ASTRO SPACE NEWS

A DIVISION OF MID NORTH COAST ASTRONOMY (NSW)

(ASTRO) DAVE RENEKE

SPACE WRITER - MEDIA PERSONALITY - SCIENCE CORRESPONDENT ABC/COMMERCIAL RADIO - LECTURER - ASTRONOMY OUTREACH PROGRAMS - ASTRONOMY TOUR GUIDE - TELESCOPE SALES/SERVICE/LESSONS - MID NORTH COAST ASTRONOMY GROUP (Est. 2002)   Enquiries: (02) 6585 2260       Mobile: 0400 636 363        Email: davereneke@gmail.com

Norfolk Island Stargazing Tour 2025  

(Highlight photos  of last year's tour below)

A Magical Experience Under the Aussie Night Sky

Looking for the perfect holiday adventure that combines breathtaking views, clear skies, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Australian night sky? Join my partner Peter Davies and me for our Norfolk Island Stargazing Tour 2025—our fifth year of offering an unforgettable, celestial experience on one of Australia's most stunning islands!

If 2024 was anything to go by, our 2025 Stargazing Tour is going to be even bigger and more spectacular! We're planning a much larger 7-day experience that will go even deeper into the wonders of the southern hemisphere's skies. Expect new celestial insights, more exciting activities, and plenty of chances to explore the island like never before. It's going to be one epic, starry week you won't want to miss!

So, if you've ever dreamed of escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life and immersing yourself in nature's wonder—while gazing up at the stars—this is your chance. Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or a first-timer, our Norfolk Island Stargazing Tour 2025 promises a truly magical experience.

What's Included in the Tour:

• 7-Day Car Hire: Get out and explore the island at your own pace!
• Free Island Tour: See all the best bits of Norfolk Island, from the historical sites to stunning lookout points.
• Welcome Drinks 'Meet & Greet': We'll make sure you're well-fed and well-connected too with our magic farewell Dinner!
• 2-3 Nights of Stargazing: Enjoy a personal, guided stargazing experience through our large telescopes. The Aussie night sky will take your breath away.
• Solar Viewing: A special inclusion. View the Sun and take a snapshot using the latest USA solar viewing filters 

Take a look at some of the incredible photos from this year's tour above  and imagine yourself under those stunning skies next year. Don't wait too long to book—our spots fill up fast! We can't wait to welcome you to Norfolk Island for an unforgettable adventure among the stars!  Book early our seats fill fast. Contact Dave 0400 636 363 OR Email: davereneke@gmail.com  

Stargazing Cruises On The Hastings River 

ITS HERE!! Experience the Magic of the Night Sky on our Exclusive Stargazing Cruise – Presented by Dave Reneke and Port adVenture Cruises Port Macquarie, NSW.

This February, a groundbreaking new event will launch on the Hastings River: the Stargazing Cruise, presented by celebrated astronomer and media personality, Dave Reneke, in collaboration with Port AdVenture Cruises. This innovative event marks a first for the region, combining astronomy, Indigenous culture, and marine adventure into an unforgettable night under the stars.

The evening begins with Dave's captivating Secrets of the Universe slideshow, where he unveils the mysteries of the cosmos in an engaging, easy-to-understand style. This is followed by an interactive laser-guided tour of the night sky on the top deck, where attendees will marvel at the stars, constellations, and planets visible in Port Macquarie's famously clear skies. Binoculars are provided, ensuring a closer look at the wonders above.

This cruise coincides with a rare planetary alignment not seen again until 2040! Marvel at five planets perfectly aligned, sparkling above the Hastings River. This breathtaking cosmic spectacle will captivate you as these celestial wonders light up the night sky. Don't miss this unforgettable event—it's a once-in-a-lifetime marvel!

Adding a local touch, Aboriginal Dreamtime stories will connect the constellations to the region's rich cultural heritage. For both young and old, the experience of seeing the stars through the lens of ancient storytelling brings a deeper appreciation of the cosmos and our place within it.

As the boat glides gently along the Hastings River, families of dolphins often join the journey, racing alongside the vessel in a mesmerising display of nature's charm. These friendly companions are a hit with guests, especially children, making for unforgettable moments and spectacular photo opportunities. The chance to stargaze while being accompanied by dolphins is truly unique—a magical fusion of the river's earthly beauty and the cosmic wonders above.

