International Space Station National Laboratory’s Post

Research led by scientists at Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology (HIMB) and Smithsonian Institution explores an unprecedented approach to safeguarding Earth’s imperiled biodiversity, through cryogenic preservation of biological material on the moon. The concept might seem out of this world, but the moon is in fact perfectly poised for such a feat. The craters of the lunar poles lie in perpetual shadow, making them cold enough for passive cryogenic preservation, with no requirement for electricity or liquid nitrogen. The paper, published in BioScience and written in collaboration with researchers from Harvard Medical School, National Ecological Observatory Network, University Corporation of Atmospheric Research, and University of Minnesota outlines a roadmap for the lunar biorepository’s creation and explores ideas of governance, types of biological material to be stored, and how to address challenges like radiation and microgravity. The study also demonstrates the successful cryopreservation of skin samples from a Hawaiian reef fish, which are now stored at the Smithsonian. Mary Hagedorn, a research cryobiologist at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) and affiliate faculty member at HIMB, is lead author of the paper. “Initially, a lunar biorepository would target the most at-risk species on Earth today,” she explains of the project, “but our ultimate goal would be to cryopreserve most species on Earth.” Read the article: https://lnkd.in/gqbQf5gv #conservation #space #ocean Photo credit: NASA SVS

"Space is rapidly becoming an extension of earth, representing the latest arena for intense human competition." Most existing international #space treaties are regarded as outdated, products of the Cold War that fail to account for #technological advancements and the expansion of states with space-related aspirations. At best, current space activity is governed by a series of non-binding, ad hoc agreements. Read a review of "The Future of Geography: How Power and Politics in Space Will Change Our World", which analyses the geopolitical dynamics and consequences of space exploration. #SpaceEconomy #SpacePolicy | LSE Review of Books

New section just opened to accommodate demand for CLRC's Earth Science and Astronomy! This full-year course explores the structure of the natural world through the lens of three different sciences: Geology, Meteorology (Weather), and Astronomy. The format includes lectures with numerous color graphics, demonstrations, video clips, reading, laboratory experiments, and investigative homework assignments. https://lnkd.in/gBTiRGRz #onlineearthscience

Today #LSUGG 's very own graduate students, Dewan Haque and Amaya Wanniarachchi, present at this at Astronomy on Tap - Baton Rouge this Thursday! 📅 Date: Thursday, December 7th 📍 Location: Varsity Theatre, Baton Rouge, LA ⏰ Time: Doors open at 6:30 PM, event begins at 7 PM 🌟 Speaker 1: Dewan Mohammad Enamul Haque "Towards Ground Motion Estimation Model Development for Mars" Explore the intricate realm of Martian seismology as we embark on a journey to develop comprehensive ground motion estimation models for Marsquakes and impact events. Delve into the key findings derived from ground motion predictor variables for selected large events on Mars, and gain insights into how these findings are integrated into the ground motion model development process. Discover the essential role of these models in assessing engineering demands for near-future human settlement-related infrastructure design on Mars. 🌟 Speaker 2: Amaya Wanniarachchi "Investigating Phosphate and Iron-bearing Carbonatite Weathering Analogous to Mars" Embark on a scientific exploration of phosphate and iron-bearing carbonatite weathering processes, drawing intriguing parallels to Martian weathering phenomena. Join us as we employ a diverse array of experimental techniques to unlock the mysteries concealed within these geological transformations. Our research aims to identify secondary phosphate minerals, comprehend the factors driving their weathering, and establish connections to potential Martian weathering processes. This investigation promises to not only enrich our understanding of Earth but also offer valuable insights into how rocks evolve and weather on two distinct celestial bodies. 🌌🍻 Immerse yourself in cosmic discoveries, trivia, exciting raffles, and illuminate the night with glowing glow sticks. Astronomy on Tap events are not only free but also suitable for all ages! Bring your friends and family for an evening of scientific wonder. Save the date and spread the word! Let's explore the universe's enigmas together. 🌟🚀 #AstronomyOnTap #AstroOnTap #AOTBR #BatonRouge #Astronomy #Mars #ScientificDiscovery #freeevent

