Latest news with #CASC
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
China launches Tianwen-2 to chase Moon-origin asteroid, explore hybrid comet
China has launched its most ambitious deep space mission yet. On Wednesday, the Tianwen-2 probe lifted off atop a Long March 3B rocket at 1:31 pm Eastern (17:31 UTC) from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan province. The mission aims to collect samples from a near-Earth asteroid and later survey a comet in the main asteroid belt, marking the country's first asteroid sampling effort. Tianwen-2 is now en route to asteroid 469219 Kamoʻoalewa (2016 HO3), a small rocky body orbiting close to Earth. The probe is expected to reach the asteroid in mid-2026 and return samples to Earth in 2027. After the sample return, it will continue its journey toward comet 311P/PANSTARRS, with arrival expected around 2035. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) confirmed the successful launch just over an hour after liftoff. Xinhua reported that 'the spacecraft unfolded its solar panels smoothly,' and the China National Space Administration (CNSA) officially declared the mission a success. Discovered in 2016 by researchers in Hawaii, Kamoʻoalewa is believed to be a fragment of the Moon. Scientists hope to analyze its structure, mineral content, and origin. It is roughly 40 to 100 meters in diameter. Depending on surface conditions, the mission will employ three sampling methods — hover sampling, touch-and-go, and anchored drilling. Tianwen-2 will then use Earth's gravity to redirect itself toward comet 311P. The comet orbits between Mars and Jupiter and displays asteroid-like behavior, making it ideal for studying transitional objects in the solar system. Reaching and sampling small celestial bodies is more challenging than orbiting planets. The mission must navigate weak and irregular gravity fields, which rule out traditional orbiting methods. 'These bodies have extremely weak and irregular gravity fields,' Franco Perez-Lissi, Ramses mission systems engineer at the European Space Agency (ESA), told SpaceNews. 'So we cannot rely on traditional orbiting like we do around the planet.' Tianwen-2 must closely match the asteroid's rotation and speed for successful sampling. Perez-Lissi likened the maneuver to 'trying to dock a boat with a mountain floating in space and tumbling really unpredictably and with almost no gravity.' The probe carries 11 science payloads, including spectrometers, high-resolution cameras, a radar sounder, and particle detectors. These will study the composition, geological features, magnetic fields, and solar wind interactions at both the asteroid and the comet. Past missions like NASA's OSIRIS-REx and JAXA's Hayabusa2 have returned organic materials, including amino acids and nucleobases—key building blocks of life. Tianwen-2 follows the successful Tianwen-1 Mars mission and precedes plans for Mars sample return and Jupiter system exploration. These missions are part of a long-term roadmap that includes the International Lunar Research Station and a Venus sample return. According to Xinhua, Shan Zhongde, head of the CNSA, 'expressed his expectation of yielding groundbreaking discoveries and expanding humanity's knowledge of the cosmos.' China continues to invest heavily in space, with its Tiangong space station now operational and a crewed Moon mission planned for later this decade. Tianwen-2 could mark another leap forward in China's 'space dream,' as articulated by President Xi Jinping.