The initial buzz around the Stargazing Cruise has been incredible, with locals and tourists eager to secure their spots for this bi-monthly event. The first cruise, set for February 4th, promises to be a sellout. Dave's reputation as an engaging and knowledgeable host, combined with the innovative concept of astronomy on the water, ensures this event will become a regional highlight.

The Hastings River, nestled in the heart of Port Macquarie, NSW, weaves through the lush landscapes of the Mid North Coast before meeting the Pacific Ocean. Named after Warren Hastings, the Governor-General of India, by explorer John Oxley in 1818, the river was once a lifeline for local Indigenous communities. The Birpai people thrived along its banks, drawing sustenance and inspiration from the bountiful waters and surrounding bushland. European settlers later capitalised on its resources, establishing timber and fishing industries that helped shape the region's economy.

Today, the Hastings River is cherished for its serene beauty and diverse ecosystems. Visitors are often captivated by the river's vibrant marine life, including playful dolphins that regularly frolic alongside boats, providing memorable photo opportunities. The river's clear skies, free from urban light pollution, offer an unparalleled stargazing experience—a celestial haven for astronomers and night photographers alike.

Our Stargazing Cruise is not just a journey through the cosmos but a celebration of the Hastings River's natural beauty, cultural significance, and limitless potential for adventure as well. Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or a curious beginner, this experience offers something for everyone.

Don't miss out! Book your seat today by calling Elsa at 0434 383 199, or book at the website https://www.portadventurecruises.com.au/ and prepare for a magical evening of stars, stories, and unforgettable memories. -  Click for  BOOKING PAGE

In January and February 2025, six planets will align in the evening sky, visible from Australia: Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Venus, Neptune, and Saturn. The best time to view the planets will be after January 21, 2025, and before February 21, 2025. The week of January 29, during the new moon, will be the best time to view the planets. The new moon will reduce light pollution, making it easier to spot Neptune, Uranus, and Saturn. The planets will be visible shortly after sunset, and you'll only have a couple of hours to view them before they dip below the horizon. The planets won't be perfectly aligned in a straight line, but their positioning will create the illusion of a cosmic dance. Mercury will join the parade at the end of February, replacing Saturn

Australia's vast skies provide an ideal vantage point. The alignment, expected to feature Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Uranus, will offer an incredible opportunity for stargazers, astronomers, and anyone fascinated by the night sky to witness a celestial dance that has not been seen in such a configuration for many years.

What Is a Planetary Alignment?

A planetary alignment occurs when planets in our solar system appear to line up in the same part of the sky. While the planets in our solar system orbit the Sun at different speeds and distances, their orbits often bring them into a visually aligned configuration when viewed from Earth. The January 2025 alignment will see the planets closely aligned along a segment of the ecliptic — the apparent path of the Sun across the sky. This alignment is not a true, perfect line-up in space but is a visual phenomenon based on the relative positions of the planets from Earth's perspective.

The Planets Involved

• Mercury: The closest planet to the Sun, Mercury will be visible to the naked eye during this alignment. As it is always close to the Sun, its visibility can be challenging, but in January 2025, it will be positioned in a favorable location for observers in Australia.

• Venus: Known as the "Evening Star" or "Morning Star," Venus is often the brightest object in the night sky. In January 2025, it will be easily visible, shining brightly in the evening or pre-dawn sky.

• Mars: The Red Planet is a popular target for stargazers, and it will be part of the alignment, adding its distinctive reddish hue to the visual spectacle.

• Jupiter: The largest planet in our solar system, Jupiter is often visible with the naked eye. Its moons, observable through binoculars or small telescopes, add to the interest for amateur astronomers.

• Saturn: Known for its spectacular rings, Saturn will be another major highlight of this alignment. Even with the naked eye, its brightness and position in the sky will make it easily identifiable.

• Uranus: The distant ice giant, Uranus, will be the hardest to spot in the alignment due to its faintness. However, with a telescope, skywatchers in Australia can still enjoy the opportunity to observe this distant planet.

