ESA and ATMOS completed a concept study for Phoenix 3, a reusable European spacecraft that can carry over 1 ton of micro‑gravity experiments to low‑Earth orbit and back.
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ESA’s GOMX‑5 CubeSat will launch in Oct 2026 to demo maritime detection and automated collision avoidance, aiming for safer seas and cleaner orbits.
Astronomy
Hubble’s view of the N44 superbubble in the Large Magellanic Cloud shows how massive stars carve cavities and trigger new star formation.
Space
ESA celebrates 50 years of space milestones, from comet landings to the world’s most precise navigation system – and what the legacy means for Europe’s future in space.
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What JWST Reveals About the Atmospheres of Distant Worlds.The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has begun to study the light that passes through the atmospheres of planets orbiting other stars. By measuring how the light changes at different wavelengths, scientists can identify gases such as water vapor, methane, and carbon dioxide. In a recent survey of 20 exoplanets, JWST detected water vapor in the atmosphere of a planet about 1.5 times the size of Earth. The planet orbits a star 200 light‑years away, and its atmosphere shows a temperature profile that suggests it could host liquid water on its surface. The data also reveal that many hot Jupiters—large planets that orbit very close to their stars—have clouds made of silicate particles. These clouds absorb and scatter light, making the planets appear brighter in the infrared. Scientists use computer models to match the observed spectra with possible atmospheric compositions. The models help determine the planet’s pressure, temperature, and the presence of chemical reactions. These findings show that JWST can probe the chemistry of exoplanet atmospheres with unprecedented detail. The results will guide future missions that aim to find Earth‑like planets and assess their habitability. The information provided is general and not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional for specific guidance.