Paul Scott Anderson

Kepler discovers tiny moon-sized exoplanet

February 23, 2013 by Paul Scott Anderson

Artist's conception of Kepler-37b, which is smaller than Mercury and only slightly larger than our Moon. Credit: NASA / Ames / JPL-Caltech — Artist’s conception of Kepler-37b, which is smaller than Mercury and only slightly larger than our moon. Credit: NASA / Ames / JPL-Caltech

The Kepler space telescope has added another significant discovery to its growing list – the smallest exoplanet found so far (again) orbiting a sun-like star, it was announced on Wednesday.

Colourful exoplanets may be first to show evidence of alien life

February 19, 2013 by Paul Scott Anderson

Colourful alien life may be the easiest to find. Credit: Don Johnston / Getty Images

Exoplanets are now being discovered on a regular basis, including ones that may be potentially habitable. But when even the nearest ones are so far away compared to the planets in our own solar system, how could they be studied for possible signs of life? Is that even possible?

NASA announces new booster contract for Space Launch System and Orion

February 17, 2013 by Paul Scott Anderson

Artist’s conception of the Space Launch System (SLS) launching from Kennedy Space Center. Credit: NASA

In its continuing progress towards returning American astronauts to space, NASA has announced a new $23.3 million contract for the design of advanced boosters for the Space Launch System (SLS). The SLS heavy-lift rocket will be used to launch the manned Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle spacecraft into space, taking astronauts back to the Moon and even beyond.

Twilight in Gale crater

February 12, 2013 by Paul Scott Anderson

Here is a beautiful panoramic view of Curiosity’s current location in Gale crater, showing the scene at Martian twilight. The panorama is composed of images …

NASA update about the ‘shiny knob’ in Curiosity photo

February 11, 2013 by Paul Scott Anderson

Close-up view of the "hammerhead" object. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech — Close-up view of the “shiny knob” protruding from the bedrock.
Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / MSSS

NASA has posted an update of sorts regarding the “shiny knob” seen in a recent Mastcam image taken by the Curiosity rover. This is the one previously referred to here as the “hammerhead” due to its shape.

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