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Microsoft has created a storage device that can keep several terabytes of data safe for nearly 10,000 years. It has been made as part of "Project Silica" and is a breakthrough in long-term data storage. The technology involves laser-modified glass storage for data, which can never be erased as it is etched into the glass with a laser. The system called Silica has been described in a paper published in the journal Nature. The system uses a tiny square of borosilica glass, roughly 0.08 inches (2 millimetres) thick, on which data is encoded by harnessing the properties of light. The thin slice of glass has been theoretically built to last for thousands of years. Unlike regular hard disks, data on this tiny glass cannot be erased. Which means, anything added to it will be available to future humanity.&nbsp;Silica is made to resist all kinds of threats, such as fire, water, microwave radiation, and electromagnetic pulses. Data in Silica is recorded using differences in the phase of light wavelengths in voxels, or a three-dimensional equivalent of a pixel. The glass chip can store 4.8 terabytes of data—equivalent to about 2 million printed books or 5,000 ultra-high-definition films, according to the paper. The team took inspiration from an earlier research that experimented to check the feasibility of harnessing the physical properties of light as an extra “dimension” for data storage, Gizmodo reported. &nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/turkey-north-anatolian-fault-marmara-sea-mega-earthquake-1770805526312">'Invisible' fault line silent for centuries could trigger the next mega earthquake in THIS region</a><h2>How laser-etched glass storage started</h2>James Chon, an optical physicist at Swinburne University of Technology in Australia, used extremely quick pulses of light to make glass material for encoding information. &nbsp;Peter Kazansky, an optical physicist at the University of Southampton, took the work ahead and was able to make etch Isaac Asimov’s Foundation trilogy on glass, which was sent to space.&nbsp;Microsoft took note and saw the potential to create a storage device that would be like an "archival storage technology." Richard Black, Project Silica’s research director, told Gizmodo, “We realised that if we could tame the physics and scale it, there was the potential for [laser-modified glass] to be disruptive as archival storage technology."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-autonomous-drone-swarming-tech-musk-s-spacex-xai-place-bids-in-secret-pentagon-competition-wion-explains-1771301948635">What is autonomous drone swarming tech? Musk's SpaceX, xAI bid in secret Pentagon competition</a><h2>How it works</h2> To write information on the chip, an ultra-fast "femtosecond" laser etches tiny 3D shapes (called voxels) inside the glass. To read the information, a high-speed microscope is used to scan the glass, and AI algorithms translate those 3D shapes back into digital data. The glass plates need no maintenance and are a sustainable method.&nbsp;

Microsoft has built a glass chip that can store more than 4 terabytes of data. But the main thing about this store device is that it can last for eternity, at least 10,000 years theoretically. This gives man a way to archive information that he thinks future humans should know.

Microsoft has created a storage device that can keep several terabytes of data safe for nearly 10,000 years. It has been made as part of "Project Silica" and is a breakthrough in long-term data storage. The technology involves laser-modified glass storage for data, which can never be erased as it is etched into the glass with a laser. The system called Silica has been described in a paper published in the journal Nature. The system uses a tiny square of borosilica glass, roughly 0.08 inches (2 millimetres) thick, on which data is encoded by harnessing the properties of light. The thin slice of glass has been theoretically built to last for thousands of years. Unlike regular hard disks, data on this tiny glass cannot be erased. Which means, anything added to it will be available to future humanity. Silica is made to resist all kinds of threats, such as fire, water, microwave radiation, and electromagnetic pulses. Data in Silica is recorded using differences in the phase of light wavelengths in voxels, or a three-dimensional equivalent of a pixel. The glass chip can store 4.8 terabytes of data—equivalent to about 2 million printed books or 5,000 ultra-high-definition films, according to the paper. The team took inspiration from an earlier research that experimented to check the feasibility of harnessing the physical properties of light as an extra “dimension” for data storage, Gizmodo reported. Also Read: 'Invisible' fault line silent for centuries could trigger the next mega earthquake in THIS region How laser-etched glass storage started James Chon, an optical physicist at Swinburne University of Technology in Australia, used extremely quick pulses of light to make glass material for encoding information. Peter Kazansky, an optical physicist at the University of Southampton, took the work ahead and was able to make etch Isaac Asimov’s Foundation trilogy on glass, which was sent to space. Microsoft took note and saw the potential to create a storage device that would be like an "archival storage technology." Richard Black, Project Silica’s research director, told Gizmodo, “We realised that if we could tame the physics and scale it, there was the potential for [laser-modified glass] to be disruptive as archival storage technology." Also Read: What is autonomous drone swarming tech? Musk's SpaceX, xAI bid in secret Pentagon competition How it works To write information on the chip, an ultra-fast "femtosecond" laser etches tiny 3D shapes (called voxels) inside the glass. To read the information, a high-speed microscope is used to scan the glass, and AI algorithms translate those 3D shapes back into digital data. The glass plates need no maintenance and are a sustainable method.

