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In pretty much every national news interview with J.D. Vance within the past two weeks, Donald Trump’s running mate has revealed himself to be nothing short of a stud. He did it at the debate, deftly…

NASA’s Europa Clipper spacecraft today began its six-year cruise to the Jupiter system, with the goal of determining whether one of the giant planet’s moons has the right stuff in the right setting for life. The van-sized probe was sent into space from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center atop a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket at 12:06 p.m. ET (16:06 UTC). A little more than an hour after launch, the spacecraft separated from its launch vehicle to begin a roundabout journey of 1.8 billion miles (2.9 billion kilometers) from Earth orbit to Europa. For decades, scientists have been collecting evidence that Europa harbors a hidden ocean of salty water beneath its icy shell. Or are they hidden lakes? Europa Clipper is built to characterize the moon’s surface, and what’s beneath that surface, to an unprecedented degree. The spacecraft won’t actually land on Europa. Instead, it will document the moon’s chemical composition, magnetic field, gravity field and subsurface structure over the course of four years, during 49 flybys that will pass as close as 16 miles (25 kilometers) above the surface. “Europa Clipper carries the most sophisticated suite of instruments that we’ve ever sent to the outer solar system,” mission project scientist Bob Pappalardo said during today’s webcast. “It carries a radar that can penetrate through ice like a CAT scan to find liquid water,” he said. “Super-high-resolution imaging will be able to look for warm spots, plumes at Europa — all these wonderful techniques that combine together to tell us, ‘Could Europa be the kind of place that could support life today?'” Europa Clipper is the most massive interplanetary probe built for NASA, with a fueled-up weight of 13,000 pounds (6,000 kilograms). Putting the spacecraft on its proper trajectory required so much oomph that there wasn’t enough propellant left over for the recovery of SpaceX’s rocket afterward. Getting the spacecraft off the pad was an odyssey in itself: This summer, mission planners worried that the probe’s radiation shielding wasn’t strong enough to protect its electronics, but those concerns were eased. Last week, Hurricane Milton forced a postponement of the Florida launch, but after the storm passed, NASA and SpaceX gave the all-clear for today’s attempt. During the countdown, the launch team detected — and successfully resolved — a last-minute temperature anomaly on the Falcon Heavy’s second stage. On its way to the Jupiter system, Europa Clipper will rely on gravity boosts provided during a flyby of Mars next March, and during an Earth flyby at the end of 2026. Once the spacecraft gets to its destination in 2030, it will fly over Europa repeatedly, following a flight path that’s meant to minimize exposure to the intense emissions from Jupiter’s radiation belts. Europa Clipper’s science instruments include visible-light, ultraviolet and infrared cameras that will map the ridges and cracks in Europa’s surface — and check for thermal clues that could point to upwellings of liquid water. Spectrometers will determine the chemical composition of the surface ice and “sniff” Europa’s thin atmosphere. Ice-penetrating radar and a gravity field detector will map Europa’s internal structure. Two instruments will chart the magnetic field, producing data that could confirm the depth and salinity of Europa’s subsurface ocean. A dust analyzer will sample the material that’s thrown up from the surface, to track down its composition and figure out where it’s coming from. The spacecraft is also carrying a radiation-shielding plate that is decorated with graphical representations of the word “water” in 103 languages — in recognition of Europa’s status as a water world — plus a poem for Europa, celestial equations and other tributes. The names of 2.6 million people around the world have been etched in microscopic letters on a silicon chip that’s attached to the plate, thanks to a “Message in a Bottle” campaign organized by NASA. Is there life in Europa’s hidden ocean? Scientists say the $5.2 billion Europa Clipper mission shouldn’t be expected to answer that question definitively. “We’re not looking for life itself. We’re just looking for an environment in which life could thrive,” Kate Craft, a staff scientist at Johns Hopkins University’s Applied Physics Laboratory, said in a video about the mission from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Nevertheless, the data could produce some surprises. NASA has already started looking into the possibility of sending a robotic lander to Europa to follow up on findings from the Europa Clipper mission. Such a lander could sample the ice to a depth of, say, 4 inches (10 centimeters) — and look for signs of life in those samples using a microscope and other lab instruments. The post Europa Clipper Begins Odyssey to Assess Jovian Moon’s Habitability appeared first on Universe Today.

