, reminiscent of a toilet seat, allowed it to open its mouth wide to engulf prey. It possessed enormous fangs, with its entire front jaw dominated by massive teeth. It was a formidable predator, possibly employing ambush tactics that were relatively slow.”

Four partial specimens of Gaiasia were unearthed in the deserts of Namibia. During the Permian period, some 280 million years ago, this region was characterized by swampy wetlands. At that time, the area was not located where modern-day Africa stands but was much farther south, near Antarctica. The Earth was transitioning out of an ice age, and Gaiasia thrived in its cold, wet habitat, contrasting with drying and forested conditions in northern regions.

As these southern regions retained their ancient character, so did the creatures that inhabited them. The researchers note that Gaiasia represents a surprisingly late example of a group called stem tetrapods, early pioneers in developing the four-limbed body plan with a head attached to a central trunk. Most of these early forms were believed to have become extinct before Gaiasia emerged.

“It’s a relic from an earlier lineage, predating the split into mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, known as crown tetrapods,” Pardo remarked. “The survival of Gaiasia into the Permian period is remarkable. It shares ancestry with organisms that likely vanished some 40 million years earlier. While other archaic animals persisted around 300 million years ago, they were rare, small, and pursued distinct evolutionary paths. In contrast, Gaiasia was large, abundant, and appears to have been the dominant predator in its ecosystem.”

The discovery of this enigmatic swamp predator fills significant gaps in the fossil record, according to the research team.

The findings were published in the journal Nature.

Watch: Is Climate Change Affecting Oceans? NASA’s Visualizations Reflect So

June 25, 2024, 12:20 pm

Taking to Instagram, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), has recently posted a visualization that displays how greenhouse gases affect Earth’s water bodies.

As per NASA, the gases produced due to human activities are altering the ocean. Talking more about their visualization, the space agency revealed, that different colours reflect average temperature of sea surface currents.

According to space agency, warmers colours (red, orange, and yellow) depicts warm temperatures, while cooler colours (green and blue) depict cooler temperature.

It further revealed, that increasing produce of greenhouse gases from human activities are forever altering our oceans. NASA vowed, that they will try to find more.

Check Out NASA’s Visualizations Here:-

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by NASA Climate Change (@nasaclimatechange)

So far, the video has gotten more than 8.2 lakh views and has accumulated over 8,000 likes.

Under this post, netizens gave various reactions. On user complimented the visualization and the way it was collected. ‘Amazing data and visualisation. Very cool!’ said instagram user.

Contributing to the praise of the visualisation, one also said, ‘I could look at this forever’.

But many users expressed their concern for climate change, with one saying, ‘Climate change is a huge problem’

Later, one user asked about this data and what is it was trying to show. Responding to the comment, NASA said, this visualisation is displaying sea surface current flows.

‘Can you please explain what this data is showing? Is it taken over days or months? What time of year? Is it ocean currents or ocean temperatures? What have we concluded from this data?’ asked one user.

In response NASA said, ‘The visualisation shows sea surface current flows. The flows are coloured by corresponding sea surface temperature data. The time range for this particular visualisation is from 2007-2008.’

NASA Alert!! Aeroplane-Sized Asteroid Just Missed Hitting The Earth, All You need to know

June 24, 2024, 3:51 pm

Issuing a recent alert related to Asteroids, NASA announced, that an asteroid the size of an airplane called Asteroid 2024 KN1 had safely passed the Earth on June 23.

While issuing the warning, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory announced, asteroid 2024 KN1, comes under Amor group, measures 27 meter or 88 feet in diameter and will travel at the speed of 16,500 kilometers per hour.

According to the available reports, the asteroid 2024 KN1, will pass safely by Earth at a distance of 5.6 million kilometers, roughly 14 times the distance from Earth to the Moon.

At What Time the Asteroid Came Near The Earth

According to NASA, Asteroid 2024 KN1 came near the earth at 11:39 PM IST on sunday.

Furthermore, NASA further predicts, two asteroids will be near the Earth on June 25th. The names of the asteroid are Asteroid 2024 LO5 (Measuring 62 feet), will pass by the planet at a distance of 1,960,000 kilometers.

The second asteroid identifies as Asteroid 2024 KJ (Measuring 77 feet), will come near the earth, maintaining a distance of 5,260,000 kilometers.

Additionally, on June 27, A 64 feet Asteroid called 2019 NJ, will pass the planet with a distance of 6,610,000KM. Notably on the same date, the asteroid with a size of 7,200 feet will nearest to the earth, with a distance of 6,640,000 kilometers.

