<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Andes mountains in South America. The aerial photograph was taken by an External High-Definition Camera (EHDC) on the International Space Station.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Andes Mountains are the longest mountain range in the world, stretching over 4,300 miles along the western edge of South America. They span seven countries: Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.</p>



<p>Many of the peaks rise above 20,000 feet, with the highest peak being Mount Aconcagua in Argentina, which reaches an altitude of 22,837 feet.</p>



<p>The Andes have a significant influence on the climate of the region. The mountains act as a barrier, preventing moist air from the Amazon Basin from moving westward, which results in the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth, located on the western side of the Andes in northern Chile.</p>



<p>"The Andes mountain chain causes a rain shadow effect that results in minimal precipitation in the Atacama region of Chile. This area - known as the Atacama Desert - is widely recognized as one of the driest places on Earth," said NASA. "Some areas of the Atacama are touched by rain only four times a century. Other areas have never received rainfall for as long as records have been kept."</p>



<p>"Precipitation is more abundant toward the east, where moisture is carried by winds from the interior of South America toward the eastern slopes of the Andes. Notice the shift from the moist Amazon basin rainforest (dark green) at the top of the image to dry desert conditions (brown) approaching the coast."</p>



<p>The Andes host a wide variety of ecosystems, from tropical rainforests in the north to icy glaciers in the south. The high altitude range allows for diverse habitats like cloud forests, puna grasslands, and páramo.</p>



<p>The mountains have been home to various civilizations, most notably the Inca Empire. Machu Picchu in Peru is one of the most famous archaeological sites from the Incan era.</p>



<p>The Andean region is one of the world's biodiversity hotspots. It is home to thousands of unique plant and animal species, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth.</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</em></p>



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Contrasting climates of the Andes Mountains

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features...

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> features Hurricane Otis as it was approaching Mexico’s southern Pacific coast on October 24, 2023. The image was captured by Copernicus Sentinel-3’s Ocean and Land Colour Instrument. </p>



<p>"Originally classified as a tropical storm, Otis was upgraded in just 12 hours to a category five hurricane – the most dangerous rating for a hurricane – shocking forecasters and local authorities alike," said ESA.</p>



<p>Hurricane Otis surpassed Hurricane Patricia as the strongest landfalling Pacific hurricane on record. The hurricane's rapid growth was influenced by a combination of factors, including light to moderate southeasterly wind shear, high sea surface temperatures (86–88 °F or 30–31 °C), which were above average due to a record-warm September in Mexico, an ongoing El Niño, and the influence of global warming.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These conditions provided a favorable environment for Otis to intensify dramatically. A jet streak in the jet stream further accelerated the hurricane's development by dispersing latent heat and fostering convective development.</p>



<p>The hurricane's core made landfall just west of Acapulco around 1:25 a.m. CDT at peak intensity. The storm caused immense damage.</p>



<p>"Acapulco, which is home to almost one million people, is covered by storm clouds in the image. It was one of the worst places hit," said ESA.</p>



<p>"Mexico City, the country’s huge, densely populated capital, can be seen as a brown area in the cloud-free part of the image north of the hurricane. The Popocatépetl active volcano can also be spotted about 70 km southeast of Mexico City."</p>



<p>The rapid intensification of Otis was one of the most poorly forecast events in recent years. Forecast models struggled to predict the storm's strength and speed, and there were very few instruments available for evaluating hurricane strength in the East Pacific.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Otis' small size, extending hurricane-force winds only about 30 miles from its center, made it more prone to rapid changes in intensity.&nbsp;</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



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Otis was the strongest landfalling Pacific hurricane on record

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency...

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the reddish-brown waters of the Betsiboka River Delta in Madagascar. It is one of the most visually striking river deltas in the world, especially when viewed from space.</p>



<p>The Betsiboka River is the largest river in Madagascar by discharge, and its delta is equally significant. The river flows into Bombetoka Bay, which further leads to the Mozambique Channel.</p>



<p>One of the most notable characteristics of the Betsiboka River Delta is its bright color when viewed from space.</p>



<p>"In this case, the color is caused by the transport of iron-rich sediment. The sediment can clog waterways in the delta’s estuarine environment, but it can also form new islands that become colonized by mangroves. Many other water bodies, such as the reservoir fed by the Jacui River in southern Brazil, are colored by reddish sediment," said NASA.</p>



