Latest news with #EarthObservation
Yahoo
12 hours ago
- Science
- Yahoo
India and US launch 'first-of-its-kind' satellite
Indian and US space agencies have launched a new satellite which will keep a hawk's eye on Earth, detecting and reporting even the smallest changes in land, sea, and ice sheets. Data from the joint mission by Indian Space agency Isro and Nasa will help not just the two countries but the world in preparing and dealing with disasters. The 2,392kg Nasa-Isro Synthetic Aperture Radar (Nisar) was launched at 17:40 India time (12:10 GMT) on Wednesday from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in south India. The satellite comes close on the heels of the Axiom-4 mission which saw an Indian astronaut going to the International Space Station for the first time. Nasa, which already has more than two dozen observation satellites in space, says Nisar is the "most sophisticated radar we've ever built" and that it will be able to spot the "minutest of changes anywhere in the world". The "first-of-its-kind satellite" will be the first in space to watch Earth using two different radar frequencies - Nasa's L-band and Isro's S-band. The satellite will be shot into the "sun-synchronous polar orbit", which means it will pass over the same areas of Earth at a regular interval, observing and mapping changes to our planet's surface, former Nasa scientist Mila Mitra told the BBC. Nasa and Isro say Nisar will revisit the same spot every 12 days. It will detect changes and land, ice, or coastal shifts as small as centimetres, says Ms Mitra. Repeated scans will generate rich data, helping Nasa and Isro ground stations support disaster preparedness and track climate change impacts, she added. Scientists say Earth's surface is constantly changing due to natural and human activities, and even small shifts can impact the planet. "Some of these changes happen slowly, some abruptly, some are small while some are subtle," Nasa's director of Earth Sciences Karen St Germain, who is in India for the launch, told a pre-launch press conference. "With Nisar, we'll see the precursors to natural hazards such as earthquakes, landslides and volcanoes; we'll see land subsidence and swelling, movements and deformations, melting of glaciers and ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica; and we'll see forest fires. "We'll also be able to spot human-induced land changes caused by farming and infrastructure projects such as buildings and bridges," she said. The satellite will take 90 days to fully deploy and will start collecting data once tests on all its systems are complete. The $1.5bn joint mission, over a decade in the making, features India's payload, rocket, and launch-pad facilities. Nasa's St Germain said the satellite was special as it was built by scientists "who were at the opposite ends of the globe during the Covid-19 pandemic". Isro chairman V Narayanan told NDTV news channel that the "life-saving satellite" is a symbol of India's rising leadership in space. Talking about Wednesday's launch, he said: "This is going to be yet another great day for India." Indian Science Minister Jitendra Singh has called the mission a defining moment in India-US space cooperation and a boost to Isro's international collaborations. India makes historic landing near Moon's south pole Aditya-L1: India's Sun mission reaches final destination "Nisar is not just a satellite; it is India's scientific handshake with the world," the minister said. The joint mission comes just weeks after astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla travelled to the International Space Station on the AX-4 mission, led by former Nasa veteran Peggy Whitson. India has been making big strides in its space programme recently. In August 2023, the country made history as its Moon mission became the first to land in the lunar south pole region. And last year, it commissioned its first solar observation mission. Isro has announced plans to launch Gaganyaan - the country's first-ever human space flight - in 2027 and has ambitious plans to set up a space station by 2035 and send an astronaut to the Moon by 2040. Follow BBC News India on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook Solve the daily Crossword
BBC News
18 hours ago
- Science
- BBC News
Nisar: Isro and Nasa set for launch of 'first-of-its-kind' satellite
