National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

The global economy is entering a transformative phase from generative AI (which creates content) to Agentic AI (systems that can plan, decide, and act autonomously to achieve goals). The evolution represents a move from "copilots" that assist humans to "agents" that execute end-to-end workflows with minimal supervision. The Agentic AI act as intent-based, unlike traditional automation, which follows rigid "if-then" rules. When the task is assigned, it breaks down into sub-tasks and acts on behalf of individuals, interacting with other agents representing sellers, logistics providers, payment processors and several other stuff as per the respective industry.<h3>The rise of agentic AI in the commerce industry</h3>During the 2024 holiday shopping season, data from Adobe highlighted a sharp rise in the use of AI-powered browsers and digital services. By Black Friday 2025, AI-generated traffic to US retail websites had surged by 805 per cent compared to the previous year, with AI agents contributing to more than $22 billion in global online sales. However, the impact of this shift goes well beyond retail. The global AI agents market, estimated at $5.4 billion in 2024, is expected to soar to $236 billion by 2034, reflecting the rapid integration of AI agents into critical enterprise operations across industries, according to a report by the World Economic Forum.<h3>How AI is reshaping work and governance</h3>As we advance in the world of Artificial intelligence, it is reshaping the entire structure of daily workflows by creating plans, deciding among multiple roles, and acting on tasks autonomously to achieve goals. The impact of agentic AI depends largely on the conditions of leadership rather then the technology itself. The future of AI has become more common across industries that will depend highly on leaders who can integrate these tools responsibly because the generative tools support everything from writing and research to early-stage problem-solving. Alongside it, advanced analytics also help organisations forecast demand and manage risks while discovering patterns in large datasets.<h3>Top 10 major roles of AI in industry</h3>1. Shift from "Copilots" to "Agents"&nbsp;In 2026, Agentic AI systems independently plan and execute multi-step projects, such as managing a supply chain or a marketing campaign, with minimal human intervention.&nbsp;2. Transformation of the "Entry-Level" Role&nbsp;Traditional "grunt work" (data entry, basic coding, scheduling) is now almost entirely handled by AI. This is forcing a redesign of internships and junior roles, focusing now on AI orchestration rather than manual execution.&nbsp;3. Emergence of "Agentic Commerce"&nbsp;In the governance of markets, AI agents are now negotiating with other AI agents. Businesses are using autonomous systems to bid on contracts and procure raw materials in real-time, requiring new regulations to prevent automated "flash crashes" in commodity prices.&nbsp;4. Real-Time Policy Simulation&nbsp;Governments are using Digital Twins of cities and economies to test policies before implementation. As of 2026, over 40% of major urban centres use AI to simulate the impact of new taxes or traffic laws on public behaviour.&nbsp;5. The Rise of "Human-in-the-Loop" Governance&nbsp;To manage the "Responsibility Gap," new legal frameworks now mandate a Human-in-the-Loop (HITL) for high-stakes sectors. AI can suggest a legal ruling or medical diagnosis, but a human must provide a "digital signature" to authorise the action.&nbsp;6. Personalised Public Services&nbsp;Government agencies are replacing "one-size-fits-all" portals with Hyper-Personalised Agents. Citizens now interact with AI assistants that understand their specific tax history, health needs, and permit requirements, reducing administrative wait times by nearly 60 per cent.&nbsp;7. Algorithmic Management and Labour Rights&nbsp;In the workplace, AI is increasingly responsible for performance tracking and task allocation. This has led to new 2026 Labor Accords that protect workers from "black box" decisions, ensuring transparency in how AI-driven promotions or layoffs are decided.&nbsp;8. The "Skills-First" Hiring Revolution&nbsp;Degrees are losing some weight to demonstrate AI fluency. Recruitment platforms now use "Simulation-Based Testing" where candidates must prove they can effectively manage a team of AI agents to solve complex, real-world problems.&nbsp;9. Automated Compliance and Auditing&nbsp;Regulatory bodies are deploying "RegTech" Agents that plug directly into corporate databases to monitor financial transactions for fraud or environmental violations in real-time, making traditional annual audits obsolete.&nbsp;10. Decentralised Autonomous Organisations (DAOs)&nbsp;In the private sector, we see the growth of AI-led DAOs, where the "CEO" is an ensemble of AI models governed by shareholder-voted code. These organisations operate with extreme efficiency, challenging traditional corporate governance structures. More than changing the work structure and decisions over the use of AI in the industry, the significant factors remain largely in human leadership that shape the future of those who can integrate AI responsibly and make the organisations more adaptable over time. It marks the vital role played by AI executive education that can also equip leadership with the strategic judgment and governance frameworks needed to lead AI transformations across a wide area. &nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/madhya-pradesh-unveils-india-s-first-carbon-capturing-algae-tree-in-bhopal-full-details-inside-1778498553341">Madhya Pradesh unveils India’s first carbon-capturing 'Algae Tree' in Bhopal: Full details inside</a>

The global AI agents market, estimated at $5.4 billion in 2024, is expected to soar to $236 billion by 2034, reflecting the rapid integration of AI agents into critical enterprise operations across industries.

The global economy is entering a transformative phase from generative AI (which creates content) to Agentic AI (systems that can plan, decide, and act autonomously to achieve goals). The evolution represents a move from "copilots" that assist humans to "agents" that execute end-to-end workflows with minimal supervision. The Agentic AI act as intent-based, unlike traditional automation, which follows rigid "if-then" rules. When the task is assigned, it breaks down into sub-tasks and acts on behalf of individuals, interacting with other agents representing sellers, logistics providers, payment processors and several other stuff as per the respective industry. The rise of agentic AI in the commerce industry During the 2024 holiday shopping season, data from Adobe highlighted a sharp rise in the use of AI-powered browsers and digital services. By Black Friday 2025, AI-generated traffic to US retail websites had surged by 805 per cent compared to the previous year, with AI agents contributing to more than $22 billion in global online sales. However, the impact of this shift goes well beyond retail. The global AI agents market, estimated at $5.4 billion in 2024, is expected to soar to $236 billion by 2034, reflecting the rapid integration of AI agents into critical enterprise operations across industries, according to a report by the World Economic Forum. How AI is reshaping work and governance As we advance in the world of Artificial intelligence, it is reshaping the entire structure of daily workflows by creating plans, deciding among multiple roles, and acting on tasks autonomously to achieve goals. The impact of agentic AI depends largely on the conditions of leadership rather then the technology itself. The future of AI has become more common across industries that will depend highly on leaders who can integrate these tools responsibly because the generative tools support everything from writing and research to early-stage problem-solving. Alongside it, advanced analytics also help organisations forecast demand and manage risks while discovering patterns in large datasets. Top 10 major roles of AI in industry 1. Shift from "Copilots" to "Agents" In 2026, Agentic AI systems independently plan and execute multi-step projects, such as managing a supply chain or a marketing campaign, with minimal human intervention. 2. Transformation of the "Entry-Level" Role Traditional "grunt work" (data entry, basic coding, scheduling) is now almost entirely handled by AI. This is forcing a redesign of internships and junior roles, focusing now on AI orchestration rather than manual execution. 3. Emergence of "Agentic Commerce" In the governance of markets, AI agents are now negotiating with other AI agents. Businesses are using autonomous systems to bid on contracts and procure raw materials in real-time, requiring new regulations to prevent automated "flash crashes" in commodity prices. 4. Real-Time Policy Simulation Governments are using Digital Twins of cities and economies to test policies before implementation. As of 2026, over 40% of major urban centres use AI to simulate the impact of new taxes or traffic laws on public behaviour. 5. The Rise of "Human-in-the-Loop" Governance To manage the "Responsibility Gap," new legal frameworks now mandate a Human-in-the-Loop (HITL) for high-stakes sectors. AI can suggest a legal ruling or medical diagnosis, but a human must provide a "digital signature" to authorise the action. 6. Personalised Public Services Government agencies are replacing "one-size-fits-all" portals with Hyper-Personalised Agents. Citizens now interact with AI assistants that understand their specific tax history, health needs, and permit requirements, reducing administrative wait times by nearly 60 per cent. 7. Algorithmic Management and Labour Rights In the workplace, AI is increasingly responsible for performance tracking and task allocation. This has led to new 2026 Labor Accords that protect workers from "black box" decisions, ensuring transparency in how AI-driven promotions or layoffs are decided. 8. The "Skills-First" Hiring Revolution Degrees are losing some weight to demonstrate AI fluency. Recruitment platforms now use "Simulation-Based Testing" where candidates must prove they can effectively manage a team of AI agents to solve complex, real-world problems. 9. Automated Compliance and Auditing Regulatory bodies are deploying "RegTech" Agents that plug directly into corporate databases to monitor financial transactions for fraud or environmental violations in real-time, making traditional annual audits obsolete. 10. Decentralised Autonomous Organisations (DAOs) In the private sector, we see the growth of AI-led DAOs, where the "CEO" is an ensemble of AI models governed by shareholder-voted code. These organisations operate with extreme efficiency, challenging traditional corporate governance structures. More than changing the work structure and decisions over the use of AI in the industry, the significant factors remain largely in human leadership that shape the future of those who can integrate AI responsibly and make the organisations more adaptable over time. It marks the vital role played by AI executive education that can also equip leadership with the strategic judgment and governance frameworks needed to lead AI transformations across a wide area. Also read: Madhya Pradesh unveils India’s first carbon-capturing 'Algae Tree' in Bhopal: Full details inside

The global AI agents market, estimated at $5.4 billion in 2024, is expected to soar to $236 billion by 2034, reflecting the rapid integration of AI agents into critical enterprise operations across industries.

Thinks, plans & acts: How 'agentic AI' is changing commerce, governance & future of work

Sun just fired its strongest flare in recent days, unleashing the M5.8 &nbsp;on Sunday (May 10). The moderate flare erupted from sunspot region AR4436 in the northeast. A massive amount of charged particles, or coronal mass ejection (CME), is moving into space. While the bulk of material is moving away from Earth, radio communication disruptions were reported across the Atlantic, with auroras also expected this week. Scientists have also detected a fast, powerful pressure wave moving ahead of the CME. According to astronomers, the sun released at least 10 flares in one day, with 8 C-class and 1 B-class whips thrown into space, along with the M-class. The other two are classified as common and weak, respectively. Some of the solar material could hit Earth's atmosphere, generating Northern Lights, or auroras.<h2>Geomagnetic storm</h2> The strong solar activity has sent a chunk of plasma and other material into the solar system. Scientists have warned of minor geomagnetic storms in the coming days, even though the major chunk of material is moving away from Earth.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/milky-way-wormhole-massive-tunnel-to-another-part-of-universe-hidden-in-our-own-galaxy-1778476379808">Milky Way's wormhole: Massive tunnel to another part of universe hidden in our own galaxy</a><h2>Where will auroras be visible?</h2> Auroras are formed when solar flares and plasma collide with Earth's magnetic field. The Coronal Mass Ejection may or may not cause a disturbance, with a G1 (minor) storm expected. However, auroras are expected in the northern United States and parts of the United Kingdom, particularly Scotland and northern England. According to the UK Met Office, solar activity is peaking in 2026, with an increased likelihood of visible auroras in lower-latitude regions.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/rogue-rocket-zooming-around-earth-set-to-crash-into-the-moon-know-exact-date-and-time-1777638385330">Rogue rocket zooming around Earth set to crash into Moon at Mach 7. Know exact date and time</a><h2>On which date will auroras be visible?</h2> The cosmic solar flare is expected to bring Northern Lights, or auroras, to parts of Earth on May 13.<h2>Radio communication disruptions from solar flare</h2> The strong M-rays changed Earth's top air, causing radio waves to go awry over the Atlantic. According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, sailors and pilots who were moving and flying over the Atlantic at this time had problems communicating. Scientists say a Type II radio sweep was reported with the solar eruption as the plasma moved at a speed of 650 kilometres per second.

Solar flare released this week is expected to bring auroras to some regions on Earth. The M-class flare was unleashed on Sunday and caused radio blackouts over the Atlantic. A minor geomagnetic storm could be coming, experts say. 

Sun just fired its strongest flare in recent days, unleashing the M5.8 on Sunday (May 10). The moderate flare erupted from sunspot region AR4436 in the northeast. A massive amount of charged particles, or coronal mass ejection (CME), is moving into space. While the bulk of material is moving away from Earth, radio communication disruptions were reported across the Atlantic, with auroras also expected this week. Scientists have also detected a fast, powerful pressure wave moving ahead of the CME. According to astronomers, the sun released at least 10 flares in one day, with 8 C-class and 1 B-class whips thrown into space, along with the M-class. The other two are classified as common and weak, respectively. Some of the solar material could hit Earth's atmosphere, generating Northern Lights, or auroras. Geomagnetic storm The strong solar activity has sent a chunk of plasma and other material into the solar system. Scientists have warned of minor geomagnetic storms in the coming days, even though the major chunk of material is moving away from Earth. Also Read: Milky Way's wormhole: Massive tunnel to another part of universe hidden in our own galaxy Where will auroras be visible? Auroras are formed when solar flares and plasma collide with Earth's magnetic field. The Coronal Mass Ejection may or may not cause a disturbance, with a G1 (minor) storm expected. However, auroras are expected in the northern United States and parts of the United Kingdom, particularly Scotland and northern England. According to the UK Met Office, solar activity is peaking in 2026, with an increased likelihood of visible auroras in lower-latitude regions. Also Read: Rogue rocket zooming around Earth set to crash into Moon at Mach 7. Know exact date and time On which date will auroras be visible? The cosmic solar flare is expected to bring Northern Lights, or auroras, to parts of Earth on May 13. Radio communication disruptions from solar flare The strong M-rays changed Earth's top air, causing radio waves to go awry over the Atlantic. According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, sailors and pilots who were moving and flying over the Atlantic at this time had problems communicating. Scientists say a Type II radio sweep was reported with the solar eruption as the plasma moved at a speed of 650 kilometres per second.

Solar flare released this week is expected to bring auroras to some regions on Earth. The M-class flare was unleashed on Sunday and caused radio blackouts over the Atlantic. A minor geomagnetic storm could be coming, experts say.&nbsp;

Sun unleashes M-class solar flare, auroras could light up Earth this week. Details

India's BrahMos supersonic cruise missile serves as a tool for tactical precision, while the Agni-V provides strategic deterrence. The Agni-V, a long-range ICBM, was successfully test-fired on May 8, 2026. Let's understand how Agni-V is different from BrahMos.