Microsoft has built a glass chip that can store more than 4 terabytes of data. But the main thing about this store device is that it can last for eternity, at least 10,000 years theoretically. This gives man a way to archive information that he thinks future humans should know.

Scientists develop tiny glass tablet that can store laser-etched data for 10,000 years

Gravity isn't the same everywhere on Earth. In one place under Antarctica, it is so weak that a gravity hole has formed. This point is also extremely strong at the same time, and this happened over tens of millions of years. Inside our planet, where the material is dense, the tug of gravity is stronger, and where the mass is less, the pull is weaker. Under the frozen continent lies the weakest such point. This weak gravity hole has strengethed and could have contributed to freezing Antarctica. Scientists from the University of Florida say in a study that the Antarctic Geoid Low (AGL) evolved slowly. It has become a major force and likely shaped Earth's climate, creating the Antarctic ice sheets. In a study published in Scientific Reports, researchers analysed this Gravity Hole and discovered that it has strengthened over the last 70 million years and is a force that dictates Earth’s global climate. The team created computer models of shifting rocks, which put the timeline between 50 and 30 million years ago. This period coincides with glaciation in Antarctica.<h2>Are Antarctica's climate and gravity hole linked?&nbsp;</h2>Gravity also shapes the oceans. Because of this gravity hole, the sea surface around Antarctica is slightly lower relative to Earth’s centre. The Antarctic Geoid Low anomaly has been known for several years, with satellite missions tracing it. But scientists do not know how it formed or whether there is a link between Antarctica's climate and the hole. They used global earthquake data and advanced physics modelling to analyse the gravity hole. "If we can better understand how Earth’s interior shapes gravity and sea levels, we gain insight into factors that may matter for the growth and stability of large ice sheets,” Alessandro Forte, PhD, a professor of geophysics at the University of Florida and co-author of the new study.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/a-robot-got-lost-in-antarctica-it-revealed-scary-secrets-from-underneath-another-glacier-1766997802759">A robot got lost in Antarctica. It revealed scary secrets from underneath another glacier</a>&nbsp;Seismic waves were used like a CT scan to measure Earth's three-dimensional structure. “Imagine doing a CT scan of the whole Earth, but we don’t have X-rays as we do in a medical office. We have earthquakes. Earthquake waves provide the ‘light’ that illuminates the interior of the planet,” Forte said. The method helped researchers reconstruct the density of the rock beneath Antarctica and calculate the gravity field. They then ran the model backwards through geological time to understand how mantle material rearranged over millions of years. They noted that the gravitational low was weaker, but between 50 and 30 million years ago, it started becoming stronger. This is when large ice sheets started to form in Antarctica.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/a23a-world-s-largest-iceberg-on-the-move-for-40-years-on-the-verge-of-vanishing-1768818311512">NASA images show world's largest iceberg, on the move for 40 years, on the verge of vanishing</a>&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/fossils-reveal-temperate-antarctica-90-million-years-ago-1769570477092/embed&nbsp;The data did not show that this caused the ice to grow. However, it proves that deep-Earth processes affected sea level, the height of the continent and boundary conditions that affected ice-sheet stability. &nbsp;

Why is Antarctica frozen? It is in the polar region, which is one explanation. But something deep underneath the continent could have also played a role in turning Antarctica into a frozen continent. It is a gravity hole that changed over millions of years. 

