Mars is more likely to experience close encounters with potentially dangerous asteroids than Earth, according to a recent study. Researchers have identified approximately 52 large asteroids that pass near Mars annually, which is about 2.6 times more than the number approaching Earth. These asteroids, known as ‘CAPHAs’ (close approach potentially hazardous asteroids), could pose a significant threat to future exploratory missions and human settlements on the Red Planet.
On June 3rd, stargazers will witness an extraordinary event as all six planets in our solar system align in a single line before sunrise. This rare celestial occurrence, known as planetary alignment, offers a captivating sight where Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune can be observed in a perfect row.
Based on previously unpublished photos, a new study suggests that Mars’ moon Phobos may actually be a comet, or at least part of one, that was gravitationally captured by the Red Planet long ago. While some have theorized that the moons are former asteroids lured in by Mars’ gravity, others have suggested that a giant impact, like that which created our moon, gouged the duo out of the Red Planet. However, neither hypothesis has been able to fully explain the moon’s unique characteristics. The new study, which analyzed high-resolution images of Phobos taken by the European Space Agency’s Mars Express orbiter, found that the moon’s surface is porous, like sand, and exhibits an opposition surge, which is characteristic of many airless objects, including comets. The researchers concluded that Phobos’s photometric properties matched Comet 67P’s almost perfectly, suggesting that Phobos was possibly a comet captured by Mars. The study’s findings have implications for Deimos, too, as the team suggests the two moons may have once been joined together as a single bilobed comet that was trapped and eventually torn apart by Mars’ gravity.
NASA’s Juno spacecraft has captured a rare view of Jupiter’s fifth moon, Amalthea, transiting the planet’s iconic Great Red Spot. Despite being Jupiter’s fifth-largest moon, Amalthea is a relatively small, potato-shaped satellite with a unique red surface. The spacecraft’s close flyby revealed Amalthea’s orbit, which is the third-shortest among Jupiter’s moons. Juno’s observations also shed light on Amalthea’s mysterious heat emissions and the potential role of Jupiter’s immense magnetic field and radiation belts in its energy balance.
NASA has released stunning new images of Saturn and the extragalactic planet Peridea, highlighting their striking resemblances. Peridea, known for its ringed appearance, shares similarities with Saturn, prompting NASA to draw comparisons between the two planets. These images have left social media users in awe, sparking discussions about the beauty and wonders of our solar system and beyond.
Mercury, the innermost planet in our solar system, is notoriously difficult to observe due to its proximity to the Sun. However, during the next two weeks, the planet will reach its greatest elongation, providing an excellent opportunity to view it. Starting next week, Mercury will climb to its highest point above the horizon as it reaches its greatest elongation west of the Sun, making it easier to spot. On May 9th, Mercury will be at its farthest point from the Sun, offering the best viewing conditions. For optimal viewing, look east 30 minutes before sunrise or use binoculars or a telescope.
The current understanding of our solar system having eight planets may be challenged in the future. Astronomers are studying a celestial body that could potentially qualify as a ninth planet.