NASA Alert: 88 Feet Asteroid To Have Close Encounter With Earth Today

June 23, 2024, 2:47 pm

NASA has issued a public alert regarding asteroid 2024 KN1, which is set to have a close encounter with Earth on June 23, 2024, at 18:09 UTC (11:39 PM IST). This asteroid, categorized as part of the Amor group, measures approximately 88 feet in diameter and will travel at a speed of about 16,500 kilometers per hour.

While the asteroid’s approach poses no threat to Earth, it presents scientists with a valuable opportunity to study these near-Earth objects. Initial assessments of 2024 KN1 indicated a potential impact, but lacked precise details regarding its size, composition, and trajectory. Complicating matters, crucial follow-up observations were delayed by seven months due to the asteroid passing behind the Sun as viewed from Earth.

The ongoing monitoring of near-Earth objects, like asteroid 2024 KN1, is a key focus for NASA’s Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS). This effort relies on data from observatories worldwide, including contributions from projects such as Pan-STARRS, the Catalina Sky Survey, and NASA’s NEOWISE mission. Radar projects, such as JPL’s Goldstone Solar System Radar Group, also play a vital role in tracking these space rocks.

NASA emphasizes that this monitoring allows astronomers to assess any potential impact risks from near-Earth objects well in advance. Amateur astronomers also contribute significantly to this effort, providing valuable data that aids international initiatives to understand and monitor these celestial bodies.

As technology and observational capabilities improve, so too will our understanding of near-Earth objects and their trajectories. This advancement will enhance our ability to predict and mitigate any potential future risks associated with these celestial objects.

For now, NASA reassures that asteroid 2024 KN1 will pass by Earth safely, offering scientists another chance to study these intriguing objects within our solar system.

Days To Get Longer? Earth’s Inner Core Now Rotating Slowly, Reveals New Study

June 17, 2024, 12:35 pm

Making a giant discovery, scientists from the University of Southern California have recently revealed, that the earth’s inner core is now rotating slowly than the planet’s surface.

This phenomenon can significantly affect earth’s magnetic field stability and the duration of our days.

As per the study published by Nature, its research emphasizes, that the speed of the inner core has begun to slow down around 2010. Notably, it is for the first time after 40 years, that the inner core is moving more slowly than the earth’s surface.

Talking about earth’s inner core slowing down, Professor of Earth Sciences at University of Southern California John Vidale said,

‘When I first saw the seismograms that hinted at this change, I was stumped. But when we found two dozen more observations signalling the same pattern, the result was inescapable. The inner core had slowed down for the first time in many decades. Other scientists have recently argued for similar and different models, but our latest study provides the most convincing resolution.’ said John Vidale.

According to John Vidale, Chaotic motion of the liquid outer core around it, which generates of earth’s magnetic field and gravity pull from dense regions in the overlying rocky mantle is responsible for the slowing of earth’s inner core.

Furthermore, Mr Vidale also revealed, that this phenomenon can change earth’s rotation and can make our days longer. However, it might change the length of the day by fractions of a second.

Currently, the team is monitoring the trajectory of inner core in greater detail, to understand why inner core is shifting.

Later, Mr Vidale offered another theory, where the earth inner core has become livelier.

Talking about this theory he said, ‘The dance of the inner core might be even more lively than we know so far.’

ISRO Detects Solar Eruptive Events From Earth, Sun-Earth L1 Point, Moon

May 15, 2024, 4:54 am

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) detected signatures of the recent solar eruptive events from various locations, including Earth, the Sun-Earth L1 Point, and the Moon.

ISRO deployed its entire array of observation platforms and systems to document the signatures of the potent solar storm that affected Earth on Saturday. Both Aditya-L1 and Chandrayaan-2 conducted observations, and the gathered signatures have been scrutinized. The X-ray payloads aboard Aditya-L1 (SoLEXS and HEL1OS) detected numerous X- and M-class flares from these regions over the past few days, while the in-situ magnetometer (MAG) payload also registered the events as it traversed the L1 point.

As Aditya-L1 monitors the Sun from the first Sun-Earth Lagrange point, the Chandrayaan-2 orbiter has also detected the signatures of these solar eruptive events from the lunar polar orbit. The XSM instrument on Chandrayaan-2 has observed numerous intriguing phenomena associated with this geomagnetic storm. Notably, the XSM autonomously identifies large solar flares (> M5 class) as spikes. When the internal mechanism was activated to mitigate the incident X-ray flux and prevent saturation, a filter was brought in front of the detector.

Although the XSM primarily observes solar X-rays, it has also furnished data regarding the local high-energy particle environment by tallying events when the upper-level discriminator (ULD) threshold is surpassed. In early May 2024, Earth experienced a potent solar storm triggered by the highly active region AR13664. This region unleashed a succession of X-class flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) directed towards Earth. The ensuing geomagnetic storm was the most severe since 2003, with a Dst index of -412 nT, leading to disruptions in communication and GPS systems.

