Mars Gazette

Title: China Unveils Shenzhou 21 Mission Crew Including the Nation’s Youngest Astronaut

The final countdown has begun for China’s Shenzhou 21 mission to the Tiangong Space Station, set to launch on October 31. In a recent reveal, China has introduced the crew members of this momentous mission, among them the nation’s youngest astronaut.

China’s space program, under the command of China National Space Administration (CNSA), has been making significant strides, and the Shenzhou 21 mission is no exception. The multinational crew for this mission showcases China’s commitment to advancing its space exploration efforts. At the heart of this crew is the youngest member of China’s astronaut corps, poised to make history as the nation’s youngest spacefarer.

Since the inception of the Chinese astronaut program, the youngest astronaut to be launched into space had been 30 years old. With the Shenzhou 21 mission, China is set to break this record. The identity of this young astronaut, along with further details about their training and qualifications, has yet to be revealed. However, this move by CNSA underscores China’s resolve to inspire and involve the younger generation in space exploration.

The Shenzhou 21 mission is set to be a significant milestone for China’s space program. The mission will involve a long-duration stay at the Tiangong Space Station, furthering China’s understanding of the effects of space on the human body and paving the way for future long-term space habitation.

The Tiangong Space Station, often referred to as the ‘Heavenly Palace,’ is China’s own modular space station, part of a broader ambition to establish a long-term human presence in space. The Shenzhou 21 mission will contribute to the station’s construction and operation, enhancing China’s capabilities in space and furthering scientific research.

The upcoming launch is a testament to China’s growing prowess in space technology. The inclusion of the nation’s youngest astronaut in the mission is expected to resonate with the public, especially the youth. It serves as a reminder that the final frontier is not just the domain of seasoned astronauts but also the younger generation who carry the dreams of exploring the vast expanse of space.

With the Shenzhou 21 mission, China is set to close out the year on a high note in space exploration. The mission signifies China’s commitment to space exploration, its determination to foster a new generation of astronauts, and its ambition to establish a long-term human presence in space.

As the world prepares to witness the launch on October 31, all eyes will be on China and its youngest astronaut. The Shenzhou 21 mission, destined for the ‘Heavenly Palace,’ is not just a mission – it’s a promise of a future where the stars are within reach, and the vast universe is our playground.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/space-exploration/human-spaceflight/china-reveals-crew-for-shenzhou-21-mission-to-tiangong-space-station-including-nations-youngest-astronaut-video](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/human-spaceflight/china-reveals-crew-for-shenzhou-21-mission-to-tiangong-space-station-including-nations-youngest-astronaut-video).

Title: Are We on the Precipice? 2024 Marked as Earth’s Hottest Year in Over a Century of Millennia

Two recent climate studies suggest that our blue planet is teetering on the edge of a climatic precipice. The year 2024 has been labeled as the hottest year that Earth has experienced in an astounding 125,000 years. However, these reports also bring a glimmer of hope: recovery is not out of reach, but it necessitates swift and decisive action.

Earth, our only home, appears to be sending us distress signals. According to the new climate reports, Earth’s vital signs are “flashing red,” indicating a climate emergency that could have far-reaching consequences for life as we know it. The scientists behind these studies have pieced together climate data from various sources, concluding that 2024 likely saw the highest global temperatures on record in an epoch-spanning 125,000 years.

This is not just a matter of breaking heat records. Extreme temperatures contribute to a cascade of environmental effects, from melting ice caps and rising sea levels to more frequent and severe weather events. These changes pose significant threats to ecosystems, economies, and communities worldwide.

The connection to space exploration may not be obvious at first glance, but it is undeniable. As we dream of venturing beyond our planet, we need to ensure that we are leaving behind a habitable world. The health of our Earth directly impacts our capacity for space exploration. A stable climate is necessary for the development and launch of rockets and the maintenance of ground-based observatories. Moreover, the study of other planets, particularly their climates, can provide valuable insights into managing our own.

So, are we ‘on the brink’? The answer, according to these reports, is a resounding yes. But that does not mean we are beyond hope. The same scientists who have warned of the grave situation also suggest that we can still recover if immediate action is taken. This involves a rapid transition to renewable energy, enhanced efforts to reduce carbon emissions, and increased reforestation, among other measures.