AU Financial Review
3 days ago
- General
- AU Financial Review
In Pictures: ‘Many nations, one mob'
Skip to navigationSkip to contentSkip to footerHelp using this website - Accessibility statement Aunty Kathleen Hopkins and Aunty Ada Simpson, Cherbourg: 'We live for the church and the power of God.' One of the women grew up in the dormitory. The other was raised as a camp kid. But together, they've shared a lifetime of laughter right here on these very church steps. Through sorrow and survival, joy and justice, these women have leaned on each other and their faith. The church has been their anchor: a place of resilience, strength, and unwavering community. They say it was God who helped them survive and thrive. Prayer was their medicine. Service, their offering. And today, their story is a testament to a spirit that could never be broken. 'Faith is our foundation. The church has always been our guiding light shaping our journey, keeping our spirits strong.' Zakirrah, Normanton: standing on the cracked earth of Normanton, Queensland, may be the youngest person to deliver official Welcome to Country speeches in Australia. A Traditional Owner of Normanton, she began this important role at just seven and is now nine years old. Welcome to Country is an ancient tradition, once practised when travelling between Nations. Visitors would signal at the border with smoke and wait for warriors to escort them to the Elders. The Elders, through ceremony, sought the ancestors' blessing, and once welcomed, the entire Nation took responsibility for the visitor's care and safety. It was also a way for Nations to welcome and acknowledge each other's traditional lands marking rites of passage, exchanging, bartering, celebrating, and welcoming. Through ceremony, these shared practices strengthened the connections between people and reinforced respect for the land and its custodians. Today, this practice continues as a sign of respect for the land, its Traditional Custodians, and the enduring connection First Nations peoples have to Country. It acknowledges the ancestors and reinforces the responsibility of communities to care for one another and their shared environment. Mayor Bruce Simpson – Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council (CASC): Mayor Simpson's enthusiastic participation in the All Shades Project was to showcase his leadership achievements through the lens of art. His request for a grand piano and theatre setting was to showcase that he initially wanted to become the first Aboriginal concert pianist. He is from the strength of great leaders of the Wakka Wakka, Wangan and Koa tribes. Brayden, Delta Downs: Australia's First Indigenous-Owned Cattle Station: . In 1982, it became Australia's first Indigenous-owned and operated cattle station, returning to the care of the Kurtijar people. Since then, it has flourished as a proud testament to the vision, resilience, and dedication of its community. Brayden said, 'I wanted to be photographed here because this place represents the future we've built for ourselves. Delta Downs is more than a cattle station – it's a living example of what we can achieve when we work together and care for Country. Every day here is about growth, connection, and pride in who we are.' Rubber dingy shot. 'The ocean is our playground, our highway, and our home. We wanted to be photographed here on Kirriri [Hammond Island] because the water is where we belong. Out here, we make our own boats, find our own adventures, and move the way our ancestors did, always connected to the sea. Life on the island is about freedom, fun, and knowing that the ocean will always be part of who we are.' Kababinna, Sunshine Coast: 'The ocean is alive – it moves, breathes, and connects us to something greater. I wanted to be photographed here on Gubbi Gubbi Country because this place fills me with wonder. The way the water crashes against the rocks, the energy of the ocean – it reminds me of how powerful and free we are. Every wave, every drop, every moment out here is something to respect and cherish. I chose to be photographed near the saltwater. Unya Jagun (my country) Biren Jagun (saltwater country) is where I always feel my strongest and where my people have always belonged. To stay strong in my culture is a necessity for me, and I am learning every day. In the words of my grandfather (GuGu Yalanji): 'Gurri milka wulun' – don't forget. 'Gurri gingy gingy' – don't get confused.' Gordon Browning, Gympie: 'My name is Gordon Browning, I am a proud Bundjalung/ Coodjinburra and South Sea Islander man from Fingal Heads. I currently live in the Gympie Regional Council and have worked in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health for the last 25 years. I started my health career in 1999, as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health worker at the Gympie Hospital. This picture was taken on our property just outside of Gympie, my totem is the mibunn (sea eagle). When I paint up, this is my grounding to my culture, my country and our law/lore. I have been blessed to have to support from my beautiful wife, our four children, and three grandchildren.' Mandji, Marcus Beach: 'My name is Mandji. My name comes from the Gubbi Gubbi word meaning 'friend'. I am a proud Bundjalung Yugambeh and South Sea Islander woman. I have spent my life privileged to grow up around strong First Nations family, Elders, and community, and I take pride in my culture. I am mother to my Kubill Muyumm (beautiful little boy), who is my absolute world. To be Aboriginal to me is such a special feeling and privilege. It gives me strength every