The SETI Institute frequently appears in news stories due to its essential contributions to space science and exploration. From groundbreaking discoveries to inspiring initiatives, the world of space exploration continues to capture our imaginations.
In this month’s roundup, discover how astronomers have uncovered a unique triple star system with the shortest known outer orbital period, and updates on the Comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas comet that has been traveling for over 81,000 years, and more!
New Triple Star System Sets Shortest Orbital Period Record
A new triple star system named TIC 290061484, discovered by professional and amateur astronomers, features two stars orbiting each other every 1.8 days, with a third star orbiting the pair in just 25 days. This breaks the previous record for the shortest outer orbital period.
Veselin Kostov, a research scientist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center and the SETI Institute, led the study, which was published in The Astrophysical Journal on October 2nd. Kostov stated, "Thanks to the compact, edge-on configuration of the system, we can measure the orbits, masses, sizes, and temperatures of its stars. And we can study how the system formed and predict how it may evolve."
National Space Society Awards Grant to the Haughton-Mars Project to Further STEM Education
The National Space Society has awarded a $15,000 grant to the Haughton-Mars Project (HMP) to support their Mars simulation research and STEM education activities. The HMP is a leading international field research project located on Devon Island in the Canadian Arctic, led by renowned planetary scientist Dr. Pascal Lee. The project is focused on studying the effectiveness of drones for exploring Mars. The grant will also support the HMP's 2024 Apollo Fellowship program and other STEM initiatives.
The Best Books We Read This Week: The Secret Life of the Universe
The SETI Institute’s Director of the Carl Sagan Center for Research, Nathalie A. Cabrol, offers a fascinating overview of astrobiology in her new book, The Secret Life of the Universe. Cabrol explores the scientific advances of recent decades, many of which have dramatically changed our understanding of the cosmos and brought us closer to discovering extraterrestrial life. The Secret Life of the Universe is a compact and accessible guide for anyone interested in astrobiology and the search for extraterrestrial life. Cabrol's writing is engaging and informative, making complex scientific concepts easy to understand.
Really cool’ Comet on 81,000-Year Trip Toward Earth Has Finally Arrived — Here’s How to See It
A comet that has been traveling for an astonishing 81,000 years is finally making its closest approach to Earth. Discovered last year, Comet A3, also known as Tsuchinshan-Atlas, is being hailed as a potential "comet of the decade" by the SETI Institute. The celestial spectacle is vastly rarer than the appearance of Halley's comet, which occurs approximately every 72 to 80 years. Despite initial concerns about its dimming brightness, Comet A3 is now regaining its luminosity and is expected to put on a spectacular show in the coming days.
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