BrahMos vs Agni-V: How India’s tactical missile differs from its nuclear giant

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a major breakthrough by successfully testing three complex strategic technologies. These included trials of an upgraded Agni missile equipped with multiple independently targeted re-entry vehicle (MIRV) capability, a test of a scramjet combustor essential for future hypersonic missile systems, and the maiden trial of the Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation (Tara) glide weapon system. The three milestones, achieved within three days, underline India’s growing mastery in next-generation strategic capabilities involving nuclear deterrence, hypersonic propulsion and precision long-range strike capability. The successful validation of MIRV technology has significantly strengthened India’s strategic deterrence capability at a time when Asia is facing heightened security tensions and geopolitical instability.<h3>All three complex strategic technologies</h3>The sequence began on May 7 with the first flight test of the TARA glide weapon system. The successful trial of TARA, India’s first indigenous modular glide weapon capable of converting conventional unguided warheads into long-range precision-guided weapons, marked an important step in the country’s transition toward stand-off precision warfare. On May 8, DRDO test-fired an advanced version of the most potent Agni missile of India, built with an MIRV system, from a defence facility off the Odisha coast. The trial showed the operational maturation of technologies, which was first put to trial under 'Mission Divyastra' in March 2024 after India announced its first successful MIRV flight on the Agni-V platform. While DRDO did not officially identify the missile as the Agni-VI, India’s longest-range intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Ministry of Defence stated that the successful trial once again showcased the country’s ability to strike multiple strategic targets using a single missile platform. India achieved another breakthrough in hypersonic propulsion on May 9 with the successful long-duration test of a scramjet combustor at DRDL, Hyderabad. Conducted at the advanced Scramjet Connect Pipe Test facility, the trial sustained supersonic combustion for over 1,200 seconds under extreme conditions. The successful test validated key technologies required for future hypersonic cruise missiles and reusable high-speed aerospace platforms, marking a significant step in India’s pursuit of next-generation strategic and aerospace capabilities.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/madhya-pradesh-unveils-india-s-first-carbon-capturing-algae-tree-in-bhopal-full-details-inside-1778498553341">Madhya Pradesh unveils India’s first carbon-capturing 'Algae Tree' in Bhopal: Full details inside</a>

After the successful test of the Agni missile, it has validated key technologies required for future hypersonic cruise missiles and reusable high-speed aerospace platforms, marking a significant step in India’s pursuit of next-generation strategic and aerospace capabilities.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a major breakthrough by successfully testing three complex strategic technologies. These included trials of an upgraded Agni missile equipped with multiple independently targeted re-entry vehicle (MIRV) capability, a test of a scramjet combustor essential for future hypersonic missile systems, and the maiden trial of the Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation (Tara) glide weapon system. The three milestones, achieved within three days, underline India’s growing mastery in next-generation strategic capabilities involving nuclear deterrence, hypersonic propulsion and precision long-range strike capability. The successful validation of MIRV technology has significantly strengthened India’s strategic deterrence capability at a time when Asia is facing heightened security tensions and geopolitical instability. All three complex strategic technologies The sequence began on May 7 with the first flight test of the TARA glide weapon system. The successful trial of TARA, India’s first indigenous modular glide weapon capable of converting conventional unguided warheads into long-range precision-guided weapons, marked an important step in the country’s transition toward stand-off precision warfare. On May 8, DRDO test-fired an advanced version of the most potent Agni missile of India, built with an MIRV system, from a defence facility off the Odisha coast. The trial showed the operational maturation of technologies, which was first put to trial under 'Mission Divyastra' in March 2024 after India announced its first successful MIRV flight on the Agni-V platform. While DRDO did not officially identify the missile as the Agni-VI, India’s longest-range intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Ministry of Defence stated that the successful trial once again showcased the country’s ability to strike multiple strategic targets using a single missile platform. India achieved another breakthrough in hypersonic propulsion on May 9 with the successful long-duration test of a scramjet combustor at DRDL, Hyderabad. Conducted at the advanced Scramjet Connect Pipe Test facility, the trial sustained supersonic combustion for over 1,200 seconds under extreme conditions. The successful test validated key technologies required for future hypersonic cruise missiles and reusable high-speed aerospace platforms, marking a significant step in India’s pursuit of next-generation strategic and aerospace capabilities. Also read: Madhya Pradesh unveils India’s first carbon-capturing 'Algae Tree' in Bhopal: Full details inside

After the successful test of the Agni missile, it has validated key technologies required for future hypersonic cruise missiles and reusable high-speed aerospace platforms, marking a significant step in India’s pursuit of next-generation strategic and aerospace capabilities.

Agni MIRV, TARA and Scramjet: India demonstrates multi-target missile & hypersonic capability in 72 hours

Scientists have hypothesised that wormholes could be lurking in the Milky Way, thanks to dark matter. According to a new study, this invisible force that is yet to be seen has the perfect properties that could not only open a wormhole, but keep it stable and its neck open to make it traversable. Co–author Dr Saibal Ray, an astrophysicist from GLA University in India, said, "Dark matter is hypothesised to lead to wormhole formation because its unique density and gravitational collapse in extreme environments can alter spacetime topology." Several theories suggest that dark matter pulls things together with gravity, and this makes it an unlikely source of stable wormholes.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, physicists largely believe that wormholes can't exist for more than a short instant, as the extreme gravitational force would lead to their walls collapsing. In the latest study, this is where dark matter comes into the picture.<h2>Dark matter and wormholes</h2>&nbsp;The unique properties of dark matter would keep the wormholes stable and force the throat to remain open. "While standard dark matter holds galaxies together, specific models suggest its 'condensate properties' can trigger the structural, traversable 'throat' of a wormhole during collapse," Dr Ray says. Our galaxy is believed to have a "dark matter halo" stretching out up to one million light–years from the galactic core.&nbsp;&nbsp;Scientists say this abundant amount of dark matter makes it very likely that spiral galaxies, such as the Milky Way, could be harbouring wormholes. Dr Ray says their study has theoretically shown that a wormhole exists at the central part of the Milky Way, as well as at its edge. The researchers further believe that if there is a wormhole at the centre of the Milky Way, it would be enormous, about 32,600 light–years across.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hostile-twin-star-systems-birth-more-planets-and-then-kick-them-out-1777886293312">Hostile twin star systems birth more planets, and then kick them out</a><h2>What is a wormhole?</h2> Wormholes, also known as Einstein–Rosen bridges, are theoretical passages connecting two points in the universe. They were first proposed in 1935 by Albert Einstein and Nathan Rosen. They might not sound realistic, but the rules of science allow for their existence. According to Einstein's theory of general relativity, space and time aren't flat because the universe is constantly stretching and twisting.&nbsp;&nbsp;A wormhole is also one way to twist space-time. "A wormhole is nothing but a passage from one point to another," says Dr Ray. In simple terms, anything that falls into one side of the wormhole would come out the other almost instantly. A tunnel known as a throat connects the two points, one of which is the black hole where light and matter fall, and the other is the white hole from where they would escape.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mars-will-deliver-a-violent-death-to-its-own-moon-sooner-than-expected-1777879100784">Mars will deliver a violent death to its own Moon sooner than expected</a><h2>Could Milky Way have a wormhole?</h2> Researchers have connected the science behind stable wormholes to dark matter. While never seen, dark matter is what is believed to be causing the gravitational pull that is shaping galaxies and other large structures in the universe. Ideally, the amount of force would lead wormholes to collapse, but when dark energy is introduced into the picture, they turn real. This means that if this theory is correct, we could have a wormhole right here that connects us to another point in the cosmos.

Wormholes are one of the most fascinating structures in the universe, even though they have never been discovered. Scientists now believe that our galaxy, the Milky Way, could have this unreal object at the centre, connecting us to another point in space.

Scientists have hypothesised that wormholes could be lurking in the Milky Way, thanks to dark matter. According to a new study, this invisible force that is yet to be seen has the perfect properties that could not only open a wormhole, but keep it stable and its neck open to make it traversable. Co–author Dr Saibal Ray, an astrophysicist from GLA University in India, said, "Dark matter is hypothesised to lead to wormhole formation because its unique density and gravitational collapse in extreme environments can alter spacetime topology." Several theories suggest that dark matter pulls things together with gravity, and this makes it an unlikely source of stable wormholes. However, physicists largely believe that wormholes can't exist for more than a short instant, as the extreme gravitational force would lead to their walls collapsing. In the latest study, this is where dark matter comes into the picture. Dark matter and wormholes The unique properties of dark matter would keep the wormholes stable and force the throat to remain open. "While standard dark matter holds galaxies together, specific models suggest its 'condensate properties' can trigger the structural, traversable 'throat' of a wormhole during collapse," Dr Ray says. Our galaxy is believed to have a "dark matter halo" stretching out up to one million light–years from the galactic core. Scientists say this abundant amount of dark matter makes it very likely that spiral galaxies, such as the Milky Way, could be harbouring wormholes. Dr Ray says their study has theoretically shown that a wormhole exists at the central part of the Milky Way, as well as at its edge. The researchers further believe that if there is a wormhole at the centre of the Milky Way, it would be enormous, about 32,600 light–years across. Also Read: Hostile twin star systems birth more planets, and then kick them out What is a wormhole? Wormholes, also known as Einstein–Rosen bridges, are theoretical passages connecting two points in the universe. They were first proposed in 1935 by Albert Einstein and Nathan Rosen. They might not sound realistic, but the rules of science allow for their existence. According to Einstein's theory of general relativity, space and time aren't flat because the universe is constantly stretching and twisting. A wormhole is also one way to twist space-time. "A wormhole is nothing but a passage from one point to another," says Dr Ray. In simple terms, anything that falls into one side of the wormhole would come out the other almost instantly. A tunnel known as a throat connects the two points, one of which is the black hole where light and matter fall, and the other is the white hole from where they would escape. Also Read: Mars will deliver a violent death to its own Moon sooner than expected Could Milky Way have a wormhole? Researchers have connected the science behind stable wormholes to dark matter. While never seen, dark matter is what is believed to be causing the gravitational pull that is shaping galaxies and other large structures in the universe. Ideally, the amount of force would lead wormholes to collapse, but when dark energy is introduced into the picture, they turn real. This means that if this theory is correct, we could have a wormhole right here that connects us to another point in the cosmos.

Wormholes are one of the most fascinating structures in the universe, even though they have never been discovered. Scientists now believe that our galaxy, the Milky Way, could have this unreal object at the centre, connecting us to another point in space.

Milky Way's wormhole: Massive tunnel to another part of universe could be hidden in our own galaxy

The US Department of War (DoW) released the first tranche of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) and Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) files on Friday (May 8). Critics and experts are already saying there is not much new. Part of the Presidential Unsealing and Reporting System for UAP Encounters (PURSUE), the release came after a directive from President Donald Trump for greater transparency on UAPs, extraterrestrial life, and related topics.<h2>What's really new in the UFO files?</h2>This is not the only dump, but part of an ongoing rolling release that will likely have new tranches every few weeks. The effort involves multiple agencies, including the Department of Defence (DoD), the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO), the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Department of Energy (DOE), the State Department, and others.The DoW aggregated and declassified material presented as never-before-seen or newly compiled and released them in full.&nbsp;This includes some videos, recent military sensor data, and specific historical sections. The &nbsp;new aspect is that it centralised the documents in one public portal.&nbsp;Some FBI files or Apollo-related imagery may have had partial prior leaks or releases, even as the government portrayed it as a broader, official dump.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ufo-sighting-claims-back-in-focus-us-releases-162-files-regarding-aliens-1778295569126/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/ufo-sighting-claims-back-in-focus-us-releases-162-files-regarding-aliens-1778295569126/embed</a><h2>US UFO files release: Much ado without new information?</h2>The current release did not bring forth a great deal of new information, according to analysts and observers. Sceptics argue the UFO files continued a pattern of hyped releases yielding incremental, non-revolutionary information.Reports in The New York Times and experts such as former AARO head Sean Kirkpatrick and author Garrett Graff described the initial files as murky, inconclusive blobs and dots.It mostly contained grainy footage explainable by conventional means such as jet engines, diffraction patterns, balloons, and drones, consistent with prior declassifications.There is no smoking gun in the releases so far, such as bodies of aliens, reverse-engineered aircraft, or clear admissions of extraterrestrial technology.Some critics called it a distraction from current crises at home and abroad that the Trump administration is facing, with others using terms like "nothing burger" to describe it.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-ufo-files-released-5-most-shocking-unresolved-military-encounters-in-the-pentagon-dump-1778249886269">‘UFO files released’: 5 most shocking unresolved military encounters in the Pentagon dump</a><h2>What was in the initial release of UFO files?</h2>The files, hosted at war.gov/ufo, include declassified documents, eyewitness reports, intelligence summaries, diplomatic cables, photos, and videos.The Friday release had around 162 files, including 120 Portable Document Format (PDF) documents, 28 videos, and 14 image files totalling more than 35 minutes of footage, according to reports.Many of them concern unresolved cases the government cannot definitively identify due to insufficient data. Some are redacted for privacy or security reasons.The files span from FBI records on flying discs from 1947 to 1968 all the way up to recent incidents such as military encounters with flying objects in the 2020s.The FBI historical case files include 1947-era sightings and photos from Oak Ridge.Also shared are federal law enforcement reports of hovering orbs and silent objects in the western United States.<h2>What could be seen in the UFO files?</h2>Military infrared or sensor footage showing objects with anomalous manoeuvres is on display, including a 90-degree turn by a craft travelling at low speed off Greece in 2023. There are other encounters in Iraq, Syria, and the Persian Gulf.There are archival NASA and space exploration-related images, such as objects near the lunar horizon during Apollo missions, and audio of Gemini 7 astronauts reporting an object.Various photos and videos of orbs, star-shaped objects, and clusters of dots are shared, but they are often murky or low-resolution.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-defeating-us-sensors-the-unexplained-ufo-phenomena-that-baffled-us-fighter-pilots-1778310915645">‘Defeating US sensors’: The unexplained UFO phenomena that baffled US fighter pilots</a><h2>Draw your own conclusions: US release of UFO files leaves more questions than answers</h2>The Trump administration is asking people to make their own conclusions, presenting the report release as empowering public judgement. Some UAP enthusiasts found specific videos and manoeuvres interesting.Yet, the files leave more questions than answers, as the site shared raw materials for public and private analysis with no official government conclusions provided on extraterrestrial origins or breakthroughs. Officials such as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Director of National Security Tulsi Gabbard emphasised "unprecedented transparency" and invited the public to review and draw their own conclusions.But that is a Herculean task. The full analysis will take time.<h2>Tens of millions of more UFO records on the cards?</h2>&nbsp;While the initiative is noteworthy for its transparency, the fresh compilations of videos, photos, and reports do not deliver paradigm-shifting revelations in the first batch.According to reports, Friday's release was the first tranche of a massive effort that could involve tens of millions of records. Some of these could focus on unresolved cases.Trump administration supporters are calling it a step towards transparency that previous US governments did not match at this scale.

The first tranche of UFO and UAP files released by the Trump administration offers no great new information, according to experts and reports. The declassified videos, photos, and reports do not give any proof of extraterrestrial life. So what was in them?

