Infinity Cosmos

  In the latest snapshot captured by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, we are presented with the striking visage of ESO 420-G013, a face-on spiral and Seyfert galaxy. Resembling a celestial baseball launched into the vast expanse of the universe, ESO 420-G013 reveals its intricate features as dark lanes of dust cut across the cosmic canvas, standing out against the radiant backdrop of the galaxy's multitude of stars. This mesmerizing image offers a glimpse into the cosmic drama unfolding within this unique combination of a face-on spiral galaxy and a Seyfert galaxy, unveiling the celestial tapestry that graces the depths of our cosmic neighborhood." Seyfert galaxies, constituting approximately 10 percent of all galaxies in the cosmos, stand out as captivating cosmic entities. Typically manifesting as spiral galaxies, they boast intensely luminous nuclei, a consequence of supermassive black holes residing at their centers, fervently accreting matter and emitting copious amount...

  The NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope presents a stunning collection of near- and mid-infrared portraits capturing 19 face-on spiral galaxies. These detailed images, showcasing stars, gas, and dust on unprecedented scales beyond our own galaxy, are a testament to the telescope's groundbreaking capabilities. Researchers are delving into the imagery to unravel the origins of these intricate structures, providing valuable insights into star formation and the evolution of spiral galaxies. This treasure trove of images is part of the Physics at High Angular resolution in Nearby GalaxieS (PHANGS) program, supported by over 150 astronomers globally. Prior to Webb's contributions, PHANGS had amassed data from the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, the Very Large Telescope’s Multi-Unit Spectroscopic Explorer, and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array. Webb's near- and mid-infrared observations add new dimensions to this comprehensive dataset. Webb's Near-Infrare...

  The Hubble Space Telescope unveils a image featuring a member of the galaxy group Arp 295. This celestial snapshot reveals one of the galaxies from Arp 295, accompanied by a portion of a delicate 250,000-light-year-long bridge of stars and gas extending between two galaxies. The formation of this cosmic bridge is a consequence of the gravitational interplay between the galaxies as they passed nearby. Galaxies that experience gravitational disruptions in each other's shapes due to close passages are termed interacting galaxies. Such interactions unfold over vast timescales, and recurrent close encounters can ultimately lead to the merger of the galaxies involved. Galactic mergers are considered a common cosmic occurrence, with even our own Milky Way anticipated to merge with the neighboring Andromeda galaxy in approximately 4 billion years. Arp 295, part of a galactic trio composed of Arp 295a, Arp 295b, and Arp 295c, showcases the intricate dance of cosmic forces. Arp 295a, depic...

  On January 25, 2024, the INSAT-3DS satellite, a dedicated meteorological endeavor by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), was ceremoniously flagged off to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR) launch port. This satellite marks a pivotal stride in providing seamless services, ensuring continuity from the existing INSAT-3D and 3DR satellites while significantly amplifying the capabilities of the INSAT system. The INSAT-3DS satellite, a user-funded initiative in collaboration with the Ministry of Earth Science (MoES), has undergone meticulous Satellite Assembly, Integration & Testing activities at the U R Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru. The Pre-Shipment Review (PSR) on January 25, 2024, witnessed active participation from members of the user community, marking a crucial milestone in the satellite's journey. Configured around ISRO's well-established I-2k bus platform and boasting a Lift-Off Mass of 2275 kg, the satellite is a testament to the substantial con...

  In this Hubble Picture of, we delve into the cosmic drama of Arp 122, a peculiar galaxy that is, in fact, an amalgamation of two galaxies – NGC 6040, a tilted and warped spiral, and LEDA 59642, a round, face-on spiral. These celestial entities find themselves entwined in the midst of a dramatic collision, showcasing the cosmic ballet of galactic interactions. Positioned at a safe distance of approximately 570 million light-years from Earth, Arp 122 unfolds a mesmerizing scene of cosmic turmoil. Intriguingly, peeking into the lower-left corner is the elliptical galaxy NGC 6041, a central member of the galaxy cluster housing Arp 122, although it remains uninvolved in this colossal celestial merger. Galactic collisions and mergers, while profoundly energetic and dramatic, unfold over an exceptionally slow timescale. A notable example is the anticipated collision between the Milky Way and its nearest galactic neighbour, the Andromeda Galaxy (M31), a collision that is projected to occ...