These steps are not just for the benefit of our planet but also our future in space. A healthy Earth is a launchpad for exploring the cosmos. By taking care of our own planet, we are ensuring the sustainability of our ventures into the final frontier.

The message from these reports is clear: we need to act now. The year 2024 may have been the hottest in a long, long time, but it doesn’t have to mark the beginning of the end. Instead, it can serve as a wake-up call, a catalyst for change. Let’s make it the year we chose to act, not the year we failed to respond.

The future of our planet and our exploration of space depends on the choices we make today. It’s time to heed Earth’s warning signals and make the necessary changes to ensure a sustainable future both here and out among the stars.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/science/climate-change/is-earth-on-the-brink-2024-was-likely-our-planets-hottest-year-in-125-000-years](https://www.space.com/science/climate-change/is-earth-on-the-brink-2024-was-likely-our-planets-hottest-year-in-125-000-years).

Title: Eye in the Sky: Satellites Monitor Category 5 Hurricane Melissa’s Potential Record-Breaking Impact on Jamaica

As the world watches with bated breath, satellites orbiting above our planet are hard at work, monitoring the ominous Category 5 Hurricane Melissa. According to meteorological experts, this hurricane, currently churning in the Caribbean Sea, could make a potentially record-breaking landfall in Jamaica.

A fleet of both public and private satellites has been deployed to keep a watchful eye on this monstrous weather system. The data collected from these advanced technologies will not only help meteorologists predict Melissa’s path but also provide invaluable insights into the hurricane’s structure and intensity.

Hurricane Melissa, with its mind-boggling wind speeds and sheer magnitude, has reached the highest classification on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, a Category 5. This designation is reserved for the most destructive hurricanes, emphasizing the potential severity of this storm.

Scientists and weather experts, using the data gathered from an array of satellites, have been able to map the trajectory of the hurricane, predicting its potential landfall in Jamaica. If these predictions hold true, Melissa could shatter previous records, making it one of the most significant meteorological events in the island nation’s history.

Satellites, our silent sentinels in space, play an integral role in monitoring natural disasters like Hurricane Melissa. These high-tech devices are equipped with sophisticated instrumentation that can measure temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, and precipitation. This valuable data helps meteorologists generate accurate forecasts, providing authorities with crucial time to initiate disaster management plans and evacuation protocols.

In addition to their weather-monitoring capabilities, satellites are also critical in assessing the aftermath of such devastating events. They provide detailed images of affected areas, aiding in rescue and recovery efforts and helping to map out the most efficient routes for delivering aid.

The potential record-breaking landfall of Hurricane Melissa serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and destructive power of nature. However, with the technological advancements in satellite imagery and weather monitoring, we have the tools necessary to prepare and respond effectively.

As the situation unfolds, it is hoped that the extensive data collected from these satellites will not only help mitigate the impact of Hurricane Melissa but also contribute to the broader understanding of these powerful weather phenomena. It’s a testament to the importance of space exploration and its direct impact on our lives here on Earth.

The space sector continues to prove its worth, not just in the advancement of human understanding of the universe, but also in its vital contributions to preserving and protecting life on our planet. As Hurricane Melissa approaches, our thoughts are with the people of Jamaica, as we continue to monitor the situation from above.

Read more from the original source here: https://www.space.com/technology/satellites-watch-category-5-hurricane-melissa-ahead-of-potentially-record-breaking-landfall-in-jamaica.

Title: SpaceX Reaches $15 Million Settlement with Cards Against Humanity Over Land Trespassing Dispute

Elon Musk’s ambitious space exploration company, SpaceX, has agreed to pay $15 million to Cards Against Humanity, a popular card game company, to settle a lawsuit over an alleged trespassing issue. The dispute revolved around a tract of land in South Texas, where debris from SpaceX’s space missions was found, including gravel, tractors, and space junk.

The lawsuit claimed that SpaceX had contaminated a previously unspoiled piece of land owned by Cards Against Humanity. The land, originally purchased by the card game company as a part of an elaborate marketing campaign, was intended to be kept in its pristine state. However, according to the lawsuit, SpaceX’s activities caused an unwanted intrusion, leading to a significant change in the environment.

