SpaceX fires up Starship spacecraft ahead of 11th test flight (video)

NASA has announced Anna Menon as one of its new astronaut candidates, and she brings impressive experience with her, having already participated in SpaceX's Polaris Dawn mission to Earth orbit scheduled for September 2024. This is significant as it highlights NASA's commitment to advancing space exploration with skilled individuals who have real-world experience in space travel.

SpaceX has successfully launched its 11th batch of spy satellites for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office, marking another significant achievement in satellite technology. This launch, which took place on September 22 from California's central coast, highlights the growing capabilities of the U.S. in space surveillance and intelligence gathering. The deployment of these 'proliferated architecture' satellites is crucial for enhancing national security and demonstrates SpaceX's pivotal role in modern aerospace endeavors.

On September 24, SpaceX is set to launch NASA's IMAP mission along with two additional space weather probes, marking an exciting advancement in our understanding of space weather. This launch is significant as it aims to enhance our knowledge of solar activity and its impact on Earth, making it a must-watch event for space enthusiasts and scientists alike.

SpaceX has successfully launched 28 Starlink internet satellites from Florida's Space Coast, marking its 119th Falcon 9 mission of the year. This achievement not only enhances global internet coverage but also showcases SpaceX's ongoing commitment to expanding its satellite constellation, which is crucial for providing high-speed internet access to underserved areas. The launch is a significant step forward in SpaceX's mission to connect the world.

The successful landing of the Russian 'Noah's Ark' probe marks a significant achievement in biological research, as it carried 75 mice and 1,500 flies for over 30 days in orbit. This mission, which concluded on September 19 in the Orenburg region, is crucial for understanding the effects of space on living organisms and could pave the way for future explorations and studies in space biology.

The FDA's recent approval of a new drug for autism has sparked significant discussion about the review process for medications targeting this condition. This approval is noteworthy as it may change how future treatments are evaluated, potentially leading to quicker access for patients. The implications of this decision could reshape the landscape of autism treatment and influence how similar drugs are assessed in the future.

Block Island's wind farm has brought unexpected benefits, allowing the island to shut down its noisy and polluting diesel generators. This transition not only improves air quality but also enhances the overall living experience for residents and visitors. The success of this project highlights the potential of renewable energy sources to transform communities and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

The Hubble Space Telescope has made an exciting discovery by observing a dying white dwarf star consuming the remnants of an icy world similar to Pluto. This unexpected finding sheds light on the complex processes that occur in the universe as stars reach the end of their life cycles. It highlights the importance of ongoing astronomical research and the potential for uncovering more about the fate of celestial bodies.

A judge has ordered the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to reinstate suspended research grants at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). This decision is significant as it allows vital research projects to continue, which could lead to important medical advancements. The ruling highlights the importance of funding in scientific research and the role of institutions like the NIH in supporting innovation.

A new study highlights the potential threat of the 'city killer' asteroid 2024 YR4, which could collide with the moon in 2032. Scientists are exploring the feasibility of using nuclear weapons to destroy the asteroid before it approaches. This research is crucial as it emphasizes the need for proactive measures to protect celestial bodies and, by extension, Earth from potential disasters.