The US Department of War (DoW) released the first tranche of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) and Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) files on Friday (May 8). Critics and experts are already saying there is not much new. Part of the Presidential Unsealing and Reporting System for UAP Encounters (PURSUE), the release came after a directive from President Donald Trump for greater transparency on UAPs, extraterrestrial life, and related topics. What's really new in the UFO files? This is not the only dump, but part of an ongoing rolling release that will likely have new tranches every few weeks. The effort involves multiple agencies, including the Department of Defence (DoD), the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO), the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Department of Energy (DOE), the State Department, and others. The DoW aggregated and declassified material presented as never-before-seen or newly compiled and released them in full. This includes some videos, recent military sensor data, and specific historical sections. The new aspect is that it centralised the documents in one public portal. Some FBI files or Apollo-related imagery may have had partial prior leaks or releases, even as the government portrayed it as a broader, official dump. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ufo-sighting-claims-back-in-focus-us-releases-162-files-regarding-aliens-1778295569126/embed US UFO files release: Much ado without new information? The current release did not bring forth a great deal of new information, according to analysts and observers. Sceptics argue the UFO files continued a pattern of hyped releases yielding incremental, non-revolutionary information. Reports in The New York Times and experts such as former AARO head Sean Kirkpatrick and author Garrett Graff described the initial files as murky, inconclusive blobs and dots. It mostly contained grainy footage explainable by conventional means such as jet engines, diffraction patterns, balloons, and drones, consistent with prior declassifications. There is no smoking gun in the releases so far, such as bodies of aliens, reverse-engineered aircraft, or clear admissions of extraterrestrial technology. Some critics called it a distraction from current crises at home and abroad that the Trump administration is facing, with others using terms like "nothing burger" to describe it. Also read: ‘UFO files released’: 5 most shocking unresolved military encounters in the Pentagon dump What was in the initial release of UFO files? The files, hosted at war.gov/ufo, include declassified documents, eyewitness reports, intelligence summaries, diplomatic cables, photos, and videos. The Friday release had around 162 files, including 120 Portable Document Format (PDF) documents, 28 videos, and 14 image files totalling more than 35 minutes of footage, according to reports. Many of them concern unresolved cases the government cannot definitively identify due to insufficient data. Some are redacted for privacy or security reasons. The files span from FBI records on flying discs from 1947 to 1968 all the way up to recent incidents such as military encounters with flying objects in the 2020s. The FBI historical case files include 1947-era sightings and photos from Oak Ridge. Also shared are federal law enforcement reports of hovering orbs and silent objects in the western United States. What could be seen in the UFO files? Military infrared or sensor footage showing objects with anomalous manoeuvres is on display, including a 90-degree turn by a craft travelling at low speed off Greece in 2023. There are other encounters in Iraq, Syria, and the Persian Gulf. There are archival NASA and space exploration-related images, such as objects near the lunar horizon during Apollo missions, and audio of Gemini 7 astronauts reporting an object. Various photos and videos of orbs, star-shaped objects, and clusters of dots are shared, but they are often murky or low-resolution. Also read: ‘Defeating US sensors’: The unexplained UFO phenomena that baffled US fighter pilots Draw your own conclusions: US release of UFO files leaves more questions than answers The Trump administration is asking people to make their own conclusions, presenting the report release as empowering public judgement. Some UAP enthusiasts found specific videos and manoeuvres interesting. Yet, the files leave more questions than answers, as the site shared raw materials for public and private analysis with no official government conclusions provided on extraterrestrial origins or breakthroughs. Officials such as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Director of National Security Tulsi Gabbard emphasised "unprecedented transparency" and invited the public to review and draw their own conclusions. But that is a Herculean task. The full analysis will take time. Tens of millions of more UFO records on the cards? While the initiative is noteworthy for its transparency, the fresh compilations of videos, photos, and reports do not deliver paradigm-shifting revelations in the first batch. According to reports, Friday's release was the first tranche of a massive effort that could involve tens of millions of records. Some of these could focus on unresolved cases. Trump administration supporters are calling it a step towards transparency that previous US governments did not match at this scale.

The first tranche of UFO and UAP files released by the Trump administration offers no great new information, according to experts and reports. The declassified videos, photos, and reports do not give any proof of extraterrestrial life. So what was in them?

UFO files release was a dud? First tranche does not reveal much as Trump administration asks people to draw their own conclusions

The Pentagon has begun releasing files related to UFOs, also known as unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP), marking a step towards making long-discussed government records public. The first batch of documents was released on May 8 and is now available through an official online platform.&nbsp;The records are being published on a government portal called PURSUE, which is designed to host declassified material related to UAP encounters. According to officials, the release will happen in phases, with more documents expected to be added over time as they are reviewed and cleared.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/rzCVvUU3mu">https://t.co/rzCVvUU3mu</a>&mdash; Department of War 🇺🇸 (@DeptofWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofWar/status/2052723504336736284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What the first set of files shows</h2>The initial release includes cases that remain unresolved. This means that authorities have not reached a final conclusion about what was observed in those incidents. The Pentagon has said that these records are being shared as part of an ongoing effort to improve transparency.Officials have also confirmed that additional files will be released in future updates, depending on the review and declassification process.&nbsp;<h2>Why the files are being released</h2>The move follows a directive issued earlier this year by Donald Trump, which called for the identification and release of government records related to UFOs and extraterrestrial topics.Lawmakers are also pushing for more transparency. A task force led by Anna Paulina Luna has requested additional material, including 46 videos of UAP encounters, from defence authorities.This suggests that more visual evidence and records could be released in the coming months.&nbsp;<h2>What earlier reports have found</h2>Despite growing interest, previous investigations have not confirmed the presence of extraterrestrial activity.A 2024 report by the US Department of Defense found:&nbsp;No verified evidence linking UAP sightings to alien technologyMost cases were linked to ordinary objects or natural phenomenaThese findings indicate that while many sightings remain unexplained, they are not necessarily evidence of alien life.<h2>What NASA says about the development</h2>NASA has also addressed the issue, emphasising the importance of transparency and scientific investigation.NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said the agency will remain open about what is known and what is still being studied. He added that exploration and understanding unknown phenomena are part of NASA’s broader mission.<h2>What happens next</h2>The Pentagon has said that more files will be released on a rolling basis. This means new documents will be added as they are processed and approved for public access.While the release may not answer all questions about UFO sightings, it provides a clearer view of how such cases are investigated. It also gives the public access to information that has remained restricted for many years.As more records become available, they may help build a better understanding of UAP incidents, even if many cases remain unexplained.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Pentagon has begun releasing files related to UFOs, also known as unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP), marking a step towards making long-discussed government records public. The first batch of documents was released on May 8 and is now available. 

The Pentagon has begun releasing files related to UFOs, also known as unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP), marking a step towards making long-discussed government records public. The first batch of documents was released on May 8 and is now available through an official online platform. The records are being published on a government portal called PURSUE, which is designed to host declassified material related to UAP encounters. According to officials, the release will happen in phases, with more documents expected to be added over time as they are reviewed and cleared.

The Pentagon has begun releasing files related to UFOs, also known as unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP), marking a step towards making long-discussed government records public. The first batch of documents was released on May 8 and is now available.&nbsp;

‘UFO files go public’: What the Pentagon has released and what’s next

Sleep deprivation has been linked to problems in the brain that appear similar to those seen in &nbsp;Alzheimer's patients. According to scientists from the University of Ibadan in Nigeria, just one sleepless night could damage the brain. The team analysed medical data focused on sleep deprivation, memory and brain function over the last 25 years to reach the conclusion. Restlessness during sleep can weaken the connection between brain cells, trigger inflammation that could affect memory and allow toxins to build up. The affected person also develops fewer brain cells. The study states that the markers were similar to those seen in Alzheimer's, which is a long-term degenerative condition. The latter mainly strikes older adults and causes memory loss and death. However, the new condition is something that can be prevented by getting adequate sleep and avoiding staying awake at night.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sorry-boys-science-has-cancelled-you-study-says-manly-activities-are-killing-the-planet-1778139847760">Sorry boys, science has cancelled you: Study says 'manly' activities are killing the planet</a><h2>Sleep more, nap when possible to avoid brain damage</h2>The researchers recommend between seven and nine hours of sleep each day for adults between the ages of 18 and 64. The required number rises significantly in children as their developing brains need more shut-eye. They warned that those who stay awake all night for studies and work are being counter-productive, as this only creates more problems and makes it hard to retain information. Such people have problems thinking clearly the next day, have trouble learning new things, forget easily and even have false memories. Their moods also took the hit while also impacting emotional memories. "These disruptions result in significant deficits in learning, memory acquisition, and synaptic efficacy, with even short periods of sleep deprivation causing measurable reductions in synaptic plasticity and memory function," the authors wrote in the study.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/waking-up-really-early-might-lower-your-cognitive-abilities-study-finds-739853">Your cognitive abilities likely depend on whether you are a morning or an evening person</a>&nbsp;The simple way to prevent and even reverse this condition is to take naps during the day and adequate sleep at night. The study published in the journal IBRO Neuroscience Reports gathered data from studies published from 2000 to 2025 to create a summary on "sleep deprivation," "memory consolidation" and the hippocampus, the region of the brain responsible for forming new long-term memories, learning, and spatial navigation. This seahorse-shaped part fires special electrical waves called "sharp wave ripples" that replay our experiences. New information and memories are actively processed by the brain while one is asleep. Consequently, less sleep causes improper functioning of the hippocampus. Levels of toxic proteins known as beta-amyloid and tau also shoot up with less sleep. The study recommends everyone should have a sleep schedule that they should follow consistently, besides a fixed wake-up time. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

A study has linked less sleep to brain damage similar to that seen in Alzheimer's. Scientists say losing even one night of sleep, restlessness or insomnia can damage the brain, which needs shut-eye to store memories and function efficiently. 

Sleep deprivation has been linked to problems in the brain that appear similar to those seen in Alzheimer's patients. According to scientists from the University of Ibadan in Nigeria, just one sleepless night could damage the brain. The team analysed medical data focused on sleep deprivation, memory and brain function over the last 25 years to reach the conclusion. Restlessness during sleep can weaken the connection between brain cells, trigger inflammation that could affect memory and allow toxins to build up. The affected person also develops fewer brain cells. The study states that the markers were similar to those seen in Alzheimer's, which is a long-term degenerative condition. The latter mainly strikes older adults and causes memory loss and death. However, the new condition is something that can be prevented by getting adequate sleep and avoiding staying awake at night. Also Read: Sorry boys, science has cancelled you: Study says 'manly' activities are killing the planet Sleep more, nap when possible to avoid brain damage The researchers recommend between seven and nine hours of sleep each day for adults between the ages of 18 and 64. The required number rises significantly in children as their developing brains need more shut-eye. They warned that those who stay awake all night for studies and work are being counter-productive, as this only creates more problems and makes it hard to retain information. Such people have problems thinking clearly the next day, have trouble learning new things, forget easily and even have false memories. Their moods also took the hit while also impacting emotional memories. "These disruptions result in significant deficits in learning, memory acquisition, and synaptic efficacy, with even short periods of sleep deprivation causing measurable reductions in synaptic plasticity and memory function," the authors wrote in the study. Also Read: Your cognitive abilities likely depend on whether you are a morning or an evening person The simple way to prevent and even reverse this condition is to take naps during the day and adequate sleep at night. The study published in the journal IBRO Neuroscience Reports gathered data from studies published from 2000 to 2025 to create a summary on "sleep deprivation," "memory consolidation" and the hippocampus, the region of the brain responsible for forming new long-term memories, learning, and spatial navigation. This seahorse-shaped part fires special electrical waves called "sharp wave ripples" that replay our experiences. New information and memories are actively processed by the brain while one is asleep. Consequently, less sleep causes improper functioning of the hippocampus. Levels of toxic proteins known as beta-amyloid and tau also shoot up with less sleep. The study recommends everyone should have a sleep schedule that they should follow consistently, besides a fixed wake-up time.

A study has linked less sleep to brain damage similar to that seen in Alzheimer's. Scientists say losing even one night of sleep, restlessness or insomnia can damage the brain, which needs shut-eye to store memories and function efficiently.&nbsp;

Sleepless nights linked to Alzheimer's-like brain damage, 25 years of data shows

The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), the world's biggest nuclear fusion experiment in Cadarache, France, has moved closer to completion after receiving the final shipment of required components to assemble the massive magnet at the heart of the reactor. The giant magnet is the central solenoid, designed and developed in the US at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and is one of the most important components of the massive experimental site. The experiment is jointly funded and operated in a coalition of China, the European Union (EU), South Korea, India, Japan, Russia, and the United States. The central solenoid is awe-inspiring in its size as well as its efficiency. "The central solenoid is 18 meters (59 feet) tall and 4.25 meters (14 feet) wide, composed of six individual modules," Interesting Engineering reported earlier this week. "Each module weighs more than 122.5 tonnes (135 tons) and is wound from 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) of niobium-tin superconducting cable."&nbsp;This is only one element of an extraordinarily vast system described as “the grandest scientific experiment in the world.” ITER’s tokamak, the doughnut-shaped machine built to contain plasma using extremely powerful magnets, stretches nearly a kilometre in length. At its centre lies the immensely powerful solenoid magnet, just one component of an even larger and more complex setup. "This component belongs to a magnetic system weighing 3,000 tonnes (3,300 tons) that interacts with nine vacuum vessel sectors," Interesting Engineering added.<h3>15-year journey of ITER</h3>The core system of ITER has taken 15 years to develop, with each module undergoing a two-year cycle of manufacturing and testing. Although ITER will not generate electricity for public use. It is regarded as one of the most important research efforts in the world that is aimed at unlocking commercial nuclear fusion, widely regarded as the holy grail of clean energy. Nuclear fusion, the same process that powers the Sun, has the potential to provide virtually limitless clean energy on Earth. Unlike nuclear fission, it could deliver highly efficient, long-lasting energy without producing greenhouse gases or dangerous radioactive waste. However, ITER’s enormous scale and ambitious objectives have resulted in delays and rising costs. Despite the successful delivery of the solenoid, the project remains years away from producing its first plasma, nearly two decades after construction began and with costs reaching around €22 billion.&nbsp;ITER is still quite relevant, which may bring us invaluable scientific discoveries that would be impossible without its grand scale and funding. However, the megaproject is experiencing a rise in competition from smaller and more dexterous fusion ventures. Meanwhile, several other projects are on track to beat ITER to its mapped goalposts, and much more cost-free.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-nominate-gavin-newsom-trolls-trump-with-nomination-for-important-off-world-endeavor-involving-aliens-1778127569370">'We nominate...': Gavin Newsom trolls Trump with nomination for 'IMPORTANT OFF WORLD ENDEAVOR' involving aliens</a>

ITER, the world’s largest nuclear fusion experiment in France, has moved closer to completion after receiving the final components for its giant central solenoid magnet. Backed by seven global powers, the €22-billion project aims to replicate the Sun’s energy and unlock limitless clean power.

The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), the world's biggest nuclear fusion experiment in Cadarache, France, has moved closer to completion after receiving the final shipment of required components to assemble the massive magnet at the heart of the reactor. The giant magnet is the central solenoid, designed and developed in the US at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and is one of the most important components of the massive experimental site. The experiment is jointly funded and operated in a coalition of China, the European Union (EU), South Korea, India, Japan, Russia, and the United States. The central solenoid is awe-inspiring in its size as well as its efficiency. "The central solenoid is 18 meters (59 feet) tall and 4.25 meters (14 feet) wide, composed of six individual modules," Interesting Engineering reported earlier this week. "Each module weighs more than 122.5 tonnes (135 tons) and is wound from 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) of niobium-tin superconducting cable." This is only one element of an extraordinarily vast system described as “the grandest scientific experiment in the world.” ITER’s tokamak, the doughnut-shaped machine built to contain plasma using extremely powerful magnets, stretches nearly a kilometre in length. At its centre lies the immensely powerful solenoid magnet, just one component of an even larger and more complex setup. "This component belongs to a magnetic system weighing 3,000 tonnes (3,300 tons) that interacts with nine vacuum vessel sectors," Interesting Engineering added. 15-year journey of ITER The core system of ITER has taken 15 years to develop, with each module undergoing a two-year cycle of manufacturing and testing. Although ITER will not generate electricity for public use. It is regarded as one of the most important research efforts in the world that is aimed at unlocking commercial nuclear fusion, widely regarded as the holy grail of clean energy. Nuclear fusion, the same process that powers the Sun, has the potential to provide virtually limitless clean energy on Earth. Unlike nuclear fission, it could deliver highly efficient, long-lasting energy without producing greenhouse gases or dangerous radioactive waste. However, ITER’s enormous scale and ambitious objectives have resulted in delays and rising costs. Despite the successful delivery of the solenoid, the project remains years away from producing its first plasma, nearly two decades after construction began and with costs reaching around €22 billion. ITER is still quite relevant, which may bring us invaluable scientific discoveries that would be impossible without its grand scale and funding. However, the megaproject is experiencing a rise in competition from smaller and more dexterous fusion ventures. Meanwhile, several other projects are on track to beat ITER to its mapped goalposts, and much more cost-free. Also read: 'We nominate...': Gavin Newsom trolls Trump with nomination for 'IMPORTANT OFF WORLD ENDEAVOR' involving aliens

ITER, the world’s largest nuclear fusion experiment in France, has moved closer to completion after receiving the final components for its giant central solenoid magnet. Backed by seven global powers, the €22-billion project aims to replicate the Sun’s energy and unlock limitless clean power.