SpaceX, a company renowned for pushing the boundaries of space travel and exploration, is known for its ambitious projects and the debris is a byproduct of these missions. The debris in question is not space junk in the traditional sense, like defunct satellites or spent rocket stages. Instead, it’s the terrestrial detritus of a busy spaceport: gravel from construction, tractors, and other equipment that SpaceX used in its operations.

The settlement between the two companies marks an end to a rather unusual legal dispute. As per the agreement, SpaceX will pay Cards Against Humanity $15 million in damages and commit to clearing the land of any remaining debris, restoring the land to its original condition as much as possible.

This case has drawn attention to the broader issue of space debris and its impact on Earth. Although this particular dispute revolved around terrestrial debris, it brings to light the growing problem of space junk cluttering the Earth’s orbit. With an increasing number of companies launching satellites and other equipment into space, the issue of space debris is becoming a significant concern for the scientific community.

The lawsuit and its settlement underscore the need for companies like SpaceX to take greater responsibility for the waste produced by their operations. This includes not only the debris left in space but also the terrestrial debris that results from their activities.

Despite the legal setback, SpaceX continues to forge ahead with its space exploration plans. The company has ambitious plans for the future, including colonizing Mars and transforming space travel. The settlement, while substantial, is unlikely to have a significant impact on these plans.

Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX, has not publicly commented on the lawsuit or the settlement. However, the case serves as a reminder that as we push the boundaries of space exploration, we must also consider the terrestrial consequences of our activities.

This incident will hopefully encourage more comprehensive waste management strategies in space exploration missions, ensuring that we can explore the universe sustainably without damaging our home planet.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/space-exploration/human-spaceflight/spacex-settles-usd15-million-trespassing-lawsuit-with-cards-against-humanity](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/human-spaceflight/spacex-settles-usd15-million-trespassing-lawsuit-with-cards-against-humanity).

Title: AI: A New Frontier in Storm Surge Forecasting

As climate change propels us into an era of increasingly severe weather events, the need for accurate storm surge predictions has never been greater. These predictions are not just numerical data points; they are life-saving pieces of information that give coastal residents time to evacuate and emergency responders time to prepare. Now, the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) into weather forecasting promises to revolutionize the way we predict storm surges, potentially saving countless lives.

Storm surges, the sudden rise in sea level caused by a storm, are one of the most dangerous aspects of hurricanes. They can inundate coastal areas, causing catastrophic flooding and damage. In the past, the ability to forecast these surges accurately was limited, making it difficult to warn residents and emergency services in time. However, with the advent of AI technology, this is set to change.

The beauty of AI is its ability to learn and adapt – it can analyze vast amounts of data quickly, identifying patterns that might be missed by human forecasters. AI can process the multiple variables that affect storm surges, such as wind speed, atmospheric pressure, and the shape and depth of the ocean floor. By considering all these factors simultaneously, AI can create a more accurate and detailed forecast. This increased accuracy gives people more time to evacuate, and emergency services more time to prepare, potentially saving lives.

AI technology also offers the benefit of continuous learning. With each storm, the AI system can refine its forecasting capabilities, learning from any inaccuracies and improving future predictions. This iterative process allows AI to become increasingly precise, providing even more reliable forecasts as time goes on.

The application of AI in storm surge forecasting is a testament to the power of technology in mitigating the effects of climate change. However, the integration of this technology into existing weather forecasting systems is not without its challenges. It requires substantial investment, and the training of meteorologists and emergency responders to interpret and act on the AI-generated forecasts. Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of AI-enhanced forecasting are too significant to ignore.

The exploration of AI in the realm of weather prediction is another exciting frontier in our quest to understand and adapt to our changing planet. It is a potent reminder that the same spirit of innovation that propels us into space can also be harnessed to protect us here on Earth.

As we face the escalating threats of climate change, the marriage of AI and weather forecasting offers a glimmer of hope. In the same way that space exploration opens up new possibilities for humanity, advancements in AI technology can open up new possibilities for protecting our planet and its inhabitants from the devastating impacts of severe weather events.

Read more from the original source here: https://www.space.com/science/climate-change/how-ai-can-improve-storm-surge-forecasts-to-help-save-lives.

