"Space Selfie" is a project that allows users to send a photo to a tiny satellite in low Earth orbit, which then takes a picture of the photo displayed on its screen with Earth as a backdrop, creating a "space selfie." The project, a collaboration between Crunch Labs and former Apple engineers, uses a small, low-cost satellite and emphasizes accessibility and a playful approach to space exploration. Users can purchase slots to upload their photos, and the satellite captures the images using a camera attached to a selfie stick. The resulting images are then sent back down to Earth and shared with the user.
Amazon's secretive Project Kuiper satellites, aiming to provide global broadband internet, have revealed some key details through recent FCC filings. The network will consist of 3,236 satellites in low Earth orbit at altitudes ranging from 590 to 630 km. Unlike Starlink's laser inter-satellite links, Kuiper will rely on a mix of optical links and traditional radio frequencies for communication, including Ka-band for user terminals and Q/V-band for gateways. These filings also shed light on orbital debris mitigation plans, including a novel "dipole drag sail" for deorbiting defunct satellites. While details about satellite design and launch plans remain limited, the filings offer a first glimpse into the technical architecture of Amazon's ambitious broadband constellation.
Hacker News commenters discuss Amazon's secretive satellite program, Project Kuiper. Some express skepticism about Amazon's ability to execute, citing their history of abandoning projects. Others question the actual innovation, suggesting it's more about catching up to Starlink than groundbreaking technology. Several highlight the regulatory and logistical hurdles, particularly the challenge of deploying and maintaining such a large constellation. The potential impact on orbital debris and the night sky is also a concern. A few commenters are more optimistic, pointing to Amazon's vast resources and the potential for increased competition in the satellite internet market. Overall, the sentiment leans towards cautious observation, awaiting concrete results rather than being swayed by Amazon's announcements.
This image showcases a combined view of the Perseus galaxy cluster, revealing its complex structure through different wavelengths of light. Data from the Chandra X-ray Observatory (showing hot gas in blue) is overlaid with infrared data from the James Webb Space Telescope (showing galaxies and stars in red, green, and blue) and optical data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (showing galaxies in yellow). This multi-wavelength perspective highlights the interplay between supermassive black holes, hot gas, and star formation within the galaxy cluster, one of the most massive known structures in the Universe.
Hacker News users discuss the impressive visualization of galaxies across different wavelengths. Several commenters express awe at the sheer beauty and scale of the universe depicted, while others delve into the technical aspects, explaining how the composite image was created by combining data from different telescopes observing in infrared, visible, ultraviolet, and X-ray wavelengths. Some highlight the scientific value of such images, explaining how they reveal hidden details about galactic structure, star formation, and the presence of supermassive black holes. A few commenters share links to similar visualization tools and resources for exploring astronomical data. One user points out the challenge of comprehending the vast distances and timescales involved in observing such distant objects.
The post explores the surprising discrepancy between the estimated and observed rates of supernovae. While theoretical models predict hundreds of billions of supernovae across the observable universe annually, current surveys only detect a small fraction of that. This vast difference isn't due to faulty models, but rather the difficulty in observing these explosions. Dust, intervening galaxies, and the sheer expanse of the universe obscure the majority of supernovae from our view, making their detection a challenging endeavor despite their immense power. This explains why, even with sophisticated telescopes, we only observe a relatively tiny number compared to the predicted cosmic abundance.
HN commenters generally expressed awe at the sheer scale of supernovae occurring in the observable universe, with some emphasizing the vastness of space this implies. Several pointed out that the article's title was misleading as it conflated observable universe numbers with those in our own galaxy, where supernovae are much rarer. One commenter highlighted the counterintuitive fact that distant supernovae, though individually fainter, are collectively brighter than those nearby due to the sheer number at those distances. There was also discussion about the accuracy of the estimates, the methodology used, and the different types of supernovae. Some users shared links to further resources and tools like a supernova simulator. A few commenters jokingly lamented the lack of easily visible supernovae from Earth.
