Tech

Chinese scientists turned the world’s most sensitive radio telescope, FAST, toward the TRAPPIST-1 system, a promising site for alien life with seven rocky planets. Although no signals were detected, the study set new limits on possible extraterrestrial transmissions and highlighted advanced techniques driving today’s search for intelligent life beyond our solar system.

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed nanoengineered exciton-based switches that reduce heat loss by 66%, rivalling the performance of top electronic switches. The design uses a tungsten diselenide monolayer on a nanoridge to control excitons, marking a leap toward efficient devices that bridge the gap between electronics and photonics.

Russia’s Progress-93 mission successfully reached the ISS with 2.8 tons of supplies and fuel. The automated docking on September 13 ensures astronauts have resources for daily life and research. Such resupply flights are vital for sustaining human presence in space and maintaining station operations.

Blue Origin’s NS-35 mission carried over 40 scientific and student experiments beyond the Kármán Line, showcasing reusable rocket technology. The uncrewed flight ended the operational career of the RSS H.G. Wells capsule, highlighting Blue Origin’s dedication to research and education in space.

SpaceX has launched Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus NG-23 resupply mission to the International Space Station, debuting the upgraded Cygnus XL spacecraft. Carrying 11,000 pounds of vital supplies and experiments, this mission highlights progress in space cargo delivery and ongoing international efforts to support astronauts and scientific research in orbit.