This recent geomagnetic storm stands out as the most powerful since 2003, rivaling the significance of the historically notable Carrington event of 1859, given the immense size of the flaring region on the Sun. Earth has experienced multiple X-class flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) in recent days. The impact has been particularly severe over high latitudes, leading to reports of trans-polar flights being diverted. Further events are anticipated in the coming days. The Indian region experienced relatively less disruption, as the peak of the storm occurred early on May 11, before the ionosphere had fully developed. Additionally, being situated at lower latitudes, widespread outages were not reported in India. Conversely, the ionosphere exhibited considerable turbulence over the Pacific and American sectors.

The peak impact of this event was observed during the early morning hours of May 11 in India, coinciding with a phase when the ionosphere was not fully developed. Observations from the GNSS network at the National Atmospheric Research Laboratory indicate a reduction in Total Electron Content (TEC) by over 50 percent from midnight on May 10 to the morning of May 11. Meanwhile, the Master Control Facility (MCF) team at ISRO remained vigilant, monitoring any geomagnetic activity experienced by geostationary spacecraft. Regarding disturbances on spacecraft, the increased accumulation of disturbances led to frequent adjustments in the magnetic torquer duty cycle, resulting in more frequent momentum dumps.

Deviation in Momentum Wheel speed and saturation of MTC current were noted in several spacecrafts. Those with one-sided panels exhibited prominent signature variations, necessitating frequent momentum dumping. However, overall operations remained normal, with no instances of single event upsets reported. The Star Sensor (SS-2) in INSAT-3DS and Star Sensor (SS-3) in INSAT-3DR were deactivated according to mission protocols. Apart from these actions, no significant upsets or anomalies have been detected in any of the 30 GEO spacecrafts thus far.

None of the Earth Observation Satellites operated by ISRO, which were within range of ISRO’s ground stations, experienced any upsets or latch-ups. During solar events like this, the energy emitted by the Sun heats and expands the upper atmosphere. The heightened atmospheric density at satellite altitudes results in increased drag on satellites, leading to a gradual loss of altitude. This effect is particularly noticeable for satellites in low-Earth orbit. Thus far, the ISRO Navigation Centre has not observed any significant degradation in the NaVIC service metrics, suggesting minimal to no impact from the geomagnetic storm.

New Discovery: Vast Ocean Reservoir Found 700 Kilometers Underground

April 3, 2024, 1:38 pm

Researchers at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, have made a remarkable discovery: a massive reservoir of water hidden beneath the Earth’s surface. This subterranean water source is estimated to be three times the size of all the oceans on the planet combined, located approximately 700 kilometers below the Earth’s surface. This finding opens up new avenues for understanding the planet’s geology and water cycle, challenging previous notions about the origins of Earth’s water.

The discovery of this vast reservoir of water was made while investigating the origins of Earth’s water. Scientists uncovered an ocean hidden within a mineral called ringwoodite. This revelation challenges existing theories about the origins of Earth’s water, suggesting that Earth’s oceans may have originated deep within the planet, gradually seeping out from its core. This subterranean ocean surpasses the combined volume of all surface oceans threefold.

Steven Jacobsen, a scientist from Northwestern University who led the research, explained the significance of the discovery, stating, “This shows strong proof that Earth’s water came from inside the planet.”

The discovery was made possible by analyzing seismic waves from 500 earthquakes using 2000 seismographs placed throughout the United States. These waves, as they traveled through the Earth’s interior, particularly the core, slowed down, indicating the presence of water in the rocks below.

The concept that water could exist in the Earth’s mantle and move through rock grains has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of Earth’s water cycle. Jacobsen emphasized the importance of this reservoir, noting that without it, all the water on Earth would be on the surface, and we might only see mountain peaks.

Scientists are now working to gather additional seismic data from various regions worldwide to determine the frequency of mantle melting events. This research has the potential to transform our understanding of the Earth’s water cycle, providing insights into one of the planet’s fundamental processes.

Israeli Study Reveals Unified Theory for Sand Ripples Across Planets

March 14, 2024, 2:40 pm

An Israeli study on sand ripples found on Mars is challenging existing scientific understanding of this phenomenon on Earth. The researchers have developed a “unified theory” to explain sand ripples on both planets, which was recently published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Geoscience and could potentially revolutionize scientific knowledge.

Sand ripples are wave-like formations created by wind or flowing water as sand grains accumulate in specific patterns. They offer valuable insights into wind and water dynamics in various environments, provide clues about past environments, and help understand sediment transport, crucial for managing erosion and desertification, as well as for engineering structures like pipelines and bridges.

