Latest news with #Relay2
Sustainability Times
06-07-2025
- Science
- Sustainability Times
Terrifying Signal From Deep Space: New Detection Shows Traits Too Precise to Be Natural, Forcing Scientists to Reconsider Everything
IN A NUTSHELL 🔭 Astronomers discovered an ultra-fast radio signal initially thought to be from deep space. initially thought to be from deep space. 🛰️ The signal was traced back to a decades-old NASA satellite named Relay 2. named Relay 2. ⚡ Possible causes include an electrostatic discharge or a micrometeoroid impact on the satellite. or a micrometeoroid impact on the satellite. 🚀 This finding highlights the need for advanced techniques to distinguish between cosmic and human-made signals. In the ever-evolving field of astronomy, unexpected discoveries often lead to significant advancements in our understanding of the universe. Recently, researchers in Australia detected an ultra-fast radio signal that initially appeared to originate from deep space. However, this intriguing phenomenon turned out to be much closer to home, challenging our perceptions and methodologies in studying cosmic events. This revelation not only highlights the complexities involved in space exploration but also underscores the critical importance of thorough investigation in distinguishing between natural and human-made signals. The Mystery of the Ultra-Fast Radio Signal When astronomers in Australia first detected the ultra-fast radio signal using the advanced ASKAP radio telescope, it seemed to be another instance of the enigmatic fast radio bursts (FRBs) that have captivated scientists for years. These brief yet powerful flashes of radio waves are typically detected from distant galaxies, sparking numerous theories about their origins. However, this signal was different. Its duration was less than 30 nanoseconds, significantly shorter than the typical FRB, prompting researchers to delve deeper into its source. The initial assumption that the signal came from the depths of space was quickly overturned. Upon further investigation, scientists traced the signal back to a much more proximal origin: an inactive NASA satellite from the 1960s named Relay 2. This satellite, orbiting approximately 2,800 miles above Earth, had inadvertently become the source of this puzzling radio emission. 'Nasa Confirms the Unthinkable': China's Giant Water Diversion Project Will Slow Earth's Rotation and Disrupt Global Timekeeping Unraveling the Origin: A NASA Satellite The discovery that the signal originated from the Relay 2 satellite was both surprising and enlightening. Initially launched to facilitate communication, this now-defunct satellite was not expected to be a source of radio signals. The revelation that it could still emit detectable radio waves decades after its mission ended poses significant implications for space research. Two potential explanations have been proposed for the signal: an electrostatic discharge due to accumulated electricity or the impact of a micrometeoroid on the satellite's surface. Both scenarios could produce a brief radio spark detectable from Earth. This finding emphasizes the need for scientists to exercise caution when interpreting signals, as human-made objects can sometimes mimic natural cosmic phenomena. 'Space Needs Nuclear Now': This New Global Race to Harness Atomic Power Beyond Earth Is Accelerating Faster Than Expected The Significance of Distinguishing Signals Distinguishing between cosmic signals and those generated by human artifacts is crucial in the field of astronomy. The misidentification of a signal's origin can lead to incorrect scientific conclusions and theories. This incident with the Relay 2 satellite serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in space exploration and the importance of meticulous analysis in research. As space becomes increasingly populated with artificial satellites and debris, the potential for confusion between genuine cosmic signals and human-made interference will likely grow. Researchers must continue to develop advanced techniques and technologies to accurately identify the sources of radio signals, ensuring that our understanding of the universe is based on accurate data. 'Earth's Core Is Acting Up': NASA Links Planet-Wide Disturbance to Mysterious Energy Surge Emerging From Deep Within the Mantle Implications for Future Research This unexpected discovery has opened new avenues for research and highlighted the need for improved methods in signal detection and analysis. It demonstrates the potential for existing technology, like the ASKAP radio telescope, to reveal unexpected insights not just about the cosmos, but also about our own satellite infrastructure. Future research could focus on developing systems to automatically distinguish between natural and artificial signals, potentially using machine learning algorithms. Such advancements could revolutionize our approach to studying the universe, allowing us to more accurately interpret the data we collect from space and minimize the risk of misidentification. The revelation that an old NASA satellite could still produce detectable radio signals raises fascinating questions about the longevity and impact of human-made objects in space. As we continue to explore the cosmos, how will we ensure that our interpretations are accurate and that we are not misled by the echoes of our own technological creations? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.7/5 (26)
Mint
01-07-2025
- Science
- Mint
Astronomers receive powerful radio signal only 4,500 km away from Earth: Here's what they find next
In June 2024, astronomers in Australia detected a powerful radio signal that seemed to come from near Earth. At first, they thought it was a new space object. The signal was picked up by the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) radio telescope in Western Australia. It was so strong it outshone everything else in the sky for a moment. Researchers usually look for fast radio bursts: short, powerful signals from faraway galaxies, possibly caused by dense, magnetic remains of dead stars. However, this signal was different. When they focused the telescope, the short signal became extremely bright, around 2,000 to 3,000 times stronger than any other signals recorded. The team removed data from the outer antennas and used the central ones to study it better. It came from only 4,500 km away and matched the location of an old satellite called Relay 2. NASA launched Relay 2, a communication satellite, in 1964 to improve signals between the US and Europe and help broadcast the Tokyo Olympics. But, by 1967, it stopped working and became space junk. Though disappointed it wasn't from space, scientists were left wondering what exactly created such a strong signal. The incident raised new concerns about space junk in Earth's orbit. Scientists think the signal may have come from a sudden release of static electricity that built up on the satellite's metal surface. It is similar to when you rub your feet on a carpet and get a small electric shock. Another possible cause is a tiny micrometeorite hitting the satellite at very high speed, which could create a burst of hot gas (plasma) and send out a short radio wave. Although this second reason is less likely, it still shows how even dead satellites in space can sometimes give off unexpected signals after decades of silence. With growing numbers of old satellites, signals like this might become more common and may interfere with important space research in the future, Professor Clancy James told CNN.
