What is dark matter?
CubeSats and small satellites play increasingly significant roles in modern space missions due to their compact size, lower cost, and flexibility: 1. **Accessibility and Affordability**: CubeSats enable more frequent and affordable access to space for universities, startups, and even larger organizaRead more
CubeSats and small satellites play increasingly significant roles in modern space missions due to their compact size, lower cost, and flexibility:
1. **Accessibility and Affordability**: CubeSats enable more frequent and affordable access to space for universities, startups, and even larger organizations. Their standardized size (e.g., 10x10x10 cm for 1U CubeSats) simplifies integration and deployment.
2. **Technology Demonstrations**: Small satellites serve as platforms for testing new technologies and components in space. They enable rapid prototyping and validation of innovations, such as advanced sensors, communication systems, and propulsion technologies.
3. **Earth Observation and Science**: CubeSats contribute to Earth observation missions by providing high-resolution imaging, environmental monitoring, and scientific data collection. They can be deployed in constellations for continuous global coverage at reduced costs compared to traditional satellites.
4. **Space Exploration Support**: CubeSats can serve as scouts or secondary payloads for larger missions, providing additional data and enhancing mission capabilities. They support exploration endeavors by expanding coverage and enabling distributed sensing capabilities.
Looking forward, the future potential of CubeSats and small satellites lies in further miniaturization, increased capabilities (such as autonomous operations and inter-satellite communication), and enhanced reliability. Their versatility and cost-effectiveness will likely continue to drive innovation in space technology and enable a broader range of applications, from deep space exploration to global connectivity initiatives.
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Dark matter is a mysterious substance that makes up about 27% of the universe's mass and energy. It is invisible and does not emit, absorb, or reflect light, making it undetectable by traditional telescopes. Its existence is inferred from its gravitational effects on visible matter, such as the rotaRead more
Dark matter is a mysterious substance that makes up about 27% of the universe’s mass and energy. It is invisible and does not emit, absorb, or reflect light, making it undetectable by traditional telescopes. Its existence is inferred from its gravitational effects on visible matter, such as the rotation speeds of galaxies and the movement of galaxy clusters. Unlike normal matter, dark matter is believed to be composed of unknown particles, with candidates including WIMPs (Weakly Interacting Massive Particles) and axions. Dark matter plays a crucial role in the formation and evolution of cosmic structures, providing the necessary gravitational “scaffolding” for galaxies to form and cluster together. Despite extensive research, it remains one of the biggest mysteries in astrophysics and cosmology.
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