‘Grandest scientific experiment’: World’s largest fusion reactor nears reality, seeks to replicate Sun’s energy

May 2026 features a Blue Moon towards the end of the month. It will be a micromoon, which occurs when a full moon reaches apogee, its greatest distance from Earth. The May 1 Flower Moon was the first micromoon of 2026, and the upcoming occurrence will be the most distant micromoon of 2026. A Blue Moon doesn't mean it appears blue. In fact, the term has an interesting origin and dual meaning. In ancient times, it was known as "the moon is not blue". A Blue Moon was a rare occurrence that happened only every few years. This is also what led to it being turned into a phrase to signify something rare and impossible.<h2>6 interesting facts about the May 2026 Blue Moon</h2>&nbsp;Double Full Moon: May 2026 features a "double" lunar display. The month begins with the full Flower Moon on May 1 and concludes with a Blue Moon overnight on May 30-31.&nbsp;Calendar-month Blue Moon: The May full moon is a "calendar-month" Blue Moon because it is the second full moon to occur within a single calendar month. This type of Blue Moon typically happens every two to three years.&nbsp;Second micromoon: It will be a "micromoon". As the name signifies, it will be a much smaller moon than its regular appearance. When the moon reaches the farthest point in its orbit around Earth, we get a micromoon.<img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260506/image-1778054201629.png">&nbsp;Farthest micromoon: It will be the most distant full micromoon of 2026, appearing about 12-14 per cent smaller than a supermoon and about 7 per cent smaller than an average full moon.&nbsp;Blue Moon not blue: It won't actually be blue. Despite the name, the moon will be "Blue" only in name, and it doesn't actually change its colour.&nbsp;Celestial companion: The May Blue Moon will have a bright celestial companion. During the full moon's crest, it will be positioned near Antares, the brightest star in the constellation Scorpius, the Scorpion.&nbsp;<h2>Blue Moon is not blue in colour</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260506/image-1778053756798.png"></figure><h2>Double meaning of Blue Moon - Monthly and Seasonal Blue Moons</h2>&nbsp;In modern times, a Blue Moon is the second full moon in the same month. However, this happened because of a mistake. A 1946 article in Sky and Telescope had the author inadvertently simplifying an older definition from the Maine Farmer’s Almanac. In an article called “Once in a Blue Moon, James Hugh Pruett wrote, “Seven times in 19 years there were – and still are – 13 full moons in a year. This gives 11 months with one full moon each and one with two. This second in a month, so I interpret it, was called Blue Moon.”<h2>Moon phases - &nbsp;235 Lunar Months approximately equal 19 Calendar Years &nbsp;</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260506/image-1778053312768.jpg"></figure>&nbsp;However, originally the name Blue Moon was used for the third full moon in a season if it was followed by a fourth full moon. This was the period between a solstice and an equinox, or vice versa. Typically, each season only has three full moons in its three months. But, because of the 19-year cycle, a mathematical rhythm between the Earth and the Moon, we sometimes get four moons in one season. The third moon in such a season is known as the Blue Moon. The next seasonal Blue Moon will occur on May 20, 2027.<h2>Blue Moon time in India</h2>&nbsp;The May 2026 Monthly Blue Moon reaches its peak illumination on May 31, 2026, at 08:45 UTC. In India, this corresponds to Sunday, May 31, 2026, at 2:15 pm IST (Indian Standard Time).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Being daytime, the Moon will be below the horizon during its exact crest. But it will appear full and bright on both nights - May 30 and 31.&nbsp;

May 2026 Blue Moon: The fifth month of 2026 is seeing two Full Moons, and so the second one is known as a Blue Moon. However, this is not how the term Blue Moon was traditionally used. Here is everything you need to know about the Blue Moon.

May 2026 features a Blue Moon towards the end of the month. It will be a micromoon, which occurs when a full moon reaches apogee, its greatest distance from Earth. The May 1 Flower Moon was the first micromoon of 2026, and the upcoming occurrence will be the most distant micromoon of 2026. A Blue Moon doesn't mean it appears blue. In fact, the term has an interesting origin and dual meaning. In ancient times, it was known as "the moon is not blue". A Blue Moon was a rare occurrence that happened only every few years. This is also what led to it being turned into a phrase to signify something rare and impossible. 6 interesting facts about the May 2026 Blue Moon Double Full Moon: May 2026 features a "double" lunar display. The month begins with the full Flower Moon on May 1 and concludes with a Blue Moon overnight on May 30-31. Calendar-month Blue Moon: The May full moon is a "calendar-month" Blue Moon because it is the second full moon to occur within a single calendar month. This type of Blue Moon typically happens every two to three years. Second micromoon: It will be a "micromoon". As the name signifies, it will be a much smaller moon than its regular appearance. When the moon reaches the farthest point in its orbit around Earth, we get a micromoon. Farthest micromoon: It will be the most distant full micromoon of 2026, appearing about 12-14 per cent smaller than a supermoon and about 7 per cent smaller than an average full moon. Blue Moon not blue: It won't actually be blue. Despite the name, the moon will be "Blue" only in name, and it doesn't actually change its colour. Celestial companion: The May Blue Moon will have a bright celestial companion. During the full moon's crest, it will be positioned near Antares, the brightest star in the constellation Scorpius, the Scorpion. Blue Moon is not blue in colour Double meaning of Blue Moon - Monthly and Seasonal Blue Moons In modern times, a Blue Moon is the second full moon in the same month. However, this happened because of a mistake. A 1946 article in Sky and Telescope had the author inadvertently simplifying an older definition from the Maine Farmer’s Almanac. In an article called “Once in a Blue Moon, James Hugh Pruett wrote, “Seven times in 19 years there were – and still are – 13 full moons in a year. This gives 11 months with one full moon each and one with two. This second in a month, so I interpret it, was called Blue Moon.” Moon phases - 235 Lunar Months approximately equal 19 Calendar Years However, originally the name Blue Moon was used for the third full moon in a season if it was followed by a fourth full moon. This was the period between a solstice and an equinox, or vice versa. Typically, each season only has three full moons in its three months. But, because of the 19-year cycle, a mathematical rhythm between the Earth and the Moon, we sometimes get four moons in one season. The third moon in such a season is known as the Blue Moon. The next seasonal Blue Moon will occur on May 20, 2027. Blue Moon time in India The May 2026 Monthly Blue Moon reaches its peak illumination on May 31, 2026, at 08:45 UTC. In India, this corresponds to Sunday, May 31, 2026, at 2:15 pm IST (Indian Standard Time). Being daytime, the Moon will be below the horizon during its exact crest. But it will appear full and bright on both nights - May 30 and 31.

What is Blue Moon? The fifth month of 2026 is seeing two Full Moons, and so the second one is known as a Blue Moon. However, this is not how the term Blue Moon was traditionally used. Here is everything you need to know about the Blue Moon.

May 2026 Blue Moon: Dates, times, and the one thing you get wrong about it

Blue Moon is a rare occurrence, which is why we have the phrase “Once in a Blue Moon.” But did you know that there are two types of Blue Moon, and the one we commonly know today is not how the term was traditionally used?   

Blue Moon is rare, but actually more common than you think - Traditional vs modern meanings

After the part of an Alaskan mountain crumbled into the sea, a massive 'megatsunami' wave was created, marking the second-tallest ever, reminding the risks posed by melting glaciers, according to scientists. Last year, a giant wave came across a remote fjord in southeast Alaska leading to the destruction in its wake.&nbsp;The event, which went largely unreported at the time, now shows that small earthquakes resulted in a massive landslide. As a result, 64 million cubic metres of rock, the equivalent of 24 Great Pyramids, splashed into the water, creating a gigantic wave almost 500 metres tall. In response, Dr Bretwood Higman, an Alaskan geologist who witnessed the damage at Tracy Arm Fjord, stated that it was "a close call". "We know that there were people who were very nearly in the wrong place," he said. 'I'm quite terrified that we're not going to be so lucky in the future." Massive waves known as megatsunamis occur when landslides, triggered by earthquakes or unstable rock, crash into bodies of water. These events are typically confined to local areas and lose strength quickly. In contrast, ocean-wide tsunamis are usually caused by earthquakes or, at times, underwater volcanic activity. Such tsunamis, like the 2011 Japan disaster, can travel vast distances, striking populated coastlines and causing extensive destruction and loss of life. The largest recorded megatsunami occurred in the 1950s, exceeding 500 metres in height, with the recent event ranking as the second largest. When Dr Higman reached the Tracy Arm Fjord—an Alaskan cruise destination—weeks after the event, he observed shattered trees scattered across slopes and waters, along with large expanses of exposed rock where soil and vegetation had been stripped away.<h3>Vulnerability of Alaska</h3>Alaska is mainly vulnerable to megatsunamis because of its narrow fjords, steep mountains and frequent earthquakes. The new research published in Science indicates that glacier melt due to climate change is making it even worse. Dr Stephen Hicks of University College London stated that the glacier was previously "helping to hold up this piece of rock", and so when the ice retreated, it exposed the bottom of the cliff face, "allowing that rock material to suddenly collapse into the fjord". Stephen's team have studied tsunamis for almost 10 years and is worried about it. "More people are now going to remote areas - often these tourist cruises are going to see the natural beauty of the area to actually learn more about climate change - but they are also dangerous places to be," he added.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/1-000-strange-marks-on-a-rock-in-italy-left-hikers-stunned-ancient-underwater-stampede-might-be-responsible-1778069857931">1,000 identical marks on a rock in Italy are from an ancient underwater stampede. Who made them?</a>

A massive 500-meter megatsunami, the second-tallest ever recorded, struck Alaska’s Tracy Arm Fjord after a landslide dumped 64 million cubic meters of rock into the water. Scientists warn that melting glaciers due to climate change are destabilising cliffs.

After the part of an Alaskan mountain crumbled into the sea, a massive 'megatsunami' wave was created, marking the second-tallest ever, reminding the risks posed by melting glaciers, according to scientists. Last year, a giant wave came across a remote fjord in southeast Alaska leading to the destruction in its wake. The event, which went largely unreported at the time, now shows that small earthquakes resulted in a massive landslide. As a result, 64 million cubic metres of rock, the equivalent of 24 Great Pyramids, splashed into the water, creating a gigantic wave almost 500 metres tall. In response, Dr Bretwood Higman, an Alaskan geologist who witnessed the damage at Tracy Arm Fjord, stated that it was "a close call". "We know that there were people who were very nearly in the wrong place," he said. 'I'm quite terrified that we're not going to be so lucky in the future." Massive waves known as megatsunamis occur when landslides, triggered by earthquakes or unstable rock, crash into bodies of water. These events are typically confined to local areas and lose strength quickly. In contrast, ocean-wide tsunamis are usually caused by earthquakes or, at times, underwater volcanic activity. Such tsunamis, like the 2011 Japan disaster, can travel vast distances, striking populated coastlines and causing extensive destruction and loss of life. The largest recorded megatsunami occurred in the 1950s, exceeding 500 metres in height, with the recent event ranking as the second largest. When Dr Higman reached the Tracy Arm Fjord—an Alaskan cruise destination—weeks after the event, he observed shattered trees scattered across slopes and waters, along with large expanses of exposed rock where soil and vegetation had been stripped away. Vulnerability of Alaska Alaska is mainly vulnerable to megatsunamis because of its narrow fjords, steep mountains and frequent earthquakes. The new research published in Science indicates that glacier melt due to climate change is making it even worse. Dr Stephen Hicks of University College London stated that the glacier was previously "helping to hold up this piece of rock", and so when the ice retreated, it exposed the bottom of the cliff face, "allowing that rock material to suddenly collapse into the fjord". Stephen's team have studied tsunamis for almost 10 years and is worried about it. "More people are now going to remote areas - often these tourist cruises are going to see the natural beauty of the area to actually learn more about climate change - but they are also dangerous places to be," he added. Also read: 1,000 identical marks on a rock in Italy are from an ancient underwater stampede. Who made them?

A massive 500-metre megatsunami, the second-tallest ever recorded, struck Alaska’s Tracy Arm Fjord after a landslide dumped 64 million cubic meters of rock into the water. Scientists warn that melting glaciers due to climate change are destabilising cliffs.

Massive 500-metre 'megatsunami' hits Alaska Fjord after part of mountain collapses

A new quantum-inspired algorithm is transforming materials research by enabling rapid analysis of highly complex structures. Scientists can now engineer quantum properties by tweaking designs, such as twisting graphene layers to form moiré patterns that can turn the material superconducting.

Quantum leap: New algorithm unlocks complex materials beyond supercomputers, solving them in seconds

The hunt for aliens has mainly focused on detecting weak signals that could be hidden in a huge spectrum of cosmic noise. However, a recent study has suggested that if an advanced extraterrestrial was interested in reaching out, it would send a signal that is easily detectable. In fact, they would even target specific areas if they wished to be noticed. Benjamin Zuckerman, study author and an astrophysicist from the University of California, said, “Our principal assumption is that a purposely communicative technological civilisation will do its technological best to establish communication with other extraterrestrial technological intelligences (ETIs).” The reason why SETI, or Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence, has focused on looking for weaker signals till now is that a civilisation with limited power would send signals in all directions. By the time any of them reach a habitable world, it would have weakened considerably.&nbsp;These signals could land on any frequency, and there is no way to know which one is a promising candidate. So humans end up scouring only a tiny fraction of them. However, the researchers of the new study believe that any civilisation capable of interstellar communication would not waste its technology by transmitting everywhere. In fact, it would shoot a sharp signal like a laser using highly directional transmission systems.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/rogue-rocket-zooming-around-earth-set-to-crash-into-the-moon-know-exact-date-and-time-1777638385330">Rogue rocket zooming around Earth set to crash into Moon at Mach 7. Know exact date and time</a><h2>Wavelength of transmission matters more than the strength</h2> The study further states that power isn't the problem in this case, but whether Earth lies within that beam area is what matters. A system drawing on the order of 60 megawatts could also generate a signal that strong, they argue. “The most uncertain factor in our communication with a nearby ETI will not be power starvation, but rather the wavelength of transmission; this may be radio, infrared, or optical,” Zuckerman said. This means that if an alien civilisation were to send a well-aimed transmission, it would easily show up in routine astronomical data.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hostile-twin-star-systems-birth-more-planets-and-then-kick-them-out-1777886293312">Hostile twin star systems birth more planets, and then kick them out</a><h2>Changes needed in way we search for alien life</h2>Zuckerman has even presented the right kind of candidates to focus on while checking for such signals. It has to come from a place where communicative civilisations might exist, which can only be on water worlds. So attention should be on planets in the habitable zones of their stars. Further, &nbsp;technological intelligence takes billions of years to emerge. In the case of Earth, it was 4.5 billion years. So the stars of such planets should be similar to our Sun in age and stability. Within a sphere of about 200 parsecs, roughly 500,000 such stars can be found. Only about 200,000 are old enough to host advanced life. The study shows that the way we search for alien life needs to change, and broader wavelength ranges across nearby Sun-like stars should be the focus.&nbsp;

A study has suggested that the way we search for alien life needs to change. Instead of scanning for weak signals, the wavelength should be considered. Any civilisation interested and capable of contacting another would be powerful enough to send a strong, focused signal. 

