For decades, the oceans have absorbed much of the excess heat caused by greenhouse gases. The latest observations suggest they are reaching their limits, so how worried should we be?

Astronomer Jo Dunkley is planning to use the Simons Observatory to snare evidence for inflation, the theory that the universe expanded at incredible speed after its birth

How did the supermassive black holes we’re now seeing in the early universe get so big so fast? Astrophysicist Sophie Koudmani is using sophisticated galaxy simulations to figure it out

Asteroids that regularly fly between Earth, Venus and Mars could provide radiation shielding for human missions to explore neighbouring planets

Feedback digs into a baffling ad for a mobile game and identifies a new and devilish way to advertise a product online: make it as confusing as possible to encourage people to click (it worked on Feedback)

Mammalian astrocytes have regional roles within the brain parenchyma. Indeed, the notion that astrocytes are molecularly heterogeneous could help explain how the central nervous system (CNS) retains embryonic positional information through development into specialized regions into adulthood. A growing body of evidence supports the concept of morphological and molecular differences between astrocytes in different brain regions, which might relate to their derivation from regionally patterned radial glia and/or local neuron inductive cues. Here, we review evidence for regionally encoded functions of astrocytes to provide an integrated concept on lineage origins and heterogeneity to understand regional brain organization, as well as emerging technologies to identify and further investigate novel roles for astrocytes.

Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment and developer Team Asobi in Sony's latest earnings report have announced Astro Bot has sold over 1.5 million units as of November 3, 2024.

Astro Bot released for the PlayStation 5 on September 6.

Our own Lee Mehr gave the game an 8.5 out of 10 in his review and said "As an ode to PlayStation, Astro Bot succeeds at meaningfully infusing its history; as an all-ages theme park, it succeeds by infusing each location with an overwhelming sense of joyous wonder most often felt in Nintendo platformers, but with a level of technical sophistication not yet seen from its hardware."

Read details on the game below:

Join ASTRO on a supersized space adventure.

When the PlayStation 5 mothership is attacked by ASTRO’s long-standing galactic nemesis, scrambling its wires and scattering the crew throughout space, only ASTRO can make things right! Setting off on his biggest mission yet, he needs your help to rescue the stranded crew and rebuild the mothership.

Make the most of ASTRO’s new power-ups, handcrafted to level up your immersion: from springy punches and rockets all the way to a giant sponge!

Buckle up for some epic PlayStation camaraderie, join forces with your favorite PlayStation icons and show the universe that small is mighty in this fresh new ASTRO adventure, exclusive to PlayStation 5 consoles!

Features:

• Embark on a galactic quest and explore more than 50 planets in search of ASTRO’s lost crew.
• Dash, swing, and rocket-punch your way through this journey, with all-new power-ups.
• Feel the world come to life via your DualSense wireless controller.
• Team up with iconic PlayStation heroes to save the galaxy!

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can contact the author on Twitter @TrunksWD.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/463015/astro-bot-sales-top-15-million-units/

Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft had so many problems during its first crewed launch to the International Space Station that NASA officials aren’t sure whether it will be able to bring its crew back home as planned

A radio signal detected in 1977, sometimes claimed as evidence for aliens, may have been caused by a laser-like beam of microwave radiation

Radio astronomers teamed up with SpaceX to find a promising solution for helping expensive telescopes avoid interference from thousands of Starlink satellites

The failure of Boeing's Starliner capsule has left two astronauts stuck in space for months – but also proved how private spaceflight can go right

‘Little red dot’ galaxies seen by JWST appear to be much more tightly packed with stars than other galaxies, raising big questions about how they came to be this way

Five satellites due to launch this week could be brighter than most stars, and astronomers fear the growth of such constellations could have a catastrophic impact

See the world's best space images from the Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2024 award

Medically evacuating an astronaut from space is difficult and expensive, and a new model predicts that one in three long-duration moon missions may require it

Astronomer Jo Dunkley is planning to use the Simons Observatory to snare evidence for inflation, the theory that the universe expanded at incredible speed after its birth

The first 18 satellites of a planned Chinese mega constellation are brighter than all but 500 stars in the sky, raising fears of a huge impact on astronomy

The books, TV, games and more that New Scientist staff have enjoyed this week

How did the supermassive black holes we’re now seeing in the early universe get so big so fast? Astrophysicist Sophie Koudmani is using sophisticated galaxy simulations to figure it out

Bacteria grown from carbon compounds in asteroids could be turned into a kind of nutritionally balanced milkshake

Asteroids that regularly fly between Earth, Venus and Mars could provide radiation shielding for human missions to explore neighbouring planets

Feedback digs into a baffling ad for a mobile game and identifies a new and devilish way to advertise a product online: make it as confusing as possible to encourage people to click (it worked on Feedback)

This is a sponsored article brought to you by BESydney.