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As a participant in the Amazon Associates affiliate program, Upworthy may earn proceeds from items purchased that are linked to this article, at no additional cost to you. Out of all human inventions, books might just be the greatest. That may be a bold statement in the face of computers, the internet and the international space station, but none of those things would be possible without books. The written recording of human knowledge has allowed our advancements in learning to be passed on through generations, not to mention the capturing of human creativity in the form of longform storytelling. Books have the power to change our lives on a fundamental level, shift our thinking, influence our beliefs, put us in touch with our feelings and help us understand ourselves and one another better.That's why we asked Upworthy's audience to share a book that changed their life. Thousands of responses later, we have a list of inspiring reads that rose to the top.Unsurprisingly, the most common responses were religious scriptures—the Bible, the Quran, the Book of Mormon, etc. Beyond those, here are the most common books, both fiction and non-fiction, that people considered life-changing. 1. "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho"From the very first page, Coelho's storytelling prowess weaves a tapestry of adventure, wisdom, and self-discovery that is unparalleled. The protagonist's quest for his personal legend resonated deeply with me, prompting introspection into my own aspirations and purpose. The narrative, while seemingly a simple tale, unravels layers of universal truths and timeless wisdom that are applicable to every reader's journey." – Matt Brown"Such greatness. Coelho tells the story with simplicity and elegance, and it is beautiful. The Alchemist is rhetorical kind of book that stays with you, and demands some time to unfold in your mind. Loved it!" – J. GreenFind "The Alchemist" on Amazon.2. "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz"This book literally changed my outlook on so many things. I’ve read it at least three times completely through. It helps deal with anxiety and helps you reframe and analyze your thoughts which may be troubling you. The writing style is great and I’ve already read other books by the same author. Would highly recommend purchasing this if you want to rethink your assumptions about yourself or other people." – Freddy"By far the best book I’ve read. The simplicity in composition and detail is amazing. Would recommend everyone have a read. This book is truly a masterpiece." – JoshuaFind "The Four Agreements" on Amazon.3. "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee"I remember reading the book many years ago and being moved by it especially being from the North and not as familiar with racism. I wondered why some schools were banning it so decided to revisit. I had forgotten the details but it is still an important book and reminds us that the fight against all prejudice is never finished and its current resurgence is cause for concern. This book should be required reading at a pretty young age. We can’t change what we don’t understand. If you have children read it with them and teach them well." – Maria"I can’t imagine, for the life of me, why this book has been banned. It is the most moral and righteous book I’ve ever read. It represents a time in our history when racism was endemic to the white population except for one compassionate lawyer. Told from his children’s point of view with an unforgettable narrator, the story of a small southern town comes alive." – PeggyFind "To Kill a Mockingbird" on Amazon.4. "The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle"This has become a true icon in the book of books on understanding how the mind works and how we become trapped in it. A must read." – Bill C."This book helped me through the toughest time in my life. It was an easy read, but ultimately, it helped me open my mind to many things and see things from multiple perspectives. My life coach recommended this book, and I'm happy that she did. It truly did save my life." – Coach J.Find "The Power of Now" on Amazon.5. "The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig"I did not expect to enjoy this book so much. I very much admire the writer's prowess in creating a beautiful and inspiring story out of a depressing premise and what I admire even more is the perspective he has given me about life." – Ashish S."'The Midnight Library' by Matt Haig is nothing short of a literary masterpiece that effortlessly weaves together the threads of life, regret, and the boundless possibilities that lie in our choices. This No.1 Sunday Times bestseller and worldwide phenomenon is a soul-stirring exploration of the human experience that lingers in the reader's mind long after the final page." – George L.Find "The Midnight Library" on Amazon.6. "Atomic Habits" by James Clear"Atomic Habits by James Clear isn't just a book; it's a roadmap to personal excellence. Deserving a resounding 5 out of 5 stars, this masterpiece has profoundly