Cutting-Edge Science Updates: Space, Satellites, and Seaweed Power

Recent science news highlights include Geespace's launch of 10 low-orbit satellites, Chilean research on biophotovoltaic algae power, Europe's last Vega rocket launch with Sentinel-2C satellite, and issues surrounding helium leaks in Boeing's Starliner, which returned uncrewed after a test mission.

Following the latest developments in science: Geespace, backed by Chinese automaker Geely, has successfully launched 10 low-orbit satellites from Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre in Shanxi. This effort is aimed at creating a megaconstellation akin to SpaceX's Starlink.

In Chile, scientists at the University of Santiago are pioneering the use of biophotovoltaic technology to turn seaweed into a power source, utilizing photosynthetic organisms to convert light into electrical energy.

Europe marked a milestone with the launch of its final Vega rocket, which deployed the Sentinel-2C satellite under the EU's Copernicus programme for environmental monitoring, from French Guiana.

Meanwhile, NASA astronauts aboard Boeing's Starliner faced extended stays on the ISS due to helium leaks in the propulsion system. Despite these challenges, Starliner returned uncrewed to Earth after a three-month test mission.

(With inputs from agencies.)