Viewing the Alignment from Australia

Australia, with its clear skies and wide-open spaces, is one of the best places to witness the six-planet alignment. The alignment will occur during the Southern Hemisphere's summer, when the nights are relatively warm and long, making it easier for observers to stay out and enjoy the spectacle.

The alignment will be visible to the naked eye, especially if you are in a dark location away from city lights. In major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, light pollution might make some of the planets harder to see, but heading out to rural areas or observing from high altitudes, such as from the Blue Mountains or the Outback, will provide optimal conditions.

Best Times for Viewing

The planets will not be in perfect alignment for a brief moment but will appear in their configuration over several days. The event is expected to occur throughout January 2025, but the best days for viewing will likely be around the middle of the month, when the planets will be positioned most favorably.

Since the planets will be spread across the sky from east to west, observers in Australia should look in the direction of the horizon to catch the best view. The alignment will be visible throughout the night, with some planets, like Venus and Jupiter, visible in the evening, while others, such as Mercury, will be best seen just before dawn.

In general, the early hours of the morning, around 4:00–5:00 AM local time, will offer the clearest views of Mercury and Venus in the east, while Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn will be visible in the western sky after sunset.

Why Is This Event Special?

The six-planet alignment in January 2025 will be a spectacular and rare event for several reasons:

1. Visibility: This alignment will be visible to the naked eye, meaning that both casual skywatchers and experienced astronomers can enjoy it. The visibility of all six planets in the same segment of the sky makes it more accessible and engaging for everyone.

2. Rarity: Planetary alignments are not everyday occurrences. While they happen from time to time, a six-planet alignment is particularly rare. In fact, such a configuration of six planets has not occurred since the 19th century. The event in January 2025 is therefore an exciting opportunity to witness something special.

3. Cultural and Scientific Significance: For many cultures, planetary alignments have been historically significant, often seen as omens or signs from the cosmos. While modern science does not assign such meanings to celestial events, astronomers will be excited to study the alignment and its implications for our understanding of planetary movements.

4. Educational Value: The event provides an excellent opportunity for educational outreach. Schools, universities, and planetariums across Australia will likely host events to allow the public to observe the alignment, learn about the planets involved, and understand the dynamics of our solar system.

Preparing for the Event

To fully appreciate this event, there are a few things you can do to ensure the best experience:

• Find a Dark Location: Light pollution can obscure your view of the planets. Finding a location away from city lights will offer the clearest view. National parks and rural areas in Australia are perfect for this.

• Use a Telescope: While the planets will be visible to the naked eye, a small telescope will enhance the experience, allowing you to see more detail on planets like Jupiter and Saturn.

• Check Local Times: Planetary positions change throughout the month, so it's important to check local astronomy guides or apps to know the best times to look.

• Conclusion

The six-planet alignment in January 2025 is an extraordinary celestial event that will captivate skywatchers in Australia and around the world. For Australians, the clear summer skies and the long, warm nights offer the perfect opportunity to witness this rare occurrence. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a casual observer, this alignment will be a spectacle to remember, reminding us of the beauty and wonder of the universe.

Trump asks SpaceX to 'go get' two stranded ISS astronauts. They're not stranded

SpaceX founder Elon Musk announced plans to bring home two NASA astronauts who arrived at the International Space Station on Boeing's Starliner capsule "as soon as possible," at the request of President Trump.

Musk, the head of President Trump's Department of Government Efficiency, has played a crucial role in Trump's re-election campaign and the early days of the President's second term in office. NASA will bring stranded astronauts back on SpaceX — not Boeing's Starliner

"I have just asked Elon Musk and SpaceX to "go get" the 2 brave astronauts who have been virtually abandoned in space by the Biden Administration," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "Good luck Elon!!!" The astronauts Musk and Trump are presumably referencing are NASA's Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. 

NASA has long said the crew isn't "stranded" and a plan to return them safely to Earth has been in place for months. In fact, NASA astronauts always train for lengthy missions and medical experts have kept a watchful eye on the health of the two during their extended stay.

The astronauts arrived at the International Space Station on Boeing's Starliner spacecraft after launching from Florida's Cape Canaveral in June 2024. The test flight was supposed to last only eight days. But engineers at NASA and Boeing uncovered issues with the spacecraft's propulsion system, and decided to return the vehicle back to Earth without a crew. The two have remained at the station ever since.