<p>"Despite their rusty color, these arteries of water are important for biodiversity. Algae and other microorganisms serve as a vital food source for vulnerable bird species, such as the Andean flamingo in the Laguna Colorada. Within the Betisboka River Delta, the estuary provides food, such as seagrasses, to the endangered green turtle and vulnerable dugong, or sea cow."</p>



<p>The photo was captured by an astronaut on the space station on September 30, 2023.</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</em></p>



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The Betsiboka River Delta in Madagascar

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an astronaut view of the northeast coast of Somalia. This region, which borders the Indian Ocean, has a mix of sandy beaches and rugged cliffs</p>



<p>"The detailed image reveals a desert landscape etched by wind and water," said NASA. "Over time, streams have cut canyons into the earth. But streams in this region are ephemeral, making groundwater the main source of fresh water."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The water table is shallow (wells are typically drilled less than 20 meters deep) and meets the surface toward the coast, creating springs."</p>



<p>"Bidirectional winds sculpted the tan, brown, and reddish sand into transverse sand dunes visible near the stream’s deltas. The orientation of the sand dunes indicates that they were likely formed by summer winds blowing up the coast from the southwest."</p>



<p>The economy of northeast Somalia is primarily based on fishing, livestock, and trade. The long coastline provides ample opportunities for fishing, which is a significant source of food and income.</p>



<p>The region is home to important port cities like Bosaso, which is a hub for trade and commerce. These ports are vital for both the local and national economy.</p>



<p>The area is rich in cultural heritage, with a history that dates back to ancient times. It is believed to be part of the ancient Land of Punt, known for its trade relations with ancient Egypt.</p>



<p>The climate is typically hot and dry, with irregular rainfall. This environment shapes the lifestyle and agricultural practices of northeast Somalia.</p>



<p>Despite the arid conditions, the region supports a variety of wildlife, including species adapted to desert and semi-desert habitats.</p>



<p>The photograph was captured on August 9, 2023 as the International Space Station orbited over the Horn of Africa.</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</em></p>



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Northeast Somalia: A landscape shaped by wind and water

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Cyclone Michaung, which slammed into the southern Indian coast on December 5, 2023 with intense winds and torrential rainfall. Michaung made landfall between Nellore and Kavali in the state of Andhra Pradesh. </p>



<p>"When it made landfall, the storm had sustained winds of 90 to 100 kilometers (56 to 62 miles) per hour, according to the India Meteorological Department," said NASA.</p>



<p>"The VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the NOAA-20 satellite captured this image after landfall, as the weakening storm moved northward and winds had slowed to 65 to 75 kilometers per hour."</p>



<p>As the cyclone approached, tall waves crashed into southern coastal towns and entire villages were submerged, according to a report from Reuters. Trees were uprooted, roads were damaged, and cars were swept away.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By Wednesday, rescue operations were launched in Chennai, a city of over six million people. Rescuers used inflatable rafts and ropes to pull people from their flooded homes and air force helicopters dropped food to some of those who remained stranded.</p>



<p>Among the widespread destruction, there have been 13 confirmed deaths due to causes including falling structures and electrocution.</p>



<p>Cyclones are relatively common along the southern coast of India, particularly in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. This region is prone to cyclonic activity primarily due to its geographical location and certain meteorological factors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Cyclones in this area tend to occur mainly in two seasons: the pre-monsoon season (April-June) and the post-monsoon season (October-December).</p>



<p>During these periods, warm ocean temperatures, high humidity, and favorable wind patterns contribute to the development and intensification of cyclones.</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</em></p>



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Cyclone Michaung caused widespread destruction in southern India

Closeup,Orion,Constellation,On,Night,Starry,Sky,Above,Forest,Silhouette,

<p>Next week, the night sky will witness an extraordinary astronomical event, as Betelgeuse, one of the most luminous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-six-planet-star-system-moves-in-strange-perfect-synchrony/">stars</a> in the constellation Orion, temporarily vanishes from view.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This unusual occurrence, set to happen on Monday night, December 11, is due to an asteroid, 319 Leona, passing directly in front of the star, causing it to disappear for approximately 12 seconds.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rare-occlusion-nbsp">Rare occlusion&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Astronomical phenomena like this are not uncommon, but the upcoming event involving Betelgeuse is unique due to the specific alignment that will create a striking ‘ring of fire’ effect.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Observers in Florida, parts of eastern Mexico, southern Europe, and northern Asia will be ideally positioned to witness this rare ‘occlusion.’ For those not in these regions, the <a href="https://www.virtualtelescope.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virtual Telescope Project</a> in Italy will be streaming the event live from 8 PM Eastern on Monday.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-once-in-a-lifetime-opportunity-nbsp">Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity&nbsp;</h2>