impacted my approach to habit formation and personal development." – Ahamed"Whether you're looking to break free from destructive habits, achieve ambitious goals, or simply lead a more fulfilling life, this book is a must-read. Clear's insights have the power to ignite change and propel you towards the best version of yourself." – SCFind "Atomic Habits" on Amazon.7. "Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch Albom"I wish I had read this book earlier. It teaches to love those in your life with everything you have. We never know when life will take them away. Our parents will continue to age. Our friends will drift away. We will end up driving away the ones we say 'I love you' to. It’s not too late to tell them how much you love them. It’s not too late to show them how much you love them. If you share your love before it’s too late, you won’t live your life with regret." – P.M."Mitch Albom is my favorite author. Tuesdays with Morrie did not disappoint. Please please read this book. It is heartwarming, inspirational and will make you do an introspection that will change your priorities. I promise." – A.C.Find "Tuesdays with Morrie" on Amazon.8. "Untamed" by Glennon Doyle"By page 16, I’d already sobbed, laughed, sobbed, reconsidered who I am, how I live my life, and what I’m doing next, and cried again. So much fire lit. This is a masterpiece. Thank the universe (and Glennon) it published now. Lord knows we need this now. It is already one of my top favorite books ever, and I read a lot. Like, a LOT." – Anna S.""Untamed" is a powerful and empowering memoir that delves deep into themes of self-discovery, authenticity, and breaking free from societal expectations. Doyle's writing is raw, honest, and deeply relatable. From the moment I started reading, I felt a connection to her journey and the struggles she navigates. One of the standout qualities of this book is Doyle's ability to articulate complex emotions and thoughts in a way that resonates with readers. Her insights into the expectations placed on women, the constraints of traditional roles, and the journey to reclaiming one's true self are both enlightening and inspiring." – Frank C.Find "Untamed" on Amazon.9. "Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl"Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor E. Frankl is a poignant exploration of resilience under the most testing conditions. As a Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist, Frankl intertwines his concentration camp experiences with his psychological expertise. Central to the book is the idea of logotherapy, which posits that finding meaning in life is the primary human drive. Frankl's narrative transcends its historical context, offering timeless insights into human endurance and the quest for purpose. The book is especially impactful for those facing personal adversities, as it highlights the power of choice and perspective in shaping one's destiny." – Neal W."This little one hundred page book is perhaps the most meaningful and profound that you can ever read. Disturbing, yet full of 'tragic optimism,' this book will change the way you think about life, happiness, and meaning." – Paige T.Find "Man's Search for Meaning" on Amazon.10. "The Untethered Soul" by Michael Singer"Michael A. Singer's "The Untethered Soul" is a literary masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on my journey of self-discovery. I stumbled upon this gem through a TikTok video recommendation, and I am profoundly grateful that I did." – Matt B."This book encapsulates every spiritual book I’ve read into a concise oneness! Everyone would benefit in some way by reading this book. Period." – Joe S.Find "The Untethered Soul" on Amazon.11. "The Giver" by Lois Lowry"Brought this book since my daughter had to read it for school and I always like to know what are they are teaching her. I am going to be honest very surprise that they are giving this kind of story to a 8th grader since the story is very intense, surprising, sad but at the same time beautiful and teach the real meaning of love and sacrifice. That live in an idealistic world does not work and it's never better than having love in your live." – Marla"The way Lois slowly introduces us into her idyllic and yet cruel world is simply amazing. The end of the book has left me completely moved and flabbergasted." – Nathan S.Find "The Giver" on Amazon.12. "The Last Lecture" by Randy Pausch"I’ve read this book twice now. Once at 18 and now again at 33! Both time it hits deep. Fantastic read!" – A.C."Professor Randy Pausch was diagnosed with terminal cancer. In response, Pausch wrote and delivered one last lecture--a self-help guide on living life with purpose and meaning. But his lecture wasn't really for his students or for the world, although it's been a massive bestseller. It was for his children.One of my favorite books of all-time, with one of my favorite lines of all time. 'If I could only give three words of advice, they'd be, 'Tell the truth.' If I got three more, they'd be, 'All the time.' --Randy Pausch" – Phil W.Find "The Last Lecture" on Amazon.