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Science, Maths & Technology
Europa: Jupiter’s ocean world
In the coming years, Jupiter’s moon Europa will be a focus for planetary exploration because of the tantalising possibility that it might harbour life. This article introduces you to this enigmatic moon and why space scientists and astrobiologists are excited about exploring it further.
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Science, Maths & Technology
World Space Week
World Space Week is held every year between 4th-10th October - it is a celebration of science and technology. We've put together some fantastic free resources to mark this occasion.
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Science, Maths & Technology
Exploring Europa
We are at the beginning of an exciting new phase of Solar System exploration, in which Jupiter’s enigmatic ocean moon Europa will be front and centre. Here we look at what two upcoming missions hope to achieve and why this is important for space scientists and astrobiologists.
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Science, Maths & Technology
The ocean of Jupiter’s moon Europa
At over 3100 kilometres across, Europa is the fourth largest moon of Jupiter and the sixth largest moon in our Solar System, rivalling the size of Earth’s moon. Of interest to many scientists, space enthusiasts and science fiction authors is the potential for a vast, global ocean to exist below Europa’s outer icy shell; but why do we think there...
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Science, Maths & Technology
Is there life on Europa?
The potential for an ocean on Jupiter’s moon Europa opens up the possibilities of it being habitable for life. With missions due to visit the moon in the coming decade, it is an exciting time for astrobiologists. This article explores why Europa might be a target in the search for life, and what the potential might be of finding it there.
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Science, Maths & Technology
Europa’s icy shell
Jupiter’s moon Europa has a distinctive icy surface, with a network of cracks, ridges and chaotic terrain. These features are formed by powerful gravitational forces from Jupiter that reshape the moon’s landscape and offer clues about its geological activity. This article explains these features and the processes that underpin them.
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Science, Maths & Technology
Astronomy: images of the Universe
Modern astronomy utilises a range of techniques across the electromagnetic spectrum that allow astronomers to measure the brightness, size and shape of astronomical objects, as well as their structure in many cases. This free course enables you to explore multiwavelength images of the Universe and make your own measurements of stars, nebulae and...
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Science, Maths & Technology
Moons of our Solar System
In this free course, Moons of our Solar System, explore the many moons of our Solar System. Find out what makes them special. Should we send humans to our Moon again?
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Science, Maths & Technology
Mars: A collection
OpenLearn has been covering the scientific research into our neighbour in space for nearly twenty years. Dip into our archive...
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Science, Maths & Technology
Space: to boldly, but cautiously, go.
Space exploration is full of possibilities, especially when searching for signs of life. But the reality is complex. What lies behind the many decisions that have to be taken to design and run a space exploration mission?
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Science, Maths & Technology
Microgravity: living on the International Space Station
This free badged open course, Microgravity: living on the International Space Station, will help you to consider microgravity environments in more detail than before! You will make direct comparisons of some important physical values between the International Space Station (ISS), the Earth and the Moon.
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Science, Maths & Technology
Big moon rising
David Rothery doesn't think the supermoons we're due to see deserve that much attention. Here's why...