Gravity isn't the same everywhere on Earth. In one place under Antarctica, it is so weak that a gravity hole has formed. This point is also extremely strong at the same time, and this happened over tens of millions of years. Inside our planet, where the material is dense, the tug of gravity is stronger, and where the mass is less, the pull is weaker. Under the frozen continent lies the weakest such point. This weak gravity hole has strengethed and could have contributed to freezing Antarctica. Scientists from the University of Florida say in a study that the Antarctic Geoid Low (AGL) evolved slowly. It has become a major force and likely shaped Earth's climate, creating the Antarctic ice sheets. In a study published in Scientific Reports, researchers analysed this Gravity Hole and discovered that it has strengthened over the last 70 million years and is a force that dictates Earth’s global climate. The team created computer models of shifting rocks, which put the timeline between 50 and 30 million years ago. This period coincides with glaciation in Antarctica. Are Antarctica's climate and gravity hole linked? Gravity also shapes the oceans. Because of this gravity hole, the sea surface around Antarctica is slightly lower relative to Earth’s centre. The Antarctic Geoid Low anomaly has been known for several years, with satellite missions tracing it. But scientists do not know how it formed or whether there is a link between Antarctica's climate and the hole. They used global earthquake data and advanced physics modelling to analyse the gravity hole. "If we can better understand how Earth’s interior shapes gravity and sea levels, we gain insight into factors that may matter for the growth and stability of large ice sheets,” Alessandro Forte, PhD, a professor of geophysics at the University of Florida and co-author of the new study. Also Read: A robot got lost in Antarctica. It revealed scary secrets from underneath another glacier Seismic waves were used like a CT scan to measure Earth's three-dimensional structure. “Imagine doing a CT scan of the whole Earth, but we don’t have X-rays as we do in a medical office. We have earthquakes. Earthquake waves provide the ‘light’ that illuminates the interior of the planet,” Forte said. The method helped researchers reconstruct the density of the rock beneath Antarctica and calculate the gravity field. They then ran the model backwards through geological time to understand how mantle material rearranged over millions of years. They noted that the gravitational low was weaker, but between 50 and 30 million years ago, it started becoming stronger. This is when large ice sheets started to form in Antarctica. Also Read: NASA images show world's largest iceberg, on the move for 40 years, on the verge of vanishing https://www.wionews.com/videos/fossils-reveal-temperate-antarctica-90-million-years-ago-1769570477092/embed The data did not show that this caused the ice to grow. However, it proves that deep-Earth processes affected sea level, the height of the continent and boundary conditions that affected ice-sheet stability.

Why is Antarctica frozen? It is in the polar region, which is one explanation. But something deep underneath the continent could have also played a role in turning Antarctica into a frozen continent. It is a gravity hole that changed over millions of years.&nbsp;

Weakest gravity point under Antarctica is also immensely strong, and likely froze the continent

Humans are incapable of protecting themselves from an asteroid strike, a NASA scientist has warned. Even though the space agency is regularly monitoring space rocks that could pose danger to Earth, there are nearly 25,000 of them hovering around us that remain undetected. These asteroids have the potential to flatten cities in a particular region. So even though a global catastrophe might not occur, these rocks can definitely cause massive regional destruction. Kelly Fast, head of planetary defence at NASA, has triggered panic after she admitted that nobody is ready to protect us from city-killers. "What keeps me up at night is the asteroids we don’t know about," Fast said while speaking to the American Association for the Advancement of Science, The Sun reported. She says we know about the small rocks and about those that are huge. But the asteroids that are about 140 metres and large remain hidden from sight, but are lurking near Earth.&nbsp;Fast said these asteroids can "really do regional rather than global damage, and we don’t know where they are." She added, "It’s estimated there are about 25,000 of those and we’re only about 40 per cent of the way through." Adding to the worry is another scientist, Dr Nancy Chabot, from Johns Hopkins University in Maryland. She headed NASA's DART mission in 2022, and yet, isn't optimistic about saving Earth from a potential city-killer asteroid. She said, "We don’t know where 50 per cent of the 140-metre asteroids are, which is a concern. We would not have any way to go and actively deflect one right now." Chatbot says there is no investment being made into protecting Earth from these asteroids, as there is a lack of cash.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/nasa-says-asteroid-2024-yr4-can-hit-the-moon-8776642">'Once in 1,000 years...': NASA says asteroid 2024 YR4 can hit the Moon. Is Earth safe?</a><h2>Why can't a mission like DART save Earth from an asteroid today?</h2>Chabot says this is because we don't have anything like it ready to go. "We don’t have [another] DART just lying around. If something like YR4 had been headed towards the Earth, we would not have any way to go and deflect it actively right now," she said. Asteroid 2024 YR4 is a city-killer space rock that was given a small chance of smashing into Earth in 2032. However, later calculations showed that this will not happen. This asteroid has a high probability of crashing into the Moon, according to NASA.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/is-nasa-nuking-an-asteroid-real-life-armageddon-could-happen-by-2031-details-1759238690934">Is NASA nuking an asteroid? Real-life Armageddon could happen by 2031 | Details</a>&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/moon-in-crosshairs-4-chance-of-massive-asteroid-hit-1769745979134/embed<h2>DART mission</h2>The DART spacecraft slammed into Dimorphos, a moonlet of the asteroid Didymos in 2022. It was meant to test a method of planetary defence against near-Earth objects (NEOs). It launched on 24 November 2021 and hit Dimorphos on 26 September 2022, almost a year later. Using a similar defence mechanism against another asteroid would more or less require a similar window. This means if an asteroid were to make a sudden appearance, Nancy and Kelly's fear might come true. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Two NASA scientists claim Earth is at risk from over 25,000 unknown asteroids that are yet to be discovered. If one of them moves towards the planet, no amount of preparation or a mission like DART would help.

