Frontiers of Science: New Discoveries and Delays in Space Exploration

Recent advancements and discoveries in science highlight NASA's SPHEREx telescope launch to study the universe's origins, Spanish fossil findings of a potential unknown human species, and a delayed NASA-SpaceX mission impacting astronaut return schedules from the International Space Station.

In a significant push into the cosmos, NASA has successfully launched the SPHEREx telescope from California, embarking on a mission to reveal the universe's origins and trace hidden water reserves across the Milky Way. Carried by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, this monumental launch marks a new era in cosmic exploration.

Meanwhile, a groundbreaking discovery has emerged from Spain, where fossils dating back 1.1 to 1.4 million years suggest a previously unknown species in the human evolution chain. Unearthed at the Sima del Elefante cave, these remains potentially alter early European human history.

However, in a setback for space missions, NASA and SpaceX have postponed a pivotal launch needed to relieve a group of astronauts stranded aboard the International Space Station. The launch deferment holds back Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, whose return journey is delayed due to Boeing's Starliner issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)