Quantum computers could crack the security codes used by satellites – they need future-proofing

The extraordinary potential of quantum computers also threatens the security systems that keep our digital world safe.

Panagiotis (Panos) Vlachos, PhD Researcher in Post-Quantum Cryptography, Queen's University Belfast • conversation
May 9, 2025 ~5 min

Nasa’s planned budget cuts could set back space science, but show how to future-proof the agency

Major science missions could be cancelled, along with vehicles designed to return astronauts to the Moon.

Loizos Heracleous, Professor of Strategy, Warwick Business School, University of Warwick • conversation
May 9, 2025 ~7 min


Spacecraft can ‘brake’ in space using drag − advancing craft agility, space safety and planetary missions

An aerospace engineer explains why NASA, Space Force and other agencies are using or testing aerobraking for more fuel-efficient spacecraft.

Piyush Mehta, Associate Professor of Space Systems, West Virginia University • conversation
May 7, 2025 ~8 min

Ancient Mars may have had a carbon cycle − a new study suggests the red planet may have once been warmer, wetter and more favorable for life

NASA’s Curiosity rover has spotted carbon-containing minerals that can tell scientists more about what ancient Mars’ atmosphere may have looked like.

Elisabeth M. Hausrath, Professor of Geoscience, University of Nevada, Las Vegas • conversation
May 6, 2025 ~8 min

‘Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence’ − an astronomer explains how much evidence scientists need to claim discoveries like extraterrestrial life

An astronomer breaks down 3 key components that allow researchers to make groundbreaking discoveries – and decide when results aren’t significant.

Chris Impey, University Distinguished Professor of Astronomy, University of Arizona • conversation
April 25, 2025 ~10 min

Scientists found a potential sign of life on a distant planet – an astronomer explains why many are still skeptical

The exoplanet K2-18b could harbor a massive ocean, but scientists will need to study the planet more to see if it’s really likely to host life.

Daniel Apai, Associate Dean for Research and Professor of Astronomy and Planetary Sciences, University of Arizona • conversation
April 18, 2025 ~9 min

Mysterious objects from other stars are passing through our solar system. Scientists are planning missions to study them up close

Learning about these interstellar objects could give us insights into other star systems.

Theodora Ogden, Senior Analyst, Defence and Security Team, RAND Europe • conversation
April 15, 2025 ~9 min

New UK system to protect satellites against attack shows how global conflict has spilled into outer space

Space is becoming “increasingly contested”, according to military experts.

Jessie Hamill-Stewart, PhD Researcher, University of Bath • conversation
April 14, 2025 ~7 min


Why the meteorites that hit Earth have less water than the asteroid bits brought back by space probes – a planetary scientist explains new research

Water-rich meteorites contain key ingredients for life, yet they barely appear in meteorite collections. Recent research using shooting stars may explain why.

Patrick M. Shober, Postdoctoral Fellow in Planetary Sciences, NASA • conversation
April 14, 2025 ~8 min

Trump’s nomination for NASA leader boasts business and commercial spaceflight experience during a period of uncertainty for the agency

Billionaire CEO Jared Isaacman has worked closely with SpaceX. He expressed an interest in sending missions to both the Moon and Mars if confirmed.

Wendy Whitman Cobb, Professor of Strategy and Security Studies, Air University • conversation
April 10, 2025 ~9 min

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