New research using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) indicates that protoplanetary disks, the birthplaces of planets, are significantly smaller and less massive than previously thought. Observations of 870 protoplanetary disks in the Orion clouds found that a majority are smaller than 100 AU in radius, challenging existing models of planet formation. This smaller size implies a lower reservoir of material for building planets, potentially affecting our understanding of how planetary systems, especially those with giant planets, form and evolve. This discovery could require revisions to planet formation theories, suggesting that planets may form more quickly or efficiently than previously assumed.
HN users discussed the implications of smaller protoplanetary disks for planet formation, particularly for gas giants needing larger feeding zones. Some questioned the representativeness of the studied sample, suggesting observational biases might skew the size distribution. The accuracy of current planet formation models was debated, with some arguing the findings challenge existing theories while others pointed out that models already accommodate a range of disk sizes and planetary architectures. Several commenters highlighted the ongoing refinement of astronomical tools and techniques, anticipating further discoveries and adjustments to our understanding of planetary system formation. The prevalence of "super-Earths" in exoplanet discoveries was also noted, with some suggesting the smaller disk sizes might contribute to their frequent observation.
Botswana successfully launched its first satellite, Botsat-1, into orbit. Developed in partnership with the University of Rome and launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, the satellite will primarily focus on environmental monitoring, including land and water resource management, as well as disaster management. The project aims to enhance Botswana's technological capabilities, train local engineers, and provide valuable data for sustainable development initiatives.
HN commenters express excitement for Botswana's achievement, viewing it as a significant step for the country and the African space industry. Several highlight the potential for future Earth observation applications, particularly in managing natural resources and disaster response. Some discuss the technical aspects, noting the use of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rideshare and the satellite's relatively low cost. A few commenters caution against overhyping the achievement, emphasizing the need for sustained investment and development to build a thriving space program. Finally, there's discussion about the importance of international collaboration and technology transfer in facilitating such projects.
EmptyEpsilon is a free and open-source spaceship bridge simulator designed for collaborative gameplay. It features a minimalist, vector-based aesthetic and focuses on providing a framework for users to create their own custom ships, roles, and gameplay mechanics. The simulator uses a client-server architecture, allowing multiple players to connect and operate different stations on the bridge. While it comes with a basic starter ship and some pre-built functionality, EmptyEpsilon is primarily intended as a platform for users to build upon and tailor to their own specific needs and preferences, using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Several commenters on Hacker News expressed excitement about EmptyEpsilon, praising its impressive visuals and potential for collaborative gameplay. Some drew comparisons to Artemis Spaceship Bridge Simulator, noting EmptyEpsilon's more modern graphics and user interface. A few users discussed the challenges of running such a simulator smoothly, particularly with larger groups, and questioned the choice of Godot as the engine. There was also interest in the project's open-source nature, with suggestions for potential features and improvements, like adding more realistic ship systems and expanding the scripting capabilities. A recurring theme was the desire for more complex gameplay mechanics beyond simple button-pressing, emphasizing the need for strategic depth to maintain long-term engagement.
Lox is a Rust library designed for astrodynamics calculations, prioritizing safety and ergonomics. It leverages Rust's type system and ownership model to prevent common errors like unit mismatches and invalid orbital parameters. Lox offers a high-level, intuitive API for complex operations like orbit propagation, maneuver planning, and coordinate transformations, while also providing lower-level access for greater flexibility. Its focus on correctness and ease of use makes Lox suitable for both rapid prototyping and mission-critical applications.
Hacker News commenters generally expressed interest in Lox, praising its focus on safety and ergonomics within the complex domain of astrodynamics. Several appreciated the use of Rust and its potential for preventing common errors. Some questioned the performance implications of using Rust for such computationally intensive tasks, while others pointed out that Rust's speed and memory safety could be beneficial in the long run. A few commenters with experience in astrodynamics offered specific suggestions for improvement and additional features, like incorporating SPICE kernels or supporting different coordinate systems. There was also discussion around the trade-offs between using a high-level language like Rust versus more traditional options like Fortran or C++. Finally, the choice of the name "Lox" garnered some lighthearted remarks.
