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Advanced Telescope for High Energy Astrophysics

Advanced Telescope for High-ENergy Astrophysics (Athena) is an X-ray observatory mission selected by European Space Agency (ESA) within its Cosmic Vision program to address the Hot and Energetic Universe scientific theme. Athena will operate in the energy range of 0.2–12 keV and will offer spectroscopic and imaging capabilities exceeding those of currently operating X-ray astronomy satellites – e.g. the Chandra X-ray Observatory and XMM-Newton – by at least one order of magnitude on several parameter spaces simultaneously.

303
30 Sep 2022

Topic Review

The Asteroid Impact and Deflection Assessment (AIDA) mission is a proposed pair of space probes which will study and demonstrate the kinetic effects of crashing an impactor spacecraft into an asteroid moon. The mission is intended to test and validate impact models of whether a spacecraft could successfully deflect an asteroid on a collision course with Earth. The original plan called for a European spacecraft, the Asteroid Impact Mission (AIM), to operate in synergy with a large NASA impactor called Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) and observe the immediate effects of the impact. AIM was cancelled in 2016 when Germany was unable to fund its portion, and after some backlash within ESA, AIM was replaced in 2018 with a smaller spacecraft called Hera that will launch five years after DART to orbit and study the crater on the asteroid. Hera will also deploy Europe's first CubeSats in deep space for close-up asteroid surveying: Juventas and Milani. DART is currently planned to impact in 2022 in the small moon of asteroid 65803 Didymos, while Hera will arrive at Didymos in 2027, five years after DART's impact.

457
01 Nov 2022

Biography

Albert Einstein

Albert Einstein, born on March 14, 1879, in Ulm, Germany, is widely regarded as one of the most brilliant scientists in human history. His groundbreaking contributions to physics revolutionized our understanding of the universe and earned him worldwide acclaim. Einstein's life and work remain a source of inspiration and fascination, making him an iconic figure in the realm of science and beyond

484
21 Feb 2024

Topic Review

Alpha Crucis (α Crucis, abbreviated Alpha Cru, α Cru) is a multiple star system 321 light-years from the Sun in the constellation of Crux and part of the asterism known as the Southern Cross. With a combined visual magnitude of 0.76, it is the brightest star in Crux and the 13th brightest star in the night sky. It is the southernmost first-magnitude star, 2.3 degrees more southerly than Alpha Centauri. To the naked eye Alpha Crucis appears as a single star, but it is actually a multiple star system. Two components are visually distinguishable: α1 Crucis and α2 Crucis; alternatively designated α Crucis A and α Crucis B. Both are B-type stars, and are many times more massive and luminous than the Sun. α1 Crucis is itself a spectroscopic binary with components designated α Crucis Aa (also named Acrux) and α Crucis Ab. Its two component stars orbit every 76 days at a separation of about 1 astronomical unit (au).

647
08 Oct 2022

Topic Review

Andromeda, named after the mythical princess in Greek mythology, is one of the 88 constellations officially recognized by the International Astronomical Union (IAU). Located in the northern celestial hemisphere, Andromeda is renowned for hosting the Andromeda Galaxy (M31), the closest spiral galaxy to our own Milky Way, making it a captivating subject for both amateur stargazers and professional astronomers alike.

175
29 Feb 2024

Topic Review

Antlia is a constellation recognized by the International Astronomical Union (IAU), situated in the southern celestial hemisphere. Named after the air pump, it is a relatively faint constellation with no stars brighter than fourth magnitude, but it contains several interesting deep-sky objects, including the Antlia Galaxy Cluster, making it a fascinating subject for exploration by astronomers.

85
15 Mar 2024

Topic Review

Apus is a southern celestial constellation first introduced by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) in the early 20th century. Its name, derived from the Greek word for "bird of paradise," symbolizes a bird-like creature, though it does not represent any specific bird species. Positioned in the southern sky, Apus is notable for its lack of bright stars, making it a challenge for observers in light-polluted areas but a rewarding sight under pristine conditions for those exploring the southern heavens.

74
29 Feb 2024

Topic Review

Aquarius, a constellation of the zodiac, is rich in mythological and astrological significance. Representing the Water Bearer in ancient Greek mythology, Aquarius is celebrated for its association with the nurturing and life-giving element of water. Positioned along the celestial equator, this constellation captivates observers with its diverse array of celestial objects and its prominent role in the astrological tradition.

160
29 Feb 2024

Topic Review

Aquila, a constellation in the northern celestial hemisphere, is renowned for its striking resemblance to an eagle soaring through the heavens. Designated by the International Astronomical Union (IAU), Aquila captivates observers with its prominent stars and rich astronomical history, making it a prominent feature in both ancient mythology and modern astronomy.

95
29 Feb 2024

Topic Review

Ara is a constellation in the southern celestial hemisphere. The name "Ara" originates from Greek mythology, where it represents the altar used by the gods in their divine ceremonies.

114
29 Feb 2024

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