Without its magnetic field, life on Earth would not be possible since this shields us from harmful cosmic radiation and charged particles emitted by the Sun (the ‘solar wind’). But […]
solar wind
Posted inAstrogeology, Astronomy & Telescopes, Exoplanets, -moons, -comets, Habitable Zones, Io, Jupiter, Magnetic Fields, Electromagnetism, bioelectricity,, Space Weather & Heliophysics, Status Report
Radio Observations As An Extrasolar Planet Discovery and Characterization: Interior Structure and Habitability
Detection of radio emission from Jupiter was identified quickly as being due to its planetary-scale magnetic field. Subsequent spacecraft investigations have revealed that many of the planets, and even some […]
Posted inArtemis & Lunar Exploration, Astrochemistry, Astrogeology, Moon, Press Release, Space Weather & Heliophysics
Hydrogen Detected In Lunar Samples
U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) researchers have discovered solar-wind hydrogen in lunar samples, which indicates that water on the surface of the Moon may provide a vital resource for future […]
Posted inArtemis & Lunar Exploration, Astrochemistry, Astrogeology, Atmospheres, Climate, Weather, Press Release, Space Weather & Heliophysics
Electrons From Earth May Be Forming Water On The Moon
A team of researchers, led by a University of Hawai‘i (UH) at Mānoa planetary scientist, discovered that high energy electrons in Earth’s plasma sheet are contributing to weathering processes on […]
Posted inAstrogeology, Biogeochemical Cycles & Geobiology, Biophysics, Habitable Zones, Press Release, Space Weather & Heliophysics
Do Earth-like Exoplanets Have Magnetic Fields? Far-off Radio Signal Is Promising Sign
Earth’s magnetic field does more than keep everyone’s compass needles pointed in the same direction. It also helps preserve Earth’s sliver of life-sustaining atmosphere by deflecting high energy particles and […]
Posted inPress Release, Space Weather & Heliophysics
The Propitious Role of Solar Energetic Particles in the Origin of Life
We carry out 3-D numerical simulations to assess the penetration and bombardment effects of Solar Energetic Particles (SEPs), i.e. high-energy particle bursts during large flares and superflares, on ancient and […]
Posted inHabitable Zones, Press Release, Radiation
Shielding From The Solar Wind: Implications for Habitability
The onset and nature of the earliest geomagnetic field is important for understanding the evolution of the core, atmosphere andlife on Earth. A record of the early geodynamo is preserved […]