Title: A Journey Through Space and Time: Celebrating 30 Years of the Iconic Alien Invaders, Kang & Kodos from ‘The Simpsons’

The dark vastness of space has always inspired tales of alien invasions, their encounters with humans, and their often misunderstood intentions. One of the most iconic iterations of this narrative is found in an unlikely place – the animated sitcom ‘The Simpsons’. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the famous ‘Treehouse of Horror’ special episode, which introduced us to the unforgettable alien invaders, Kang and Kodos.

“Don’t blame me, I voted for Kodos” – this line has become a cultural catchphrase, a humorous nod to the frustrations of electoral politics, and an immortal tribute to the influence of Kang and Kodos. In a world obsessed with space exploration, these peculiarly named, tentacled, one-eyed aliens quickly cemented their place in pop culture.

The ‘Treehouse of Horror’ series is an annual Halloween tradition of ‘The Simpsons’, where the usual rules of the show are bent and twisted into the realm of the supernatural. In its debut, Kang and Kodos embodied the fears and fascinations of the time – a time when space exploration was gaining momentum, and the idea of alien life was both exciting and terrifying.

Kang and Kodos, named after ‘Star Trek’ characters, are portrayed as ruthless invaders planning to conquer Earth but often end up in comically absurd situations. Their dialogue, punctuated by diabolical laughter and over-the-top displays of alien superiority, is a tongue-in-cheek exploration of the human fear of the unknown. More than just comedic characters, they personify our collective curiosity about what lies beyond our planet.

Over the last three decades, the duo has made an appearance in every ‘Treehouse of Horror’ episode, becoming a staple of the series. Their influence has transcended the animated world of Springfield, infiltrating various aspects of popular culture from video games to comic books.

The enduring popularity of Kang and Kodos underscores our continued fascination with space and the possibilities it holds. Despite their ominous intentions, the duo often serves as a mirror, reflecting our own follies and foibles in their attempts to understand humanity. Their failed invasions and constant misunderstandings of Earth’s culture serve as a humorous reminder that the complexities of human nature can be as confounding as the mysteries of the universe.

As we celebrate 30 years of Kang and Kodos, we also celebrate 30 years of exploring our fears, our fascination, and our future through the lens of these iconic alien invaders. They may be from a distant planet, but they’ve found a permanent home in our popular culture, and in our hearts.

So, here’s to Kang and Kodos, the alien invaders who, through their misadventures, remind us of the thrill of space exploration, the awe of the unknown, and the sheer joy of a good laugh. As we look to the stars, we can’t help but wonder – what will the next 30 years bring?

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/30-years-ago-the-simpsons-treehouse-of-horror-special-introduced-us-to-kang-and-kodos-the-series-iconic-alien-invaders](https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/30-years-ago-the-simpsons-treehouse-of-horror-special-introduced-us-to-kang-and-kodos-the-series-iconic-alien-invaders).

Title: The Cosmic ‘Brain’ in Deep Contemplation: A Mesmerizing New Image of the Medulla Nebula

The universe, in all its grandeur, continues to astound us. The latest cosmic spectacle to catch our collective gaze is an intricate and colorful portrait of the Medulla Nebula, a supernova remnant affectionately referred to as the ‘Cosmic Brain.’ This astonishing image was captured over 50 painstaking hours in September 2025, offering us a vibrant glimpse into the past.

The Medulla Nebula, located thousands of light-years away in our Milky Way galaxy, is the aftermath of a supernova event. The bright, multicolored tendrils that make up this cosmic spectacle are the remnants of a massive star that exploded, hurling its outer layers into the surrounding space. These ejections, traveling at millions of kilometers per hour, produce the stunning patterns we observe in nebulae.

The ‘Cosmic Brain’ nickname comes from the nebula’s apparent resemblance to a brain’s intricate structure when viewed from a distance. The new image, captured with meticulous precision, showcases the nebula’s delicate filaments in vivid detail. The result is a stunning tableau of cosmic artistry.

The image was obtained using a highly specialized telescope capable of capturing light emitted by different gases in the nebula. Hydrogen, oxygen, and sulfur gases, ionized by the high-energy radiation from the supernova, produce the striking colors seen in the image. The rich reds and purples indicate areas of hydrogen and sulfur, while the cooler blues denote oxygen.

