NASA continues to make groundbreaking discoveries through its consistent research efforts conducted both in space aboard the International Space Station and here on Earth. Some of NASA's most notable achievements include the launch of the Hubble Space Telescope, the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers on Mars, and the historic Apollo missions to the moon.
Recent Discoveries:
Here are some of NASA's significant discoveries from the past year:
1. Bennu Asteroid Sample Touches Down on Earth
In a remarkable feat, NASA's OSIRIS-REx spacecraft successfully delivered a sample from the Bennu asteroid to Earth after a seven-year mission. This 4.5-billion-year-old asteroid sample is the largest carbon-rich sample ever retrieved and holds valuable insights into the origins of life on Earth.
2. Perseverance Rover Captures Dust Devil on Mars
In August 2023, NASA's Perseverance rover captured a dust devil moving across Mars' Jezero Crater. This observation provides valuable data for scientists studying the Martian atmosphere and enhancing weather models.
3. Potential Habitable 'Super Earth' Discovered 137 Light-Years Away
On Jan. 31, 2024, NASA announced the discovery of a potentially habitable 'super Earth' named TOI-715b located 137 light-years away. This planet, slightly larger than Earth, orbits a reddish star within the habitable zone, making it a promising candidate for further study.
These recent findings underscore NASA's commitment to advancing our understanding of the universe and exploring the mysteries of space. Each discovery brings us closer to unraveling the complexities of our cosmic surroundings and opens new avenues for scientific exploration.
