When it comes to atoms, there are three key components: protons, neutrons, and electrons. While electrons are considered fundamental particles, protons and neutrons are composite particles made up of up and down quarks. Protons consist of two ups and one down quark, while neutrons have two downs and one up quark. However, due to the
Space
The Solar System is a treasure trove of celestial wonders, and the recent unveiling of Jupiter’s moon, Io, in stunning detail has left scientists in awe. On 30 December 2023, the Juno probe made history by conducting its closest flyby of Io to date, capturing breathtaking images that showcase the moon’s volcanic activity. With its
India has marked a significant milestone in its space exploration endeavors by successfully launching its first satellite dedicated to the study of black holes. The X-ray Polarimeter Satellite project catapults India into the elite group of nations engaged in investigating celestial objects through astronomical space observatories. This groundbreaking mission places India in the footsteps of
The early Universe was a time of chaos and marvel. In the formative years that followed the Big Bang, star formation ran rampant, and galaxies burst into existence, colliding and growing against the backdrop of darkness. However, as we attempt to decipher the light that has traveled across immense distances and eons, we occasionally stumble
In the summer of June 27, 1931, the city of Tatahouine, Tunisia, witnessed a remarkable event. Locals looked up to the skies in awe as a fireball exploded and countless meteorite fragments rained down upon the city. Little did they know that this extraordinary incident would later inspire a science fiction masterpiece. The city of
Arctic observers were fortunate witnesses to a breathtaking phenomenon as rare rainbow-colored clouds painted the skies in a mesmerizing display, just in time for the holiday season. The recent arrival of a cold wave in the Arctic allowed for the appearance of these extraordinary polar stratospheric clouds. Over a span of three days, from December
Japan’s space exploration efforts have taken a significant step forward as its SLIM space probe successfully entered the Moon’s orbit. Nicknamed the “Moon Sniper,” this ambitious mission aims to achieve Japan’s first-ever successful lunar landing, which is expected to take place next month. The achievement would place Japan among an elite group of countries that
The quest for space dominance has ignited a new “space race” between the United States and China, with Lagrange points emerging as a critical battleground. These points, named after astronomer Joseph-Louis Lagrange, are locations in interplanetary space where the gravitational pull of two celestial bodies creates a balance with the centripetal force required for a
Our planet, Earth, is filled with extraordinary phenomena that constantly remind us of its distinctiveness. Surprisingly, these reminders are not limited to far-off locations; they can even occur in our neighboring planet, Mars. Mars, like Earth, experiences eclipses caused by its moons. However, the eclipses on Mars, as observed by NASA rovers Opportunity, Curiosity, and
The universe never fails to surprise us with its diverse and peculiar celestial phenomena. From hot Jupiters to mini-Neptunes and super-Earths, we have witnessed the existence of various exoplanets. However, there is one type of planet that stands out with its eerie appearance – the Eyeball Planets. Although the concept may sound bizarre, these planetary
China’s third test mission of a reusable, robotic spacecraft has caught the attention of the world, thanks to the appearance of several small objects in orbit alongside the spacecraft. Referred to as “wingmen” by fascinated amateur skywatchers, these objects have sparked curiosity and speculation about their purpose and function. This article delves into the details
Mars, often portrayed as a cold and lifeless planet, has proven time and again to be full of surprises. Recent research utilizing satellite imagery and ground penetrating radar has unveiled evidence of volcanic activity that challenges previous assumptions. The study conducted on a plain known as the Elysium Planitia not only reveals volcanic activity within
As one of Saturn’s many moons, Enceladus may seem inconspicuous and visually unimpressive. Standing in the shadows of Saturn’s magnificent rings and the enigmatic hexagon-shaped storm, Enceladus often goes unnoticed. However, appearances can be deceiving. Recent analysis of data captured by the Saturn Cassini probe has revealed a remarkable discovery – Enceladus is brimming with
Over the past few months, we have been fortunate enough to witness some breathtaking displays of auroras. These mesmerizing lights are generated when charged particles from the Sun collide with the gas in our atmosphere, causing it to glow. However, a recent study suggests that auroras may not be limited to our planet alone. Researchers
When it comes to the conditions necessary for life on a planet, we often think of water, warmth, and food as the primary factors. However, scientist Luigi Petraccone has introduced a new element called “entropy” into the equation. Entropy plays a crucial role in determining if a planet can sustain and foster complex life forms.