What research project would you be interested in seeing conducted on the International Space Station?

I would be interested in seeing an experiment focused on understanding the impacts of microgravity on brain function and cognitive performance in astronauts. This research could provide insights into how extended space travel might affect mental health and cognitive abilities, crucial for future long-duration missions to Mars or beyond. The experiment could utilize advanced neuroimaging […]

At what depth beneath Europa’s ocean would the water pressure be similar to that experienced on Earth?

Europa, one of Jupiter’s largest moons, has a subsurface ocean beneath its icy crust, making it a fascinating subject for scientific inquiry. On Earth, humans generally experience pressures up to about 1 atmosphere, equal to approximately 101.3 kilopascals (kPa) at sea level. To determine at what depth Europa’s ocean might exert a similar pressure, we […]

Is it possible to pursue a career in space exploration with a major in chemistry and a minor in computer science?

Yes, pursuing a career in space exploration with a background in chemistry and computer science is possible, and indeed, your skill set can be valuable in this field. The space exploration industry is highly interdisciplinary, often requiring expertise from various scientific and technical areas. Here are some ways you can leverage your chemistry major and […]

Do you have inquiries for Professor Luciano Iess?

Professor Luciano Iess is a renowned figure in the field of space science and planetary exploration, known for his involvement in a number of pivotal space missions and research projects. His work primarily revolves around the use of radio science experiments to gather crucial data about the characteristics and dynamics of celestial bodies. One of […]

Could an Asteroid Strike Occur in 2032, and How Can We Prepare?

The notion of an asteroid impacting Earth is both fascinating and concerning. Currently, NASA and other space agencies around the world actively monitor near-Earth objects (NEOs) for potential collision threats. The chances of an asteroid hitting Earth in 2032 would depend on current and updated tracking data. For example, the asteroid 2013 TV135 raised concern […]

Is it possible for a brown dwarf to support life?

Brown dwarfs, which are often described as “failed stars,” are objects that bridge the gap between the largest planets and the smallest stars. They have masses between 13 and 80 times that of Jupiter, insufficient to sustain the fusion of hydrogen into helium in their cores, which is the primary energy source for stars. As […]

What are the serious factors preventing us from being the sole intelligent species in the universe?

The question of whether we are the only intelligent life form in the universe is steeped in complexity and conjecture, with several factors worth considering. First, the sheer size of the universe suggests that it holds vast potential for various forms of life. The observable universe contains around two trillion galaxies, each home to millions […]

“Discovered in my grandfather’s basement, is there any information or value in keeping this?”

To provide a meaningful response, more context regarding the item found is necessary. However, if you are referring to an item related to astronomy or celestial navigation, such as an antique telescope, star chart, or scientific instrument, here’s how you might assess its value and importance: Historical Significance: Determine the age and origin of the […]

Should a college space club participate in Massachusetts Space Week?

Massachusetts Space Week is an event designed to celebrate and promote space exploration, science, and technology. Whether it’s worth it for a college space club to participate can depend on several factors: Networking Opportunities: Massachusetts Space Week often features events where students can meet professionals, industry leaders, and other students interested in space. This can […]

Could this be a picture of the Andromeda Galaxy that I took with my phone?

Identifying celestial objects like the Andromeda Galaxy in photos taken with a phone can be challenging. Whether the object in your photo is the Andromeda Galaxy depends on several factors. Firstly, the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) is the closest spiral galaxy to the Milky Way and is visible to the naked eye from Earth under dark-sky […]