The 'DNS not responding' error occurs when the device cannot convert a website name into its corresponding IP address, which prevents browsing. Generally, this failure is caused by instability in the internet provider, corrupted data in the local cache, or blocks imposed by antivirus and firewalls.
There are several measures that can be taken to solve this issue. It is possible to restart both the modem and the device itself, clear the system cache, or replace the default DNS with more reliable options. If the problem persists, it is recommended to check if the network drivers are outdated or if security settings are obstructing communication.
Restarting the modem clears the internal data cache, removing damaged information that may be locking up the device. This procedure forces a new synchronization with the internet provider, updating the DNS address map. In the case of computers or mobile phones, restarting resets the TCP/IP traffic rules and the local network history, resolving temporary conflicts and restoring a stable connection to the router.
Clearing the DNS cache aims to erase old or defective address records stored in the system. This forces the device to look for an updated IP address directly from the servers, reestablishing the correct connection path. In Windows, this is done through the Command Prompt run as administrator, typing the command ipconfig /flushdns and restarting the PC. On macOS, the process involves opening Terminal and running the command sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder, thus restarting Apple's connection service.
Changing the DNS server provided by the provider to external options helps prevent interruptions when the original address is unstable. It is suggested to use Google DNS (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1), both recognized for their stability. In Windows, you must access the Properties of the active network connection, enter the TCP/IPv4 protocol, and manually insert the new addresses. On macOS, the user accesses System Settings, goes to Network, selects the active connection, clicks Details, and adds the new servers in the DNS tab.
Keeping network drivers updated corrects communication failures between the operating system and the physical internet card. This correction eliminates data packet loss, allowing DNS queries to complete successfully. In Windows, this maintenance is performed via Device Manager, expanding the 'Network adapters' section, right-clicking the active card, and choosing 'Update driver'. For macOS, these essential components are integrated into Apple's closed system and are updated automatically when installing new versions of the operating system.
Security software, such as antivirus and firewalls, can inadvertently block the UDP port, which is used by DNS traffic. This excessive protection prevents the device from receiving website responses, generating the connection error. To resolve this, it is necessary to check the traffic rules and network permissions in the security tool, ensuring that the flow of the browser and internet adapters is not being blocked. As a quick test, you can temporarily disable these defenses; if browsing normalizes, simply add the DNS servers to the security program's exception list.
The 'DNS server not responding' error can have various origins. It may be instability or overload on the provider's DNS server. Another common cause is corrupted data in the local cache, causing the system to attempt non-existent routes. Security software can block traffic on the UDP port. Failures in the home router's firmware can also freeze redirection functions. Furthermore, outdated network drivers cause conflicts and packet loss, and conflicts with VPNs or proxies can interrupt browsing.
To determine whether the problem lies with the router or the device, it is possible to test by connecting a second device, such as another smartphone or laptop, to the same network. If all devices show the error, the fault is with the router or the provider. An additional effective test is to use the mobile data on the problematic device; if browsing returns to normal, it confirms that the DNS failure is limited to the home router.
DNS acts as the internet's phone book, converting easy-to-remember website names into numerical IP addresses that machines require. Without this conversion function, devices cannot locate servers, and browsing stops. In addition to establishing paths, the system optimizes connections through local caches and offers protection against cyberattacks, simplifying the network architecture.
SpaceX failed in its attempt to launch the Starship rocket into orbit on Thursday (the 16th). A malfunction occurred during the launch that was not detected at the time.
A few minutes after the issue arose, Elon Musk, owner of SpaceX, announced on the social network X that the cause was the improper functioning of some engines, which led to the automatic termination of the flight. He also specified that the SpaceX team is unloading fuel, and the next launch attempt is scheduled 'in a few days.'
Astronomers have announced a historic achievement—the first direct detection of an atmosphere around a rocky planet located within its star's habitable zone. This breakthrough marks a significant step forward in the search for worlds potentially capable of supporting life.
The planet, named LHS 1140 b, is located approximately 48 light-years from Earth. According to the results of the new study, its atmosphere contains helium. In addition to being the first rocky planet with a directly detected atmosphere, it is also the first of its kind found in the so-called habitable zone—the region around a star where temperatures could allow for liquid water on the surface.
Researchers assert that among known exoplanets, LHS 1140 b possesses the greatest number of habitability indicators. The study's lead author, Collin Cherubim, told Space.com that the direct detection of helium in the atmosphere is unprecedented for rocky exoplanets, and its location in the habitable zone adds immense interest for astrobiology and the search for life.
LHS 1140 b is an exoplanet, meaning a planet outside our solar system. It was initially discovered by astronomer Jason Dittman's team in 2017, and he is also involved in the current research. According to Dittman, years of observation were required for scientists to confirm the presence of an atmosphere.
He noted that although the planet was found about ten years ago, the conclusion regarding the atmosphere was only reached now. Dittman emphasized that the planet has a solid surface and is composed of rock. Although the exact nature of this surface is not yet known, the team considers the presence of water on the planet highly probable.