NB/ SpaceX has already been awarded contracts for upcoming astronaut missions on the schedule. It's unclear if NASA would have to pay Musk's company for an additional flight to return the crew early.

 Curtin University: Pristine asteroid samples reveal secrets of the ancient solar system

Curtin University researchers have gained an unprecedented glimpse into the early history of our solar system through some of the most well-preserved asteroid samples ever collected, potentially transforming our understanding of planetary formation and the origins of life. Experts from Curtin's School of Earth and Planetary Sciences were selected to be amongst the first in the world to inspect samples collected during NASA's seven-year, OSIRIS-REx mission to the ancient asteroid Bennu.

Asteroid Bennu is thought to be made of rubble fragments from a 4.5-billion-year-old parent body, containing materials that originated beyond Saturn, which was destroyed long ago in a collision with another object. The OSIRIS-REx sample analysis team identified a variety of salts, including sodium carbonates, phosphates, sulphates, and chlorides. Associate Professor Nick Timms said the discovery of these salts was a breakthrough in space research.

"We were surprised to identify the mineral halite, which is sodium chloride — exactly the same salt that you might put on your chips," Associate Professor Timms said. "The minerals we found form from evaporation of brines – a bit like salt deposits forming in the salt lakes that we have in Australia and around the world. "By comparing with mineral sequences from salt lakes on Earth, we can start to envisage what it was like on the parent body of asteroid Bennu, providing insight into ancient cosmic water activity."

Evaporite minerals and brines are known to help organic molecules develop on Earth. "A briny, carbon-rich environment on Bennu's parent body was probably suitable for assembling the building blocks of life," Associate Professor Timms said. The key to the new discovery was the pristine condition of the samples.

Many of the salts present degrade quickly when exposed to the atmosphere, however the samples collected on the OSIRIS-REx mission were sealed and purged with nitrogen once on Earth to prevent contamination. NASA chose Curtin to perform early analysis on the samples — the largest ever retrieved from a world beyond the Moon — due to the globally renowned John de Laeter Centre's world-leading expertise and facilities. Centre Director Associate Professor Will Rickard said the facility houses more than $50 million in advanced analytical instruments.

"The Centre is one of the few places in the world which could verify if the salts were in fact extraterrestrial in origin or if they had been contaminated by elements from Earth," Associate Professor Rickard said. "Our specialised facilities at Curtin allowed us to maintain the pristine condition of the samples, which meant when we discovered the salts were extraterrestrial and unaltered, we knew it was an important finding because these samples preserve evidence of some of the earliest phenomena of the solar system."

The findings from returned samples of asteroid Bennu may provide researchers insight into what happens on distant icy bodies in our solar system, such as Saturn's moon Enceladus and the dwarf planet Ceres in the asteroid belt. "Both Enceladus and Ceres have subsurface brine oceans," Associate Professor Timms said. "Even though asteroid Bennu has no life, the question is could other icy bodies harbour life?"

NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, provided overall mission management, systems engineering, and the safety and mission assurance for OSIRIS-REx. Dante Lauretta of the University of Arizona, Tucson, is the principal investigator. The university leads the science team and the mission's science observation planning and data processing. Lockheed Martin Space in Littleton, Colorado, built the spacecraft and provided flight operations.

Sake Made In Space Could Sell For $500,000 A Glass

Imagine sipping a glass of sake worth half a million dollars. It sounds like something from a science fiction novel, but it's not as far-fetched as it seems. This incredible price tag comes from sake brewed in space.

In 2020, Japan's prestigious sake maker, Sakata Sake Brewing, decided to take a bold step and send their sake ingredients into orbit. The goal was to see how the unique environment of space would affect the brewing process. 

While sake has been brewed for centuries on Earth, this experiment aimed to explore what might happen when yeast and other elements are exposed to the microgravity of space.  The journey began with the launch of small samples of rice, water, and yeast aboard a Japanese rocket. These ingredients were sent to the International Space Station (ISS) where they were exposed to the zero-gravity conditions for about a year. 

