29
Oct 11

Vega getting ready for exploitation

Source: ESAPR 30 2011

The Vega launch vehicle programme has recently taken several major steps towards operation: the decision has been made to start the qualification launch campaign; ESA and Arianespace have ordered four new launchers; studies for the launch of the LISA Pathfinder mission have started. (read more)

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29
Oct 11

RCW 86: All Eyes on Oldest Recorded Supernova

Source: Chandra CXC

RCW86 supernova remnant.
Image credits: NASA/JPL-Caltech/B. Williams (NCSU)

Chandra, XMM-Newton, Spitzer, and WISE - combined to make a new discovery on a very old supernova remnant, in a location where Chinese astronomers witnessed an event in 185 AD, documenting a mysterious "guest star" that remained for 8 months. The data now revealed shows it was a Type Ia Supernova. (see source)

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