Here are today’s most important updates from the realm of Science and Space.
On December 7, 2024, Earth will align between the Sun and Jupiter, creating a rare astronomical event regarded as Jupiters opposition. On December 6, Jupiter will be at a distance of 611 million kilometres from Earth at approximately 5 am IST, to ensure the planet shine the brightest, thus making it the best viewing opportunity for telescope enthusiasts to examine its atmospheric belts and Galilean moons. On the night of December 7, keep your eyes on the east-northeast near the constellation Taurus as Jupiter rises at sunset and sets at sunrise. You will also be able spot its four largest moons-Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) is currently preparing for the launch of its highly ambitious SPace Docking Experiment (SpadeX) mission after successfully launch of Europe's Proba-3 mission. ISRO Chief S. Somnath shared an optimistic updates about the project, “PSLV-C60 is going to be a mission to demonstrate SPace Docking Experiment (SpadeX). The rocket is ready now; we are waiting for the final phase of testing and activities.” He also added Spadex could be launched in December itself. This mission is a significant step towards enhancing India's capabilities in space exploration and technology.
Falcon 9 launches 20 @Starlink satellites, completing the first orbital shell of our Direct to Cell constellation → https://t.co/RV4c2XquT0 pic.twitter.com/FKUeqxqkTD
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) December 5, 2024
Credit - X/@SpaceX
Elon Musk has announced the completion of the first-ever Starlink satellite constellation capable of providing direct internet connectivity to unmodified cell phones. This pioneering development will enable users in remote areas to access the internet without specialised equipment. The SpaceX has successfully launched 20 Starlink satellites, including 13 equipped with direct-to-cell capabilities, from California's Vandenberg Space Force Base on December 4, 2024. The Starlink project aims to deploy thousands of satellites in low Earth orbit to provide global broadband coverage. As of now, SpaceX has launched over 7,000 satellites and continues to expand its network.
Scientists have revealed the face of Saint Nicholas of Myra, the real-life bishop who later inspired the concept of Santa Claus. This groundbreaking face reconstruction after 1,700 years of the saint's death was made possible by analysing data from his skull. Using advanced techniques, scientists "forensically recreate" the face of Saint Nicholas of Myra. “The 3D images reveal his face to be both ‘strong’ and ‘gentle’,” said the study's lead author Cicero Moraes. Saint Nicholas of Myra died in 343 AD - much before anyone could click a photo. He was known for rewarding well-behaved kids with gifts and later inspiring the Dutch folk figure of Sinterklaas. Over time, this character was merged with English Father Christmas to become the modern-day Santa Claus.a