The experiment wasn't just about making sake in space—it was about seeing how the fermentation process might be altered in an environment far different from Earth. Fermentation, the process that turns starches into alcohol, relies on tiny organisms like yeast to do the work. On Earth, gravity plays a role in how the yeast interacts with the other ingredients. In space, however, yeast behaves differently because there is no gravity to keep it in place. The idea was that in space, the yeast would have more freedom to move, which could lead to new flavors, aromas, and textures.

After a year, the ingredients returned to Earth, and scientists and brewers began to analyze the results. Early tests showed that the space-brewed sake had distinct differences from its Earth-brewed counterparts. The space sake had a smoother texture, more complex flavors, and a unique aroma that's hard to replicate on Earth.

This wasn't just about creating an interesting novelty drink. The experiment was part of a larger effort to understand how space affects the production of food and drink. The results of this experiment could one day help scientists improve food production, not just in space but also on Earth. If space brewing can help create better, more efficient brewing processes, it could have big implications for the future of food and drink.

Now, as word spreads about the space-brewed sake, its value has skyrocketed. Experts believe that a single glass of this rare space sake could sell for a staggering $500,000. Why such an exorbitant price? The answer lies in its exclusivity. The sake made in space isn't just a beverage—it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It represents human ingenuity and the quest to push boundaries, all while creating something new and exciting.

Only a small amount of the space sake was produced, and because it was brewed in space, it's truly a rare commodity. Collectors and enthusiasts are eager to get their hands on this extraordinary drink, and some are willing to pay a fortune for the privilege. The high price reflects not just the rarity of the sake, but the cost of sending ingredients into space, as well as the research and innovation behind it.

Though the idea of drinking $500,000 sake might seem extravagant, it speaks to the growing fascination with space and how it can change the way we look at the world. This experiment in space brewing has opened up new possibilities for both science and food culture. Who knows what other groundbreaking discoveries will come from future experiments in space? For now, though, space-made sake remains a symbol of exploration, discovery, and the endless potential of human creativity. So, next time you think about space, remember: it might not just be the stars that are shining brightly, but also a $500,000 glass of sake.

Historic Plan To Power Homes With Outer-Space Solar Panels

In a groundbreaking announcement, scientists have revealed an ambitious new plan that could change the way we generate and use energy. The goal is to harness the power of solar panels in space to provide electricity for homes here on Earth. This bold project promises to bring a cleaner, more sustainable future, all while taking advantage of a resource that's never been fully tapped: the sun's energy, 24/7, from space.

Here's the idea: Solar panels in space have the potential to capture far more energy than those on Earth because they're not limited by weather conditions, nighttime, or the atmosphere. Space-based solar power could offer a continuous flow of energy, unlike traditional solar panels that only work during the day or under clear skies. This could solve many of the current challenges we face with renewable energy, such as energy storage and consistent supply.

The concept of using space for solar power is not new. Scientists and researchers have discussed the possibility for decades. However, technological advancements in space exploration, along with major investments in satellite technology, have now made it possible to bring this idea closer to reality.

The plan involves sending solar panels into orbit, where they can collect sunlight without any interruptions. These panels would convert solar energy into electricity and then beam it back to Earth. This process would be done using powerful microwave or laser beams, which would be received by special receivers on the ground and converted back into usable electricity.

The benefits of this plan are enormous. First, it could significantly reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, cutting down on harmful emissions and helping to combat climate change. By generating clean, renewable energy from space, we would have a steady supply of power, no matter the time of day or weather conditions on Earth. Additionally, it could lead to greater energy independence, as countries would no longer be as dependent on oil, coal, or natural gas.

However, this ambitious project is not without its challenges. The technology required to send solar panels into space and beam energy back to Earth is complex and expensive. While space exploration has advanced rapidly in recent years, there are still many technical hurdles to overcome. Scientists will need to develop new methods for efficiently transmitting energy from space to Earth, as well as ensuring the safety and sustainability of such systems.

Another challenge is the cost. Building and launching satellites into space is extremely expensive, and scaling up this technology for widespread use could take years, if not decades. Still, the potential long-term benefits could make it worth the investment, both for the environment and for energy security.

In addition to the scientific and technical obstacles, there are also regulatory and logistical issues to address. The idea of beaming energy from space to Earth raises questions about safety, space debris, and how to regulate the new technology. But despite these challenges, the excitement surrounding space-based solar power is growing, with many seeing it as the next big step in the global transition to renewable energy.