SpinLaunch is developing a kinetic energy launch system that uses a massive rotating vacuum-sealed centrifuge to accelerate projectiles containing satellites to hypersonic speeds before releasing them for launch into orbit. This approach aims to significantly reduce the fuel required for space access, lowering costs and environmental impact compared to traditional rocket launches. While the system imparts substantial g-forces, SpinLaunch asserts its satellite deployment technology can withstand these stresses, enabling a new class of smaller, more robust, and cost-effective spacecraft.
Hacker News commenters express skepticism about SpinLaunch's claims and long-term viability. Several question the practicality and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional rocket launches, citing the immense g-forces involved and the potential limitations on payload size and fragility. Doubts are raised about the ability to scale the technology for larger payloads and the actual altitude achieved by the projectile, with some suggesting it merely reaches a high altitude rather than true orbit. Others point to the inherent challenges of atmospheric re-entry for the reusable part of the system. While acknowledging the innovative approach, the overall sentiment leans towards cautious pessimism, pending further demonstration of the technology's capabilities and economic viability. Some commenters also discussed the potential military applications and expressed concern about the weaponization of this technology.
A doorbell camera in Hopewell Township, New Jersey, captured the moment a suspected meteorite struck a home's front walkway. The small, fast-moving object created a loud bang and left a small indentation in the walkway. While awaiting analysis by experts, the family believes it's a meteorite, citing its charred appearance and the timing coinciding with a meteor shower. If confirmed, it would be a remarkably rare event.
Hacker News users discuss the unlikelihood of a meteorite striking a home, with some skeptical about the CNN article's veracity. Several commenters point out the lack of corroborating evidence, such as a wider shot of the area, a clearer view of the damage, or neighbor accounts. The object's speed and trajectory are also questioned, with some suggesting it looks more like something falling from a plane or drone. Others mention the statistical improbability of such an event. A few commenters offer alternative explanations, like a bird or debris from a firework, while some simply express amusement or fascination. The overall sentiment leans towards cautious skepticism, with a desire for more evidence before accepting the meteorite theory.
A new study suggests Pluto's largest moon, Charon, likely formed through a "kiss and capture" scenario involving a partially merged binary Kuiper Belt object. This binary object, containing its own orbiting pair, had a glancing collision with Pluto. During the encounter, one member of the binary was ejected, while the other, Charon's progenitor, was slowed and captured by Pluto's gravity. This gentler interaction explains Charon's surprisingly circular orbit and compositional similarities to Pluto, differing from the more violent impact theories previously favored. This "kiss and capture" model adds to growing evidence for binary objects in the early solar system and their role in forming diverse planetary systems.
HN commenters generally express fascination with the "kiss-and-capture" formation theory for Pluto and Charon, finding it more intuitive than the standard giant-impact theory. Some discuss the mechanics of such an event, pondering the delicate balance of gravity and velocity required for capture. Others highlight the relative rarity of this type of moon formation, emphasizing the unique nature of the Pluto-Charon system. A few commenters also note the impressive level of scientific deduction involved in theorizing about such distant events, particularly given the limited data available. One commenter links to a relevant 2012 paper that explores a similar capture scenario involving Neptune's moon Triton, further enriching the discussion around unusual moon formations.
After over a decade of work by astrophotographer Robert Gendler, a stunning 417-megapixel mosaic of the Andromeda Galaxy has been released. This extremely high-resolution image, composed of hundreds of individual exposures captured through various telescopes, reveals intricate details of our galactic neighbor, including dust lanes, star clusters, and individual stars within the spiral arms. The project represents a significant achievement in astrophotography, showcasing the dedication and technical skill required to create such a comprehensive view of a celestial object.