The hunt for aliens has mainly focused on detecting weak signals that could be hidden in a huge spectrum of cosmic noise. However, a recent study has suggested that if an advanced extraterrestrial was interested in reaching out, it would send a signal that is easily detectable. In fact, they would even target specific areas if they wished to be noticed. Benjamin Zuckerman, study author and an astrophysicist from the University of California, said, “Our principal assumption is that a purposely communicative technological civilisation will do its technological best to establish communication with other extraterrestrial technological intelligences (ETIs).” The reason why SETI, or Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence, has focused on looking for weaker signals till now is that a civilisation with limited power would send signals in all directions. By the time any of them reach a habitable world, it would have weakened considerably. These signals could land on any frequency, and there is no way to know which one is a promising candidate. So humans end up scouring only a tiny fraction of them. However, the researchers of the new study believe that any civilisation capable of interstellar communication would not waste its technology by transmitting everywhere. In fact, it would shoot a sharp signal like a laser using highly directional transmission systems. Also Read: Rogue rocket zooming around Earth set to crash into Moon at Mach 7. Know exact date and time Wavelength of transmission matters more than the strength The study further states that power isn't the problem in this case, but whether Earth lies within that beam area is what matters. A system drawing on the order of 60 megawatts could also generate a signal that strong, they argue. “The most uncertain factor in our communication with a nearby ETI will not be power starvation, but rather the wavelength of transmission; this may be radio, infrared, or optical,” Zuckerman said. This means that if an alien civilisation were to send a well-aimed transmission, it would easily show up in routine astronomical data. Also Read: Hostile twin star systems birth more planets, and then kick them out Changes needed in way we search for alien life Zuckerman has even presented the right kind of candidates to focus on while checking for such signals. It has to come from a place where communicative civilisations might exist, which can only be on water worlds. So attention should be on planets in the habitable zones of their stars. Further, technological intelligence takes billions of years to emerge. In the case of Earth, it was 4.5 billion years. So the stars of such planets should be similar to our Sun in age and stability. Within a sphere of about 200 parsecs, roughly 500,000 such stars can be found. Only about 200,000 are old enough to host advanced life. The study shows that the way we search for alien life needs to change, and broader wavelength ranges across nearby Sun-like stars should be the focus.

A study has suggested that the way we search for alien life needs to change. Instead of scanning for weak signals, the wavelength should be considered. Any civilisation interested and capable of contacting another would be powerful enough to send a strong, focused signal.&nbsp;

Aliens looking to meet us would be intelligent enough to scream, not whisper

Yale palaeontologists have made a rare discovery from when dinosaurs were still finding their place on Earth. Two new fossils uncovered in New Mexico reveal a tragic moment in the lives of two crocodile ancestors who died in a flash flood, potentially, "looking at each other" at the time. The fossils are nearly 210 million years old and also present an insight into the diversification of proto-crocodiles at the dawn of the “Age of Reptiles.” This is the time when crocodiles were diversifying, and dinosaurs had not yet become the top predator. First author Margulis-Ohnuma described the discovery as a "time slice" where two proto-croc cousins interacted and competed with each other at the same time. Their fossils were kept at the Peabody Museum of Natural History at Yale, where the researchers of the new study found them and analysed them.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dinosaurs-are-responsible-for-rapid-ageing-and-short-lifespans-in-humans-1777642716794">Dinosaurs are responsible for rapid ageing and short lifespans in humans</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;The new discovery offers a peek into a time when two reptile dynasties were competing for dominance. One of them led to the rise of crocodiles and alligators, while another produced dinosaurs and birds. Researchers explained in the paper that at the time, dinosaurs were similar to herons, with slender legs, while crocodiles walked on all fours and were the primary predators. A press release describes the ecosystem just before the Age of Reptiles as "sufficiently rich," a period when close relatives evolved highly specialised feeding anatomy to share available resources. But as species diversified, they found themselves drifting apart from their own lineages while remaining closely related. They learned to coexist and adapt to one another for ecological balance, occasionally competing and bickering with each other.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/jurassic-lesson-in-survival-180-million-year-old-sea-predator-with-100-teeth-gobbled-stones-to-stay-alive-1777468258783">Jurassic lesson in survival: 180-million-year-old sea predator with 100 teeth gobbled stones to stay alive</a><h2>Tragic day of death</h2>First author Miranda Margulis-Ohnuma, a PhD student in Earth and planetary sciences in Yale’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS), digitally disassembled the fossil. She noted that these creatures were the size of jackals. Hesperosuchus agilis had long snouts, and their large back legs and smaller, thinner arms helped them hunt for food in rivers and other water bodies. On the day he died, his cousin, with a short snout from the &nbsp;Eosphorosuchus lacrimosa species, an early crocodile relative, was with him. Physical evidence of early species diversification is incredibly rare. This discovery offers a window into an ancient rivalry where two reptile dynasties—one leading to modern crocodiles and alligators, and the other producing dinosaurs and birds—were competing for dominance. &nbsp;

Palaeontologists at Yale University have re-discovered a fossil from New Mexico which tells of a time when dinosaurs did not rule the planet, and species were diversifying 210 million years ago. It is of two creatures who spawned crocodiles and were face-to-face when they died. 

Yale palaeontologists have made a rare discovery from when dinosaurs were still finding their place on Earth. Two new fossils uncovered in New Mexico reveal a tragic moment in the lives of two crocodile ancestors who died in a flash flood, potentially, "looking at each other" at the time. The fossils are nearly 210 million years old and also present an insight into the diversification of proto-crocodiles at the dawn of the “Age of Reptiles.” This is the time when crocodiles were diversifying, and dinosaurs had not yet become the top predator. First author Margulis-Ohnuma described the discovery as a "time slice" where two proto-croc cousins interacted and competed with each other at the same time. Their fossils were kept at the Peabody Museum of Natural History at Yale, where the researchers of the new study found them and analysed them. Also Read: Dinosaurs are responsible for rapid ageing and short lifespans in humans The new discovery offers a peek into a time when two reptile dynasties were competing for dominance. One of them led to the rise of crocodiles and alligators, while another produced dinosaurs and birds. Researchers explained in the paper that at the time, dinosaurs were similar to herons, with slender legs, while crocodiles walked on all fours and were the primary predators. A press release describes the ecosystem just before the Age of Reptiles as "sufficiently rich," a period when close relatives evolved highly specialised feeding anatomy to share available resources. But as species diversified, they found themselves drifting apart from their own lineages while remaining closely related. They learned to coexist and adapt to one another for ecological balance, occasionally competing and bickering with each other. Also Read: Jurassic lesson in survival: 180-million-year-old sea predator with 100 teeth gobbled stones to stay alive Tragic day of death First author Miranda Margulis-Ohnuma, a PhD student in Earth and planetary sciences in Yale’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS), digitally disassembled the fossil. She noted that these creatures were the size of jackals. Hesperosuchus agilis had long snouts, and their large back legs and smaller, thinner arms helped them hunt for food in rivers and other water bodies. On the day he died, his cousin, with a short snout from the Eosphorosuchus lacrimosa species, an early crocodile relative, was with him. Physical evidence of early species diversification is incredibly rare. This discovery offers a window into an ancient rivalry where two reptile dynasties—one leading to modern crocodiles and alligators, and the other producing dinosaurs and birds—were competing for dominance.

Palaeontologists at Yale University have re-discovered a fossil from New Mexico which tells of a time when dinosaurs did not rule the planet, and species were diversifying 210 million years ago. It is of two creatures who spawned crocodiles and were face-to-face when they died.&nbsp;

Before the dinosaurs ruled: 210-million-year-old crocodile ancestors who died gazing at each other discovered

Artemis II photos of Earth, Moon and space continue to amaze and inspire awe. NASA just released over 12,000 photos from the mission, most of them duplicates you would typically see in your mobile phone album. Here are some mind-blowing photos you should not miss.

NASA dumps 12,217 new photos from Artemis II mission. Here are some of them

Birds have a sense of identifying the sex of humans, according to a study. They also have a preference and like males over females, as they fled much quicker when women came near them. Study co-author Yanina Benedetti, an ecologist at the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, said in a statement, "As a woman in the field, I was surprised that birds reacted to us differently." Scientists included 37 bird species from five European countries and found that the birds flew away quickly when approached by women as compared to men. This showed that city birds can distinguish between male and female approaches. Researchers measured the distance from a human at which the bird flew away to make their conclusions, in which women emerged as the ones they disliked. However, the study authors have yet to find the reason for this behaviour. It was published in the journal People and Nature.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/jurassic-lesson-in-survival-180-million-year-old-sea-predator-with-100-teeth-gobbled-stones-to-stay-alive-1777468258783">180-million-year-old sea predator with 100 teeth gobbled stones to stay alive</a>&nbsp;Benedetti stated that the findings have "implications for urban ecology and equality in science" and show how animals in cities see humans. The researchers expanded on these encounters to determine whether they were just coincidences or part of a broader response pattern. They analysed over 2,700 approaches across five European countries (Czechia, France, Germany, Poland, and Spain) involving birds like magpies and pigeons. The latter were more tolerant of humans and fled only after humans got really close. However, others, like magpies, took off faster and had a longer flight initiation distance.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dinosaurs-are-responsible-for-rapid-ageing-and-short-lifespans-in-humans-1777642716794">Dinosaurs are responsible for rapid ageing and short lifespans in humans</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-discover-62-foot-dinosaur-eating-octopus-that-ruled-the-seas-100-million-years-ago-1777026091674">Scientists discover 62-foot 'dinosaur-eating' octopus that ruled the seas 100 million years ago</a><h2>Birds fled faster, seeing the women approach them</h2>To remove other factors from the study, researchers paired male and female participants of similar heights and dressed them in the same colours. They walked up to a bird in a straight line while keeping their gaze fixed on it. They then measured the distance at which the bird fled, which is the metric used in the study, Flight Initiation Distance. Across all species and locations, they were amazed to find that birds consistently fled sooner when approached by a woman than by a man.&nbsp;&nbsp;The observations gathered between April and July of 2023 found that, on average, men could get around 3 feet closer to the birds than women could. "I fully believe our results, that urban birds react differently based on the sex of the person approaching them, but I can't explain them right now," study co-author Daniel Blumstein said in the statement. The researchers admitted that follow-up studies are required to understand more about this behaviour, such as movement patterns, scent cues, or physical traits.

Birds have a dislike for women and seem to have a certain liking for men, according to a study. In five European countries, scientists found that when men approached the birds, they stayed on the ground for longer. But when women did the same, they flew away quickly. 

Birds have a sense of identifying the sex of humans, according to a study. They also have a preference and like males over females, as they fled much quicker when women came near them. Study co-author Yanina Benedetti, an ecologist at the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, said in a statement, "As a woman in the field, I was surprised that birds reacted to us differently." Scientists included 37 bird species from five European countries and found that the birds flew away quickly when approached by women as compared to men. This showed that city birds can distinguish between male and female approaches. Researchers measured the distance from a human at which the bird flew away to make their conclusions, in which women emerged as the ones they disliked. However, the study authors have yet to find the reason for this behaviour. It was published in the journal People and Nature. Also Read: 180-million-year-old sea predator with 100 teeth gobbled stones to stay alive Benedetti stated that the findings have "implications for urban ecology and equality in science" and show how animals in cities see humans. The researchers expanded on these encounters to determine whether they were just coincidences or part of a broader response pattern. They analysed over 2,700 approaches across five European countries (Czechia, France, Germany, Poland, and Spain) involving birds like magpies and pigeons. The latter were more tolerant of humans and fled only after humans got really close. However, others, like magpies, took off faster and had a longer flight initiation distance. Also Read: Dinosaurs are responsible for rapid ageing and short lifespans in humans Also Read: Scientists discover 62-foot 'dinosaur-eating' octopus that ruled the seas 100 million years ago Birds fled faster, seeing the women approach them To remove other factors from the study, researchers paired male and female participants of similar heights and dressed them in the same colours. They walked up to a bird in a straight line while keeping their gaze fixed on it. They then measured the distance at which the bird fled, which is the metric used in the study, Flight Initiation Distance. Across all species and locations, they were amazed to find that birds consistently fled sooner when approached by a woman than by a man. The observations gathered between April and July of 2023 found that, on average, men could get around 3 feet closer to the birds than women could. "I fully believe our results, that urban birds react differently based on the sex of the person approaching them, but I can't explain them right now," study co-author Daniel Blumstein said in the statement. The researchers admitted that follow-up studies are required to understand more about this behaviour, such as movement patterns, scent cues, or physical traits.

Birds have a dislike for women and seem to have a certain liking for men, according to a study. In five European countries, scientists found that when men approached the birds, they stayed on the ground for longer. But when women did the same, they flew away quickly.&nbsp;

Birds have a clear preference when it comes to choosing between men and women

Binary star systems might scientifically appear to be hostile to planet formation, but a new study shows that they have an ideal environment for these bodies to be born. Their conditions are, in fact, better than single star systems. They are also the reason for rogue planets, the research has found. Dual star systems are quite common in the Milky Way. Even our Sun is believed to have a twin that left its side. But the problem arises as their gravitational forces tug at each other, creating a chaotic environment for the material around them. But this isn't the full picture. Beyond the inner regions lies a place where things settle down and where planets might have a better chance of taking shape than even single-star systems. Lead author of the study, Matthew Teasdale of the University of Lancashire, said in a statement, "Close to a binary star, it's simply too violent for planets to form. But move farther out, and the disk becomes an ideal environment for planet formation." The study was published on April 27 in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mars-will-deliver-a-violent-death-to-its-own-moon-sooner-than-expected-1777879100784">Mars will deliver a violent death to its own Moon sooner than expected</a><h2>Binary stars have an extremely productive region where planets form</h2>Computer simulations showed that the swirling disks of gas and dust, called protoplanetary disks, surrounding young binary stars create a "forbidden zone" where the environment is too tumultuous and violent. The intense gravitational forces lead to an inconducive region where planets cannot form. However, once you pass this point, the disk can break apart under its own gravity, and this gravitational instability can rapidly produce multiple young planets, in particular Jupiter. "What we're finding is that they can actually be extremely productive," co-author of the study, Dimitris Stamatellos, said. "Once you get past the danger zone, planets can form quickly and in large numbers." However, this gravitational complexity also has a downside. Some of the planets that form in such systems might get kicked out and left to fend for themselves in interstellar space, leading to what we call rogue planets.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/rogue-rocket-zooming-around-earth-set-to-crash-into-the-moon-know-exact-date-and-time-1777638385330">Rogue rocket zooming around Earth set to crash into Moon at Mach 7. Know exact date and time</a><h2>Tatooine worlds are more common than previously believed&nbsp;</h2>One of the most famous worlds moving around twin stars is Tatooine, the fictional desert planet in the Star Wars galaxy. The study states that such planets "may be far less rare than we once imagined." Scientists have already found over 50 such worlds that revolved around two stars. Most of them are located at extreme distances from their host stars, backing the theory put forward by the latest study. Experts believe that ALMA (Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array), the James Webb Space Telescope, and the upcoming Extremely Large Telescope can soon locate such disks of gas and dust and even see these planets being born.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Star Wars-type Tatooine worlds are more common in the Milky Way and are actually better suited for planet formation. There is a hostile region near binary stars, but once it is crossed, the chaos ebbs and young planets can be born.