Capturing the image was no small feat. Over the course of 50 hours, the telescope collected light from the nebula, with each hour revealing a bit more of the nebula’s complexities. The resulting image is not just beautiful but also contains a wealth of information for astronomers to study. The distribution and composition of gases, the nebula’s structure, and the supernova’s remnants’ movement all offer clues about the life and death of stars.

The ‘Cosical Brain’ image reminds us of the violent yet awe-inspiring processes that shape our universe. It gives us a glimpse into the past, back to when a star exploded and scattered its elements across space. These elements, including hydrogen and helium, along with heavier elements like carbon and oxygen, are the building blocks for planets and life as we know it.

The Medulla Nebula, like other supernova remnants, is a cosmic laboratory that allows scientists to study the processes that create and distribute these elements. By studying these celestial phenomena, we’re gaining insights into our own origins and our place in the cosmos.

The captivating image of the Medulla Nebula is a testament to the marvels of our universe and the advancements in technology that allow us to explore it from our Earthly vantage point. It showcases the beauty and complexity of space, while also reminding us that we are, in the grand scheme of things, made of stardust.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/stargazing/astrophotography/cosmic-brain-ponders-the-cosmos-in-colorful-new-photo-of-the-medulla-nebula](https://www.space.com/stargazing/astrophotography/cosmic-brain-ponders-the-cosmos-in-colorful-new-photo-of-the-medulla-nebula).

Title: A Celestial Spectacle: Scientists Witness the Birth of a Ring System around Chiron for the First Time

In an unprecedented celestial event, scientists have managed to capture the formation of a ring system around Chiron, a small celestial body located in our solar system. This marks the first time in history that the genesis of such a system has been observed, marking a significant milestone in space exploration and understanding.

Chiron, a minor planet first discovered in 1977, is known as a “centaur” due to its erratic orbit that lies between Saturn and Uranus. With a diameter of only 200 kilometers, it’s a tiny entity in the vast expanse of our solar system. Yet, this cosmic centaur has been the subject of curiosity among astronomers for many years, mostly due to its icy composition and unusual behavior, including sporadic increases in brightness.

But the recent observations have added a new layer of intrigue to Chiron’s profile. For the first time, scientists have spotted signs of an emerging ring system encircling this minor planet, an event that has never been seen before.

Ring systems are not uncommon in our solar system, with the most famous example being the majestic rings encircling Saturn. However, the process of their formation has always been a mystery, with scientists being able to only create theories based on the static observations of existing rings.

The observation of rings forming around Chiron is a breakthrough, as it provides the scientific community with a unique opportunity to observe and understand the processes behind the formation of these celestial structures. This could potentially shed light on many unanswered questions about the formation and evolution of planets and other celestial bodies within our solar system.

The data was collected using various telescopes and observatories, involving a team of international scientists. Their findings suggest that the ring system around Chiron is likely the result of the centaur’s icy surface gradually vaporizing due to solar radiation. The vaporized particles are then believed to be trapped by Chiron’s gravity, forming a ring around the celestial body.

These observations hold significant implications for our understanding of the solar system. The knowledge we gain from this could potentially help scientists predict where we might find similar structures in other star systems, paving the way for future space exploration and discovery.

As we continue to gaze into the depths of space, each discovery, such as the formation of rings around Chiron, adds a new piece to the intricate puzzle that is our universe. They remind us of the immense beauty and complexity of the cosmos, and the endless possibilities that space exploration holds.

The observation of a ring system forming around Chiron is a testament to the advancements in technology and dedication of the scientific community. It’s a stepping stone towards unraveling the mysteries of our universe, one celestial body at a time.

Read more from the original source here: https://www.space.com/astronomy/solar-system/scientists-watch-rings-forming-around-a-solar-system-world-for-the-1st-time.

Title: “A Delicate Mission: Smithsonian May Disassemble Historic Shuttle Discovery for Texas Transfer”

In a bid to move one of America’s most cherished relics of space exploration, the Smithsonian Museum could be facing an unprecedented challenge. Museum officials have alerted Congress that the space shuttle Discovery may need to be partially disassembled to facilitate its transfer to Texas, potentially risking damage to the meticulously preserved artifact.

