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Star Betelgeuse - A red supergiant in the constellation Orion

One fascinating star is Betelgeuse, a red supergiant located in the constellation Orion. Here are some intriguing facts about it: 1. Size and Volume: Betelgeuse is immense—if placed at the center of our solar system, it would extend past the orbit of Mars. 2. Variability: It is a pulsating variable star, meaning its brightness changes over time; it has been observed to vary in brightness over several months. 3. Life Cycle: Betelgeuse is nearing the end of its life cycle and is expected to explode as a supernova within the next million years, a relatively short time in astrophysical terms. 4. Distance: It is located approximately 640 light-years away from Earth. 5. Cultural Significance: Betelgeuse has been significant in many cultures and is commonly referred to as the “Shoulder of the Hunter” in the constellation Orion. 6. Color Indicator: Its reddish hue signifies a cooler surface temperature compared to other stars, which gives it a distinctive appearance. Betelgeuse con...

Of mice and spacemen: Understanding muscle wasting at the molecular level

Skeletal muscles undergo atrophy, or wasting, under conditions of reduced gravity, such as during spaceflight. Researchers explored the effects of microgravity and artificial gravity (1 g) on mice housed at the International Space Station for 35 days. Artificial gravity successfully prevented the gross and molecular changes observed in the muscles of mice subjected to microgravity.

from Space & Time News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3y6hfoH

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