<p>This brief occlusion is more than just a spectacular sight; it presents a valuable scientific opportunity. Astronomers are eager to use this time to study the surface of Betelgeuse, a red supergiant sun, which has shown unusual dimming patterns over the past four years.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Miguel Montargès, an astrophysicist at the <a href="https://www.observatoiredeparis.psl.eu/-observatoire-de-paris-.html?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paris Observatory</a>, expressed excitement about this event, calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” The occlusion will enable scientists to examine the star’s outer region, which is normally overwhelmed by its bright core.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-new-insights">Critical new insights</h2>



<p>This research is expected to provide insights into the ‘convective cells’ of Betelgeuse, which are the pathways for heated gas movement across the star. Montargès anticipates that the data gathered might also enhance understanding of how planetary systems, like our own solar system, form.</p>



<p>Gianluca Masi, director of the Virtual Telescope Project, pointed out that the event will also aid in studying asteroid 319 Leona.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“These kinds of occultations,” Masi stated, "are very useful to constrain the shape of the asteroid involved.” He also noted that this occlusion is not only rare but symbolic of Betelgeuse’s eventual fate. “For a very short time, we will see the legendary Orion constellation without its famous, orange shoulder,” referencing the eventual supernova explosion of Betelgeuse.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viewing-the-betelgeuse-event">Viewing the Betelgeuse event</h2>



<p>Astronomers are meticulously tracking the trajectory of asteroid 319 Leona, with the occultation anticipated to occur around 8:17 PM Eastern Time. Those within the correct viewing line will have the chance to see Betelgeuse, typically the 10th-brightest star, fade from sight, an experience that can be enhanced with binoculars or a telescope.</p>



<p>Even for observers outside the optimal viewing areas, there’s still a chance to witness Betelgeuse dimming in an unusual manner. Residents of the Northern Hemisphere can find Betelgeuse in December by looking east about two hours after sunset, near Orion’s Belt.</p>



<p>For those seeking more information, the <a href="https://occultations.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Occultation Timing Association</a> has dedicated a <a href="https://www.iota-es.de/betelgeuse2023.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">page</a> to the event, complete with a downloadable Google Earth file to assist in tracking the visibility of the event globally.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-betelgeuse">More about Betelgeuse</h2>



<p>Betelgeuse, often pronounced "Beetlejuice," is a red supergiant star that has captivated astronomers and stargazers alike with its distinctive red hue and immense size. Located in the constellation of Orion, it's one of the most easily recognizable stars in the night sky and has been a subject of fascination and study for centuries.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-astronomical-significance">Astronomical significance</h3>



<p>As discussed above, Betelgeuse holds a special place in astronomy due to its enormous size and relatively close proximity to Earth. It's one of the largest stars visible to the naked eye, with a radius over 1,000 times that of the Sun. If placed at the center of our solar system, Betelgeuse would engulf the inner planets, reaching out nearly to the orbit of Jupiter.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stellar-characteristics">Stellar characteristics</h3>



<p>This celestial giant is a red supergiant, a stage in the lifecycle of a star that occurs after it has exhausted the hydrogen in its core. During this phase, the star expands significantly and cools down, giving it a distinctive red color. Betelgeuse's surface temperature is around 3,500 Kelvin, much cooler than the Sun’s 5,778 Kelvin.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-variability-and-brightness">Variability and brightness</h3>



<p>Betelgeuse is a variable star, meaning its brightness changes over time. These fluctuations in brightness are due to complex processes happening in its vast, bubbling surface. The star’s light can vary in a somewhat irregular pattern, making it a subject of interest for those studying stellar behavior.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distance-and-visibility">Distance and visibility</h3>



<p>Located approximately 642 light-years from Earth, Betelgeuse is relatively close in astronomical terms, allowing for detailed observation. Its brightness usually ranks it among the top ten brightest stars in the night sky, making it easy to spot even in areas with moderate light pollution.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-supernova">Future supernova</h3>



<p>One of the most intriguing aspects of Betelgeuse is its potential future as a supernova. Astronomers predict that within the next million years, Betelgeuse will exhaust its nuclear fuel and undergo a spectacular supernova explosion. This event will be so bright that it will be visible from Earth even during the day and will mark the end of this star’s life cycle.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-and-historical-impact">Cultural and historical impact</h3>