Humans are incapable of protecting themselves from an asteroid strike, a NASA scientist has warned. Even though the space agency is regularly monitoring space rocks that could pose danger to Earth, there are nearly 25,000 of them hovering around us that remain undetected. These asteroids have the potential to flatten cities in a particular region. So even though a global catastrophe might not occur, these rocks can definitely cause massive regional destruction. Kelly Fast, head of planetary defence at NASA, has triggered panic after she admitted that nobody is ready to protect us from city-killers. "What keeps me up at night is the asteroids we don’t know about," Fast said while speaking to the American Association for the Advancement of Science, The Sun reported. She says we know about the small rocks and about those that are huge. But the asteroids that are about 140 metres and large remain hidden from sight, but are lurking near Earth. Fast said these asteroids can "really do regional rather than global damage, and we don’t know where they are." She added, "It’s estimated there are about 25,000 of those and we’re only about 40 per cent of the way through." Adding to the worry is another scientist, Dr Nancy Chabot, from Johns Hopkins University in Maryland. She headed NASA's DART mission in 2022, and yet, isn't optimistic about saving Earth from a potential city-killer asteroid. She said, "We don’t know where 50 per cent of the 140-metre asteroids are, which is a concern. We would not have any way to go and actively deflect one right now." Chatbot says there is no investment being made into protecting Earth from these asteroids, as there is a lack of cash. Also Read: 'Once in 1,000 years...': NASA says asteroid 2024 YR4 can hit the Moon. Is Earth safe? Why can't a mission like DART save Earth from an asteroid today? Chabot says this is because we don't have anything like it ready to go. "We don’t have [another] DART just lying around. If something like YR4 had been headed towards the Earth, we would not have any way to go and deflect it actively right now," she said. Asteroid 2024 YR4 is a city-killer space rock that was given a small chance of smashing into Earth in 2032. However, later calculations showed that this will not happen. This asteroid has a high probability of crashing into the Moon, according to NASA. Also Read: Is NASA nuking an asteroid? Real-life Armageddon could happen by 2031 | Details https://www.wionews.com/videos/moon-in-crosshairs-4-chance-of-massive-asteroid-hit-1769745979134/embed DART mission The DART spacecraft slammed into Dimorphos, a moonlet of the asteroid Didymos in 2022. It was meant to test a method of planetary defence against near-Earth objects (NEOs). It launched on 24 November 2021 and hit Dimorphos on 26 September 2022, almost a year later. Using a similar defence mechanism against another asteroid would more or less require a similar window. This means if an asteroid were to make a sudden appearance, Nancy and Kelly's fear might come true.

Two NASA scientists claim Earth is at risk from over 25,000 unknown asteroids that are yet to be discovered. If one of them moves towards the planet, no amount of preparation or a mission like DART would help.

25,000 hidden asteroids lurking near Earth pose major threat: NASA scientist says the fear 'keeps me up at night'