In this latest image captured by the NASA Hubble Space Telescope, a captivating duo of interacting galaxies, NGC 5410 and UGC 8932/PGC 49896, takes center stage. The more prominent of the two, NGC 5410, was originally discovered by the renowned British astronomer William Herschel in 1787. Spanning an impressive 80,000 light-years, NGC 5410 features a luminous white bar of stars at its core, indicative of its spiral structure with a medium-sized nucleus and expansive arms. Notably, this spiral galaxy is adorned with numerous youthful, blue star clusters, particularly along its sprawling arms, contributing to the celestial tapestry captured in this stunning Hubble image. The smaller galaxy in focus, known as UGC 8932 or PGC 49896, possesses a diameter of 60,000 light-years. Distinguished by a radiant blue bar of stars at its center, indicative of the presence of younger stars, its irregular shape suggests distortions likely caused by the gravitational influence of NGC 5410. Situated 180 ...

Astronomers using the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope have achieved a significant breakthrough by detecting water vapor in the atmosphere of the smallest exoplanet observed to date. GJ 9827d, with a size approximately twice that of Earth, stands as a potential example of planets with water-rich atmospheres beyond our solar system. According to team member Björn Benneke from the Université de Montréal, this marks a pivotal moment in directly demonstrating the existence of planets with water-rich atmospheres around distant stars. Despite this achievement, it remains challenging to conclusively determine whether the observed water vapor indicates a small amount in a hydrogen-rich atmosphere or if the planet's atmosphere is predominantly composed of water, a remnant from an early hydrogen/helium atmosphere evaporating under stellar radiation. The lead author of the study, Pierre-Alexis Roy from the Université de Montréal, emphasized the significance of their observing program designed ...

For the first time at the Moon,a laser beam was successfully transmitted and reflected between NASA's orbiting Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) and a compact device on ISRO's Vikram lander. Positioned near the Manzinus crater in the Moon's South Pole region, the Vikram lander, located 62 miles (100 kilometers) away from the LRO, became the focal point of the experiment. On December 12, 2023, at 3 p.m. EST, the LRO utilized its laser altimeter to send pulses towards Vikram. The momentous success of the experiment, confirmed by the registration of reflected light from a NASA retroreflector on Vikram, heralds a groundbreaking approach for precision targeting on the lunar surface. On August 23, 2023, ISRO's Vikram lander, equipped with a NASA retroreflector, successfully landed on the Moon. NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) captured a compelling image of the lander four days later, showcasing it at the image's center with its distinct dark shadow against a...

  This new NASA Hubble Space Telescope image shows a group of interacting galaxies known as LEDA 60847. Classified as an active galactic nuclei (AGN), LEDA 60847 harbors a supermassive black hole in its central region, actively accreting material. The AGN radiates across the entire electromagnetic spectrum, emanating an intense brilliance. This celestial display offers astronomers a unique opportunity to delve into the dynamics of nearby powerful AGNs, shedding light on the intricate interplay between supermassive black holes and the evolution of galaxies. The cosmic ballet of galaxy mergers unfolds as a common spectacle in the vast expanse of the universe. Many of the larger galaxies we observe today are the outcome of intricate mergers between smaller galactic counterparts. Even own Milky Way bears the imprints of these cosmic unions, attesting to its formation through past mergers. In the grand cosmic dance, astronomers estimate that a substantial fraction, ranging from 5% to 25...

  The image captured by the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope showcases the H II region N79 in the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC), a satellite galaxy of our Milky Way. This nebula, composed of ionized interstellar atomic hydrogen, is observed through Webb's Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI).   N79, a vast star-forming complex spanning about 1630 light-years in the largely unexplored southwest region of the LMC, is considered a younger counterpart to the well-known 30 Doradus (Tarantula Nebula), another recent target of the Webb telescope. Research indicates that N79 has exhibited a star formation efficiency twice that of 30 Doradus over the past 500,000 years. This specific image focuses on N79 South (S1), one of the three giant molecular cloud complexes. The pronounced 'starburst' pattern surrounding the bright object is a result of diffraction spikes, common artifacts in telescopes using mirrors to collect light, such as the James Webb Space Telescope (Webb). In Webb...