The Discovery, a veteran of 39 space missions and an icon of our nation’s spaceflight history, currently resides at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Virginia. The shuttle is a testament to the United States’ relentless pursuit of knowledge and exploration beyond our atmosphere.

However, its transfer to the Lone Star State is not as straightforward as it might seem. The sheer size and weight of the shuttle, combined with the intricacies of its design, pose significant logistical challenges. In a letter to Congress, Smithsonian officials have warned that these challenges might necessitate the partial disassembly of the shuttle, a process that could risk causing irreversible damage.

The Smithsonian’s concerns highlight the paradox of preserving historic artifacts like the Discovery. The need to share these pieces of history far and wide often comes with the risk of damaging them in the process. The Smithsonian must now weigh the importance of making the shuttle accessible to a wider audience against the potential risks of moving it.

This conundrum is not lost on the space exploration community. Many have voiced concerns over the potential disassembly, highlighting the shuttle’s status as one of the most meticulously preserved pieces of spaceflight history. They argue that any damage to the Discovery, no matter how minor, would be a loss to our collective understanding of our journey into space.

The Discovery’s impressive resume includes deploying the Hubble Space Telescope, completing the first rendezvous with the Russian space station Mir, and delivering the Kibo laboratory to the International Space Station. Each mission has added to the shuttle’s historical significance, making the potential for damage during the move all the more concerning.

While the Smithsonian’s alert to Congress is undoubtedly troubling, it is also a testament to the museum’s commitment to preserving and protecting the invaluable artifacts of our nation’s spaceflight history. The museum has the unenviable task of deciding how best to move the Discovery, balancing the desire to share this piece of history with as many people as possible against the very real risk of damaging a priceless relic of our past.

As the Smithsonian navigates this delicate mission, the world watches with bated breath, hoping that the Discovery will make its journey to Texas intact, ready to inspire future generations of star-gazers and astronauts alike.

Read more from the original source here: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/the-smithsonian-might-have-to-cut-space-shuttle-discovery-into-pieces-to-get-it-to-texas.

Title: The Other Space Race: The Global Obsession with Orbital Launches

There is a new space race underway, and it’s not about landing the first human on Mars or uncovering the secrets of the distant cosmos. This one is much closer to home and involves nations around the world striving to send satellites and other objects into orbit around our planet. This “other space race” has become a global obsession, as countries vie for their place in the sky, aiming to benefit from the countless opportunities that come with having a presence in space.

The original space race, which took place during the Cold War, saw the United States and the Soviet Union locked in a competition to assert their dominance in space exploration. Today, the landscape is much different. Many nations, including emerging economies, are joining the race, and the competition has extended beyond governmental agencies to include private companies. The stakes are high as possessing an orbital presence offers a myriad of advantages, from scientific research and meteorological observation to communication, navigation, and national security.

But why the sudden surge in interest? Why are countries, big and small, so obsessed with sending objects into orbit? The answer lies in the significant technological advancements and the decreasing costs of launching satellites. Previously, space exploration was an expensive venture that only a few leading nations could afford. However, the emergence of cost-effective, smaller satellites and the advent of private space companies offering launch services have made space more accessible than ever.

Moreover, the value of data collected from space is burgeoning. Satellites play a critical role in our everyday lives, from providing weather forecasts and enabling GPS navigation to supporting telecommunications and internet services. They also play an essential part in monitoring climate change and other environmental issues, making them crucial tools in the fight to protect our planet.

On top of this, there’s an element of national pride and prestige associated with space exploration. Having a satellite in orbit is a testament to a nation’s scientific and technological prowess, something that can boost its international standing.

However, this new space race is not without its challenges. The increasing number of objects in orbit has led to concerns about space debris, which could pose a threat to both manned and unmanned space missions. As more nations and private companies join the race, international cooperation and regulations will be crucial to ensuring the sustainability and safety of space activities.

In conclusion, the “other space race” is a testament to humanity’s endless curiosity and pursuit of knowledge. As we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, our view of the universe and our place in it will undoubtedly continue to evolve. The stars, as they say, are the limit.

Read more from the original source here: [The Other Space Race: Why the World is Obsessed with Sending Objects into Orbit](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/the-other-space-race-why-the-world-is-obsessed-with-sending-objects-into-orbit).