<p>Betelgeuse has also played a significant role in various cultures and mythologies. Its position in the constellation of Orion, a prominent figure in Greek mythology, and its visibility across the globe have made it a point of interest and storytelling for many civilizations.</p>



<p>In summary, Betelgeuse stands as a magnificent example of the wonders of the universe. Its immense size, changing brightness, and inevitable fate as a supernova continue to make it a subject of both scientific study and popular fascination. As we gaze upon this red supergiant, we are reminded of the vastness and beauty of the cosmos.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-orion-constellation">More about the Orion constellation</h2>



<p>As discussed above, <a href="https://universe.nasa.gov/news/147/discovering-the-universe-through-the-constellation-orion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the Orion constellation</a>, one of the most recognizable and prominent constellations in the night sky, captivates observers across the globe. Named after the Greek mythological hunter, Orion, this constellation not only boasts significant astronomical importance but also holds a rich cultural and mythological heritage.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-astronomical-features-of-orion">Astronomical features of Orion</h3>



<p>Orion is home to some of the brightest stars in the night sky. Betelgeuse, the protagonist of this article, marks Orion's right shoulder. Bellatrix serves as his left shoulder. Rigel, a brilliant blue-white star, represents Orion's left foot, and Saiph constitutes his right knee. These stars form the distinct hourglass shape of the constellation.</p>



<p>A striking feature of Orion is his belt, comprised of three aligned stars: Alnitak, Alnilam, and Mintaka. Below the belt, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jumbos-james-webb-reveals-free-floating-worlds-that-cant-be-explained/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orion Nebula </a>(M42), a vibrant, star-forming region, dazzles astronomers and astrophotographers alike. This nebula, visible to the naked eye under dark skies, is a popular target for telescopic observation.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-orion-in-culture-and-mythology">Orion in culture and mythology</h3>



<p>In Greek mythology, Orion is depicted as a formidable hunter, often associated with tales of bravery and prowess. Various cultures have their own interpretations of this constellation, each adding to its rich narrative tapestry.</p>



<p>The stars of Orion have been significant in various ancient civilizations, from the Egyptians, who associated the constellation with Osiris, the god of the afterlife, to the Native American cultures, where it held various meanings and stories.</p>



<p>In summary, Orion continues to be a source of wonder and inspiration. Its prominent place in the night sky makes it a gateway for amateur astronomers and a subject of ongoing study for professionals. Whether it's through the lens of science, culture, or mythology, the Orion constellation remains an enduring and captivating presence in our night sky.</p>



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"Betelgeuse" star in constellation Orion will vanish from sight tomorrow

Next week, the night sky will witness an extraordinary astronomical...

A,Curious,Humpback,Whale,Calf,In,The,Emerald,Blue,Water

<p>A new <a href="https://jncc.gov.uk/our-work/climate-change-and-migratory-species-review/">UN report</a> released at COP28 reveals the severe impacts of climate change on migratory animals. The research emphasizes the dire consequences for migratory species and the potential loss of their crucial ecosystem services.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-worldwide-impacts">Worldwide impacts</h2>



<p>The study, prepared by the <a href="https://www.bto.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Trust for Ornithology</a> (BTO), illustrates how climate change - driven by temperature increases, habitat alteration, shifts in ocean currents, and extreme weather events like wildfires - is substantially affecting migratory species worldwide.</p>



<p>The key impacts mentioned in the report include alterations in migratory routes, changes in breeding timings, and reduced reproductive success and survival rates. These changes not only threaten the species themselves but also the global ecosystem functions they support.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anthropogenic-emissions">Anthropogenic emissions</h2>



<p>"Over the last several decades, anthropogenic emissions (primarily of carbon dioxide (CO2)) have rapidly increased global temperatures and altered climate patterns. Widespread and rapid changes in the atmosphere, ocean, cryosphere and biosphere have occurred, affecting both average conditions and annual variability, in particular the frequency of extreme events," wrote the study authors.</p>



<p>"Climate change has already caused substantial damage and increasingly irreversible losses to most species groups in terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threats-to-migratory-species">Threats to migratory species</h2>



<p>"Migratory species are vulnerable to a wide range of threats, both climate-related and non-climate-related, as they move between countries and ecosystems on a seasonal basis."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"This potentially&nbsp;exposes them to the impacts of climate change at multiple locations along their migration route, with possible interactions and divergence in the timing of cues at these locations."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecosystem-services">Ecosystem services</h2>



