More Oceans Across the Solar System, Lunar Lander Sets Off to the Moon | Space Bites

TLDRThis week's Space Bites covers the discovery of a liquid ocean on Saturn's moon, Mimas, the presence of methane on asteroids, a new lunar lander mission, and the testing of new spacesuits.

Key insights

🌊A liquid ocean has been discovered on Saturn's moon, Mimas, challenging assumptions about the minimum size for oceans in the solar system.

🌌Methane has been found on asteroids, suggesting the potential for extracting water from these celestial bodies.

🌙A new lunar lander mission, Intuitive Machines' Odysseus Lander, has been launched and is set to land on the Moon on February 22nd.

👩‍🚀NASA is testing new spacesuits, including their mobility and safety, to support future missions to the Moon and beyond.

🔭The Deep Space Network has retrofitted an optical terminal onto one of its radio telescopes, enabling optical communication in addition to radio signals.

Q&A

Why is the discovery of a liquid ocean on Mimas significant?

—The discovery challenges previous assumptions about the minimum size for oceans in the solar system and expands our understanding of potential habitats for life beyond Earth.

What is the significance of finding methane on asteroids?

—The presence of methane suggests the potential for extracting water from asteroids, which could support future space missions by providing a valuable resource.

What experiments are planned for the lunar lander mission?

—The lunar lander mission, Intuitive Machines' Odysseus Lander, will conduct experiments to measure lunar dust plumes, test radio navigation beacons, and more.

Why are new spacesuits being tested?

—New spacesuits are being tested to ensure mobility and safety for astronauts during future missions, including those to the Moon and other destinations in space.

What is the purpose of retrofitting optical terminals onto radio telescopes?

—The addition of optical terminals allows for optical communication in addition to radio signals, expanding the capabilities of the Deep Space Network and enabling faster and more efficient data transmission.