The Mastcam-Z camera onboard NASA's Perseverance rover captured a spectacular view of Phobos, one of Mars's moons, passing in front of the Sun during a partial eclipse on September 30, 2024. This rare event showcased the unique, irregular shape of Phobos, leading scientists to question its origin and potential relationship with Mars. While this is not the rover's first observation of a Phobos transit, it continues to provide valuable insights and images with its advanced technology. Don't miss out on all the latest tech news and updates by following Gadgets 360 on multiple platforms.
NASA's Perseverance Rover Captures Spectacular Eclipse of Mars' Moon Phobos
NASA's Perseverance rover has captured stunning images of a partial solar eclipse on Mars, showcasing the unique shape of Phobos, one of the planet's two moons. This rare celestial event occurred on September 30, 2024, and was captured by the rover's Mastcam-Z camera.
Background on Phobos and Solar Eclipses on Mars
Phobos is the larger of Mars' two moons, with an irregular potato-like shape and a diameter of approximately 22.2 kilometers (13.8 miles). It orbits Mars at a distance of about 6,000 kilometers (3,700 miles), completing one orbit every 7 hours and 39 minutes.
Solar eclipses occur on Mars when Phobos or the smaller moon, Deimos, passes between the Sun and Mars. However, due to their small sizes, these eclipses are not total eclipses but rather partial or annular eclipses.
Perseverance's Observation of the Phobos Transit
The Mastcam-Z camera on Perseverance captured a series of images of the Phobos transit on September 30, 2024. The images reveal the moon's distinctive shape and show it moving across the Sun's disk. Scientists were particularly interested in observing the moon's irregular shape, which has led to speculation about its origin and potential relationship with Mars.
Scientific Significance of the Observation
The images captured by Perseverance provide valuable insights into Phobos' origin and evolution. By studying the moon's shape and composition, scientists can gain a better understanding of its formation and history. Additionally, the eclipse observations can help scientists better understand the dynamics of the Mars-Phobos system.
Top 5 FAQs Related to Phobos and Solar Eclipses on Mars
What is Phobos? Phobos is the larger of Mars' two moons, with an irregular potato-like shape.
How often do solar eclipses occur on Mars? Solar eclipses occur on Mars whenever Phobos or Deimos passes between the Sun and Mars. However, these eclipses are not total eclipses but rather partial or annular eclipses.
Why is Phobos' shape unique? Phobos has an irregular shape, unlike many other moons in our solar system. Scientists believe that this shape may be the result of a collision or other catastrophic event.
What is the significance of observing Phobos' transit? Observations of Phobos' transits can provide valuable insights into the moon's origin, composition, and relationship with Mars.
How does NASA observe Phobos and solar eclipses on Mars? NASA uses rovers and other spacecraft to observe Phobos and solar eclipses on Mars. The Mastcam-Z camera on Perseverance is a particularly powerful tool for capturing images of these events.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a groundbreaking research, development and innovation scheme that will provide a boost to the flourishing ecosystem of innovation in India. In his address at the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave, PM Modi highlighted the crucial role of science and technology in driving transformation and emphasized on India's significant progress in the field. He also acknowledged the remarkable achievement of India's women's cricket team and expressed confidence that their success would inspire the country's youth. Attendees included renowned scientists, innovators, and distinguished guests from both India and abroad.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Emerging Science and Technology Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 and launched the Rs 1 lakh crore Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme Fund. The scheme aims to strengthen the private sector-driven research and innovation ecosystem in the country and has a total outlay of Rs 1 lakh crore over 6 years. ESTIC 2025, gathering over 3,000 participants, focuses on 11 critical thematic areas including Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Science and Technology, and Space Technologies, providing opportunities for collaboration and reinforcing India’s science and technology ecosystem.
In this edition of Health360, a renewed debate over the alleged link between vaccines and autism is sparked by tech mogul Sridhar Vembu's endorsement of a questionable study. Despite reassurances from the medical community backed by data from the WHO, doubts continue to persist, leading to potential harm to public health. The program also delves into the alarming rise in back pain cases in India and explores new treatments.
In an effort to fight the ongoing air pollution crisis, Delhi conducted its first-ever official cloud seeding operation led by IIT Kanpur. The operation involved a small aircraft dispersing specially designed chemical flares into the atmosphere to create rain. While experts say rainfall could occur within 15 minutes to 4 hours, the actual timeframe depends on various factors such as wind direction and moisture content. If successful, the government plans to continue the operation in the coming days.
In the quest for stronger, luscious hair, we often overlook the importance of nurturing the roots. Fortunately, Ayurveda has long stressed the significance of this practice, which has now been backed by modern science. Studies have shown that herbs like Bhringraj and Amla can activate hair follicles, promoting new growth and delaying greying. Fenugreek, Neem, Hibiscus, and Ashwagandha are also found to be beneficial in strengthening and nourishing the scalp, resulting in thicker and healthier hair.
A college student shares her personal journey of becoming a vegetarian, despite facing challenges and health concerns. She then delves into an ethics class she took, where the concept of marginal cases were discussed. Following an article by philosophy professor Alastair Norcross, she concludes that even though individual action may seem insignificant, refusing to consume factory-farmed meat holds moral significance due to the potential to prevent immense suffering for animals.
On October 24, the global community commemorates World Polio Day to honor the legacy of Dr. Jonas Salk and the efforts of countless individuals and organizations in the fight against polio. This highly contagious and potentially deadly disease, once a widespread epidemic, is now largely preventable thanks to the development of a life-saving vaccine. India's successful eradication of polio serves as a testament to the importance of strong vaccination programs and collaborations in public health initiatives.
As winter arrives in India, so does the hazardous air pollution. Delhi NCR's AQI has already crossed the 400 mark, making it crucial to invest in air purifiers, especially after Diwali. Dyson, Qubo, HomePure, and Philips have launched high-quality air purifiers with advanced features to tackle different types of pollutants and create cleaner indoor air. With prices ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 1 lakh, these purifiers are a practical and timely purchase for a healthier living.
In a recent family vlog, Indian celebrity couple Shoaib Ibrahim and Dipika Kakar shared their "natural" hair care routine for their son, using a homemade mask made with rice flour, flax seeds, and coconut oil. However, experts warn that what works for adults may not be suitable for babies, whose sensitive skin and scalp could react to the ingredients. While the ingredients may improve hair texture, they do not necessarily promote hair growth. Instead, a healthy diet and good scalp care are more important in maintaining healthy hair.
A recent consumer study has found multiple brands of soft contact lenses in the U.S. to contain "forever chemicals" that can be harmful to both the body and the environment. The study, conducted by the nonprofit organization Environmental Health Sciences, tested 18 varieties of popular contact lenses and found all of them to contain markers for PFAS. Brands such as Acuvue, Alcon, and CooperVision were among the list of affected products. This news serves as a cautionary lesson on the potential risks of overusing contact lenses.