NASAs Chandra explores hidden population of exotic neutron stars

A major campaign using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory and several other satellites has suggested that exotic neutron stars, magnetars may be more diverse-and common-than previously thought. Magnetars-the dense remains of dead stars that erupt sporadically with bursts of high-energy radiation-are some of the most extreme objects known in the universe. When a massive star runs out of fuel, ...

Hubble reveals Ring Nebulas true shape

New observations by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope have revealed the real shape of the Ring Nebula. The glowing gas shroud around an old, dying, Sun-like star is like a doughnut, scientists suggested. "The nebula is not like a bagel, but rather, it's like a jelly doughnut, because it's filled with material in the middle," said C. Robert O'Dell of Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn. ...

Rare birth of mega-galaxy captured by space telescope

Researchers in the US have captured rare images of the creation of a massive galaxy about 10 times the size of the Milky Way that was formed when two young galaxies collided 11 billion years ago, a study said. "Capturing the creation of this type of large, short-lived star body is extremely rare - the equivalent of discovering a missing link between winged dinosaurs and early birds," scientists ...

New Russian spacecraft reusable for up to five flights

Russia's new reusable spacecraft being developed by the Energia Rocket and Space Corporation will be able to make up to five space flights, the rocket maker said. The spacecraft's technical design has been finalised but is yet to be officially approved, Energia deputy general designer Alexander Chernyavsky said. The new reusable craft is to replace the Soyuz carrier rocket and is expected to ...

Shapiro Obama hits reset button on national security

View Photo Associated Press/Carolyn Kaster - President Barack Obama talks about national security, Thursday, May 23, 2013, at the National Defense University at Fort McNair in Washington. Declaring America at a ...