NASA's IBEX observations pin down interstellar magnetic field

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A new study uses IBEX data and simulations of the interstellar boundary -- which lies at the very edge of the giant magnetic bubble surrounding our solar system called the heliosphere - to better describe space in our galactic neighborhood.
via Science Daily
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The Tarantula Nebula

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The Tarantula Nebula is more than a thousand light-years in diameter, a giant star forming region within nearby satellite galaxy the Large Magellanic Cloud, about 180 thousand light-years away. The largest, most violent star forming region known in the whole Local Group of galaxies, the cosmic arachnid sprawls across this spectacular composite view constructed with space- and ground-based image data. Within the Tarantula (NGC 2070), intense radiation, stellar winds and supernova shocks from the central young cluster of massive stars, cataloged as R136, energize the nebular glow and shape the spidery filaments. Around the Tarantula are other star forming regions with young star clusters, filaments, and blown-out bubble-shaped clouds In fact, the frame includes the site of the closest supernova in modern times, SN 1987A, at the lower right. The rich field of view spans about 1 degree or 2 full moons, in the southern constellation Dorado. But were the Tarantula Nebula closer, say 1,500 light-years distant like the local star forming Orion Nebula, it would take up half the sky.

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Graphene slides smoothly across gold

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Graphene, a modified form of carbon, offers versatile potential for use in coating machine components and in the field of electronic switches. Physicists have been studying the lubricity of this material on the nanometer scale. Since it produces almost no friction at all, it could drastically reduce energy loss in machines when used as a coating, as the researchers report.
via Science Daily

Scott Kelly Poised to Set NASA Record for Consecutive Days in Space

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When Scott J. Kelly returns to Earth next week after 340 days in space, he will be studied for insights into the health issues long space flights, like to Mars, might pose.










via New York Times