Integrating Omnidisciplinary Environmental Thinking into Sustainable Space Exploration: A Holistic Approach to Cosmic Stewardship As we venture further into the vast expanse of space, it is crucial that we adopt an omnidisciplinary environmental thinking approach, integrating insights from diverse fields to ensure sustainable space exploration. This holistic methodology encompasses: 1. Astrobiology: Understanding the intricate relationships between life and the cosmos. 2. Ecological Economics: Valuing the natural resources and services of celestial bodies. 3. Planetary Ethics: Recognizing the intrinsic value of extraterrestrial ecosystems. 4. Environmental Engineering: Designing sustainable infrastructure for space habitats. 5. Cosmic Conservation Biology: Preserving the biodiversity of celestial bodies. 6. Space Governance: Establishing policies for responsible space resource management. 7. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Fostering dialogue between scientists, philosophers, and policymakers. By embracing omnidisciplinary environmental thinking, we can: 1. Ensure the long-term sustainability of space exploration. 2. Protect the integrity of extraterrestrial ecosystems. 3. Promote a culture of cosmic stewardship. 4. Foster a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of life and the universe. As we explore the vastness of space, let us do so with reverence, respect, and a commitment to preserving the beauty and wonder of the cosmos for future generations. #OmnidisciplinaryEnvironmentalThinking #SustainableSpaceExploration #Astrobiology #EcologicalEconomics #PlanetaryEthics #EnvironmentalEngineering #CosmicConservationBiology #SpaceGovernance #InterdisciplinaryCollaboration #CosmicStewardship

#LSUGG 's very own graduate students, Dewan Haque and Amaya Wanniarachchi, present at this at Astronomy on Tap - Baton Rouge this Thursday! 📅 Date: Thursday, December 7th 📍 Location: Varsity Theatre, Baton Rouge, LA ⏰ Time: Doors open at 6:30 PM, event begins at 7 PM 🌟 Speaker 1: Dewan Mohammad Enamul Haque "Towards Ground Motion Estimation Model Development for Mars" Explore the intricate realm of Martian seismology as we embark on a journey to develop comprehensive ground motion estimation models for Marsquakes and impact events. Delve into the key findings derived from ground motion predictor variables for selected large events on Mars, and gain insights into how these findings are integrated into the ground motion model development process. Discover the essential role of these models in assessing engineering demands for near-future human settlement-related infrastructure design on Mars. 🌟 Speaker 2: Amaya Wanniarachchi "Investigating Phosphate and Iron-bearing Carbonatite Weathering Analogous to Mars" Embark on a scientific exploration of phosphate and iron-bearing carbonatite weathering processes, drawing intriguing parallels to Martian weathering phenomena. Join us as we employ a diverse array of experimental techniques to unlock the mysteries concealed within these geological transformations. Our research aims to identify secondary phosphate minerals, comprehend the factors driving their weathering, and establish connections to potential Martian weathering processes. This investigation promises to not only enrich our understanding of Earth but also offer valuable insights into how rocks evolve and weather on two distinct celestial bodies. 🌌🍻 Immerse yourself in cosmic discoveries, trivia, exciting raffles, and illuminate the night with glowing glow sticks. Astronomy on Tap events are not only free but also suitable for all ages! Bring your friends and family for an evening of scientific wonder. Save the date and spread the word! Let's explore the universe's enigmas together. 🌟🚀 #AstronomyOnTap #AstroOnTap #AOTBR #BatonRouge #Astronomy #Mars #ScientificDiscovery #freeevent

Good to see this. Geodesy is fundamental to all of survey practice. 

This article covers how to enhance query performance on an astronomy dataset employing clustering of the records by HEALPix index. Although this article specifically refers to astronomy data, the techniques could be useful for any user of the BigQuery GIS platform.

My EIIS program just ended, and I've been reviewing the books and texts I read throughout the course. I recently finished "A City on Mars" by Kelly and Zach Weinersmith, and I must say, it was an intriguing read. The book delves into the complexities of traveling to and colonizing Mars, debunking myths and romanticized notions of space colonization. The authors discuss the real challenges we face, including biological hurdles, life support systems, space law, and the concept of space nations. While the book was a bit lengthy at times, it never became boring. The different perspectives provided a reality check on the many prerequisites needed before we see large-scale human settlements on the Moon and Mars. I found "A City on Mars" both entertaining and educational, shedding light on the limitations of current space exploration technologies. Despite its skeptical and sometimes sarcastic tone, it was a captivating read. The main takeaway is that technology needs to advance significantly before committing to a Mars colony, and a functional colony would require thousands of people to ensure long-term sustainability. I'm now eager to explore Robert Zubrin's viewpoints in his new book, "The New World on Mars." I'll share my thoughts on it once I've finished reading it. #eiis #mars #space

The Hidden Toll: Unpacking the Environmental Impact of Our Quest for the Stars As the commercial space industry grows and technology breakthroughs push humans further into space, the environmental impacts of these ventures are becoming increasingly evident. Air pollution from rocket launches, space debris, and the industry’s possible long-term consequences on Earth’s ecology are the primary topics of this paper’s examination of the space industry’s ecological implications. The paper particularly stresses the importance of strong regulatory mechanisms, international cooperation, and environmentally responsible space exploration methods. In order to preserve Earth and space for decades to come, we must cultivate a space industry that places an emphasis on ecological stewardship in addition to scientific and commercial accomplishments. Stefania Paterno, Junior Researcher GEO Area Ambiente #mondointernazionale_geo #ecology #stars #technology #spaceindustry https://lnkd.in/dtStkDqE