Long Name, Cool Rocket

The Variable Specific Impulse Magnetoplasma Rocket is a promising design coming to life for real now after nearly 40 years of development. "VASIMR is intended to bridge the gap between high-thrust, low-specific impulse propulsion systems and low-thrust, high-specific impulse systems." or in other words function as a extremely versatile rocket for cargo transport and deep space missions. The Ad Astra Rocket company is developing this rocket technology.

http://www.adastrarocket.com/aarc/

New Deep Throttling Rocket Tech Developed

Scientists have developed a rocket which can be vary deeply throttled from 8% up to 104% of its normal operating power. They have also found ways to control the chugging which usually affects the operation of this type of engines. Throttling engines are difficult to make because destructive vibrations can build up in the nozzle and critically damage the sensitive engine and spacecraft.

http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/constellation/news/cece.html

Ares I-X Tested

NASA Engineers tested the rocket slated to carry astronauts to the moon in the near future. It is currently the largest rocket in the world. Borrowing from other existing rockets, "Four first-stage, solid-fuel booster segments are derived from the Space Shuttle Program. A simulated fifth booster segment contains Atlas-V-based avionics, and the rocket's roll control system comes from the Peacekeeper missile. The launch abort system, simulated crew and service modules, upper stage, and various connecting structures all are original. " This process makes new rockets cheaper and faster than designing entirely new rockets.

http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/constellation/ares/flighttests/aresIx/building_original.html

Gamma Rays found to occur naturally on earth

Antimatter pulses have been recorded as they were emitted from bolts of lightning. The scientists said, "Like all the most discoveries, it was unexpected." It was discovered using a telescope usually used for space. Positrons were destroyed and anti electrons were produced.

http://www.dailygalaxy.com/my_weblog/2009/11/-antimatter-lightning-discovered-on-earth.html

Its The End of The World

Important in the drake equation is the lifetime of a civilization. The article presents 10 reasons why we will not all die horrible deaths in the near future.

http://news.discovery.com/space/ray-villard-doomsday-theories.html

Conditions Right on Europa

According to national geographic, "In the oceans of a moon hundreds of millions of miles from the sun, something fishy may be alive—right now." Movement of ice on Jupiter's moon is suspected to be supplying oxygen to the vast ocean beneath the ice crust. Scientists report that the flow of oxygen is great enough to support at least 300,000,000 tons of marine life.

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/11/091116-jupiter-moon-life-europa-fish.html