Binary star systems might scientifically appear to be hostile to planet formation, but a new study shows that they have an ideal environment for these bodies to be born. Their conditions are, in fact, better than single star systems. They are also the reason for rogue planets, the research has found. Dual star systems are quite common in the Milky Way. Even our Sun is believed to have a twin that left its side. But the problem arises as their gravitational forces tug at each other, creating a chaotic environment for the material around them. But this isn't the full picture. Beyond the inner regions lies a place where things settle down and where planets might have a better chance of taking shape than even single-star systems. Lead author of the study, Matthew Teasdale of the University of Lancashire, said in a statement, "Close to a binary star, it's simply too violent for planets to form. But move farther out, and the disk becomes an ideal environment for planet formation." The study was published on April 27 in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society. Also Read: Mars will deliver a violent death to its own Moon sooner than expected Binary stars have an extremely productive region where planets form Computer simulations showed that the swirling disks of gas and dust, called protoplanetary disks, surrounding young binary stars create a "forbidden zone" where the environment is too tumultuous and violent. The intense gravitational forces lead to an inconducive region where planets cannot form. However, once you pass this point, the disk can break apart under its own gravity, and this gravitational instability can rapidly produce multiple young planets, in particular Jupiter. "What we're finding is that they can actually be extremely productive," co-author of the study, Dimitris Stamatellos, said. "Once you get past the danger zone, planets can form quickly and in large numbers." However, this gravitational complexity also has a downside. Some of the planets that form in such systems might get kicked out and left to fend for themselves in interstellar space, leading to what we call rogue planets. Also Read: Rogue rocket zooming around Earth set to crash into Moon at Mach 7. Know exact date and time Tatooine worlds are more common than previously believed One of the most famous worlds moving around twin stars is Tatooine, the fictional desert planet in the Star Wars galaxy. The study states that such planets "may be far less rare than we once imagined." Scientists have already found over 50 such worlds that revolved around two stars. Most of them are located at extreme distances from their host stars, backing the theory put forward by the latest study. Experts believe that ALMA (Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array), the James Webb Space Telescope, and the upcoming Extremely Large Telescope can soon locate such disks of gas and dust and even see these planets being born.

Star Wars-type Tatooine worlds are more common in the Milky Way and are actually better suited for planet formation. There is a hostile region near binary stars, but once it is crossed, the chaos ebbs and young planets can be born.

Hostile twin star systems birth more planets, and then kick them out

Scientists have long known that Phobos, one of the moons of Mars, will eventually die as the tidal effects of the planet suck its orbital energy, leading it to turn into a debris disk. This is expected to happen when it passes inside the Roche Limit - the minimum distance to which a moon, comet, or asteroid can approach a larger primary body. In the case of Mars and Phobos, this limit is around 1.6 times the radius of the Red Planet (RM), or approximately 3,600 to 5,500 km. However, a new analysis has shown that Phobos will start to shred and break apart long before it reaches this limit. Harrison Agrusa and Patrick Michel, researchers at the Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur, France, say that Phobos' shape and the fact that it is merely a pile of rubble will play a role in this event.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/no-mars-no-moolah-musk-s-appraisal-directly-tied-to-settling-1-million-people-on-red-planet-1777634594502">No Mars, no moolah: Musk's appraisal directly tied to settling 1 million people on Red Planet</a>&nbsp;Scientists determined the fate of Phobos using two approaches. One was the simple mathematics behind the tidal strain at decreasing distance from Mars, and its shape, along with the cohesive strength of Phobos. The second was a computer simulation looking at the moon as a rubble pile, tracking how each separate particle will react as Phobos spirals inward. Both of them threw up similar results - that death awaits Phobos sooner than expected.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-just-saved-a-precious-drill-on-mars-from-212-million-kilometres-away-1767174556834">NASA just saved a precious drill stuck on Mars since 8 months from 212 million kilometres away</a><h2>How and when will Phobos die?</h2>Phobos will start undergoing mass shedding from two points - one closest to Mars and the other farthest from the planet. The gravitational pull is strongest at the part nearest to it, while the outwards-flinging centrifugal force is greatest on the far side. The shedding will start when Phobos is at an orbital distance of about 2.25RM. It will greatly increase at around 2.15RM and 2.13RM. Material from Phobos will start flowing in two huge streams at around 2.09RM, destabilising it and ultimately spelling doom. However, the end could come much before it even reaches this last limit. The material pulled from Phobos will enter Mars' orbit and then smash again into the Moon at high speeds. This would lead to a "sesquinary catastrophe", finishing off Phobos.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/half-of-mars-was-covered-with-an-ocean-as-big-as-the-arctic-3-billion-years-ago-1768566494909">3 billion years ago, Mars had a huge ocean that covered half the planet</a>&nbsp;Phobos is not going to die for another 20 to 50 million years. Meanwhile, humans are working to quench their curiosity as Japan gets ready to launch the Japanese Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission this year. It is designed to study the interior structure and material strength of Phobos, giving a closer estimate of its demise.

Phobos, the closer of the two Martian Moons, is being pulled towards the planet and is one day expected to be completely obliterated by the tidal forces. However, this will happen much sooner and will be extremely brutal.  

Scientists have long known that Phobos, one of the moons of Mars, will eventually die as the tidal effects of the planet suck its orbital energy, leading it to turn into a debris disk. This is expected to happen when it passes inside the Roche Limit - the minimum distance to which a moon, comet, or asteroid can approach a larger primary body. In the case of Mars and Phobos, this limit is around 1.6 times the radius of the Red Planet (RM), or approximately 3,600 to 5,500 km. However, a new analysis has shown that Phobos will start to shred and break apart long before it reaches this limit. Harrison Agrusa and Patrick Michel, researchers at the Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur, France, say that Phobos' shape and the fact that it is merely a pile of rubble will play a role in this event. Also Read: No Mars, no moolah: Musk's appraisal directly tied to settling 1 million people on Red Planet Scientists determined the fate of Phobos using two approaches. One was the simple mathematics behind the tidal strain at decreasing distance from Mars, and its shape, along with the cohesive strength of Phobos. The second was a computer simulation looking at the moon as a rubble pile, tracking how each separate particle will react as Phobos spirals inward. Both of them threw up similar results - that death awaits Phobos sooner than expected. Also Read: NASA just saved a precious drill stuck on Mars since 8 months from 212 million kilometres away How and when will Phobos die? Phobos will start undergoing mass shedding from two points - one closest to Mars and the other farthest from the planet. The gravitational pull is strongest at the part nearest to it, while the outwards-flinging centrifugal force is greatest on the far side. The shedding will start when Phobos is at an orbital distance of about 2.25RM. It will greatly increase at around 2.15RM and 2.13RM. Material from Phobos will start flowing in two huge streams at around 2.09RM, destabilising it and ultimately spelling doom. However, the end could come much before it even reaches this last limit. The material pulled from Phobos will enter Mars' orbit and then smash again into the Moon at high speeds. This would lead to a "sesquinary catastrophe", finishing off Phobos. Also Read: 3 billion years ago, Mars had a huge ocean that covered half the planet Phobos is not going to die for another 20 to 50 million years. Meanwhile, humans are working to quench their curiosity as Japan gets ready to launch the Japanese Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission this year. It is designed to study the interior structure and material strength of Phobos, giving a closer estimate of its demise.

Phobos, the closer of the two Martian Moons, is being pulled towards the planet and is one day expected to be completely obliterated by the tidal forces. However, this will happen much sooner and will be extremely brutal. &nbsp;

Mars will deliver a violent death to its own Moon sooner than expected

The Eta Aquarids meteor shower is set to peak on the nights of May 5 and 6. It is one of the most spectacular stargazing events as it originates from the debris of Halley's Comet. The shower will be visible in India also, provided you are in an area with clear skies. They are classified by NASA as fast-moving meteors that enter Earth's atmosphere at speeds of 65 kilometres per second. Typically, you can see 40-60 meteors in an hour, according to the American Meteor Society. Here are more details and what you should know about the Eta Aquarids meteor shower and the comet that created it.<h2>Best time to watch Eta Aquarids meteor shower</h2> The best time to see the Eta Aquarids meteor shower in India will be between 2:00 am and 4:30 am IST. The radiant point rises in the southeast, and the sky will be the darkest just before dawn breaks. According to NASA, the meteor fall will leave behind "trains", or glowing pieces of debris that will be visible for several seconds.<h2>How to watch Eta Aquarids meteor shower</h2> To locate the Eta Aquarids, look towards the southeast horizon, near the constellation Aquarius (the Water Jar asterism). For best views, try getting to a place with minimal light pollution. You do not require any equipment, such as binoculars or telescope, as they will be visible with the naked eye. Lie down and focus your attention on the southeast sky. Give your eyes about half an hour to adjust to the darkness, and soon you will be able to see the falling meteors.<h2>Best place to watch Eta Aquarids meteor shower</h2> The best views are expected in southern and central India. Here, you can expect up to 40 to 60 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. In northern India, 10 to 30 meteors will be visible in an hour. Overall, India will be one of the best places to see the Eta Aquarids.<h2>Where do Eta Aquarids come from?</h2> When viewed from Earth, this meteor shower appears to originate from near the constellation Aquarius, hence the name Aquarids. The famous Halley’s Comet is its parent body. Officially designated 1P/Halley, it is a short-period comet which visits Earth every 75 to 79 years. Right now, it is travelling near the outer solar system, far beyond the orbit of Saturn. It reached its farthest point in 2023 and is now on a return trip towards the Sun. It will next be visible in 2061.&nbsp;

Eta Aquarids meteor shower peak in India: How to see the fastest meteor shower, peak dates, and best time and place to see. The shower originates from Halley's Comet, the most well-known comet in our solar system.

The Eta Aquarids meteor shower is set to peak on the nights of May 5 and 6. It is one of the most spectacular stargazing events as it originates from the debris of Halley's Comet. The shower will be visible in India also, provided you are in an area with clear skies. They are classified by NASA as fast-moving meteors that enter Earth's atmosphere at speeds of 65 kilometres per second. Typically, you can see 40-60 meteors in an hour, according to the American Meteor Society. Here are more details and what you should know about the Eta Aquarids meteor shower and the comet that created it. Best time to watch Eta Aquarids meteor shower The best time to see the Eta Aquarids meteor shower in India will be between 2:00 am and 4:30 am IST. The radiant point rises in the southeast, and the sky will be the darkest just before dawn breaks. According to NASA, the meteor fall will leave behind "trains", or glowing pieces of debris that will be visible for several seconds. How to watch Eta Aquarids meteor shower To locate the Eta Aquarids, look towards the southeast horizon, near the constellation Aquarius (the Water Jar asterism). For best views, try getting to a place with minimal light pollution. You do not require any equipment, such as binoculars or telescope, as they will be visible with the naked eye. Lie down and focus your attention on the southeast sky. Give your eyes about half an hour to adjust to the darkness, and soon you will be able to see the falling meteors. Best place to watch Eta Aquarids meteor shower The best views are expected in southern and central India. Here, you can expect up to 40 to 60 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. In northern India, 10 to 30 meteors will be visible in an hour. Overall, India will be one of the best places to see the Eta Aquarids. Where do Eta Aquarids come from? When viewed from Earth, this meteor shower appears to originate from near the constellation Aquarius, hence the name Aquarids. The famous Halley’s Comet is its parent body. Officially designated 1P/Halley, it is a short-period comet which visits Earth every 75 to 79 years. Right now, it is travelling near the outer solar system, far beyond the orbit of Saturn. It reached its farthest point in 2023 and is now on a return trip towards the Sun. It will next be visible in 2061.

Eta Aquarids meteor shower peak in India: How to see the fastest meteor shower, peak dates, and best time and place to see. The shower originates from Halley's Comet, the most well-known comet in our solar system.

Eta Aquarids meteor shower: Best places and time to see the Halley's Comet debris in India

Drishti, a unique Earth observation satellite developed by Bengaluru-based GalaxEye was launched into the space aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from California on Sunday. The Indian space start-up says Drishti is the “world’s first OptoSAR satellite” and its launch is a milestone in the advancement of Earth observation technologies.Drishti is the Bengaluru-based space startup GalaxEye’s first commercial satellite.&nbsp;“Weighing 190 kg, Mission Drishti is India’s largest privately developed Earth observation satellite. It is the first satellite globally to integrate Electro-Optical (EO) and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) sensors into a single operational platform, enabling all-weather, day-and-night imaging capabilities,” it said.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Drishti can see through clouds, darkness and bad weather’</h2>&nbsp;Drishti is unique since it can “see” through clouds, darkness and bad weather while also capturing conventional optical imagery, as it carries a “SyncFused OptoSAR” payload, combining electro-optical imaging and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) on a single platform.&nbsp;Optical satellites provide conventional high-resolution images, but their imagery is affected by cloud cover and darkness, while radar satellites can operate day and night and penetrate clouds, smoke, and rain, but their imagery is harder to interpret.GalaxEye has synchronised and combined both streams of data, and so Drishti can generate more consistent and usable imagery.&nbsp;It will support various applications ranging from border surveillance and defence monitoring to disaster response, agriculture, infrastructure planning, and insurance assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Another key feature onboard is artificial intelligence processing powered by Nvidia’s Jetson Orin computing platform. Instead of transmitting vast quantities of raw imagery back to Earth for analysis, parts of the processing will happen directly in orbit. The idea is to reduce the time taken to convert satellite imagery into actionable information,” said GalaxEye co-founder and CEO Suyash Singh.&nbsp;<h2>Satellite can deliver imagery at a resolution of 1.5 metres</h2>&nbsp;The satellite can deliver imagery at a resolution of 1.5 metres and revisit locations globally every seven to ten days, he added. Resolution is where Drishti aims to compete with the best in the world. The first satellite in the series will deliver imagery at around a 1.5-metre resolution, significantly sharper than the five-metre class that dominates many Indian SAR platforms.&nbsp;The spacecraft, roughly the size of a refrigerator, also carries a deployable antenna spanning about 3.5 metres.&nbsp;&nbsp;The company had earlier tested its imaging systems through nearly 500 aerial sorties involving drones, Cessna aircraft and high-altitude platforms, besides flying an earlier payload aboard an Isro PSLV mission under the POEM platform.&nbsp;The company said discussions have taken place with multiple Indian government departments, including defence and agriculture ministries, while agencies such as the Defence Space Agency, Indian Air Force, Army and Navy have been tracking the programme.&nbsp;<h2>Startup plans to build a constellation of 8 to 12 satellites, with even sharper imagery</h2>&nbsp;GalaxEye has also signed distribution partnerships across more than 20 countries. After Drishti’s launch, the startup plans to build a larger constellation of 8 to 12 satellites over the next four years, with future versions targeting even sharper imagery.&nbsp;Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Exernal Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and the Indian space agency ISRO hailed the launch with congratulatory messages in their posts on X.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Mission Drishti by GalaxEye marks a major achievement in our space journey. The successful launch of the world’s first OptoSAR satellite and the largest privately-built satellite in India is a testament to our youth’s passion for innovation and nation-building. Heartiest…&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2050863398607544332?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The specialty of Drishti is that it has both a multispectral camera and a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imager.The ongoing Iran war has shown why countries need eyes in the skies, as the US has barred space giant Vantor, formerly called Maxar, from sharing images from the conflict.&nbsp;Drishti was developed keeping in mind India’s geography and climate and where cloud cover is frequent and persistent, often rendering conventional optical satellites ineffective.“We found that India is a country which is tropical in nature. We have more clouds than the West,” Singh said.“The West has never thought about this concept because they never had this problem. If they have a clean sky, they will have a clean sky. If they have some cloud, they will have it for some time, and then it will go away.”&nbsp;“It is our own patent, and it is also a global patent. This can become the gold standard for the world. This is something that we are doing completely in India, never tried before in the world,” Singh added.GalaxEye was incubated at IIT Madras, an institution that has quietly become the cradle of multiple deep tech space startups.

