Earth's atmosphere
Coverage of Earth's atmosphere in the Nexus archive.
- An Early Step on the Long, Strange Road to Photosynthesis
Around 2.4 billion years ago, bacteria evolved to harness solar energy, splitting water molecules to create sugars and releasing oxygen into Earth's atmosphere, fundamentally altering life's trajectory. This evolutionary leap enabled the conversion of sunlight into chemical energy, forming the basis of photosynthesis.
- Suspected meteor heard around Boston, Rhode Island
A suspected meteor caused a loud sound that rattled nerves and windows in Boston and Rhode Island. Scientists believe the meteor exploded in Earth's atmosphere.
- Swift thinking buys NASA observatory a little more time before re-entry
NASA's decision to halt science operations on the Swift observatory has delayed its re-entry from July to September 2026. Increased atmospheric drag due to the Sun's solar maximum phase accelerated orbital decay forecasts, prompting a reboost mission by Katalyst. Adjusting the spacecraft's orientation to minimize drag has extended its operational window, allowing more time for the rescue mission.
- Successful SpaceX Starship 12 launch ends with spectacular fireball
The SpaceX Starship 12 rocket successfully completed most of its planned mission, reentered Earth's atmosphere, and landed in the ocean. The launch marked a significant milestone despite ending with a fireball.
- Orion capsule re-enters Earth's atmosphere
The Orion capsule initiated its re-entry into Earth's atmosphere at 7:53 p.m. ET, marking the critical 14-minute entry interface phase of the Artemis II mission. This event represents a pivotal moment in the mission's execution as the capsule returns from space.
- NASA's grand finale: Step-by-step graphic reveals how the Artemis II crew will face a 24,000mph hypersonic re-entry into Earth's atmosphere - with just a 3-INCH shield to protect them from the 2,760°C heat
NASA's Artemis II mission details the crew's hypersonic re-entry into Earth's atmosphere at 24,000mph, protected by a 3-inch heat shield capable of withstanding 2,760°C. A step-by-step graphic outlines the process for the crew's return.
- All eyes on Orion’s heat shield: Artemis 2 astronauts will hit Earth’s atmosphere at nearly 24,000 mph on April 10
The article highlights the Artemis 2 mission's focus on Orion's heat shield as astronauts prepare to re-enter Earth's atmosphere at 24,000 mph on April 10. It emphasizes the technological challenge of withstanding extreme re-entry conditions.