  In this image the spotlight falls on the diminutive galaxy UGC 5189A, positioned approximately 150 million light-years distant within the Leo constellation. The NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope turned its gaze toward this cosmic neighbor to scrutinize the aftermath of a spectacular supernova, specifically the explosive event known as SN 2010jl, which unfolded in 2010. What sets this supernova apart is its extraordinary luminosity, outshining our Sun by a staggering 2.5 billion times in visible energy over a remarkable three-year span. The sheer brilliance of SN 2010jl stands as a celestial spectacle, offering astronomers valuable insights into the dynamics of these cosmic explosions. The allure of studying the aftermath of supernovae extends beyond their visible lifespans, offering a window into the intriguing realms where these cosmic explosions transpired. Even as their luminosity wanes, delving into the environments that hosted these supernovae becomes a key avenue for astronom...

Researchers, using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, have observed that galaxies in the early universe exhibit an unusual trend—they are often flat and elongated, resembling surfboards or pool noodles rather than the more common round shapes like volleyballs or frisbees. Lead author Viraj Pandya, a NASA Hubble Fellow at Columbia University, noted that approximately 50 to 80% of the studied galaxies appear flattened in two dimensions. This discovery challenges expectations, as these flat, elongated galaxies seem to be prevalent in the early universe, contrasting with their rarity in closer cosmic proximity. The observations were derived from the Cosmic Evolution Early Release Science (CEERS) Survey, analyzing near-infrared images delivered by the James Webb Space Telescope. The galaxies in question are estimated to have existed when the universe was between 600 million to 6 billion years old. Diverse Shapes Unveiled in Distant Galaxies through NASA’s CEERS Survey. Researchers examining...

  In this captivating composite image of the Manatee Nebula, the dynamic interplay of cosmic forces unfolds. The jet streaming from SS 433, a black hole engulfing surrounding matter, is vividly showcased within the supernova remnant that birthed it. The blue-green hues signify radio emissions from the remnant, while the striking bright blue-purple and pink-white hues represent X-ray data captured by IXPE, XMM-Newton, and Chandra. Against a backdrop of red, infrared data adds depth to the visual narrative. The black hole, at the heart of this celestial spectacle, releases twin jets of matter, hurtling in opposite directions at speeds nearing the cosmic constant of light. As these powerful jets surge forth, they wield a transformative influence on the remnant's structure, earning it the moniker "Manatee" among astronomers. Illuminating roughly 100 light-years from the black hole, the jets intensify in brightness, propelled by particles reaching extraordinary energies throug...

  Similar to Kepler-10 b, as depicted above, the exoplanet HD 63433 d belongs to the category of small, rocky planets with a compact orbit around its star. Standing out for its youth, HD 63433 d holds the distinction of being the smallest confirmed exoplanet under 500 million years old. Notably, it also holds the title of the closest Earth-sized planet discovered at this youthful age, with an estimated age of around 400 million years. In the HD 63433 planetary system, initially known for two planets, astronomers made a groundbreaking discovery – the presence of a new entity traversing the Sun-sized star. Upon investigation, this object unveiled itself as an additional planet, characterized by its compact size and scorching temperatures akin to Earth.  Named HD 63433 d, this Earth-sized exoplanet orbits the star HD 63433 (TOI 1726).  Notably, HD 63433 d boasts the status of being the smallest confirmed exoplanet younger than 500 million years, and it holds the distinction ...

In a burst of solar activity, the sun unleashed a notable solar flare, reaching its peak at 2:14 p.m. EDT on October 20, 2012. Captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO), this image showcases an M9-class flare, providing a glimpse into the dynamic nature of our star. The potential of space-based solar power emerges as a compelling prospect for sustainable energy. Envisioning the future, orbital collection systems could harness energy in space and transmit it wirelessly to Earth. Countries worldwide are delving into research and development of space-based solar power, aligning with global initiatives to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. NASA, recognizing the importance of this field, is exploring avenues to support its development. The recently released report, "Space-Based Solar Power," by NASA's Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy (OTPS), serves as a valuable resource for NASA in understanding how it can contribute to advancing this research ...

Beta Pictoris, a youthful planetary system positioned a mere 63 light-years away, continues to captivate scientists with its mysteries even after extensive scrutiny spanning decades. Notably, it harbors the first dust disk ever imaged around a distant star, formed through collisions among asteroids, comets, and planetesimals. Recent observations using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope unveiled a second debris disk, inclined concerning the initially observed outer disk. In a utilizing NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, a team of astronomers, led by Isabel Rebollido from the Astrobiology Center in Spain, delved into the Beta Pictoris system. Employing Webb's NIRCam and MIRI, they not only scrutinized the composition of the previously identified main and secondary debris disks but also made an unexpected discovery. The results surpassed expectations, revealing a distinct, sharply inclined structure resembling a cat's tail emerging from the southwest section of the secondary de...

  Captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, this image unveils the celestial spectacle of Arp 122. Contrary to its seemingly singular appearance, Arp 122 is, in fact, a unique amalgamation of two galaxies – NGC 6040, a tilted and warped spiral galaxy, and LEDA 59642, a round, face-on spiral. Positioned approximately 570 million light-years away from Earth, these two galaxies are currently entangled in a cosmic collision, creating a mesmerizing celestial dance. The elliptical galaxy NGC 6041 makes a subtle appearance in the lower-left corner, serving as a silent observer within the galaxy cluster housing Arp 122 but remaining uninvolved in this monster merger. Galactic collisions and mergers, while immensely energetic and dramatic, unfold over a remarkably slow timescale. A prominent example is the anticipated collision between our Milky Way and its nearest galactic neighbor, the Andromeda Galaxy (M31). Despite the inevitability of this cosmic convergence, these two galaxies ...

  These four striking images exemplify a subset of galaxy clusters integral to the most extensive study aiming to unravel the mysteries behind star formation triggers in the universe's largest galaxies. Recently detailed in latest press release, this research, conducted with NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory and other telescopes, underscores a fascinating revelation – the conditions fostering stellar conception within these immensely massive galaxies have remained unaltered over the past ten billion years. Galaxy clusters, colossal entities united by gravity, harbor vast quantities of hot gas observable in X-rays. The weight of this hot gas surpasses several times the combined mass of all stars within the hundreds of galaxies typically found in these clusters. In the accompanying graphics featuring four galaxy cluster images, Chandra's purple hues depict X-rays emitted by hot gas, while the yellow and cyan represent optical data from NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, predom...

  NASA's OSIRIS-REx curation engineer, Neftali Hernandez, recently overcame a significant hurdle by attaching specially developed tools to remove the two final fasteners hindering the complete disassembly of the TAGSAM head. This head contains the remaining material collected from the asteroid Bennu. Situated at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, the engineering team successfully liberated these fasteners on January 10. The next steps involve proceeding with the disassembly of the Touch-and-Go Sample Acquisition Mechanism (TAGSAM) head, ultimately revealing the rocks and dust gathered during NASA's groundbreaking asteroid sample return mission. Eileen Stansbery, the division chief for ARES (Astromaterials Research and Exploration Science) at NASA's Johnson Space Center, commended the relentless efforts of engineers and scientists who have been diligently working behind the scenes. Stansbery highlighted their months-long commitment to processing over 70 grams of pre...

  The XSPECT instrument captures a detailed spectrum of the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A (Cas A), encompassing both the Galactic Cosmic Ray (GCR) background and the Cosmic X-ray Background (CXB). The flux observed above 8 keV predominantly results from the combined contributions of CXB and GCR. The presented spectrum, depicted in the figure, is derived from a cumulative integration time of 20 ksec, collected across multiple orbits, providing valuable insights into the X-ray emissions associated with Cas A. XPoSat, India's inaugural X-ray polarimetric mission, has achieved a significant as the XSPECT instrument captures its initial observations from the Cassiopeia A (Cas A) supernova remnant. Launched on January 1, 2024, XPoSat is equipped with two co-aligned instruments, namely the POLarimeter Instrument in X-rays (POLIX) and X-ray SPECtroscopy and Timing (XSPECT). This mission is designed to unravel the mysteries of cosmic X-ray sources. While POLIX focuses on examining X-ray po...

  The host galaxy of an exceptionally powerful fast radio burst (FRB), FRB 20220610A, has been scrutinized by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, revealing a compact group of multiple galaxies potentially in the process of merging. These galaxies existed when the universe was a mere 5 billion years old. The FRB was initially detected on 2022, by the Australian Square Kilometer Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) radio telescope in Western Australia. Subsequent observations from the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope in Chile confirmed the FRB's distant origin. FRBs, characterized by fleeting blasts of energy that can briefly outshine entire galaxies, remain enigmatic despite the detection of hundreds over recent years. The peculiar nature of FRB 20220610A further deepens the mystery, as it erupted from a location halfway across the universe, marking the farthest and most potent example observed to date. The subsequent Hubble observations revealed an unexpected setting for...