Resolution is where Drishti aims to compete with the best in the world and can deliver imagery at a resolution of 1.5 metres and revisit locations globally every seven to ten days. It will support border surveillance, defence monitoring, disaster response, agriculture, and planning.

Drishti, a unique Earth observation satellite developed by Bengaluru-based GalaxEye was launched into the space aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from California on Sunday. The Indian space start-up says Drishti is the “world’s first OptoSAR satellite” and its launch is a milestone in the advancement of Earth observation technologies. Drishti is the Bengaluru-based space startup GalaxEye’s first commercial satellite. “Weighing 190 kg, Mission Drishti is India’s largest privately developed Earth observation satellite. It is the first satellite globally to integrate Electro-Optical (EO) and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) sensors into a single operational platform, enabling all-weather, day-and-night imaging capabilities,” it said. ‘Drishti can see through clouds, darkness and bad weather’ Drishti is unique since it can “see” through clouds, darkness and bad weather while also capturing conventional optical imagery, as it carries a “SyncFused OptoSAR” payload, combining electro-optical imaging and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) on a single platform. Optical satellites provide conventional high-resolution images, but their imagery is affected by cloud cover and darkness, while radar satellites can operate day and night and penetrate clouds, smoke, and rain, but their imagery is harder to interpret. GalaxEye has synchronised and combined both streams of data, and so Drishti can generate more consistent and usable imagery. It will support various applications ranging from border surveillance and defence monitoring to disaster response, agriculture, infrastructure planning, and insurance assessment. “Another key feature onboard is artificial intelligence processing powered by Nvidia’s Jetson Orin computing platform. Instead of transmitting vast quantities of raw imagery back to Earth for analysis, parts of the processing will happen directly in orbit. The idea is to reduce the time taken to convert satellite imagery into actionable information,” said GalaxEye co-founder and CEO Suyash Singh. Satellite can deliver imagery at a resolution of 1.5 metres The satellite can deliver imagery at a resolution of 1.5 metres and revisit locations globally every seven to ten days, he added. Resolution is where Drishti aims to compete with the best in the world. The first satellite in the series will deliver imagery at around a 1.5-metre resolution, significantly sharper than the five-metre class that dominates many Indian SAR platforms. The spacecraft, roughly the size of a refrigerator, also carries a deployable antenna spanning about 3.5 metres. The company had earlier tested its imaging systems through nearly 500 aerial sorties involving drones, Cessna aircraft and high-altitude platforms, besides flying an earlier payload aboard an Isro PSLV mission under the POEM platform. The company said discussions have taken place with multiple Indian government departments, including defence and agriculture ministries, while agencies such as the Defence Space Agency, Indian Air Force, Army and Navy have been tracking the programme. Startup plans to build a constellation of 8 to 12 satellites, with even sharper imagery GalaxEye has also signed distribution partnerships across more than 20 countries. After Drishti’s launch, the startup plans to build a larger constellation of 8 to 12 satellites over the next four years, with future versions targeting even sharper imagery. Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Exernal Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and the Indian space agency ISRO hailed the launch with congratulatory messages in their posts on X.

Resolution is where Drishti aims to compete with the best in the world and can deliver imagery at a resolution of 1.5 metres and revisit locations globally every seven to ten days. It will support border surveillance, defence monitoring, disaster response, agriculture, and planning.

Indian startup’s satellite ‘Drishti’ to provide world’s most advanced eyes in the sky

Michelle and Lavinia Osbourne have always known they were twins. They were born within minutes of each other, to the same mother, but it turns out they don't share the same father. The Osbourne twins didn't find out this shocking truth until they took a DNA test. They were conceived naturally, grew together in the same womb, and were born to the same mother within minutes of each other, but they are half-sisters. But how is that even possible? The answer is a rare phenomenon called heteropaternal superfecundation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-bans-abortion-pill-by-mail-federal-court-s-mifepristone-ruling-turns-back-the-clock-on-life-saving-healthcare-in-pics-1777697099793">US bans abortion Mifepristone pill: Critics warn of 'immediate chaos' | In pics</a><h2>UK's first recorded case of twins with different dads</h2>The 49-year-old Osbourne twins are officially the United Kingdom's first recorded case of heteropaternal superfecundation, a biological phenomenon so rare that fewer than 20 cases have ever been documented worldwide.Speaking on a new series of BBC Radio 4's The Gift, the sisters told journalist Jenny Kleeman how they came to learn the truth about their origins. "We're miracles," they said. They came to know about their origins as recently as 2022.<h2>What is heteropaternal superfecundation?</h2>Heteropaternal superfecundation occurs when a woman releases more than one egg during a single menstrual cycle, the same process behind fraternal twins, but the eggs are fertilised by sperm from two different men.For this to happen, two acts of intercourse with different partners must occur within a roughly five-day window, since sperm can survive in the reproductive tract for up to five days while eggs remain viable for only 12 to 24 hours after release. The timing has to align almost perfectly, which is part of why it happens so rarely.Most cases are never detected at all. The phenomenon tends to come to light only when twins look noticeably different from each other, different skin tones, for instance, or when a paternity dispute triggers DNA testing.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bargi-dam-cruise-boat-tragedy-heartbreaking-photo-of-mother-and-son-clinging-to-each-other-fake-jabalpur-collector-says-ai-generated-1777701429547">Bargi Dam cruise boat tragedy: Heartbreaking photo of mother and son clinging to each other fake? Jabalpur collector says...</a><h2>One in 400</h2>A case in Brazil in 2022 became international news when a young woman discovered that only one of her twins matched the man she believed to be the father. Further testing revealed two different fathers. Cases like that one are typically stumbled upon by accident rather than by design. Estimates suggest heteropaternal superfecundation might occur in roughly one in every 400 fraternal twin births in the United States, though the vast majority go undetected and unrecorded.

Can twins really share the same mother, birthday and womb, but have different fathers? As bizarre as it sounds, science says yes. The UK has recorded its first-ever case of this rare biological phenomenon. All you need to know.

Michelle and Lavinia Osbourne have always known they were twins. They were born within minutes of each other, to the same mother, but it turns out they don't share the same father. The Osbourne twins didn't find out this shocking truth until they took a DNA test. They were conceived naturally, grew together in the same womb, and were born to the same mother within minutes of each other, but they are half-sisters. But how is that even possible? The answer is a rare phenomenon called heteropaternal superfecundation. Also read | US bans abortion Mifepristone pill: Critics warn of 'immediate chaos' | In pics UK's first recorded case of twins with different dads The 49-year-old Osbourne twins are officially the United Kingdom's first recorded case of heteropaternal superfecundation, a biological phenomenon so rare that fewer than 20 cases have ever been documented worldwide. Speaking on a new series of BBC Radio 4's The Gift, the sisters told journalist Jenny Kleeman how they came to learn the truth about their origins. "We're miracles," they said. They came to know about their origins as recently as 2022. What is heteropaternal superfecundation? Heteropaternal superfecundation occurs when a woman releases more than one egg during a single menstrual cycle, the same process behind fraternal twins, but the eggs are fertilised by sperm from two different men. For this to happen, two acts of intercourse with different partners must occur within a roughly five-day window, since sperm can survive in the reproductive tract for up to five days while eggs remain viable for only 12 to 24 hours after release. The timing has to align almost perfectly, which is part of why it happens so rarely. Most cases are never detected at all. The phenomenon tends to come to light only when twins look noticeably different from each other, different skin tones, for instance, or when a paternity dispute triggers DNA testing. Also read | Bargi Dam cruise boat tragedy: Heartbreaking photo of mother and son clinging to each other fake? Jabalpur collector says... One in 400 A case in Brazil in 2022 became international news when a young woman discovered that only one of her twins matched the man she believed to be the father. Further testing revealed two different fathers. Cases like that one are typically stumbled upon by accident rather than by design. Estimates suggest heteropaternal superfecundation might occur in roughly one in every 400 fraternal twin births in the United States, though the vast majority go undetected and unrecorded.

Can twins really share the same mother, birthday and womb, but have different fathers? As bizarre as it sounds, science says yes. The UK has recorded its first-ever case of this rare biological phenomenon. All you need to know.

They thought they were identical sisters, DNA test revealed different fathers; UK records first case of rare biological phenomenon

Dinosaurs are the reason why humans have such short lives, a study has found. According to a University of Birmingham microbiologist named João Pedro de Magalhães, the reproductive cycles in mammals instead sped up to ensure species survival. He has hypothesised that the age of dinosaurs completely shifted the evolutionary track of every mammal on Earth. “My hypothesis is that such a long evolutionary pressure on early mammals for rapid reproduction led to the loss or inactivation of genes and pathways associated with long life,” de Magalhães wrote in a paper published in 2023 in BioEssays. He calls this the "longevity bottleneck hypothesis". The absence of regenerative traits in mammals further backs his theory, he says. Mammals lived alongside dinosaurs for over 100 million years, but were "generally small, nocturnal, and short-lived."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/jurassic-lesson-in-survival-180-million-year-old-sea-predator-with-100-teeth-gobbled-stones-to-stay-alive-1777468258783">Jurassic lesson in survival: 180-million-year-old sea predator with 100 teeth gobbled stones to stay alive</a><h2>When dinosaurs and mammals lived together</h2>&nbsp;Dinosaurs ruled the planet, which triggered evolutionary changes in mammals. de Magalhães claims that every mammal is under genetic constraints dating back to the era of the dinosaurs.They were under pressure to stay alive, and the environment did not suit a long life. This led to the elimination of the genes for long life. “Some of the earliest mammals were forced to live toward the bottom of the food chain and have likely spent 100 million years during the age of the dinosaurs evolving to survive through rapid reproduction,” de Magalhães said in a statement. Reptiles and other animals have a much slower biological ageing. He proposed that the evolutionary pressure from the dinosaurs impacted the way humans age.&nbsp;Mammals also do not have the ability to fix biological damage naturally. de Magalhães says this is because of the loss of enzymes tied to the Mesozoic Era, which limits this feature in mammals. Examples include the loss of enzymes that repair UV-damaged skin, and the fact that—unlike reptiles—mammalian teeth do not grow continuously throughout their lives, he said. But most animals have a remarkable ability for repair and regeneration. However, for mammals, this information was not required as they had the task to save themselves from becoming a certain T. Rex's food. &nbsp;

Dinosaurs and mammals lived together for nearly 100 million years. This led to evolutionary changes in the latter, who had to protect themselves from the dominant predators. A microbiologist says this is why humans don't live long, since we never needed that gene. 

Dinosaurs are the reason why humans have such short lives, a study has found. According to a University of Birmingham microbiologist named João Pedro de Magalhães, the reproductive cycles in mammals instead sped up to ensure species survival. He has hypothesised that the age of dinosaurs completely shifted the evolutionary track of every mammal on Earth. “My hypothesis is that such a long evolutionary pressure on early mammals for rapid reproduction led to the loss or inactivation of genes and pathways associated with long life,” de Magalhães wrote in a paper published in 2023 in BioEssays. He calls this the "longevity bottleneck hypothesis". The absence of regenerative traits in mammals further backs his theory, he says. Mammals lived alongside dinosaurs for over 100 million years, but were "generally small, nocturnal, and short-lived." Also Read: Jurassic lesson in survival: 180-million-year-old sea predator with 100 teeth gobbled stones to stay alive When dinosaurs and mammals lived together Dinosaurs ruled the planet, which triggered evolutionary changes in mammals. de Magalhães claims that every mammal is under genetic constraints dating back to the era of the dinosaurs. They were under pressure to stay alive, and the environment did not suit a long life. This led to the elimination of the genes for long life. “Some of the earliest mammals were forced to live toward the bottom of the food chain and have likely spent 100 million years during the age of the dinosaurs evolving to survive through rapid reproduction,” de Magalhães said in a statement. Reptiles and other animals have a much slower biological ageing. He proposed that the evolutionary pressure from the dinosaurs impacted the way humans age. Mammals also do not have the ability to fix biological damage naturally. de Magalhães says this is because of the loss of enzymes tied to the Mesozoic Era, which limits this feature in mammals. Examples include the loss of enzymes that repair UV-damaged skin, and the fact that—unlike reptiles—mammalian teeth do not grow continuously throughout their lives, he said. But most animals have a remarkable ability for repair and regeneration. However, for mammals, this information was not required as they had the task to save themselves from becoming a certain T. Rex's food.

Dinosaurs and mammals lived together for nearly 100 million years. This led to evolutionary changes in the latter, who had to protect themselves from the dominant predators. A microbiologist says this is why humans don't live long, since we never needed that gene.&nbsp;

Dinosaurs are responsible for rapid ageing and short lifespans in humans

A SpaceX rocket is set to crash into the Moon in August this year. According to Bill Gray, an independent orbital analyst and creator of the Project Pluto object-tracking software, this rocket is currently orbiting Earth at almost the same distance as the Moon. Their orbits nearly intersect, but soon they will meet each other. This Falcon 9 rocket took two landers to the lunar body in January 2025 - Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost and ispace’s Resilience lander. The rocket’s upper stage was supposed to return to Earth after finishing its job. However, it got stuck in a highly elliptical orbit and never made it back. Astronomers have been watching this object since then, and in 1,053 observations, they noted that while it crossed paths with Earth and Moon several times, it never came close to a collision. But now, it is happening.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mind-blown-see-47-million-galaxies-in-the-largest-3d-map-of-the-universe-each-dot-in-this-photo-is-a-galaxy-1776433522489">MIND BLOWN! See 47 million galaxies in the largest 3D map of the universe. Each dot in this photo is a galaxy</a><h2>When will the rocket crash into the Moon?</h2>Gray used his software to analyse the orbit of this upper-stage rocket and predict its future path. According to him, it will crash into the Moon at 2:44 am ET (1:14 pm) on August 5, moving at a speed of 8,700 kilometres per hour, or seven times the speed of sound. He clarified in a post on his Project Pluto website that the rocket does not pose any threat to anyone. However, it provides an insight into "certain carelessness about how leftover space hardware (space junk) is disposed of." Gray said that right now he doesn't know the exact point where it will strike, but this will become clear by the start of August.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/no-mars-no-moolah-musk-s-appraisal-directly-tied-to-settling-1-million-people-on-red-planet-1777634594502">No Mars, no moolah: Musk's appraisal directly tied to settling 1 million people on Red Planet</a><h2>Will the collision be visible from Earth?</h2>The rocker is revolving around Earth, completing one circle in 26 days. At its closest point, it remains 220,000 km from Earth, and around 510,000 km away at its farthest point, which means it is inside the cislunar space. Gray said that the orbit of the Moon and this object intersect. “Usually, one goes through the intersection point while the other is somewhere else. But on August 5, they’ll reach that point at the same time.” Based on his calculations, the collision will happen on the near side, but the trajectory could also shift and take it to the far side. The impact would not be visible from Earth.&nbsp;The Falcon 9 rocket took off for the Moon on January 15, 2025, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Both Blue Ghost and Resilience reached the Moon. However, while Resilience crashed, Blue Ghost successfully touched down. The mission operated for two weeks before it ran out of power following the lunar sunset. It also took a picture of the sun setting from the lunar horizon.&nbsp;

A SpaceX rocket will crash into the Moon soon. After it carried two landers, it did not return. Astronomers saw it revolving around Earth, almost sharing the Moon's orbit. The two bodies will soon have a meeting, which will end with a bang.

