Ice Ice Maybe...

It has been announced that an experimental satellite, IceCube, has been launched in space to capture the first global picture of the small frozen particles inside clouds. These clouds are commonly called ice clouds and typically result in heavy downpours. How it works is "Ice clouds start as tiny particles high in the atmosphere. Absorbing moisture, the ice crystals grow and become heavier, causing them to fall to lower altitudes. Eventually, the particles get so heavy, they fall and melt to form rain drops. The ice crystals may also just stay in the air" (Science Daily).

Over the past year, engineers have been testing the limits of the satellite to see if the instrument's batteries store enough power to run 24 hours. Interestingly enough, IceCube's batteries recharge when the Sun shines on its solar arrays, while the batteries operate all night long.

Scientists state that the satellites emitted in space are "playing an increasingly larger role in exploration, technology demonstration, scientific research and educational investigations at NASA" (Science Daily). Furthermore, they have been used to research more about Earth and space science in an effort to develop precursor science instruments such as "cutting-edge laser communications, satellite-to-satellite communications and autonomous movement capabilities" (Science Daily). These satellites have also aided in planetary space exploration and has shown promising signs.

Scientists don't know what limits IceCube may have yet, but they are hoping to find new discoveries in the years to come.

Source: Science Daily

McKenzie T.