day, knowing that I'm walking in the footsteps of my ancestors. Through the salt water, air, the bush, and the flames of the fire, I can hear my old people guiding me as a mother and helping me walk through this society, a society that I was born into and one I have chosen to birth my son and daughter into.' Adrian Bauwens, Cherbourg: 'Galang Gumba Daru – G'day. I'm Adrian, a man of the Wakka Wakka people. I am grateful to be able to share with you some insight into my connection with country. What you can see here in the photo is an ancient practice from our culture – fire on country. To many of us, fire is an important element of country and its wellbeing. The land loves a good fire that is performed in a cultural way. Everything on country greatly benefits from our fire practices; from plants, to animals, to fungi and insects. There is something for everyone when a fire comes through. As someone who works in the environmental field, this is something I am passionate about – helping country to stay strong and healthy. It's hard to describe, but whenever we do these burns, I like to think of country really enjoying the fire. Almost like it's happy and celebrating, or even dancing. There's just something so calming about being in the presence of country during a burn.' Simon Thornalley, Mooloolaba: Launched in early 2020, Saltwater Eco Tours is the vision of Simon Thornalley, a young Indigenous man of Torres Strait Island descent who was born on the Sunshine Coast and introduced to his sailing lifestyle by his parents who were world-class sailors and environmentalists themselves. That vision was to establish a unique tourism experience that would inspire a deeper connection to Indigenous culture and the ocean. Collaboration with Traditional Owners of the Kabi Kabi First Nation people ensures that Saltwater Eco Tours delivers an authentic local visitor experience, sharing the timeless wisdom of the world's oldest continuous living cultures, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Alongside his partner Jenna, Traditional Owner Aunty Bridgette Chilli and their experienced crew, the company prides themselves on authenticity, passion and a genuine love for the ocean. Toshianna Josiah, Yaggra Station: This is where I feel strongest - on horseback, with the dust rising and the sun setting behind me. It's in these moments that I know exactly who I am.' Toshianna is a true horsewoman and fearless bull rider. She's been in the saddle since she was seven, riding with spirit, courage, and grace. We thank our Creator for her natural talent and a nity. Her dream lives in the rodeo arena, where she feels most alive riding bulls, drawn to the thrill and challenge. She's forged in the rhythm of the land and the strength of the saddle. The station is more than a place of work - it's where her roots run deep. It's where resilience is inherited, where hard work is worn like a badge of honour, and where the bond between rider and horse is unbreakable. As the dust swirls in the golden light, Toshianna rides on - carrying her ancestors, her dreams, and her future in every stride Tia Pitman is a former gymnast turned professional roller skater, who is making waves in skate parks, on social media, and the performance stage. With her gymnastics background, Tia brings dynamic movement, fearless tricks, and creative expression to the world of roller skating, inspiring a new generation of skaters and performers. This image captures her passion, skill, and unstoppable energy. Old Crow, Kowanyama: 'I wanted to be photographed here because I've been working these machines since I was 16. It's what I love, and it's what I've done all my life. Every day, I get up, climb in, and get to work. It's not just a job – it's part of who I am.' Aleon, Hammond Island: Beauty of Kirriri. 'The saltwater is where I feel alive, wind in my hair, salt on my lips, shells in my pocket, and sand on my feet. The water holds our stories that our spirit connects to the sea. Where our forefathers sailed, bring hope for you and me. This is my happy place where the sky meets the sea. Kirriri Island is a place where you long to be and a home to me.'
Yahoo
16-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Canadian Comedians Finally Write a Joke So Good It Comes With Benefits
TORONTO and QUEBEC CITY, April 16, 2025 /CNW/ - The Canadian Association of Stand-up, Sketch & Improv Comedians (CASC) is proud to announce a strategic partnership with the Canadian Freelance Union-Unifor (CFU) to advance the rights and benefits of Canadian comedians nationwide. Established in 2017 from comedian Sandra Battaglini's frustrations in the Canadian comedy landscape, CASC has been at the forefront of advocating for the recognition and support of comedians as vital contributors to Canada's cultural landscape. CASC members will now have access to resources and support systems tailored to the unique needs of freelance performers. CASC has been dedicated to building a thriving comedy industry in Canada by engaging comedians through advocacy, career opportunities, and professional development. The CFU represents freelance media, communication, and other professionals and offers services such as contract advice, grievance support, and health benefits. "Joining forces with Unifor and CFU represents a monumental leap forward for Canadian comedians. This partnership not only legitimizes our profession but also provides tangible benefits that address the longstanding challenges we've faced in the industry," said Clifford Myers, president of CASC. "It can get pretty depressing out there as a freelancer in Canada. CASC