NEWS FROM OUTER SPACE

Artist's simulation of Phoenix Mars Lander

Mars Lander Beams Back Video

Life on Mars? Maybe. The Phoenix Mars Lander has beamed back video of the Red Planet that has never been seen before. The data collected could have a tremendous impact on planning for future missions, NASA scientists say. Scientists remain uncertain about whether the new video represents first contact with a new alien life form or just a guy in a cheap rubber suit.

Artist's simulation of first contact with alien life forms on Mars

ACROSS THE UNIVERSE

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of its first space mission -- the launch of the Explorer 1 satellite -- NASA will be using its system of huge antennas normally used for listening to the cosmos to send a signal into space: the John Lennon song, "Across the Universe." The song was recorded forty years ago by the Beatles, on February 4, 1968.

Dr. Seth Shostak of the SETI Institure which has been monitoring space for signs of life beyond earth since 1984, says “Proof of our existence is already out there,” Dr. Shostak noted, “that’s simply a fact.” Scientists have found evidence of 270 planets of other stars, and though most are unlikely to support life there is a very real possibility something is out there somewhere. Hopefully, it will enjoy the Beatles. Who knows? This may kick off a cosmic wave of Beatlemania. Deep Space Number 9? Number 9?


According to the New York Times (2-2-08), "Reception will be best in the general direction of Polaris, 431 lightyears away, which is where NASA is aiming the signal. (That would be the North Star to us laymen.)" So if you happen to be out in deep space on Monday, February 4th, tune in around 4PM PST. This also happens to be the birthday of my girlfriend Wendy, a Beatle fan and my favorite alien. I dedicate this post to her.

Jai guru deva om.

click button for "Across the Universe."