<p>Migratory species offer numerous benefits, including nutrition, economic development, and essential services like pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control. They play a pivotal role in climate change mitigation and resilience.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For example, whales sequester significant carbon amounts, and antelopes can mitigate wildfire risks through their grazing patterns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-evidence">Lack of evidence</h2>



<p>"Overall, there is widespread evidence of changes in the distribution and phenology of migratory species. In particular, poleward range shifts and earlier migration and breeding are already occurring in temperature-driven medium and high latitudes, and more mixed directional shifts are&nbsp;apparent in the tropics, depending on changes in rainfall," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The results of this review suggest that evidence on the impacts of climate change is lacking for several species groups, particularly bats, fish, South American grassland birds, and sharks and rays, as well as regionally for species residing in the tropics and Global South."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings-on-migratory-species">Key findings on migratory species</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-temperatures">Rising temperatures</h3>



<p>There is strong evidence that global increases in temperature have affected most migratory species groups, and these impacts are mostly negative.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For instance, rising temperatures are causing changes in the reproduction and survival of krill and are having a negative impact on marine mammals and seabirds that rely on krill as a key food source.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distribution-of-migratory-species">Distribution of migratory species</h3>



<p>Climate change is impacting migratory species distribution and timing of migration. In particular, temperature increases are driving poleward range shifts and earlier migration and breeding.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In some species, such as wading birds, there is a risk this will cause a mismatch between the timing of breeding and the time when prey species are most abundant.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-availability-nbsp">Water availability&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Changes in water availability are causing the loss of wetlands and reduced river flows, which are likely to particularly impact the migration of fish and waterbirds.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-events">Extreme events</h3>



<p>Extreme climate-related events such as landslides are causing severe habitat destruction and have already been observed at some seabird breeding sites.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-currents">Ocean currents</h3>



<p>There is strong evidence that migratory seabirds and marine mammals will be impacted by changes in ocean currents. These changes are likely to alter the nature and functioning of many marine and terrestrial ecosystems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-demonstration-nbsp">Powerful demonstration&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Steve Barclay is the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.</p>



<p>“Nature underpins the very fabric of our lives – the ecosystems, food and water security upon which we all depend, as well as the health of our economies," said Barclay.</p>



<p>"The challenges that these migratory species face as a result of climate change are a powerful demonstration of the need for coordinated global action to protect our environment, which is why the UK is taking a leading role in efforts to restore nature, halt biodiversity loss and achieve our stretching targets to protect 30% of land and sea by 2030.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-severe-disruptions-to-migratory-species">Severe disruptions to migratory species</h2>



<p>Amy Fraenkel, Executive Secretary of CMS, noted that migratory species are facing severe disruptions due to climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Migratory species are finely tuned to the rhythms of our planet. They depend on a delicate balance, journeying vast distances to reach habitats specifically suited for their survival and reproduction," said Fraenkel.</p>



<p>"However, climate change is severely disrupting these critical paths, altering ecosystems and affecting the availability of resources. This disruption serves as a crucial red flag, highlighting the broader implications of climate change not just for these species, but for the interconnected web of life on Earth."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-migratory-species-need-immediate-help">Migratory species need immediate help</h2>



<p>The report stresses the urgent need for action to assist vulnerable migratory species in adapting to climate change. Recommendations include establishing connected protected areas and robust monitoring for successful intervention assessment.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The clock is ticking on the future for many iconic species. We owe it to them to raise global awareness that solutions are possible, and call on governments to use this report to take action, seeking out nature based solutions that will help migratory species and that can reduce the impacts of climate change," said Professor Galbraith, Former Chair of the <a href="https://jncc.gov.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Joint Nature Conservation Committee</a>.</p>



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United Nations: Urgent need to protect migratory animal species

A new UN report released at COP28 reveals the severe...

