NASA Researchers Get Permission to Apply for China Moon Samples

Space & Technology

Researchers funded by NASA have received an extraordinary opportunity to seek access to lunar samples collected by China Chang e-5 mission. In a departure from the usual prohibition on bilateral activities, an internal email sent on Nov. 29 revealed that NASA-funded researchers could apply to the China National Space Administration (CNSA) for portions of the Chang e-5 samples.The email stated, "NASA has certified its intent to Congress to allow NASA-funded researchers to apply to the China National Space Administration for access to lunar samples returned to Earth on the Chang e-5 mission and made available recently to the international scientific community for research purposes."This unexpected move opens the door to potential collaboration between China and NASA-funded entities and researchers, contrary to NASA Administrator Bill Nelson previous strong stance against collaboration with China.The "Wolf Amendment," a provision in NASA appropriations bills, typically limits cooperation with entities of the People Republic of China. Collaboration would require prior approval from Congress and certification from the FBI, ensuring no national security risks.China Chang e-5 mission, launched in late 2020, successfully collected 1,731 grams of lunar material from Oceanus Procellarum. Initially made available to Chinese researchers, the samples were later offered to international groups in August. The samples are expected to provide new insights into the moon geological history, complementing NASA existing lunar samples.The email encourages U.S. researchers to apply for the seventh round of sample access, with the application period open until December 22, 2023. Researchers are advised to contact NASA officials for guidance if their applications are selected. However, the email emphasizes that this exception applies solely to the Chang e-5 mission samples, and the general prohibition on bilateral activity with China on NASA-funded projects remains in place.This development has been welcomed by the scientific community, with experts noting the potential for expanding lunar exploration beyond the regions covered by previous missions. James Head, a planetary scientist at Brown University, sees this as an exciting opportunity for future cooperation, possibly extending to missions like China Chang e-6 lunar farside sample return mission in 2024.While the response from CNSA to NASA applications remains uncertain, this rare exception could be a positive step toward international collaboration in space exploration, despite the historical tensions between the U.S. and China in the field.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-02 16:39:45

Chinese Hackers Using SugarGh0st RAT to Target South Korea and Uzbekistan

World

A suspected threat actor, fluent in Chinese, has been identified in a cyber campaign targeting the Uzbekistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and South Korean users. This malicious effort, active since at least August 2023, revolves around the use of a remote access trojan (RAT) known as SugarGh0st RAT, a customized version of the infamous Gh0st RAT, also known as Farfli.The attackers employ two distinct infection methods to deliver the malware, both characterized by complex processes. Cisco Talos researchers, Ashley Shen and Chetan Raghuprasad, detailed that SugarGh0st RAT comes equipped with functionalities designed to execute remote administration tasks as directed by the command and control (C2) server, including a modified communication protocol.The assault kicks off with phishing emails housing deceptive documents. Once these documents are opened, a multi-stage procedure is triggered, leading to the deployment of SugarGh0st RAT. The deceptive documents are embedded within a heavily obfuscated JavaScript dropper, concealed within a Windows Shortcut file found in the RAR archive email attachment.Shen and Raghuprasad explained, "The JavaScript decodes and drops the embedded files into the %TEMP% folder, including a batch script, a customized DLL loader, an encrypted SugarGh0st payload, and a decoy document." Meanwhile, the batch script runs the DLL loader in the background, sideloading it with a copied version of a legitimate Windows executable, rundll32.exe, to decrypt and launch the SugarGh0st payload.A second variant of the attack employs a RAR archive containing a malicious Windows Shortcut file. This file, posing as a lure, triggers the JavaScript using DynamicWrapperX to execute shellcode, initiating the SugarGh0st RAT.SugarGh0st RAT, a 32-bit dynamic-link library (DLL) crafted in C++, establishes contact with a hard-coded command-and-control (C2) domain. This enables the transmission of system metadata to the server, facilitating actions such as launching a reverse shell and executing arbitrary commands. The malware also possesses capabilities to enumerate and terminate processes, capture screenshots, conduct file operations, and erase machine event logs, all aimed at concealing its presence and avoiding detection.The campaign connection to China is rooted in Gh0st RAT Chinese origins and its widespread adoption by Chinese threat actors. The release of its source code in 2008 further fueled its popularity. Additionally, the use of Chinese names in the "last modified by" field within the metadata of the decoy files serves as compelling evidence of the campaign ties to China.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-02 16:33:48

Philippines Installing Monitoring Station in Disputed South China Sea

World

On Friday, the Philippines declared its establishment of a coast guard station on Thitu Island, the largest among the contested Spratly Islands in the South China Sea. The move aims to enhance surveillance of Chinese vessels, which have been asserting Beijing claims in the disputed waters, according to National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano.During his visit to Thitu Island, Ano disclosed that the coast guard station, equipped with advanced systems such as radar, satellite communication, coastal cameras, and vessel traffic management, has been completed and is slated to become operational in the early months of the coming year.Ano emphasized that these sophisticated systems would significantly bolster the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) capability to monitor the movements of Chinese maritime forces, as well as those of other nations and their own public vessels and aircraft. He referred to the real-time data collection as a "game changer," anticipating its potential impact on the behavior of rival claimants, particularly China.Thitu Island, situated about 430 kilometers from Palawan, the major Philippine island, and over 900 kilometers from China nearest major landmass, Hainan island, has been a focal point in the territorial disputes.Beijing asserts dominance over most of the South China Sea, contrary to an international tribunal ruling that invalidated its claims. The Chinese government deploys vessels for patrols and has constructed artificial islands and military installations to reinforce its position.Tensions between Manila and Beijing have escalated in recent months due to various incidents in the disputed waters, including two collisions between Philippine and Chinese boats. Ano accused Chinese coast guard and other vessels of engaging in "illegal" and "aggressive" behavior towards Filipino fishermen and patrol boats, describing it as "pure bullying." Despite the challenges, Ano emphasized that the Philippines will stand its ground and not be deterred by any attempts to oppress or outmuscle the nation.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-02 16:26:16