If successful, this project could reshape the future of energy. It could provide a reliable, sustainable source of power that doesn't rely on the Earth's limited resources. The idea of space solar power could also inspire new innovations in energy technology, with other countries and companies looking to get involved in this cutting-edge field.

While we're still in the early stages of this space solar power plan, the announcement marks a historic moment in the pursuit of clean energy. Scientists are excited about the potential to create a future where homes are powered by the sun, not just during the day but around the clock, thanks to the limitless energy of space.

The vision of powering homes with energy from outer space might seem far-off, but as technology continues to evolve, it's possible that one day, we could be living in a world where the sky is truly the limit when it comes to clean, renewable energy. For now, the plan is moving forward, and the world is watching closely.

China's Tiangong Space Station Marks Breakthrough in Oxygen Production and Rocket Fuel Creation

Astronauts aboard China's Tiangong space station have achieved a monumental milestone in space exploration. Through a series of groundbreaking experiments, they have successfully produced oxygen and the key components needed for rocket fuel, crucial steps toward supporting long-term human space missions. The Shenzhou-19 crew recently completed the world's first in-orbit demonstration of artificial photosynthesis. This pioneering technology produced oxygen and ethylene, a hydrocarbon essential for rocket propellants, marking significant progress toward sustainable, crewed missions, including plans for a human moon landing before 2030.

The 12 experiments, conducted within a specialized drawer-shaped device, utilized semiconductor catalysts to convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen while simultaneously generating ethylene. These tests were designed to focus on critical aspects of space resource production and human survival, such as carbon dioxide conversion at room temperature, precise control of gas and liquid flows in microgravity, and real-time, high-sensitivity monitoring of reaction products.

"This technology mirrors the natural photosynthesis process of green plants but uses engineered methods to harness carbon dioxide in confined spaces or extraterrestrial environments, producing both oxygen and carbon-based fuels," state broadcaster CCTV reported. These advancements could play a vital role in supporting extended space exploration, offering critical technical support for human survival beyond Earth.

While previous experiments aboard the International Space Station (ISS) have explored plant growth and how microgravity affects photosynthesis, the ISS primarily uses electrolysis to produce oxygen. Electrolysis splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity generated by the station's solar panels. Although effective, electrolysis is energy-intensive, consuming about a third of the ISS's total energy for life support, making it impractical for long-duration missions to the moon or Mars.

In contrast, China's new artificial photosynthesis method operates at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, requiring far less energy, which makes it more suitable for deep space missions. By adjusting the catalyst, the technology can also be fine-tuned to produce other essential compounds like methane for propulsion or formic acid, a precursor for synthesizing sugars.

The device aboard Tiangong not only produced oxygen and fuel but also provided invaluable data on complex chemical processes in microgravity, specifically gas-liquid-solid multiphase reactions. The system is designed to be upgraded in orbit, allowing scientists to test various catalysts and refine the technology. This innovation places China at the forefront of sustainable space technologies, crucial for future human exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond. The technology will be vital for ensuring resource independence and long-term survival in extraterrestrial environments, according to the China Manned Space (CMS) website.

The results from Tiangong's experiments underscore China's growing capabilities in space research, positioning the country as a key player in the next frontier of human space exploration.

China to Plant 'Flapping' Flag on Moon: A Lunar First

In an exciting new twist on lunar exploration, China's Chang'e 7 mission, set for late 2026, will place a unique "flapping flag" on the Moon. This flag, unlike any before it, will actually wave on the airless lunar surface thanks to an innovative design. 

Proposed by elementary school students in Changsha, China, the flag will feature embedded closed-loop wires that use magnetic currents and electromagnetic interactions to generate the appearance of a fluttering motion, creating a fascinating spectacle despite the Moon's lack of atmosphere.

The Chang'e 7 mission will land near the Shackleton Crater at the Moon's south pole, an area of intense scientific interest. This region, permanently shadowed, is believed to hold hidden water ice, which could be crucial for future lunar exploration and potential human settlement. The mission is not only a milestone for China but a significant step in global space research, as it will carry six scientific instruments from different nations, including a rover and an observatory operated by the International Lunar Observatory Association based in Hawai'i.