Economic Times
30-06-2025
- Science
- Economic Times
Scientists thought they found a 'zombie' in space. Turns out, it was something even stranger
Live Events (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel In June last year, astronomers scanning the sky from the remote deserts of Western Australia picked up a sudden, blinding burst of radio energy. The signal was so powerful, it temporarily outshone every other radio source in the sky, according to a report of first, the team at Curtin University believed they had discovered something extraordinary — perhaps a new type of astronomical object or an ultra-rare fast radio burst (FRB) from within our galaxy.'We were really excited,' Dr. Clancy James, associate professor at Curtin's Institute of Radio Astronomy, told CNN. 'It looked like we had found an unknown object near Earth.'The data came from the ASKAP telescope , an advanced array of 36 large antennas spread across the Wajarri Yamaji Country in Western Australia. This setup is usually used to detect FRBs — intense, millisecond-long bursts of radio energy from distant galaxies, potentially caused by exotic phenomena like magnetars, the ultra-magnetic remains of dead bursts are not only puzzling but also powerful tools for mapping the "missing" matter in the universe. But this particular signal wasn't behaving like a normal typical FRBs that originate billions of light-years away, this burst appeared to be shockingly close — just 4,500 kilometers (2,800 miles) from Earth. When the team zoomed into the data, the image became blurry — a telltale sign the source was much closer than sifting through satellite databases, the astronomers matched the source to Relay 2, a long-defunct U.S. communications satellite launched in 1964. Relay 2 had been orbiting silently since its instruments failed in this sparked an even more bizarre question: Could a dead satellite suddenly burst back to life?The leading theory is an electrostatic discharge — a burst of energy caused by a buildup of electric charge on the satellite's surface, similar to the shock you get from touching a doorknob after walking on carpet. When the charge releases, it can emit a sharp flash of radio these discharges are common and often harmless, the intensity and brevity of this one — just 30 nanoseconds long — was unprecedented. In fact, it was 2,000 to 3,000 times brighter than any other signal the ASKAP instrument typically possibility, though less likely, is that a micrometeorite no larger than a grain of sand slammed into Relay 2 at extreme speed, causing a burst of plasma and radio waves. However, the team estimates there's only about a 1% chance that was the this turned out to be a human-made source, the discovery underscores a major challenge in space research: the interference of space junk with astronomical observations. With over 22,000 satellites launched since the dawn of the space age — and thousands no longer functional — Earth's orbit is becoming a crowded and unpredictable like the one from Relay 2 could easily be mistaken for cosmic phenomena, especially as ground-based observatories like ASKAP and upcoming arrays such as SKA-Low (Square Kilometre Array) continue to scan the skies for fast, faint this unexpected 'zombie signal' turned out to be from a defunct satellite, it opens up new possibilities for using radio telescopes to monitor aging spacecraft for signs of unusual activity.