HN commenters were impressed by the dedication and patience required to create such a detailed image over so many years. Some discussed the technical aspects, including the challenges of stitching together so many images, the equipment used (a small amateur telescope!), and the processing techniques. Others marveled at the sheer scale of the Andromeda galaxy and the detail visible in the image. A few users pointed out existing online viewers like the one from ESASky, noting their ability to zoom in on similar levels of detail, prompting a discussion about the value of the amateur astrophotographer's effort beyond the impressive resolution. Some suggested the article was clickbait, as the final image isn't significantly better than existing, professionally made images.
This article details the creation of a custom star tracker for astronaut Don Pettit to capture stunning images of star trails and other celestial phenomena from the International Space Station (ISS). Engineer Jas Williams collaborated with Pettit to design a barn-door tracker that could withstand the ISS's unique environment and operate with Pettit's existing camera equipment. Key challenges included compensating for the ISS's rapid orbit, mitigating vibrations, and ensuring the device was safe and functional in zero gravity. The resulting tracker employed stepper motors, custom-machined parts, and open-source Arduino code, enabling Pettit to take breathtaking long-exposure photographs of the Earth and cosmos.
Hacker News users generally expressed admiration for Don Pettit's ingenuity and "hacker" spirit, highlighting his ability to create a functional star tracker with limited resources while aboard the ISS. Several commenters appreciated the detailed explanation of the design process and the challenges overcome, such as dealing with vibration and thermal variations. Some discussed the technical aspects, including the choice of sensors and the use of stepper motors. A few pointed out the irony of needing a custom-built star tracker on a space station supposedly packed with sophisticated equipment, reflecting on the limitations sometimes imposed by bureaucracy and pre-planned missions. Others reminisced about previous "MacGyver" moments in space exploration.
Summary of Comments ( 8 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=44084892
HN commenters were generally unimpressed with the "Space Selfie" project. Several pointed out the environmental impact of sending a chrome sphere into orbit, filled with selfies, calling it "littering" and "pointless". Others questioned the actual "space" aspect, as the satellite appears to orbit at a relatively low altitude, still within the Earth's atmosphere and thus subject to decay and eventual re-entry. The high cost of the project ($10 million initially projected) was also criticized, with commenters suggesting more worthwhile uses for that money. Some dismissed it as a publicity stunt with little scientific or artistic value. There was a minor thread discussing the technical aspects of the satellite's construction and orbit, but the overall sentiment leaned heavily towards disapproval.
The Hacker News post titled "Space Selfie" links to a project allowing users to upload a photo that will be displayed on a small screen attached to a weather balloon and sent to near-space, taking a "selfie" with the Earth in the background. The comments section on Hacker News contains a mixed bag of reactions.
Several commenters express skepticism about the feasibility and value of the project. One user questions the claimed altitude of 100,000 feet, suggesting it seems improbable given the balloon's size and payload. Another doubts the actual visibility of the uploaded image from that height, even with zoom, calling it a "gimmick." Further skepticism targets the photo quality, with some predicting blurry and unimpressive results.
Concerns about the environmental impact are also raised. Commenters point out the potential for the balloon and its payload to become litter, falling back to Earth and polluting the environment. They question the sustainability and responsibility of such projects, especially if they become popular.
Despite the doubts and criticisms, some commenters find the project intriguing or amusing. One commenter simply expresses a desire to see the actual photos taken. Another humorously remarks on the idea, creating a fictional scenario of future archaeologists finding these space selfies and misinterpreting their purpose.
Some users shift the discussion to alternative methods of achieving a similar effect, such as using high-altitude drones or even attaching a camera to a model rocket. They debate the advantages and disadvantages of each approach in terms of cost, complexity, and environmental impact.
A few comments delve into technical details. One user provides insights into the regulations related to high-altitude balloons, highlighting the need for obtaining proper authorization. Another discusses the possibility of live-streaming video from the balloon, though acknowledges the challenges involved.
Overall, the comments on Hacker News offer a diverse range of perspectives on the "Space Selfie" project, from excitement and curiosity to skepticism and environmental concern. While some are captivated by the novelty, others question its practical value and ecological impact. The discussion provides a balanced view, highlighting both the potential and the drawbacks of this unconventional approach to photography.