A SpaceX rocket is set to crash into the Moon in August this year. According to Bill Gray, an independent orbital analyst and creator of the Project Pluto object-tracking software, this rocket is currently orbiting Earth at almost the same distance as the Moon. Their orbits nearly intersect, but soon they will meet each other. This Falcon 9 rocket took two landers to the lunar body in January 2025 - Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost and ispace’s Resilience lander. The rocket’s upper stage was supposed to return to Earth after finishing its job. However, it got stuck in a highly elliptical orbit and never made it back. Astronomers have been watching this object since then, and in 1,053 observations, they noted that while it crossed paths with Earth and Moon several times, it never came close to a collision. But now, it is happening. Also Read: MIND BLOWN! See 47 million galaxies in the largest 3D map of the universe. Each dot in this photo is a galaxy When will the rocket crash into the Moon? Gray used his software to analyse the orbit of this upper-stage rocket and predict its future path. According to him, it will crash into the Moon at 2:44 am ET (1:14 pm) on August 5, moving at a speed of 8,700 kilometres per hour, or seven times the speed of sound. He clarified in a post on his Project Pluto website that the rocket does not pose any threat to anyone. However, it provides an insight into "certain carelessness about how leftover space hardware (space junk) is disposed of." Gray said that right now he doesn't know the exact point where it will strike, but this will become clear by the start of August. Also Read: No Mars, no moolah: Musk's appraisal directly tied to settling 1 million people on Red Planet Will the collision be visible from Earth? The rocker is revolving around Earth, completing one circle in 26 days. At its closest point, it remains 220,000 km from Earth, and around 510,000 km away at its farthest point, which means it is inside the cislunar space. Gray said that the orbit of the Moon and this object intersect. “Usually, one goes through the intersection point while the other is somewhere else. But on August 5, they’ll reach that point at the same time.” Based on his calculations, the collision will happen on the near side, but the trajectory could also shift and take it to the far side. The impact would not be visible from Earth. The Falcon 9 rocket took off for the Moon on January 15, 2025, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Both Blue Ghost and Resilience reached the Moon. However, while Resilience crashed, Blue Ghost successfully touched down. The mission operated for two weeks before it ran out of power following the lunar sunset. It also took a picture of the sun setting from the lunar horizon.

A SpaceX rocket will crash into the Moon soon. After it carried two landers, it did not return. Astronomers saw it revolving around Earth, almost sharing the Moon's orbit. The two bodies will soon have a meeting, which will end with a bang.

Rogue rocket zooming around Earth set to crash into Moon at Mach 7. Know exact date and time

NASA is preparing to launch a spacecraft not from the ground but from a plane after it is carried to space on a Pegasus XL rocket. The mission is intended to prevent a telescope from falling to Earth, something that will happen by June this year if nothing is done about it. The space agency has only about two months to avert this danger and so has come up with this offbeat plan. The telescope in question is the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory. It was launched on November 20, 2004, and has been observing the universe for 22 years. However, its orbit is now thinning and increasing the drag on it, putting the telescope in danger of falling to Earth. This happens because of the Earth's atmosphere, which doesn't just vanish when we cross into space. It is present, albeit it is much thinner. This exerts a slight but steady drag, slowly pulling orbiting spacecraft closer to Earth. Solar storms can worsen the conditions, increasing the drag. Our Sun is in a period of solar maximum, which has led to several flares and geomagnetic storms, and Neil Gehrels is apparently paying the price.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-space-will-define-future-wars-drdo-chief-calls-for-urgent-national-push-sounds-alarm-on-defence-gap-1776954533825">‘Space will define future wars’: DRDO chief calls for urgent national push, sounds alarm on defence gap</a>&nbsp;According to NASA, the chances of the telescope crashing by June 2026 stood at 50 per cent in November 2025, and there is a 90 per cent chance of that happening before 2027. So it had to come up with a plan fast. It entrusted the responsibility of ensuring it does not happen to Katalyst, a company that has built a $30 million robotic spacecraft, which will carry Swift and place it in a more stable orbit. Named LINK, it has been undergoing testing at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center since April 14. S. Bradley Cenko, Swift’s principal investigator at NASA Goddard, said in a statement that "NASA awarded Katalyst a contract to attempt to boost Swift with the company’s LINK satellite", and "the teams are creating the best opportunity possible to extend Swift’s lifetime."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/why-are-some-galaxies-invisible-astronomers-identify-70-dark-galaxy-candidates-with-no-visible-stars-using-fast-1777446541189">Why are some galaxies invisible? Astronomers identify 70 dark galaxy candidates with no visible stars using FAST</a><h2>LINK will be launched from space into space</h2>In the meantime, the Swift team turned off instruments on the observatory to reduce power consumption. They repositioned its solar panels to reduce drag, handing scientists more time to fix the problem. There is no official word on when LINK will launch, although engineers have come up with an interesting plan. Instead of shooting from the ground to space, the spacecraft will be carried on a Pegasus XL rocket developed by Northrop Grumman and will be launched from a plane. This is because the set-up at the US spaceports does not allow for a simple trajectory to reach Swift. Scientists are hoping to extend the lifespan of the space observatory and create a blueprint in the process for how humans operate in space.&nbsp;“Swift is still producing valuable scientific data," &nbsp;Ghonhee Lee, Katalyst’s chief executive officer, said, adding, "NASA is leading the shift toward more flexible ways of operating in space by working with companies like Katalyst to get more out of its missions and deliver the best return for taxpayers." &nbsp;

Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory is crashing: The space telescope could fall because its orbit no longer supports it. NASA has a plan to save it and extend its life. It involves a spacecraft that will fly towards it and carry it into a safer orbit. 

NASA is preparing to launch a spacecraft not from the ground but from a plane after it is carried to space on a Pegasus XL rocket. The mission is intended to prevent a telescope from falling to Earth, something that will happen by June this year if nothing is done about it. The space agency has only about two months to avert this danger and so has come up with this offbeat plan. The telescope in question is the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory. It was launched on November 20, 2004, and has been observing the universe for 22 years. However, its orbit is now thinning and increasing the drag on it, putting the telescope in danger of falling to Earth. This happens because of the Earth's atmosphere, which doesn't just vanish when we cross into space. It is present, albeit it is much thinner. This exerts a slight but steady drag, slowly pulling orbiting spacecraft closer to Earth. Solar storms can worsen the conditions, increasing the drag. Our Sun is in a period of solar maximum, which has led to several flares and geomagnetic storms, and Neil Gehrels is apparently paying the price. Also Read: ‘Space will define future wars’: DRDO chief calls for urgent national push, sounds alarm on defence gap According to NASA, the chances of the telescope crashing by June 2026 stood at 50 per cent in November 2025, and there is a 90 per cent chance of that happening before 2027. So it had to come up with a plan fast. It entrusted the responsibility of ensuring it does not happen to Katalyst, a company that has built a $30 million robotic spacecraft, which will carry Swift and place it in a more stable orbit. Named LINK, it has been undergoing testing at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center since April 14. S. Bradley Cenko, Swift’s principal investigator at NASA Goddard, said in a statement that "NASA awarded Katalyst a contract to attempt to boost Swift with the company’s LINK satellite", and "the teams are creating the best opportunity possible to extend Swift’s lifetime." Also Read: Why are some galaxies invisible? Astronomers identify 70 dark galaxy candidates with no visible stars using FAST LINK will be launched from space into space In the meantime, the Swift team turned off instruments on the observatory to reduce power consumption. They repositioned its solar panels to reduce drag, handing scientists more time to fix the problem. There is no official word on when LINK will launch, although engineers have come up with an interesting plan. Instead of shooting from the ground to space, the spacecraft will be carried on a Pegasus XL rocket developed by Northrop Grumman and will be launched from a plane. This is because the set-up at the US spaceports does not allow for a simple trajectory to reach Swift. Scientists are hoping to extend the lifespan of the space observatory and create a blueprint in the process for how humans operate in space. “Swift is still producing valuable scientific data," Ghonhee Lee, Katalyst’s chief executive officer, said, adding, "NASA is leading the shift toward more flexible ways of operating in space by working with companies like Katalyst to get more out of its missions and deliver the best return for taxpayers."

Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory is crashing: The space telescope could fall because its orbit no longer supports it. NASA has a plan to save it and extend its life. It involves a spacecraft that will fly towards it and carry it into a safer orbit.&nbsp;

THIS space telescope could crash any time. NASA will launch a spacecraft from plane to save it

The world's longest experiment has been going on for almost 100 years, and yet it has barely scratched the surface. Physicist Thomas Parnell started it in 1927 at the University of Queensland. He poured pitch, a substance that looks solid, but isn't, into a funnel. He used asphalt for the experiment, which is moving, but you cannot see it happening. However, since the stem of the funnel was first cut, only nine drops have fallen. The last one was in 2014, and the tenth one is forming. This experiment offers an important lesson in physics and how even one tiny drop being released changes the entire dynamics of what is going on inside that funnel. To begin with, Parnell took asphalt and heated it until it softened enough to be poured into the funnel. The material was left to cool down for three years.&nbsp;With his experiment, Parnell wanted to show that not everything one sees is as it appears. A solid substance could also behave like a liquid in another form, as is evident in the Pitch experiment. Asphalt can break apart when struck in its hard form, yet it can flow like a liquid when heated, but it displays immense resistance. It is 100 billion times more viscous than water, and two million times more viscous than honey. &nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/94-years-9-drops-worlds-longest-experiment-started-in-1927-and-hasnt-ended-yet-776414">94 years, 9 drops: World's longest experiment started nearly 100 yrs ago and is still on</a><h2>Timeline of drops in the Pitch experiment</h2>The first drop of the pitch fell in December 1938, with the next one in February 1947, the third in April 1954, then in May 1962, the fifth drop in August 1970, the sixth in April 1979, the seventh in July 1988, and the eighth in November 2000. The ninth drop fell in April 2014, and the tenth one has only now started forming, indicating that separation will not happen soon.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-develop-new-quantum-device-that-turns-electricity-into-sound-at-nanoscale-here-s-how-1777384361024">Researchers develop new quantum device that turns electricity into sound at nanoscale</a><h2>Why is the time between drops increasing?</h2>The time difference between the initial drops was eight to nine years. However, the pitch took 12 years to fall in the year 2000. This gap increased to nearly 14 years the next time around. It has already been 12 years since the last drop came out, and yet the tenth drop is still just taking shape. This increase in time between the pitch fall indicates something about the changing physics inside the glass funnel. Experts say that as the pitch drains out, the pressure forcing it out is decreasing. However, something else happened in that building in the 1980s that probably changed things. Air conditioning was installed, which cooled the air around the pitch funnel. While this drop in temperature doesn't seem like a lot, it is believed to have affected the surroundings measurably enough for the pitch to behave differently.&nbsp;Two scientists - Parnell and John Mainstone - are associated with the Pitch experiment. While Parnell started it, Mainstone brought it to the public eye. However, none of them ever saw a drop fall. The experiment earned Parnell and Mainstone the Ig Nobel prize in physics in 2005. It is a parody of the Nobel Prizes, and is awarded for scientific studies that make you laugh, and then wonder.&nbsp;

The world's longest experiment is nearing the 100-year mark and can go on for many more centuries. The Pitch experiment has witnessed only nine drops, with the time between each of them increasing. Scientists say the physics inside the funnel is changing. 

The world's longest experiment has been going on for almost 100 years, and yet it has barely scratched the surface. Physicist Thomas Parnell started it in 1927 at the University of Queensland. He poured pitch, a substance that looks solid, but isn't, into a funnel. He used asphalt for the experiment, which is moving, but you cannot see it happening. However, since the stem of the funnel was first cut, only nine drops have fallen. The last one was in 2014, and the tenth one is forming. This experiment offers an important lesson in physics and how even one tiny drop being released changes the entire dynamics of what is going on inside that funnel. To begin with, Parnell took asphalt and heated it until it softened enough to be poured into the funnel. The material was left to cool down for three years. With his experiment, Parnell wanted to show that not everything one sees is as it appears. A solid substance could also behave like a liquid in another form, as is evident in the Pitch experiment. Asphalt can break apart when struck in its hard form, yet it can flow like a liquid when heated, but it displays immense resistance. It is 100 billion times more viscous than water, and two million times more viscous than honey. Also Read: 94 years, 9 drops: World's longest experiment started nearly 100 yrs ago and is still on Timeline of drops in the Pitch experiment The first drop of the pitch fell in December 1938, with the next one in February 1947, the third in April 1954, then in May 1962, the fifth drop in August 1970, the sixth in April 1979, the seventh in July 1988, and the eighth in November 2000. The ninth drop fell in April 2014, and the tenth one has only now started forming, indicating that separation will not happen soon. Also Read: Researchers develop new quantum device that turns electricity into sound at nanoscale Why is the time between drops increasing? The time difference between the initial drops was eight to nine years. However, the pitch took 12 years to fall in the year 2000. This gap increased to nearly 14 years the next time around. It has already been 12 years since the last drop came out, and yet the tenth drop is still just taking shape. This increase in time between the pitch fall indicates something about the changing physics inside the glass funnel. Experts say that as the pitch drains out, the pressure forcing it out is decreasing. However, something else happened in that building in the 1980s that probably changed things. Air conditioning was installed, which cooled the air around the pitch funnel. While this drop in temperature doesn't seem like a lot, it is believed to have affected the surroundings measurably enough for the pitch to behave differently. Two scientists - Parnell and John Mainstone - are associated with the Pitch experiment. While Parnell started it, Mainstone brought it to the public eye. However, none of them ever saw a drop fall. The experiment earned Parnell and Mainstone the Ig Nobel prize in physics in 2005. It is a parody of the Nobel Prizes, and is awarded for scientific studies that make you laugh, and then wonder.

The world's longest experiment is nearing the 100-year mark and can go on for many more centuries. The Pitch experiment has witnessed only nine drops, with the time between each of them increasing. Scientists say the physics inside the funnel is changing.&nbsp;

99 years and counting: How an office upgrade further slowed down the world’s slowest experiment

science

Science, News on Science, stories on Science, articles on Science, Science stories at Wion, Science news, Science latest news

science

Thinks, plans & acts: How 'agentic AI' is changing commerce, governance & future of work

Sun unleashes M-class solar flare, auroras could light up Earth. Details

BrahMos vs Agni-V: How India’s tactical missile differs from its nuclear giant

India demonstrates three strategic missile technologies in 72 hours

Milky Way's wormhole: Tunnel to another part of universe hidden in our galaxy

UFO files dud release: First tranche does not reveal much

‘UFO files go public’: What the Pentagon has released and what’s next

Sleepless nights linked to Alzheimer's-like brain damage

World’s largest fusion reactor nears reality, seeks to replicate Sun’s energy

May 2026 Blue Moon: Dates, times, and the one thing you get wrong about it

Blue Moon is rare, but more common than you think - Traditional vs modern

Massive 500m 'megatsunami' hits Alaska Fjord after part of mountain collapses

Quantum leap: New algorithm unlocks complex materials beyond supercomputers

Aliens looking to meet us would be intelligent enough to scream, not whisper

210mn-year-old crocodile ancestors who died gazing at each other discovered

NASA dumps 12,217 new photos from Artemis II mission. Here are some of them

Birds have a clear preference when it comes to choosing between men and women

Hostile twin star systems birth more planets, and then kick them out

Mars will deliver a violent death to its own Moon sooner than expected

Eta Aquarids meteor shower: Best places and time to see in India

Indian startup’s satellite ‘Drishti’ to be world’s most advanced eyes in the sky

UK records first case of twins with different fathers; how is that possible?

Dinosaurs are responsible for rapid ageing and short lifespans in humans

Rogue rocket zooming around Earth set to crash into the Moon. Date and time

Space telescope could crash. Can a $30mn robotic tugboat save the $500mn wonder?

How an office upgrade further slowed down the world’s slowest experiment