By: Nicole Willett On December 16, 2014 at the American Geophysical Union conference in San Francisco, a panel of scientists working on the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) Curiosity Rover data announced what we have all been waiting decades to hear. John Grotzinger stated unequivocally, “…there is methane occasionally present in the atmosphere of Mars
Read Moreby: Kathryn Sharp While the rovers Opportunity and Curiosity cruise the surface of Mars, three operating satellites orbit above, keeping a keen eye on the planet. In addition to documenting the surface of Mars with an unprecedented level of detail, these satellites continue to provide critical support for ground missions. They relay vital communications between
Read MoreGuest blog by Kathryn Sharp Recent years have seen an exciting uptick in the number of humans-to-Mars mission plans, from manned fly-bys to permanent settlements. Each lays out its own priorities and objectives, suggesting creative solutions to challenges common to all of them. One important challenge each mission will face is the danger of space
Read MoreBy: Nicole Willett The Sun has an approximate lifespan of ten billion years. Most scientists believe we are about halfway through that life span. Recently scientists have stated that the Sun will begin its death throes in about 2.8 billion years. If humans behave in a way conducive to the health of the planet and
Read Moreby: Nicole Willett *****UPDATED 9/28/2013***** Several papers have been published regarding the findings of Curiosity’s first few month’s on the surface of Mars. The findings are of great importance with regard to water. The rover has confirmed an incredible two percent of the surface soil is composed of water. Scientists said if humans were to land
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