LHS 1140 b orbits a red dwarf—a star smaller and cooler than the Sun. Despite the planet being significantly closer to its star than Earth is to the Sun, this distance is sufficient to maintain temperatures compatible with the 'Goldilocks zone,' which is considered suitable for the existence of liquid water. Researchers believe that the recently discovered atmosphere may help preserve these conditions.
Cherubim hypothesized that the planet likely contains a lot of water. He added that if the atmosphere provides a greenhouse effect, then the conditions we consider habitable on Earth are likely to exist there and could support liquid water.
Although LHS 1140 b is not an exact copy of Earth, researchers point out two similarities: its composition is a rocky planet, likely with an iron core, and it is now known to have an atmosphere; and its temperature is suitable for liquid water on the surface, which is one of the key requirements for life as we know it on Earth.
Among over six thousand identified exoplanets, the direct confirmation of an atmosphere on a rocky planet in the habitable zone is a unique moment. One of the main challenges is that LHS 1140 b orbits a red dwarf—the most common type of star in the Milky Way, which is about one-third the size of the Sun. These stars remain active for a long time, emitting powerful bursts of radiation, such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections. Typically, such radiation completely destroys the atmospheres of nearby planets, which raised doubts about the ability of rocky planets around red dwarfs to retain an atmosphere over long periods.
Cherubim noted that this discovery demonstrates that at least this rocky planet has managed to retain its atmosphere for billions of years, which is a 'well-founded and reliable way to say yes: atmospheres can survive on rocky exoplanets.' Scientists also suggest that other gases besides helium might be present in the atmosphere, some of which may have been lost in the past due to intense stellar radiation. However, since the star is about six billion years old—several billion years older than the phase of this intense activity—the team believes the planet will continue to retain its atmosphere. Dittman mentioned that while some helium slowly escapes into space, a similar process occurs with Earth's own atmosphere.
The confirmation of the atmosphere resulted from a theoretical prediction developed by Collin Cherubim during his doctoral dissertation. He explained that it all started with a mathematical model created to study the evolution of rocky planets, from which he made a very specific prediction about this planet.
The researcher decided to apply a method usually used to study gas giants to a rocky planet, which was an unprecedented step. The results fully aligned with his model prediction, allowing the scientific method cycle to be completed.
To test the hypothesis, the team used the Warm Infrared Echelle Spectrograph (WINERED), installed at the Magellan Observatory in Chile. During the same observations, they tracked the transit of LHS 1140 b and another planet in front of its star. Spectroscopic analysis allowed them to identify chemical signatures in the atmospheres of both worlds. While one did not yield results, LHS 1140 b demonstrated a direct and undeniable signal of helium's presence.
Despite the importance of the finding, researchers emphasize that it does not mean the planet is habitable. Cherubim clarified that he is not claiming there is life on the planet. In the team's view, future observations will allow for the detection of other gases in the atmosphere and the verification of water. Although new research may not confirm habitability or discover life forms, it will significantly expand knowledge about rocky planets of this type. Since LHS 1140 b is the first planet with these characteristics whose atmosphere has been confirmed, it represents an important step toward understanding the evolution of potentially habitable planets and may help answer one of humanity's oldest questions: are we alone in the Universe?
India's private space sector is preparing for significant steps as the startup Skyroot Aerospace is about to become the first private company in the country to design and develop its own orbital rocket on Indian territory.
Following the successful launch of the first private suborbital rocket, Vikram-S, to an altitude of 89.5 km in 2022, the Hyderabad-based company is ready to conduct its first orbital launch. The launch of the Vikram-1 rocket is scheduled for Saturday; it is named after Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the father of the Indian space program. According to a statement from Skyroot Aerospace on Thursday, the flight is set for 11:30 AM from the first launch pad in Sriharikota.
The Vikram-1 is entirely constructed from a lightweight carbon composite structure and is equipped with three solid-fuel stages and a liquid orbital correction module. This launch is part of the 'Aagaman Mission' and involves delivering demonstration payloads from companies Grahaa Space, Cosmoserve, DCubed, and Skyroot's own development, SCOPE. Additionally, the artwork 'Cosmic Bloom' by Cosmos Diamonds will be sent into space, along with micro-sculptures of Sir C. V. Raman, Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, and Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, crafted from 18-karat gold.
The mission is designed to place payloads weighing up to 350 kg into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of 450 km with a 60-degree inclination. The Vikram-1 rocket has already been integrated and placed on the pad, and final checks of the integrated vehicle have been completed at the Skyroot Mission Control Center. Checks of interfaces with ground telemetry stations and tracking radars were also conducted before the test flight.
Pawan Kumar Chandana, Founder and CEO of Skyroot Aerospace, noted that Vikram-1 continues the work started with the company's first private rocket demonstration in 2022. He emphasized: 'This is our first test flight, and we will gain valuable data. It is the first rocket to fly into orbit, built entirely from carbon composite. Carbon fiber is five times lighter than the strongest steel, making the rocket lighter and more efficient.'
Naga Bharat Daka, Co-founder and COO of Skyroot, stated that the company was founded about eight years ago with the goal of creating affordable and reliable rockets from India for the world, as well as providing on-demand launch solutions. He added: 'All our efforts and the team's efforts culminate today in this historic milestone.'
