Category Archives: Space

Space

Scientists’ Efforts to Improve Astronauts’ Sleep in Space

Our sleep patterns on Earth are influenced by our environment and a 24-hour cycle called circadian rhythms. These rhythms regulate our alertness and sleepiness, impacting various bodily functions. The cues in our environment, such as light, affect these rhythms. Light signals our bodies to wake up, while darkness signals sleep.

However, in space, there is no natural 24-hour day cycle. To address this, the International Space Station (ISS) follows Greenwich Mean Time to establish a consistent schedule for astronauts’ sleep and wake cycles. Nevertheless, researchers aim to enhance the astronauts’ sleeping conditions within this cycle. One approach is to use lighting that simulates different times of day, with a soft red glow at night resembling a sunset and a bright blue light in the morning similar to the sky.

The European Space Agency has initiated an experiment called Circadian Light. Astronaut Andreas Mogensen will test this experiment to investigate if changing light conditions can improve his sleep. The lighting not only changes color, but it also varies from day to day, simulating diverse weather conditions. This variability aims to provide a more engaging experience in an otherwise monotonous environment.

Space

The Scientific Explanation Behind Saturn’s Long-Lasting Storms

The concentration of ammonia in different layers of Saturn’s atmosphere has provided scientists with valuable insights. It was observed that there is a higher amount of ammonia closer to the planet, indicating a system that moves ammonia through these layers. Imke de Pater, co-author from UC Berkeley, explained that radio observations help understand various processes such as heat transport, cloud formation, and convection in the atmospheres of giant planets on different scales.

The researchers discovered a correlation between ammonia levels and massive storms that have occurred on Saturn in the past. It is believed that ammonia moves through the atmosphere via evaporation and precipitation, similar to the water cycle on Earth. These storms can have long-lasting effects, with evidence of recent storms from 2010 as well as older storms that left detectable signatures in the atmosphere, dating back hundreds of years.

One fascinating finding is that despite both Saturn and Jupiter being gas giants primarily composed of hydrogen, the dynamics of their atmospheres are quite distinct. This highlights the vast amount of knowledge we still need to uncover about these magnificent planets.

News, Space

DOJ Sues SpaceX Over Alleged Hiring Discrimination In The US

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a lawsuit against SpaceX, alleging hiring discrimination in the United States. SpaceX has previously stated that it requires U.S. green cards as a minimum requirement for employment due to the company’s involvement in advanced weapons technology. Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, has emphasized that the company is legally prevented from hiring international candidates. He has also mentioned that a normal work visa is insufficient, unless the applicant receives special approval from the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of State.

However, the Justice Department argues that there are no hiring restrictions in place based on export control laws. According to the DOJ, refugees and asylees have equal access to employment opportunities without requiring additional government approval for accessing “export-controlled information and materials.” The lawsuit aims to bring about policy changes at SpaceX, as well as seek civil penalties and back pay for victims affected by the alleged hiring restrictions.