11 Dead in Iraq Attack Blamed on IS Jihadists

World

In eastern Iraq, a tragic incident unfolded on Thursday evening, claiming the lives of at least 11 civilians in a blast and gunfire, according to statements from two security officials on Friday. The attack targeted a minibus transporting individuals who had attended an electoral meeting organized by a candidate from their tribe in Diyala province.An interior ministry official, requesting anonymity, revealed that the violence occurred as the minibus returned from the political gathering. The provincial governor, Muthana al-Tamimi, placed blame on jihadists, specifically pointing fingers at the Islamic State (IS) group for what he termed a "cowardly operation." Al-Tamimi urged heightened vigilance against potential dormant cells of extremists in the region through a post on his Facebook page.Despite the absence of an immediate claim from IS, Diyala remains an area where the group cells are known to be active. Following the extensive territorial losses suffered by IS in Iraq and Syria, the group officially declared the end of its self-proclaimed "caliphate" in 2017. However, sporadic attacks persist, particularly targeting military and police personnel in remote parts of central and northern Iraq.In the recent Diyala unrest, a security source in Baghdad reported that at least 11 individuals lost their lives, and 17 sustained injuries in an attack initiated by an explosive device, followed by gunfire, during the gathering in Al-Omraniya village. The minibus, returning from an electoral meeting, was reportedly struck by two homemade bombs, with sniper fire ensuing.This tragic event unfolded just days before the scheduled provincial council elections on December 18, which, in turn, contribute to the selection of governors. Iraq, striving to overcome decades of conflict, including the toppling of Saddam Hussein two decades ago, faces ongoing security challenges. Approximately 2,500 U.S. troops remain in the country as part of international efforts to prevent the resurgence of IS.A United Nations report from July indicated that IS maintains a presence with an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 members across Iraq and the Syrian Arab Republic, predominantly consisting of fighters. The incident in Diyala underscores the persistent threat posed by extremist elements, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to maintain security and stability in the region.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-02 16:21:10

South Korea Launches Military Spy Satellite Amid Threats from North Korea

Space & Technology

In response to escalating threats from North Korea, South Korea achieved a significant milestone by successfully launching its inaugural indigenous military reconnaissance satellite. According to reports from Yonhap news agency citing South Korea defense ministry, the satellite was deployed from a US military base in California using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket at a local time on Friday.Historically dependent on U.S. resources for high-resolution imagery, South Korea has been actively pursuing the establishment of an autonomous military satellite network to enhance its intelligence capabilities concerning North Korea. The move marks a shift from reliance on American assets to an independent approach in gathering crucial information.The initial deployment involves an electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) satellite, with plans to launch four additional synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites into orbit by 2025, aiming to bolster the monitoring capabilities directed towards North Korea. EO/IR satellites provide detailed Earth surface imagery but are limited by cloud cover, while SAR satellites can acquire data under various weather conditions through remote sensing systems.This strategic initiative is anticipated to intensify the space competition between the two Koreas, particularly as North Korea recently placed its first spy satellite into orbit on November 21. Despite two earlier unsuccessful attempts, North Korea has expressed its commitment to launching more satellites within a short timeframe.Military officials, as reported by Yonhap news agency, are optimistic about the reconnaissance satellites playing a pivotal role as the "eyes" for South Korea Kill Chain preemptive strike system. These satellites are expected to facilitate swift detection and early warning capabilities in response to potential nuclear or missile threats from North Korea.The Kill Chain system represents a fundamental component of South Korea comprehensive deterrence strategy, complemented by the Korea Air and Missile Defense system and the Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation plan. Together, these elements form a robust defense framework, emphasizing the nation preparedness in the event of a major conflict.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-02 15:52:44

Israel Oshkosh Tactical Vehicle buy to keep line Open Longer

World

Oshkosh Defense has secured a lifeline for its production line, thanks to a recent order from Israel for Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs). The Wisconsin-based company had initially planned to close its JLTV production line by the end of 2024, following the Army decision to have AM General take over the production of the Humvee replacement. However, the Israeli Ministry of Defense recent order for 75 JLTVs through a foreign military sale, along with additional units through a direct commercial sale, has extended Oshkosh production line into 2025.In 2015, Oshkosh emerged victorious in the bid for the original JLTV contract, outperforming competitors like Humvee-maker AM General and Lockheed Martin. The recent Israeli order, coupled with a $208 million order for more U.S. Army JLTVs in November and a $160 million order from various countries, has provided a significant boost to Oshkosh production plans.The specific number of JLTVs involved in the commercial sale to Israel has not been disclosed by Oshkosh. Tim Bleck, President of Oshkosh Defense, expressed enthusiasm about the ongoing partnership with the Israeli Ministry of Defense, highlighting the company decade-long collaboration with the IMOD on various programs.Despite initial plans to wind down the JLTV production line in 2024, the influx of new orders has prompted Oshkosh to extend its production capabilities into 2025, ensuring continued manufacturing of these critical military vehicles. In addition to Israel, Oshkosh JLTVs have found favor with other foreign customers, including Montenegro, Brazil, Lithuania, and Belgium. This sustained international demand reflects the global significance of Oshkosh Joint Light Tactical Vehicles in modern military fleets.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-02 15:32:39