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China counts down to its riskiest space mission yet
China counted down Thursday to its third manned space mission which for the first time will include a space walk -- a feat as risky as it is prestigious for the rising Asian power.
Swift satellite catches first 'normal' supernova in the act of exploding
Thanks to a fortunate observation with NASA's Swift satellite, astronomers, for the first time, have caught a normal supernova at the moment of its birth--the first instant when an exploding star begins spewing its energy into space, transforming into a supernova that during its brief lifetime will shine brighter than billions of stars combined.
Cosmic engines surprise XMM-Newton
XMM-Newton has been surprised by a rare type of galaxy, from which it has detected a higher number of X-rays than thought possible. The observation gives new insight into the powerful processes shaping galaxies during their formation and evolution.
China builds observatory at South Pole
An international team led by China has installed an automated space observatory at Dome Argus, the highest point on the South Pole.
International team establishes unique observatory in Antarctica
A team of scientists representing six international institutions, including Texas A&M University, has succeeded in reaching the summit of Antarctica – also a monumental achievement for ground-based astronomy -- to establish a new astronomical observatory at Dome Argus on the highest point of the Antarctic Plateau.
Space sensors shed new light on air quality
Air pollution is becoming one of the biggest dangers for the future of the planet, causing premature deaths of humans and damaging flora and fauna. With their vantage point from space, satellites are the only way to carry out effective global measurements of air-polluting emissions and their transboundary movement.
Baiji Dolphin previously thought extinct spotted in the Yangtze River
The reported sighting of a Yangtze River dolphin, or Baiji, means there is still a chance for people to take further action and protect the cetaceans in the Yangtze from extinction, according to World Wildlife Fund.
Chinese traffic cuts reduce air pollution
Restrictions on Beijing motorists during a three-day period last November significantly reduced smog and airborne pollutants.