This "flapping flag" is a powerful symbol of China's growing presence in space, intended to inspire young minds and deepen their engagement with space exploration. While it may be largely symbolic, the flag serves as an exciting piece of public outreach, capturing the imagination of both students and space enthusiasts worldwide.

The mission is part of China's ambitious space agenda, which also includes its first-ever asteroid and comet sample return mission, Tianwen-2, set to launch in May 2025, and its space telescope, Xuntian, planned for early 2026.

Elon Musk Is Expected to Use Office Space in the White House 

How President Trump could change NASA

As the Trump administration returns to power, NASA faces a pivotal moment that could reshape the direction of U.S. space exploration for decades to come. 

The future of key programs, including Artemis , NASA's rocket choices, and funding for Earth and climate science, is now in question.  These decisions will unfold over the coming months and years, as different factions within the administration debate whether to cut budgets or increase funding for key areas of space exploration.

One of the most significant issues is the future of the Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the moon. Launched during Trump's first term and continued under President Biden, Artemis has faced significant delays and technical hurdles. The program's future could be at the mercy of the new administration's priorities, as the Trump team considers its next moves in space exploration.

Adding to the uncertainty is the stance of Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of SpaceX and a key supporter of Trump's 2024 campaign. Musk, who also co-leads the new "Department of Government Efficiency," voiced a strong opinion on his social media platform X on January 3, 2025, stating, "We're going straight to Mars. The moon is a distraction." While Musk's influence in the space sector is undeniable, shifting NASA's focus entirely from the moon to Mars may not be so simple, especially with Congress playing a pivotal role in shaping space policy.

Marcia Smith, a longtime expert in space policy, noted that while the Trump administration might try to fast-track a Mars mission, it would likely face significant resistance in Congress. "Congress wants a moon-to-Mars program, not one or the other," said Smith, founder of SpacePolicyOnline. The pushback from Congress in 2010, when President Obama proposed bypassing the moon for Mars, is a cautionary tale for any future efforts to shift NASA's priorities.

With space exploration firmly on the agenda for the new administration, the next steps will be crucial in determining whether NASA maintains its moon-focused objectives or redirects its ambitions toward Mars. As the debate heats up, the outcome will have lasting implications for the United States' role in space exploration and its partnerships with international space agencies.

Moon selected as historical preservation site to protect lunar heritage

The moon has been selected as a historical preservation site to protect humanity's lunar legacy, marking a significant step in the recognition of its cultural and historical value. This inclusion was announced by the World Monuments Fund as part of their 2025 World Monuments Watch, which identifies 25 new sites across 29 countries, including the moon. This move highlights the importance of preserving lunar artifacts, such as the Apollo 11 landing site within the Sea of Tranquility, where the first human footprints were left on the moon in 1969.

The World Monuments Fund aims to protect these sites in the face of various challenges, alongside other notable cultural heritage locations like the city of Antakya in Türkiye, the Swahili Coast of Africa, and historic lighthouses in Maine, USA. The moon's addition to the list follows an open call that attracted over 200 nominations, which were reviewed by international heritage experts. This decision underscores the need for international agreements to safeguard lunar heritage sites.

The recognition of the moon is intended to spark broader discussions about the future of lunar exploration and the preservation of its cultural and natural landscape. Bénédicte de Montlaur, president and CEO of the World Monuments Fund, emphasized that the moon's inclusion reflects the urgency of protecting artifacts from humanity's first steps beyond Earth. These artifacts, such as the TV camera used to broadcast Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin's first steps on the lunar surface, and the memorial disk left by the Apollo 11 astronauts, are key symbols of this historic achievement.

By placing the moon on the 2025 World Monuments Watch, the Fund invites a global conversation on how we can collectively protect and preserve the legacy of our exploration of space.

NASA's Next Space Telescope: A Sneak Peek

In a large, special room in Maryland, engineers are assembling NASA's next big space telescope—the Roman Space Telescope. Set to launch by 2027, this cutting-edge telescope will offer some of the sharpest, most detailed views of the universe ever seen.

Named after astronomer Nancy Grace Roman, the telescope is designed to explore everything from distant galaxies to mysterious dark energy. It will have a wide range of capabilities, helping scientists answer some of the biggest questions in astronomy.