A new satellite set to launch soon will keep a hawk's eye on Earth, detecting and reporting even the smallest changes in land, sea, and ice sheets, Indian and US space agencies from the joint mission by Indian Space agency Isro and Nasa will help not just the two countries but the world in preparing and dealing with 2,392kg Nasa-Isro Synthetic Aperture Radar (Nisar) will be launched at 17:40 India time (12:10 GMT) on Wednesday from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in south satellite comes close on the heels of the Axiom-4 mission which saw an Indian astronaut going to the International Space Station for the first time. Nasa, which already has more than two dozen observation satellites in space, says Nisar is the "most sophisticated radar we've ever built" and that it will be able to spot the "minutest of changes anywhere in the world".The "first-of-its-kind satellite" will be the first in space to watch Earth using two different radar frequencies - Nasa's L-band and Isro's S-band. The satellite will be shot into the "sun-synchronous polar orbit", which means it will pass over the same areas of Earth at a regular interval, observing and mapping changes to our planet's surface, former Nasa scientist Mila Mitra told the and Isro say Nisar will revisit the same spot every 12 days. It will detect changes and land, ice, or coastal shifts as small as centimeters, says Ms scans will generate rich data, helping Nasa and Isro ground stations support disaster preparedness and track climate change impacts, she say Earth's surface is constantly changing due to natural and human activities, and even small shifts can impact the planet."Some of these changes happen slowly, some abruptly, some are small while some are subtle," Nasa's director of Earth Sciences Karen St Germain, who is in India for the launch, told a pre-launch press conference."With Nisar, we'll see the precursors to natural hazards such as earthquakes, landslides and volcanoes; we'll see land subsidence and swelling, movements and deformations, melting of glaciers and ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica; and we'll see forest fires."We'll also be able to spot human-induced land changes caused by farming and infrastructure projects such as buildings and bridges," she said. The satellite will take 90 days to fully deploy and will start collecting data once tests on all its systems are complete. The $1.5bn joint mission, over a decade in the making, features India's payload, rocket, and launch-pad St Germain said the satellite was special as it was built by scientists "who were at the opposite ends of the globe during the Covid-19 pandemic". Isro chairman V Narayanan told NDTV news channel that the "life-saving satellite" is a symbol of India's rising leadership in space. Talking about Wednesday's launch, he said: "This is going to be yet another great day for India."Indian Science Minister Jitendra Singh has called it a defining moment in India-US space cooperation and a boost to Isro's international collaborations. India makes historic landing near Moon's south poleAditya-L1: India's Sun mission reaches final destination"Nisar is not just a satellite; it is India's scientific handshake with the world," the minister joint mission comes just weeks after astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla travelled to the International Space Station on the AX-4 mission, led by former Nasa veteran Peggy has been making big strides in its space programme recently. In August 2023, the country made history as its Moon mission became the first to land in the lunar south pole region. And last year, it commissioned its first solar observation has announced plans to launch Gaganyaan - the country's first-ever human space flight - in 2027 and has ambitious plans to set up a space station by 2035 and send an astronaut to the Moon by BBC News India on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook
Sustainability Times
22-07-2025
- Science
- Sustainability Times
'This Sensor Sees the Unseeable': NASA's Quantum Gravity Tech Set to Revolutionize Earth Monitoring With Unmatched Precision
IN A NUTSHELL 🚀 The Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder (QGGPf) is a groundbreaking NASA mission set to transform Earth observation. (QGGPf) is a groundbreaking NASA mission set to transform Earth observation. 🔍 By utilizing ultra-cold atoms , QGGPf can detect subtle gravitational changes, revealing hidden geological features and resources. , QGGPf can detect subtle gravitational changes, revealing hidden geological features and resources. 🤝 The project highlights the power of collaboration between NASA and leading quantum technology companies, enhancing sensor capabilities. between NASA and leading quantum technology companies, enhancing sensor capabilities. 