1. The presence of phosphine gas in Venus’ atmosphere: In September 2020, scientists detected the presence of phosphine gas in the atmosphere of Venus. This discovery sparked great interest as phosphine could be a potential sign of biological activity.
2. Successful sample collection from asteroid Ryugu: In December 2020, the Japanese spacecraft Hayabusa2 returned to Earth, carrying samples collected from the asteroid Ryugu. This mission marked the first successful collection and return of asteroid samples by any country.
3. Confirmation of water molecules on the sunlit surface of the Moon: In October 2020, NASA’s Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy confirmed the presence of water molecules on the sunlit surface of the Moon, challenging previous assumptions about its composition.
4. Observation of a black hole in unprecedented detail: In 2019, the Event Horizon Telescope collaboration produced the first-ever image of a black hole. This remarkable achievement provided vital insights into the nature of black holes and their behavior.
5. Discovery of an exoplanet in the habitable zone around Proxima Centauri: In 2016, astronomers found an exoplanet called Proxima b orbiting Proxima Centauri, the closest star to our Sun. Proxima b is within the habitable zone, making it a target of great interest in the search for potential extraterrestrial life.
6. Detection of gravitational waves: In 2015, the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) made the groundbreaking detection of gravitational waves. This discovery confirmed Einstein’s theory of General Relativity and opened up a new way to observe the universe.
7. Mapping of the cosmic microwave background radiation: In 2013, the European Space Agency’s Planck satellite released the most accurate and detailed map of the cosmic microwave background radiation, providing crucial insights into the early universe’s structure and composition.
8. Exploration of Mars with rovers: Over the years, several rovers such as NASA’s Curiosity and Perseverance have been sent to Mars. These missions have greatly expanded our understanding of the Red Planet’s geology, atmosphere, and potential for supporting past or present life.
9. Confirmation of the accelerated expansion of the universe: In 1998, observations of distant supernovae led to the discovery that the expansion of the universe is accelerating. This finding, which earned the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2011, suggests the existence of dark energy—a mysterious force driving the universe’s expansion.
10. Confirmation of water on Mars: Multiple missions, including NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and the Mars Phoenix lander, have confirmed the presence of water in different forms on Mars. These discoveries have significant implications for potential future manned missions and the search for extraterrestrial life.