<p>The Pentagon's X-37B, an unmanned drone, is gearing up for a mission that is set to launch today at 8:14 pm Eastern time. This small <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-travel-has-left-a-metal-mark-on-earths-stratosphere/">spacecraft</a> is less than 30 feet in length and under 10 feet in height. It has a pair of compact wings and a rounded, bulldog-like nose.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Often compared to a miniature space shuttle, the purpose and capabilities of X-37B remain shrouded in mystery. Is it a covert weapon, a stealth technology, or something else? These questions linger as the Pentagon maintains its silence.</p>



<p>For the first time, the X-37B will be launched on SpaceX’s powerful <a href="https://www.spacex.com/vehicles/falcon-heavy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Falcon Heavy rocket</a>. This shift to a more potent launcher hints at a potential higher orbit - speculation that is supported by recent documents. However, the exact nature and purpose of its higher orbit activities remain undisclosed. SpaceX secured the $130 million contract for this launch back in 2018.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-on-space-domain-awareness">Focus on "space domain awareness"</h2>



<p>The Pentagon remains tight-lipped about the specific activities of the X-37B in its higher orbit, stating only that the mission involves "a wide range of test and experimentation objectives." These include operating in new orbital regimes and experimenting with future space domain awareness technologies.</p>



<p>The focus on "space domain awareness" hints at the X-37B's potential role in monitoring satellites and guarding against threats in space - a mission that closely aligns with the objectives of the <a href="https://www.spaceforce.mil/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Space Force</a>. </p>



<p>General Chance Saltzman, the Space Force’s chief of space operations, emphasized the increasing threats to U.S. space systems.</p>



<p>“Our space systems are threatened by a variety of growing anti satellite capabilities, and the joint force is threatened by increasingly sophisticated adversary space-based systems intended to target the joint force,” General Saltzman said in a statement to Congress earlier this year.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-x-37b-s-cutting-edge-technologies">X-37B's cutting-edge technologies</h2>



<p>One thing that is known about X-37B's mission is that the vehicle will expose plant seeds to the harsh radiation environment of long-duration spaceflight in an experiment for NASA.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The X-37B, built by Boeing, has previously been used to test cutting-edge technologies like a small solar panel for transforming solar energy into microwaves, a concept that could enable space-to-Earth energy transmission. The spacecraft has also deployed small satellites, but their purposes remain undisclosed.</p>



<p>“The U.S. government is in this weird place where they brag publicly about how amazing it is and cutting edge, but will not provide any info about it,” said Brian Weeden, the director of program planning at the Secure World Foundation.</p>



<p>Weeden suggests that much of the speculation surrounding the vehicle is likely off-base, with its mystique being its most defining trait. Secure World downplays the likelihood of the X-37B being used as an orbital weapons system for attacking ground targets.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-china-s-secretive-space-plane-nbsp">China's secretive space plane&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The X-37B is more likely employed for the purposes stated by the Pentagon: testing reusable space launch vehicle technologies and on-orbit testing of new sensor technologies and satellite hardware. This hasn't stopped nations like China from perceiving the X-37B as a symbol of U.S. space militarization.</p>



<p>China's own secretive reusable space plane, the Shenlong, has completed two missions, with its latest lasting 276 days in orbit. Like the X-37B, the Shenlong is shrouded in secrecy, with no publicly released photos. This apparent mimicry of the American model suggests China's interest in similar space capabilities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-covert-operations-of-the-x-37b">Covert operations of the X-37B</h2>



<p>The X-37B's history spans over a decade in space, with each mission exceeding the duration of the last. Its last flight ended in November 2022 after 908 days in orbit. General David Thompson of the Space Force hinted at exciting plans for the X-37B. He acknowledges its role as a remarkable test bed and experimentation vehicle.</p>



<p>The upcoming Mission 7 of the X-37B, launching on the Falcon Heavy, will include a mixture of innocuous civilian NASA science and military experimentation with space domain awareness. This combination of civilian and military objectives underscores the dual nature of the mission.</p>



<p>The X-37B's development history is intertwined with NASA, the Air Force, and Boeing's Phantom Works. Initially envisioned as a lifeboat for the International Space Station, its design evolved to meet various military and experimental needs. The spacecraft's ability to deploy solar arrays in orbit allows for extended missions, a capability unmatched by the Space Shuttle.</p>



<p>The X-37B's design suggests potential for covert operations, such as retrieving or inspecting foreign satellites without detection. The U.S. has expressed concerns about similar activities by nations like Russia and China, highlighting the strategic importance of space domain awareness.</p>



<p>In summary, the combination of the X-37B and Falcon Heavy opens up possibilities for high-energy orbits and advanced military capabilities in space. While the specifics of the X-37B's upcoming mission remain classified, its launch signals the U.S.'s intent to maintain dominance in space.</p>



<p>Image Credit: AP / U.S. Air Force</p>



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The Pentagon's X-37B "spycraft" is shrouded in mystery and whispers

The Pentagon's X-37B, an unmanned drone, is gearing up for...


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