🌍 The mission promises to advance space exploration and resource management, offering unprecedented insights into Earth's dynamic environment. The launch of the Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder (QGGPf) marks an unprecedented step in our quest to understand Earth's complex systems. This innovative sensor, backed by NASA's Earth Science Technology Office (ESTO), employs cutting-edge technology to map subtle changes in Earth's gravity with remarkable accuracy. As global challenges such as dwindling freshwater resources and the need for sustainable energy solutions intensify, the insights offered by this mission could prove invaluable. By detecting and analyzing gravitational shifts, QGGPf aims to provide an unparalleled view of the planet's hidden features, offering a new perspective on Earth's dynamic environment. Revolutionizing Earth Observation with Quantum Technology The advent of the QGGPf represents a significant leap forward in space-based observation technologies. Leveraging the strange yet powerful behavior of ultra-cold atoms, this mission aims to transcend the limitations of traditional gravity sensing tools. These tools, while valuable, often lack the sensitivity required for detailed subsurface mapping and depend on large, complex satellite arrays. In contrast, the QGGPf offers a compact and highly sensitive solution, measuring just 0.3 cubic yards and weighing approximately 275 pounds. This revolutionary design is poised to transform our understanding of Earth's hidden resources and geological structures. The ability to detect variations in gravity with such precision allows scientists to pinpoint aquifers, mineral deposits, and even changes in environmental conditions. By mapping these variations, QGGPf can unveil the planet's secrets, offering insights crucial for managing natural resources and addressing environmental challenges. As we continue to push the boundaries of exploration, the integration of quantum mechanics and gravitational science offers a promising avenue for advancing our knowledge of Earth and beyond. The Science Behind Quantum Gravity Gradiometry At the heart of the QGGPf's groundbreaking capabilities is the use of gravity gradiometers, which measure the tiny differences in gravitational pull between two points. This is achieved through the deployment of two clouds of ultra-cold rubidium atoms, cooled to near absolute zero. Under these extreme conditions, the atoms exhibit wave-like properties that facilitate highly accurate measurements of their motion. By analyzing these movements, the QGGPf can detect anomalies in Earth's gravity field, highlighting variations in subsurface mass and revealing hidden geological features. These precise measurements offer invaluable insights into underground structures and resource distribution, paving the way for more informed decision-making in resource management and environmental conservation. The QGGPf's use of quantum technology not only enhances measurement sensitivity but also opens new possibilities for exploring planetary science and fundamental physics. As we look to the future, the potential applications of this technology extend far beyond our home planet, promising to revolutionize space exploration and our understanding of the cosmos. Collaborative Efforts and Technological Breakthroughs The development of the QGGPf is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. NASA has partnered with leading quantum technology companies, AOSense and Infleqtion, to develop the sensor hardware, while teaming up with Vector Atomic to advance the precision laser systems that are integral to the instrument's functionality. This collaborative effort has resulted in a compact, self-contained unit capable of conducting unprecedented measurements from space. The mission also underscores the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation in advancing scientific research. By combining expertise in quantum mechanics, engineering, and Earth science, this project aims to validate the capabilities of quantum gravity sensing in orbit. Should the mission succeed, it will lay the groundwork for future endeavors that could scan other planets and moons, further highlighting the transformative potential of quantum technology in space exploration and beyond. Paving the Way for Future Exploration As the QGGPf prepares for its launch towards the end of the decade, it promises to herald a new era in remote sensing and space-based science. By demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of quantum gravity sensing, NASA and its partners are setting the stage for future missions that could revolutionize everything from natural resource management to climate science. The insights gained from this mission have the potential to redefine our understanding of Earth's hidden forces and drive innovation in planetary exploration. The QGGPf's success could inspire a new wave of scientific research, leveraging quantum technology to unlock the mysteries of the Universe. By bridging the gap between quantum mechanics and gravitational science, this mission offers a glimpse into a future where our ability to observe and understand the cosmos is limited only by our imagination. As we stand on the cusp of this new frontier, the question remains: how will these advancements shape our approach to exploring and preserving our planet and the worlds beyond? This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.6/5 (25)
Times of Oman
22-07-2025
- Science
- Times of Oman
ISRO to launch NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar satellite on July 30