and CFU joining forces won't just make the CFU funnier, it will also brighten the lives of all unionized freelancers in Canada, as our strength in numbers grows our influence and capacity to fight for change," said Nora Loreto, president of CFU. Unifor's Community Chapters initiative is designed to extend union benefits to workers in non-traditional employment relationships, such as freelancers and independent contractors. Stand-up comedians now join a broader movement advocating for the rights and well-being of freelance professionals across various sectors. About CASC The Canadian Association of Stand-up Comedians is a not-for-profit organization committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive comedy industry in Canada. CASC advocates for comedians' rights, provides professional development opportunities, and works to elevate Canadian comedy on the global stage. About CFU The Canadian Freelance Union is dedicated to representing freelance professionals across various media and communication fields. CFU offers its members services, including contract advice, grievance support, and access to health and dental benefits, aiming to improve freelancers' working conditions and rights nationwide. Note: For more information on membership benefits and how to join CASC, please visit SOURCE Unifor View original content: Sign in to access your portfolio
See - Sada Elbalad
12-03-2025
- Science
- See - Sada Elbalad
China Successfully Launches 18 Satellites into Space
Israa Farhan China has successfully launched 18 satellites into orbit using a Long March-8 Y6 carrier rocket from the commercial space launch site in Hainan province. According to the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), the satellites entered their designated orbit as part of the fifth batch of the "Space Cell" commercial internet constellation. This mission marked the inaugural launch from Launch Pad 1 at the site, following the first launch from Pad 2 on November 30, 2024. With both platforms now operational, China's first commercial spaceport is fully equipped for future missions. The Long March-8, developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology under CASC, is a cost-efficient, medium-lift rocket powered by liquid fuel. It is optimized for launching multiple satellites into low and medium Earth orbits.
Yahoo
24-02-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
US Space Force releases first image of X-37B after its seventh mission
The US Space Force has revealed the first images of its secretive X-37B space plane, which has been in orbit for more than a year. With the release of this photo, the X-37B has achieved another milestone, becoming the first public image of the space plane in orbit. While the photo provides little information about the vehicle or its current experiments, it shows Earth far in the background, emphasizing the vehicle's high altitude on its seventh mission. As the X-37B prepared for its current mission, the U.S. Space Force revealed that the flight would involve operating the reusable spaceplane in new orbital regimes, testing future space domain awareness technologies, and studying the radiation effects on materials provided by NASA. 'An X-37B onboard camera, used to ensure the health and safety of the vehicle, captures an image of Earth while conducting experiments in HEO in X-37B executed a series of first-of-kind maneuvers, called aerobraking, to safely change its orbit using minimal fuel,' the Space Force wrote on X. Previous X-37B missions took place in low Earth orbit, but as this photo shows, the spaceplane is now operating much farther from Earth. SpaceX's Falcon Heavy is capable of launching payloads into geosynchronous orbit, which is over 22,000 miles (35,000 km) above the planet, Space reported. Although the U.S. Space Force has been secretive about the X-37B's activities during its long missions, it is known to serve as a test platform for new space technologies. The spaceplane has hosted payloads to test solar power beaming from space, thermal protection systems, and autonomous flight capabilities. According to the Space Force, the X-37B is the "most advanced re-entry spacecraft," focused on risk reduction, experimentation, and developing operational concepts for reusable space vehicle technologies. The X-37B set a record by flying for 908 days during its sixth mission, which ended with a landing at NASA's Kennedy Space Center on November 12, 2022. However, the exact return date for the spaceplane and the conclusion of its seventh mission remains unknown. One of the U.S.'s main space rivals, China, is testing its own reusable spaceplane, which launched on its third mission just two weeks before the X-37B's most recent flight. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp (CASC) also completed key engine tests on its reusable rocket engine. The 130-ton reusable liquid oxygen kerosene engine, developed by CASC's Sixth Academy, is designed to power CASC's reusable rockets, including the Long March 10. CASC has reportedly completed 15 repeated tests and 30 ignition starts on its new engine, with a total test duration of over 3,900 seconds. According to Chinese authorities, these 15 repeated tests have broken China's previous record for liquid rocket main engine testing. The research team behind the tests asserted that the 130-ton reusable liquid oxygen kerosene engine is highly reliable and offers strong expandability. To ensure its efficiency as a reusable engine, Chinese scientists focused on mastering multiple ignitions, large-range thrust adjustments, and other advanced technologies.