Time of India
30-06-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Scientists thought they found a 'zombie' in space. Turns out, it was something even stranger
Astronomers in Western Australia detected a powerful radio burst, initially mistaking it for a new astronomical object or a rare fast radio burst. The signal was traced back to Relay 2, a defunct U.S. communications satellite launched in 1964. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads In June last year, astronomers scanning the sky from the remote deserts of Western Australia picked up a sudden, blinding burst of radio energy. The signal was so powerful, it temporarily outshone every other radio source in the sky, according to a report of first, the team at Curtin University believed they had discovered something extraordinary — perhaps a new type of astronomical object or an ultra-rare fast radio burst (FRB) from within our galaxy.'We were really excited,' Dr. Clancy James, associate professor at Curtin's Institute of Radio Astronomy, told CNN. 'It looked like we had found an unknown object near Earth.'The data came from the ASKAP telescope , an advanced array of 36 large antennas spread across the Wajarri Yamaji Country in Western Australia. This setup is usually used to detect FRBs — intense, millisecond-long bursts of radio energy from distant galaxies, potentially caused by exotic phenomena like magnetars, the ultra-magnetic remains of dead bursts are not only puzzling but also powerful tools for mapping the "missing" matter in the universe. But this particular signal wasn't behaving like a normal typical FRBs that originate billions of light-years away, this burst appeared to be shockingly close — just 4,500 kilometers (2,800 miles) from Earth. When the team zoomed into the data, the image became blurry — a telltale sign the source was much closer than sifting through satellite databases, the astronomers matched the source to Relay 2, a long-defunct U.S. communications satellite launched in 1964. Relay 2 had been orbiting silently since its instruments failed in this sparked an even more bizarre question: Could a dead satellite suddenly burst back to life?The leading theory is an electrostatic discharge — a burst of energy caused by a buildup of electric charge on the satellite's surface, similar to the shock you get from touching a doorknob after walking on carpet. When the charge releases, it can emit a sharp flash of radio these discharges are common and often harmless, the intensity and brevity of this one — just 30 nanoseconds long — was unprecedented. In fact, it was 2,000 to 3,000 times brighter than any other signal the ASKAP instrument typically possibility, though less likely, is that a micrometeorite no larger than a grain of sand slammed into Relay 2 at extreme speed, causing a burst of plasma and radio waves. However, the team estimates there's only about a 1% chance that was the this turned out to be a human-made source, the discovery underscores a major challenge in space research: the interference of space junk with astronomical observations. With over 22,000 satellites launched since the dawn of the space age — and thousands no longer functional — Earth's orbit is becoming a crowded and unpredictable like the one from Relay 2 could easily be mistaken for cosmic phenomena, especially as ground-based observatories like ASKAP and upcoming arrays such as SKA-Low (Square Kilometre Array) continue to scan the skies for fast, faint this unexpected 'zombie signal' turned out to be from a defunct satellite, it opens up new possibilities for using radio telescopes to monitor aging spacecraft for signs of unusual activity.
USA Today
29-06-2025
- Science
- USA Today
NASA satellite emits 'spark' decades after going dormant: Astronomers think they know why
Source of the radio waves was tracked to a location that matches that of NASA's defunct Relay 2 spacecraft, which launched in 1964 from Cape Canaveral, Florida. A NASA satellite that had been dead for nearly six decades issued a surprising sign of life. In June 2024, a team of astronomers were perplexed when a radio telescope in Australia scanning the sky over the southern hemisphere came across unusual radio waves. The burst of radiation was very bright, exceedingly quick – and much closer to Earth than the scientists would have thought. After studying the source of the strange cosmic phenomena, the researchers were even more mystified when it appeared to be originating from the same location as a NASA spacecraft that went offline about 58 years ago, according to a press release about the discovery released June 25, 2025. Don't be fooled, though: The defunct spacecraft that operated for about three years in the 1960s isn't kicking back on to resume operations anytime soon. So, what's going on? Here's what to know about the strange signal, and how astronomers tracked it to a defunct NASA satellite. What is NASA Relay 2 spacecraft? Astronomers tracked the source of the radio waves to a location that matches that of NASA's defunct Relay 2 spacecraft, a communications satellite that launched into orbit in 1964 from Cape Canaveral, Florida. The spacecraft operated until June 1967 after both of its onboard transponders failed. So, has the long-dead satellite has suddenly sprung back to life after nearly six decades? Astronomers say that's unlikely. Rather, the waves more likely came from a "spark" of built up electricity, which emitted a pulse as it jumped from one part of the spacecraft to another while passing through charged environment above Earth's atmosphere, according to the researchers. Strange signal originated in Milky Way The team of astronomers discovered the strange signal while hunting for bright, powerful flashes of electromagnetic radiation in the distant universe known as fast radio bursts. Most surprising to the researchers, all of whom are from the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research, was that the signal spotted June 13, 2024, didn't originate from a far-flung galaxy. Instead, it originated in our own cosmic neighborhood in the Milky Way. While incredibly bright, the event only lasted less than 30 nanoseconds. The astronomers detected it using Australia's national science agency's (CSIRO) ASKAP radio telescope. Clancy James, an astrophysicist at Curtin University in Australia's Perth campus, then led a team that studied the extremely bright source of radio waves to determine its source. While the satellite signal is one possible explanation, the researchers have also theorized that an impact with a tiny particle of space debris, known as a "micrometeoroid," could have caused the anomaly. Such impacts can create short-lived clouds of hot, charged gas that produce bursts of radio waves. Electrostatic discharges could post threats in Earth's orbit The discovery marks the first time that a spark of built-up electricity has been observed to be both so bright and so short in duration. Now that the detection has been made, the finding not only demonstrates how astronomers can help identify the origin of these kinds of signals in the future, but could even help humanity better understand how electrostatic discharges can pose a danger to satellites in Earth's orbit. "Detections like this show how the tools developed to study the distant Universe can help scientists understand the increasingly crowded and critically important space environment close to Earth," the researcher said in a statement. The research has been accepted for publication in Astrophysical Journal Letters. A pre-print version of the paper is available on arXiv. Eric Lagatta is the Space Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at elagatta@