In July 2024, Sydney woman Katherine Bennell-Pegg made history as the first astronaut to graduate under the Australian flag and the first female astronaut in Australia. Her journey, marked by determination and discipline, showcases Australia’s growing prominence in space exploration and research.

From her academic achievements at the University of Sydney (USYD) to her rigorous training at the European Space Agency (ESA), Bennell-Pegg’s success has paved a path forward for aspiring space and aerospace professionals in Australia and globally.

A journey to the stars begins in Sydney

Katherine Bennell-Pegg was born in Sydney, New South Wales, and grew up in the Northern Beaches area. Her fascination with space began at an early age.

“I always dreamed of being an astronaut,” Bennell-Pegg shared in her “Insights from an Australian Astronaut” Space Forum Speech in July 2024. “When I was young, it was for the adventure, but after more than a decade working in space, it’s now because I know the role it plays in tackling real-world problems and developing new knowledge that can benefit our society, environment and science.”

Sydney: A Hub for Space Innovation

Sydney, the vibrant heart of the state of New South Wales (NSW), stands at the forefront of aerospace innovation in Australia. With its world-class research facilities, leading academic institutions and strategic geographic positioning, Sydney is not only Australia’s gateway to the Indo-Pacific but also a burgeoning hub for international aerospace endeavours.

NSW is home to more than 40 per cent of Australia’s aerospace industry. Substantial investments from both the state and federal governments support this concentration of capabilities, underpinning Sydney’s role as a leader in aerospace. From advanced manufacturing and cybersecurity to quantum technologies and space exploration, this progressive city is truly thriving.

Sydney’s appeal as a desirable location for hosting aerospace conferences and business events is bolstered by its comprehensive infrastructure, vibrant startup community and strategic position as a transport hub.

Sydney’s track record of successfully hosting events highlights the city’s ability to organise impactful international gatherings, including:

• Australian Space Summit
• New Horizons Summit
• CubeSatPlus2024 - NEW SPACE: Unbounded Skies

Sydney will also host the 76th International Astronautical Congress from 29 September to 3 October 2025 and the 34th Congress of the International Council for the Aeronautical Sciences (ICAS) to be held 13 to 17 September 2026. Both will take place at ICC Sydney, further solidifying Sydney’s status as a central hub for aerospace events.

Would you like to know more about Sydney’s credentials in Aerospace? Download our Aerospace eBook or visit besydney.com.au

Sydney proved to be the ideal location for Bennell-Pegg’s journey to begin. She studied at the University of Sydney, where she earned a Bachelor of Engineering (Honors) in Aeronautical Engineering (Space) and a Bachelor of Science (Advanced) in Physics.

Sydney’s universities are at the forefront of aerospace education and research. Institutions such as the University of Sydney (USYD), the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) and the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) attract students from around the world. UNSW Sydney, with its School of Aerospace, Mechanical, and Mechatronic Engineering, is renowned for its innovative research in space technology and satellite systems, while UTS provides cutting-edge programs in aerospace engineering and physics, emphasizing practical applications and industry partnerships. USYD excels in aeronautical engineering and space science, supported by advanced facilities and strong ties to major aerospace organisations. Together, these universities offer comprehensive programs that integrate theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, preparing students for dynamic careers in the rapidly evolving aerospace and space sectors.

Having excelled in her studies at USYD, Bennell-Pegg was awarded the Charles Kuller Graduation Prize for her top-placed undergraduate thesis. Subsequently, her quest for knowledge took her to Europe, where she earned two Master of Science degrees: one in Astronautics and Space Engineering from Cranfield University and another in Space Technology from Luleå University of Technology.

Reflecting on her educational path, Bennell-Pegg stated, “With the encouragement of my parents, I researched what it would take to become an astronaut and worked hard at school, participating in everything from aerobatic flying lessons to amateur astronomy.”

