ESA
New data from the European Space Agency's Swarm satellites reveal that the South Atlantic Anomaly, a weak spot in Earth's magnetic field, has grown by nearly half the size of continental Europe since 2014. A region southwest of Africa is weakening even faster in recent years. This expansion highlights unusual activity in Earth's molten outer core.
Reported by AI
A European research team has developed a system of three robots to autonomously explore lava tunnels on the Moon and Mars, which could serve as protected bases for astronauts. The technology was tested successfully in volcanic caves on Lanzarote, Spain, demonstrating its potential for mapping underground environments. This mission concept aims to shield explorers from radiation and meteorite impacts.
European Space Agency's Mars orbiters have observed the third known interstellar comet, 3I/ATLAS, as it passed near the Red Planet. The faint visitor, discovered in July 2025, revealed a glowing coma in images taken from about 30 million kilometers away. Researchers are analyzing the data to uncover its composition and origins.
Reported by AI
The European Space Agency has contracted an Italian company to develop a preliminary design for a small reusable rocket inspired by SpaceX's Starship. The deal, worth nearly 50 million euros, aims to bolster Europe's independent space access. This initiative reflects ongoing efforts to create cost-effective launch capabilities.