Astrotourism, a form of nature-based tourism focused on celestial objects and the physical universe, has gained popularity among travelers seeking the beauty of the night sky [b79d28c0]. This growing trend offers a unique alternative to traditional vacations and provides opportunities for stargazing in breathtaking locations around the world. This article highlights several amazing destinations for stargazing and the exceptional hotels that enhance these experiences [b79d28c0].
NASA's historic mission of collecting samples from the asteroid Bennu has provided scientists with stereoscopic images that offer a unique perspective on the samples and allow for detailed analysis of their structure and composition [bc9b4b33]. The mission aims to deepen our understanding of the formation and evolution of asteroids and the early solar system [bc9b4b33].
In addition to the scientific value of these images, space photography has also captured the attention of art enthusiasts. Images taken by the ASTER instrument on the NASA Terra spacecraft have been compared to art masterpieces due to their resemblance to impressionist paintings [0e0eb0c8]. The convergence of science and art in space exploration highlights the interconnectedness of different disciplines and the ability of space imagery to evoke emotions and inspire creativity [bc9b4b33] [0e0eb0c8].
Astrophotographer Rogelio Bernal, a collaborator of NASA, will give a talk in Murcia about 'The Colors of the Night Sky'. Bernal will describe how he became interested in astrophotography and became a reference in the field. The event will also feature comedian and science communicator Raquel Sastre, as well as mathematician Santi García Cremades. There will be workshops and interactive activities for children, and the ADCMurcia Awards, which recognize contributions to science communication, will also be presented [399d19a3].
The rise of artificial lighting and the increasing number of bright satellites have severely impacted the visibility of the night sky, making astronomy more difficult [c12bbe2b]. This article explores three potential technological solutions to combat light pollution: regulating light fixtures to minimize upward and horizontal light emission, developing high-speed shutter technology to mitigate the effects of satellite streaks, and coordinating the flickering of city-wide lights with telescope shutters to enable astronomy in light-polluted areas [c12bbe2b]. These solutions have the potential to improve the quality of astronomical observations and save time and resources for astronomers [c12bbe2b].
The presence of mega constellations of satellites in low Earth orbit has become a growing concern for astronomers [1dce0f66]. These constellations interfere with astronomers' instruments and distort space photographs, impacting both scientific and artistic observations of the sky [1dce0f66]. The trails of light left by satellites in long-exposure photos are a major problem, requiring astronomers to sort through photos and redo nights of observation due to ruined images [1dce0f66]. The association Planética advocates for finding solutions to avoid disrupting scientific and artistic observations of the sky [1dce0f66].
Satellites and spacecraft that burn up in the atmosphere leave metal particles in the stratosphere, which could potentially harm the climate and the ozone layer [f513b5f4] [bc5cf30e]. About 10% of the particles in the stratosphere come from the aerospace industry, and it is unclear how this could impact the climate. One concern is that these particles could form polar stratospheric clouds, which can damage the ozone layer [bc5cf30e]. Scientists are conducting research to better understand the implications of these particles and their potential effects. The composition of these particles is unique, so their exact impact is uncertain. As the number of satellites in orbit increases, it is estimated that 50% of the particles in the stratosphere could be aerospace debris within the next few decades [f513b5f4]. It is important to study and understand these particles now, as the space industry continues to grow rapidly. The burning of satellites is part of the entire life cycle of satellites, which includes rocket launches and decommissioning. Scientists are also considering geoengineering the atmosphere by sending sulfuric acid particles into the stratosphere. The article highlights the need for more research and understanding of how human activities affect the stratosphere [f513b5f4] [bc5cf30e].
There are five million conservatories in the UK that are too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer. Conservatory Insulations, founded by Matt and Peter, offers a solution to this problem. They replace uninsulated conservatory panels with powder-coated aluminum with styrofoam in between and 20mm round the edges, raised to 70mm. They also use true foiled quilt insulation that reflects sunlight in the summer and retains heat in the winter. Their cutting-edge C.H.R.I.S® system, inspired by NASA technology, reduces up to 90% of heat loss through the roof and controls the temperature all-year round. Conservatory Insulations has fitted their system in over 30,000 properties and has expanded from three employees to around 70. They have also launched Tile Your Conservatory and last year as business booms.