Inside the rigorous training regimen of an astronaut

Bennell-Pegg’s professional career began with roles at Airbus UK, where she contributed to numerous space missions and concept studies, such as Martian in-situ resource utilisation and space debris removal. Her expertise led her to the Australian Space Agency, where she became the Director of Space Technology.

In 2021, Bennell-Pegg was invited by the European Space Agency (ESA) to undertake Basic Astronaut Training at the European Astronaut Centre in Germany. When the ESA application opened in 2021, it was the first opening in 15 years. Bennell-Pegg jumped at the opportunity to apply alongside over 22,000 others from 22 countries. She endured six knock-out rounds, including medical, psychometrics, psychology and technical tests and made it to the group of 25 who passed.

This historic invitation marked the first time an international astronaut candidate was offered training by the ESA.

“The training was demanding, but it was also an incredible opportunity to learn from some of the best minds in the field and to be part of a team that is pushing the boundaries of human exploration.”—Katherine Bennell-Pegg

Bennell-Pegg’s training regimen was intense, encompassing physical conditioning, complex simulations, and theoretical classes designed to prepare candidates for long-duration missions to the International Space Station (ISS) and beyond. This included:

• Studies in biology, astronomy, earth sciences, meteorology, materials, medical and fluids, both in theory and in labs.
• Radiation research – an area of expertise for Australia. This will increase as humans travel back to the Moon.
• Medical operations: Astronauts need to be able to perform medical procedures on themselves and others.
• Training for expeditions: This included honing team dynamics through behavioral training, ocean and winter survival training, rescue and firefighting.

Sharing her thoughts on this transformative experience, Bennell-Pegg said, “The training was demanding, but it was also an incredible opportunity to learn from some of the best minds in the field and to be part of a team that is pushing the boundaries of human exploration.”

In April 2024, Bennell-Pegg completed her training, graduating with her ESA classmates from “The Hoppers” group. Upon graduation, she became fully qualified for assignments on long-duration missions to the ISS, making her the first Australian female astronaut and the first person to train as an astronaut under the Australian flag.

“I want to use this experience to open doors for Australian scientists and engineers to utilize space for their discoveries,” Bennell-Pegg said. “I hope to inspire the pursuit of STEM careers and show all Australians that they too can reach for the stars.”

Elevating Australia’s role in space exploration

Katherine Bennell-Pegg’s achievements represent a significant milestone. Her journey from the University of Sydney to the rigorous training programs at the European Astronaut Centre showcases the potential of Australian talent in the global space community.

“Being the first astronaut trained under the Australian flag is an incredible honor,” Bennell-Pegg said. “I’m grateful for the support that has fueled me through intense training and opened doors for more Australians in space exploration. Whether I fly or not, there is much to accomplish here on Earth. I’m excited to leverage this experience to inspire future generations in STEM and elevate Australia’s presence in the global space community. Becoming an astronaut is just the beginning.”

Bennell-Pegg’s dream to become an Australian astronaut is more than just a personal triumph; it is a win for anyone who aspires to a career in space or aerospace. Sydney, with its world-class educational institutions, advanced manufacturing facilities scheduled for the Western Sydney Aerotropolis and expanding opportunities in aerospace and defence, is an ideal starting point for anyone looking to make their mark in these sectors.

Would you like to know more about Sydney’s credentials in Aerospace? Download our Aerospace eBook or visit besydney.com.au

Two astronauts relinquished their seats on a four-person spacecraft so that their colleagues could return to Earth from the ISS, where they’ve been stuck since June.

A SpaceX capsule carrying the crew parachuted before dawn into the Gulf of Mexico just off the Florida coast.

Demand for observing time on Webb outpaces supply by a factor of nine.

"I did not say I was uncomfortable talking about it. I said we're not going to talk about it."

A lockout at the Port of Montreal began Sunday night. The CEO of the Montreal Port Authority says if the dispute between dockworkers and the Maritime Employers Association drags on, it will have disastrous consequences for the economy.

Torrential rain, made worse by climate change, has lashed Spain, with Valencia bearing the brunt of the floodwaters

In medieval times, astrology was considered a serious science, a branch of astronomy. Curator Larisa Grollemond of the Getty Museum, walks us through the medieval zodiac and how someone’s sign decided their day-to-day life.

