Short Wave A Newly-Discovered Asteroid And What's Beneath The Ice On Enceladus
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Jun 16, 2023 Dive into the fascinating world of space science as experts discuss the intriguing effects of long-term spaceflight on the human brain. Discover how microgravity can alter brain physiology and what this means for astronauts. Uncover the secrets of Saturn's moon Enceladus, with hints of subsurface oceans that may harbor life. Plus, learn about the newly discovered quasi-moon asteroid that shares Earth's orbit, sparking new questions about our cosmic neighborhood.
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Spaceflight's Impact on the Brain
- Long-term spaceflight impacts the brain due to microgravity, causing fluid shifts and gray matter changes.
- Astronauts' brains adapt to these changes over time, but the effects can linger even after returning to Earth.
Possible Habitability on Enceladus
- Saturn's moon Enceladus has an ocean under its icy surface, containing high levels of phosphorus, a key nutrient for life.
- This discovery suggests potential habitability, though further research is needed to confirm the presence of any life forms.
Accidental Discovery of Quasi-Moon
- Asteroid 2023 FW13, a quasi-moon, has been orbiting the sun alongside Earth since 100 BC.
- Discovered accidentally, it's not a threat to Earth and will likely remain in its stable orbit for centuries.