Space
PLATO’s electronics cleared for space: what the test means
ESA confirms PLATO’s electronics passed electromagnetic compatibility tests, clearing the final hurdle before its March 2027 launch.
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CosmicBear — a science and technology website covering space, astronomy, scientific discoveries, research, and fascinating facts about our universe and the world around us.
Technology
Europe’s new silicon beamforming chips could reshape satellite communications
ESA showcases Asygn’s integrated beamforming chips that steer radio beams electronically, promising smaller, cheaper phased‑array antennas for space and Earth.
Mars Express flies around Schiaparelli Crater: What the new 3‑D video really shows
A new ESA video lets us orbit the 460 km Schiaparelli Crater, revealing its shallow depth and the trade‑offs behind the visualisation.
Student‑Built Radar Retroreflector Tested on Drone: A Cheap Way to Track Small Spacecraft
A student team demonstrated a low‑cost 3D‑printed radar retroreflector on a drone at ESA’s ESTEC, paving the way for better tracking of tiny rockets and drones.
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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.