The European Space Agency (ESA) is embarking on an ambitious project called HydRON, aiming to create a satellite network for space-based internet that rivals SpaceX’s Starlink. This mega-constellation of satellites will utilize laser signals to establish an optical network for high-speed broadband, targeting internet speeds of one terabyte per second. HydRON’s low-orbit and geostationary satellites are designed to enhance efficiency and reliability, while its use of laser technology increases data transfer speeds and security. The project, currently in its final design phase, is expected to bring internet access to remote areas and revolutionize Europe’s optical telecommunications industry.
Results for: ESA
Airbus Defence and Space has delivered the first Sentinel-5 instrument to the European Space Agency (ESA) for integration on the MetOp Second Generation Satellite A. The UVNS (Ultraviolet Visible Near-infrared Short-wave infrared Spectrometer) instrument will enhance monitoring of air quality, ozone layer changes, and wildfire emissions. Sentinel-5 is one of the “atmospheric sentinels” designed to monitor the composition of Earth’s atmosphere and support the EU’s Copernicus climate monitoring programme. EUMETSAT, the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites, will operate both the spacecraft and the instrument.
The EarthCARE satellite, a joint endeavor between ESA and JAXA, has been successfully launched to study the impact of clouds and aerosols on Earth’s climate. Equipped with advanced instruments, EarthCARE will provide detailed data on aerosol profiles, cloud properties, and their influence on radiation balance. This mission aims to improve the accuracy of climate and weather prediction models.
The European Space Agency (ESA) is set to launch its Earth Cloud Aerosol and Radiation Explorer (EarthCARE) satellite tonight, a mission dedicated to unraveling the intricate relationship between clouds, aerosols, and climate change. Equipped with four instruments, EarthCARE will gather unprecedented data on atmospheric profiles and vertical motions of clouds, as well as aerosol profiles, providing valuable insights into their impact on global temperature evolution.
The European Space Agency’s (ESA) Euclid telescope has released its first captivating images, revealing an extraordinary array of cosmic wonders, from vibrant star-forming nurseries to massive galaxy clusters. These unprecedented observations showcase the telescope’s capabilities in unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos. The images include Messier 78, a bustling stellar nursery shrouded in interstellar dust, and the majestic spiral galaxy NGC 6744. Accompanying the images are scientific findings that demonstrate the telescope’s crucial role in studying dark matter and dark energy.
The European Space Agency (ESA) has announced that the maiden flight of its new heavy-lift Ariane 6 rocket is scheduled for the first two weeks of July. The rocket, which has been in development since 2014, will replace the Ariane 5, which took its final flight in July 2023. The Ariane 6 is designed to be more versatile and cost-effective than its predecessor, and it will be used to launch a variety of satellites and payloads into orbit.
The Rosalind Franklin rover, a part of Europe’s ExoMars program, has faced delays due to the suspension of its partnership with Russia. However, NASA has stepped in to provide launch services, parts of the landing propulsion system, and a portion of the heating system for the rover. The rover is now set to launch in 2028 and will drill deeper into the Martian surface than any previous rover, collecting samples from as deep as 2 meters. The rover will search for evidence of past life on Mars and will be equipped with the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer to detect organic molecules in the samples. The rover program is currently undergoing a review to ensure that the system meets requirements before launch planning begins.
The Electronic Software Association (ESA) has rejected a proposal to allow researchers remote access to archived video games. ESA lawyer Steve Englund argued that the proposed exemption would make a vast library of games available for unauthorized play. The Association of American Publishers (AAP) also opposed the exemption, citing concerns about the effectiveness of access restrictions. The proposal was initially proposed by the Software Preservation Network to facilitate the preservation and study of video games by academics.
In collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA) and design firm Hassell, Fortnite has created an immersive simulation called ‘Lunar Horizons.’ This experience allows players to embark on a lunar expedition to the south pole of the moon, mirroring NASA’s upcoming Artemis 3 mission scheduled for 2026. Players assume the role of astronauts, tasked with gathering water and Helium-3 to complete the construction of the ESA Lunar Habitat. ‘Lunar Horizons’ is an educational experience that incorporates real-life details and interactive elements to educate players about space exploration and the challenges faced in moon missions.
Dr. Rosemary Coogan, 33, has become Britain’s third-ever astronaut after graduating from the European Space Agency’s astronaut training program. She joins Helen Sharman and Tim Peake as Britons to have achieved this honor. Dr. Coogan holds degrees in physics, astronomy, and a PhD in astronomy. She has always been fascinated by space and is excited to contribute to scientific research and exploration as an astronaut.