German company HyImpulse made history by successfully launching a candle wax-powered rocket on a test flight into space, marking a significant milestone in space exploration. The rocket, capable of carrying commercial satellites, soared into the sky on Friday, showcasing Germany’s prowess as a spacefaring nation.
“We’re signaling Germany’s prowess as a spacefaring nation and expanding Europe’s access to space,” said HyImpulse’s chief executive Mario Kobald in a statement.
In another exciting development, Boeing is set to send the first Starliner space capsule with a crew of humans into orbit next week. This mission comes after years of delay and cost overruns, giving Boeing a much-needed opportunity to compete with Elon Musk’s SpaceX in the commercial space industry.
Meanwhile, scientists were intrigued by the behavior of a male Sumatran orangutan named Rakus, who was observed treating a facial wound using a medicinal plant known for its healing properties. This behavior shed light on the orangutan’s intelligence and ability to self-medicate in the wild.
Additionally, researchers in Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands discovered a potential breeding ground for smooth hammerhead sharks, a rare sighting that could provide valuable insights into the species’ reproductive habits.
Lastly, China made history by launching a mission to collect samples from the moon’s “hidden” side, marking a new phase in the country’s Chang’e lunar program. This ambitious mission underscores China’s commitment to space exploration and scientific discovery.