The discovery of similar patterns on Mars by NASA’s Curiosity rover in 2015 raised questions about their formation processes on different planets. Until now, it was believed that the conditions creating sand ripples on Mars were fundamentally different from those on Earth.

However, Professors Hezi Yizhaq and Itzhak Katra from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, along with their international collaborators, have challenged this belief, suggesting that the same phenomenon exists on Earth but was not previously recognized.

Replicating Martian sand conditions on Earth was challenging due to the finer nature of Martian sand compared to Earth’s sand. The researchers achieved a breakthrough by using tiny glass balls with a diameter of 90 microns to simulate fine grains of sand.

Using wind tunnels at Ben-Gurion University and Aarhus University’s Mars tunnel in Denmark, the researchers successfully replicated Martian sand conditions on Earth. They proposed a unified theoretical framework to explain sand ripple formation on both planets, suggesting that wind-induced sand ripples on Mars resemble those formed by water on Earth.

While more research is needed to validate this theory, the researchers are excited about the prospect of exploring Earth to find what can be observed on Mars.

In April, DEWA plans to launch its “Sat-2” 6U nanosatellite.

April 9, 2023, 1:14 pm

The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) completed final preparations for the April 2023 launch of its second nanosatellite for distant sensing uses.

An element of DEWA’s Space-D initiative is the 6U nanosatellite. The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch DEWA Sat-2 from the US state of California’s Vandenberg Air Force Base. In partnership with NanoAvionics in Lithuania, the nanosatellite was created and developed at DEWA’s Research and Development Center. A high-resolution camera (4.7 metres) on the new satellite will be utilised for Earth observation missions.

The high-resolution camera provides continuous line-scan imaging in 7 spectral bands from approximately 500km orbit. The new satellite is also equipped with Infrared equipment to measure greenhouse gases.

The combined use of DEWA SAT-2 images and Internet of Things (IoT) measurements from DEWA SAT-1 will enable DEWA to improve the operational performance of power generation and water desalination plants by providing accurate estimates of seawater temperature, seawater salinity, detection of red-tide, as well as fog monitoring and forecasting.

DEWA launched DEWA-SAT1 in January 2022. It uses LoRa IoT communication technology, a new wireless protocol designed for long-range and low-power communications, to expand the coverage of the existing terrestrial communications network.

DEWA is the first utility in the world to launch nanosatellites to improve its planning, operation, and maintenance activities. Using satellite network communication, IoT and Artificial Intelligence contributes to improving the efficiency of photovoltaic solar panels at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, the largest single-site solar park in the world, using the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model.

Massive asteroid that might be dangerous to Earth discovered in the sun’s glare

November 1, 2022, 8:27 pm

Three near-Earth asteroids that were lurking in the Sun’s glare were found by astronomers. According to NOIRLab, one of them is the largest “possibly hazardous” object seen in the previous eight years. “Our investigation is scouring the space surrounding Earth’s orbits. We have discovered two planet-killing near-Earth asteroids that are around 1 km across “on two of the three asteroids, astronomer.

ISRO launches SSLV-D1 rocket from Sriharikota; data loss

August 7, 2022, 11:39 am

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) on Sunday successfully launched its first Small Satellite Launch Vehicle SSLV-D1. The launch took place from the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

Adar02 and AzaadiSAT satellites have been sent in the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle. AzaadiSAT Satellites is a student satellite of the indigenous private space agency named SpaceKidz India. It was built by 750 girls from the country from 75 rural government schools across India.

Shreya a student from St Francis Girls High School, Telangana said, “Three groups from our school have participated in this SSLV launch. I am very glad that we got this opportunity. We really worked hard on it and today we will witness the launch of the AzaadiSAT satellite.

The rocket was working properly and brought both the satellites to their designated orbit but after some time the data from the satellites stopped. ISRO chief S. Somnath said that the control center is continuously trying to get the data link. Once the link is established, the country will be informed.

Somnath said that Eder02 is an Earth Observation Satellite. Its weight is 142 kg and will operate in space for 10 months. It has a mid and long-wavelength infrared camera, which has a resolution of 6 meters. This satellite is capable of monitoring even at night.

Taking to Twitter ISRO tweeted, “SSLV-D1/EOS-02 Mission: Maiden flight of SSLV is completed. All stages performed as expected. Data loss is observed during the terminal stage. It is being analysed. Will be updated soon.”

Moreover, Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) is a small-lift launch vehicle. Now, this rocket will be used for launching small satellites in the country. Let us tell you that the height of the sub-synchronous orbit is above 500 km.