Jonny Kim—a former Navy SEAL and ER doctor—is now a NASA astronaut who will soon launch to the International Space Station as flight engineer for the crew of Expedition 72/73

Asteroids that regularly fly between Earth, Venus and Mars could provide radiation shielding for human missions to explore neighbouring planets

Gastroschisis is a birth defect with a hole in the abdominal wall near the belly button. This results in the baby's intestines and other organs like the stomach and liver to develop outside the body.

In November 1979 I had the privilege of buying my first Scooter “ Bajaj Chetak” from their Show Room at Bangalore.  I was greatly Excited .  Took my Scooter to the nearest “Ganesha (Elephant...

Few things in life are as difficult as acknowledging mistakes, in particular those that we have made out of conviction. Choosing an unsuitable profession or...

Threat type: Ransomware

Aliases: Win64/Filecoder.CI trojan (Nod32), Trojan-Ransom.FileCrypter (Ikarus)

Platforms: Windows

Overall Risk Rating: Low

Damage Potential: High

Distribution Potential: Low

Reported Infection: Low

Information Exposure: Low

Overview:

This Ransomware arrives on a system as a file dropped by other malware or as a file downloaded unknowingly by users when visiting malicious sites.

It executes then deletes itself afterward.

It drops files as ransom note. It avoids encrypting files with the following file extensions.

Threat type: Ransomware

Aliases: BScope.TrojanRansom.Encoder (VBA32)

Platforms: Windows

Overall Risk Rating: Low

Damage Potential: Medium

Distribution Potential: Low

Reported Infection: Low

Information Exposure: Low

Overview:

This Ransomware arrives on a system as a file dropped by other malware or as a file downloaded unknowingly by users when visiting malicious sites.

It executes then deletes itself afterward.

It drops files as ransom note. It avoids encrypting files with the following file extensions.

George Springer is on pace to break the single-season mark for home runs leading off a game.

Nikon's Z 9 camera has embarked on a groundbreaking journey to the International Space Station (ISS), marking a significant milestone in space photography. Launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on January 30th, 2024, the Z 9, alongside a selection of

Mr. Khanna emphasized the integral role of astrology in guiding individuals toward a more balanced and prosperous life.

Horoscope Today November 05, 2024, Tuesday: Welcome to the stars' symphony on this vibrant November 05, 2024! Today unfolds a tapestry of cosmic energies, inviting each zodiac sign to dance through the day with insight and strength. Whether it's love that's

Horoscope Today November 06, 2024, Wednesday: Good morning, celestial voyagers! The stars are aligned to gift us a day filled with optimistic energies and new beginnings. Today's horoscope promises enlightening insights and guidance that tune into every facet of your life.

Horoscope Today November 07, 2024, Thursday: Welcome to November 07, 2024, where celestial energies encourage exploration and self-discovery. Today offers a chance to engage with the world in meaningful ways. Let’s dive into the day’s opportunities. Aries Horoscope (March

Horoscope Today November 08, 2024, Friday: Today beckons with an energizing vibe that shimmers with possibility, inviting you to explore and embrace the subtleties of life. Set your intentions and let the cosmos guide you. Aries Horoscope (March 21

Horoscope Today November 09, 2024, Saturday: Welcome to a fresh new day, full of potential and vibrant energy. Today, each zodiac sign will experience unique opportunities and challenges that can shape their paths. Stay curious and open to the wonders that

Horoscope Today November 10, 2024, Sunday: Welcome to an uplifting day where cosmic energies align to both inspire and challenge us. Embrace the vibrant pulsations of the universe as you navigate life’s delightful mysteries. Aries Horoscope (March 21 -

Horoscope Today November 11, 2024, Monday: Welcome to a day of discovery and illumination! November 11, 2024, brims with vibrant energy, offering a chance to remake the day in your image. Let the stars guide you through today’s adventures and challenges.

Daily Horoscope for Today, November 12, 2024: Discover what the stars have in store for Libra to Pisces, with focused insights into love, career, and well-being.

Daily Horoscope for Today, November 13, 2024: Discover what the stars have in store for Libra to Pisces, with focused insights into love, career, and well-being.

Berlin ; Boston : De Gruyter, [2023]