One of its main goals is to study dark energy, the invisible force believed to be pushing the universe apart at an accelerating rate. The Roman telescope will provide new insights into how dark energy works, and how it has shaped the universe over time.

The telescope will also help scientists discover and study exoplanets—planets orbiting stars beyond our solar system. With its powerful imaging technology, Roman will search for Earth-like planets and explore whether they could support life. It will also observe distant galaxies, allowing us to look back in time to understand how galaxies and stars formed billions of years ago.

Another exciting feature of the Roman Space Telescope is its ability to capture gravitational lensing—a cosmic phenomenon where massive objects, like galaxies, bend and magnify light from objects behind them. This can help scientists map out dark matter, the mysterious substance that makes up most of the universe's mass but can't be seen directly.

Engineers are building the telescope in a "clean room," a controlled environment that keeps out dust and particles that could damage the sensitive instruments. This careful assembly ensures the telescope will perform at its best once it's in space.

The Roman Space Telescope will have a much wider field of view than current space telescopes, which means it can capture more of the sky at once. This will allow it to gather huge amounts of data, leading to faster discoveries and helping scientists explore the universe in ways we've never done before.

Once launched, the Roman telescope will join other iconic space telescopes like Hubble and James Webb, taking humanity one step closer to understanding the vast mysteries of the cosmos.

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'ASTRO DAVE' RENEKE - A Personal Perspective

I've often been asked what I do, where I've been and what sort of activities I've engaged in throughout my 50 years involvement in astronomy and space. Here is an interview i did with Delving with Des Kennedy on Rhema 99.9 recently. 

David Reneke, a highly regarded Australian amateur astronomer and lecturer with over 50 years of experience, has established himself as a prominent figure in the field of astronomy. With affiliations to leading global astronomical institutions, David serves as the Editor for Australia's Astro-Space News Magazine and has previously held key editorial roles with Sky & Space Magazine and Australasian Science magazine.

His extensive background includes teaching astronomy at the college level, being a featured speaker at astronomy conventions across Australia, and contributing as a science correspondent for both ABC and commercial radio stations. David's weekly radio interviews, reaching around 3 million listeners, cover the latest developments in astronomy and space exploration.

As a media personality, David's presence extends to regional, national, and international TV, with appearances on prominent platforms such as Good Morning America, American MSNBC news, the BBC, and Sky News in Australia. His own radio program has earned him major Australasian awards for outstanding service.

David is recognized for his engaging and unique style of presenting astronomy and space discovery, having entertained and educated large audiences throughout Australia. In addition to his presentations, he produces educational materials for beginners and runs a popular radio program in Hastings, NSW, with a substantial following and multiple awards for his radio presentations.

In 2004, David initiated the 'Astronomy Outreach' program, touring primary and secondary schools in NSW to provide an interactive astronomy and space education experience. Sponsored by Tasco Australia, Austar, and Discovery Science channel, the program donated telescopes and grants to schools during a special tour in 2009, contributing to the promotion of astronomy education in Australia. BELOW Is the recorded interview  

INTRODUCING OUR NEW PARTNER & ASTRO SUPPLIER

Many thanks to Peter and the crew at ASTRO ANARCHY Queensland. A New business with the amateur astronomer firmly in mind.  Astro Anarchy has the experience, the stock and the knowledge to set up the first timer, to assist in the development of our hobby for the experienced observer OR cater to any other size need or desire in the field of amateur astronomy. 

ATRO ANARCHY AS OUR SPONSOR: My business partner Peter Davies and I have set up a new Astro Tourism business focusing on the recently 'Dark Sky Town' accredited to Norfolk Island. We call it 'Norfolk Island STARGAZING'. When approached, Pete from Astro Anarchy had no hesitation in organizing and supplying all our Telescopes, Binoculars and associated gear to get started. Nothing was any trouble allowing us more than enough time to set up and become fully operational. He and he and his business come highly recommended for anyone wanting any astronomical gear in Australia.

Web: https://www.astroanarchy.com.au/    Sales: sales@astroanarchy.com.au   Phone: 0412 085 224

'Astro Dave' Is Radio-Active 

Heard On DOZENS Of Stations Weekly - CLICK for past interviews