New Delhi: The Indian Space Research Organisation on Monday said that it will launch the NISAR, the first joint Earth observation satellite by ISRO and NASA, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh on July 30 at 17:40 IST. According to ISRO, the launch of the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite will mark a milestone in over a decade of collaboration between the two space agencies. Additionally, ISRO stated that the satellite would provide high-resolution, day-and-night, all-weather data by scanning the entire world every 12 days, identifying minute variations in the Earth's surface, such as vegetation dynamics, ice sheet shifts, and ground deformation. "On July 30, 2025 at 17:40 IST, ISRO's GSLV-F16 will launch NISAR, the first joint Earth observation satellite by ISRO & NASA, from Sriharikota. NISAR will scan the entire globe every 12 days, providing high-resolution, all-weather, day-and-night data. It can detect even subtle changes in Earth's surface--like ground deformation, ice sheet shifts, and vegetation dynamics," ISRO stated in a post on X. "The mission will support many critical applications, including sea ice monitoring, ship detection, storm tracking, soil moisture changes, surface water mapping, and disaster response. A milestone in over a decade of collaboration between ISRO & NASA/JPL," it added. According to ISRO, the NISAR satellite, weighing 2,392 kg, will be injected into a 743 km Sun-synchronous orbit with an inclination of 98.40 degrees. Equipped with dual-frequency Synthetic Aperture Radar--NASA's L-band and ISRO's S-band--NISAR features a 12-metre unfurlable mesh reflector antenna integrated into ISRO's modified I3K satellite bus. Utilising SweepSAR technology for the first time, the satellite will offer a 242 km swath with high spatial resolution, enabling comprehensive Earth observation. "NISAR, weighing 2392 kg, is a unique Earth observation satellite and the first satellite to observe the Earth with a dual-frequency Synthetic Aperture Radar (NASA's L-band and ISRO's S-band), both using NASA's 12m unfurlable mesh reflector antenna, integrated to ISRO's modified I3K satellite bus. NISAR will observe Earth with a swath of 242 km and high spatial resolution, using SweepSAR technology for the first time," ISRO stated in a press release. NISAR's ability to provide high-resolution, all-weather data every 12 days will support critical applications, from tracking climate change impacts to aiding disaster management. "The satellite will scan the entire globe and provide all weather, day & night data at 12-day interval and enable a wide range of applications. NISAR can detect even small changes in the Earth's surface, such as ground deformation, ice sheet movement and vegetation dynamics. Further applications include sea ice classification, ship detection, shoreline monitoring, storm characterisation, changes in soil moisture, mapping & monitoring of surface water resources and disaster response," the release added.
Yahoo
21-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Satellogic Inc. (SATL) Announces Inclusion in Russell 3000 Index
Satellogic Inc. (NASDAQ:SATL) is among the 10 Best Small Cap Defense Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds. On July 8, the company announced its inclusion in the U.S. small-cap Russell 3000 Index. A satellite hovering in space capturing Earth Observation data. The company's addition as a member of the index marks a significant milestone, aligning its presence in capital markets with the sustained growth and progress it is making in the Earth observation and satellite manufacturing industry. The inclusion is also expected to enhance Satellogic Inc. (NASDAQ:SATL)'s visibility among investors, which will help in increasing liquidity for its shares. Emiliano Kargieman, CEO & Co-Founder of Satellogic Inc. (NASDAQ:SATL), stated the following on the development: 'We are incredibly honored to join the Russell 3000 Index. This inclusion is a testament to our team's dedication, the robust performance of our scalable Earth Observation platform, and our commitment to delivering accessible and affordable insights to customers worldwide. We believe this will significantly increase our visibility among a broader base of institutional investors, supporting our continued growth and our mission to help solve some of the world's most pressing challenges, from climate change to energy supply and national security. We look forward to this new chapter and the opportunities it presents for our shareholders.' Satellogic Inc. (NASDAQ:SATL) is a vertically integrated geospatial analytics company that delivers real-time insights for consumers, governments, and industries worldwide. The stock has had impressive returns in 2025, gaining 30.53% year-to-date as of July 16. While we acknowledge the potential of SATL as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: and . Disclosure: None.
