Multi-layer insulation (MLI) creates the shiny crinkled gold and silver foil look on spacecraft and space equipment. MLI helps protect...

The global space race begins during the Cold War (1947-1991). Today, competition and collaboration rise among countries seeking universal...

Rare earth elements (REEs) are scattered through the Earth's crust. Coveted by many, they're bargaining chips in world politics. REES are...

Electric vehicles are alternative transport to conventional gas-powered cars. Here's an overview of how they're made and operated, from...

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in military and defense sectors gives an edge in warfare. Countries scramble to remain competitive. AI...

Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs) are foremost in artificial intelligence. RNNs are used in language translation and speech recognition....

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a world revolution, virtually nonexistent in public use before the 21st century. Knowing how to make an...

Ideonella sakaiensis is the first bacterium known to consume plastic, specifically polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Over 300 million...

Plutonium (Pu) is a synthetic chemical element known for its potent uses and dangers. A heavy, silvery white metal, it tarnishes to a...

Nine countries have nuclear arsenals: Russia, the United States, China, France, the United Kingdom, Pakistan, India, Israel and North...

Super alloys have unique combinations of strength, corrosion resistance and high-temperature stability. Made primarily with nickel,...

Solar energy and nuclear power are the two major forms of energy in space. Solar panels are familiar on satellites and spacecraft....

Bacteria are highly adaptable and many survive in extreme conditions, like high acidity. Some can function in anaerobic habitats....

De-orbiting is the controlled descent and re-entry of satellites into Earth’s atmosphere. Methods include propulsion systems and solar...

Astronauts on long-duration missions rely on water (H2O) for drinking, hygiene, food preparation, and oxygen generation by electrolysis....

Photosynthesis enables plants to convert sunlight into energy in the form of glucose molecules to support plants and life on Earth....

Robots are automations in all shapes and sizes, yet they need key factors to function and survive. These include power or energy,...

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries power phones, laptops, electric vehicles, satellites and spacecraft. Rechargeable energy storage devices,...

Particularly solar panels and batteries help provide reliable power for spacecraft and satellites. Without terrestrial resources, space...

Solar panels or photovoltaic (PV) panels are designed to convert sunlight directly into electricity. They're composed of multiple smaller...