A comet discovered nearly a century ago is putting up a spectacular show in the night sky. Comet 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann underwent an explosion in February 2026, which increased its brightness by several magnitudes. On the brightness meter, the cryovolcanic explosions have led it to jump from approximately magnitude 13.5 to 11.5. This event that unfolded within hours has increased its visibility. By February 13, its coma had expanded to about 45 inches, Bob King wrote on Sky and Telescope. He observed a "dense and impenetrable" core and a "very faint, stellar pseudo-nucleus." The comet will continue to become bigger over the next few days before fading again. King suggests getting a glimpse as soon as possible. Explosions aren't uncommon for comets. As they move nearer to the Sun, heat builds up inside the comet as volatile ices like carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide start vaporising. When the pressure becomes too intense, the material breaks through the crust in an explosion. This event increases their brightness.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/3iatlas-interstellar-objects-35-million-avi-loeb-solar-system-1770972758535">Scientist claims 35 million interstellar objects reside between Sun and Earth - ‘100 trillion metric tons...’</a><h2>Fizzy cocktail brews and explodes from comet</h2>The explosion in the case of Comet 29P was so massive that it sent debris flying into space at speeds of 3218 km/hr. The dynamic process will cause the comet's size and appearance to change almost every night. Richard Miles, director of the Asteroids &amp; Remote Planets section of the British Astronomical Association (BAA), attributes it to a "fizzy cocktail" heating up inside the comet comprising liquid methane, ethane and propane, mixing with dissolved carbon dioxide. Astronomers expect the comet to undergo more explosions since something this big is typically followed by smaller ones. Comet 29P also witnessed two explosions in the year 2025.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/inside-out-planetary-system-lhs-1903-baffles-scientists-1770966994675">Rock, gas, gas, rock? Star system with 'strange disorder' baffles scientists</a><h2>Slow rotation period of Comet 29P</h2>Comet 29P is different from other comets in terms of distance from the sun and the corresponding activity. As opposed to comets that undergo cryovolcanism when they approach the Sun, 29P stays far away and yet undergoes such activity. It is a Centaur (an object between Jupiter and Neptune) that stays in a nearly circular orbit. It is one of the most active bodies in the solar system, thanks to its 57-day rotation period. This exposes parts of it to solar heat for several days, causing internal pressure to build up, which then releases.&nbsp;

Comet in sky: Comet 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann has had another outburst, and a big one. An astronomer saw the comet discovered in 1927 undergoing an explosion so big that its brightness increased by several magnitudes.

A comet discovered nearly a century ago is putting up a spectacular show in the night sky. Comet 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann underwent an explosion in February 2026, which increased its brightness by several magnitudes. On the brightness meter, the cryovolcanic explosions have led it to jump from approximately magnitude 13.5 to 11.5. This event that unfolded within hours has increased its visibility. By February 13, its coma had expanded to about 45 inches, Bob King wrote on Sky and Telescope. He observed a "dense and impenetrable" core and a "very faint, stellar pseudo-nucleus." The comet will continue to become bigger over the next few days before fading again. King suggests getting a glimpse as soon as possible. Explosions aren't uncommon for comets. As they move nearer to the Sun, heat builds up inside the comet as volatile ices like carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide start vaporising. When the pressure becomes too intense, the material breaks through the crust in an explosion. This event increases their brightness. Also Read: Scientist claims 35 million interstellar objects reside between Sun and Earth - ‘100 trillion metric tons...’ Fizzy cocktail brews and explodes from comet The explosion in the case of Comet 29P was so massive that it sent debris flying into space at speeds of 3218 km/hr. The dynamic process will cause the comet's size and appearance to change almost every night. Richard Miles, director of the Asteroids & Remote Planets section of the British Astronomical Association (BAA), attributes it to a "fizzy cocktail" heating up inside the comet comprising liquid methane, ethane and propane, mixing with dissolved carbon dioxide. Astronomers expect the comet to undergo more explosions since something this big is typically followed by smaller ones. Comet 29P also witnessed two explosions in the year 2025. Also Read: Rock, gas, gas, rock? Star system with 'strange disorder' baffles scientists Slow rotation period of Comet 29P Comet 29P is different from other comets in terms of distance from the sun and the corresponding activity. As opposed to comets that undergo cryovolcanism when they approach the Sun, 29P stays far away and yet undergoes such activity. It is a Centaur (an object between Jupiter and Neptune) that stays in a nearly circular orbit. It is one of the most active bodies in the solar system, thanks to its 57-day rotation period. This exposes parts of it to solar heat for several days, causing internal pressure to build up, which then releases.

Comet in sky: Comet 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann has had another outburst, and a big one. An astronomer saw the comet discovered in 1927 undergoing an explosion so big that its brightness increased by several magnitudes.

Comet 29P explodes, blasting a 'fizzy cocktail' into space at 3218 km/hr

NASA’s long-awaited return to the Moon has faced another technical challenge. During a recent test of its Artemis II mission, engineers detected a reduced flow of liquid hydrogen while preparing the rocket for a key rehearsal ahead of the crewed lunar fly-by.The issue emerged during a ground test aimed at checking newly replaced seals in the rocket’s hydrogen system. While several test goals were met, the lower-than-expected hydrogen flow added another complication to a programme already under pressure.<h2>What went wrong during the latest Artemis test</h2>According to NASA, the problem appeared when teams tried to partially fill the liquid hydrogen tank of the Space Launch System. The test was meant to confirm that new seals could prevent leaks that disrupted earlier rehearsals.Engineers later traced the reduced flow to ground support equipment, not the rocket itself. A clogged filter is now the main suspect. NASA said teams will clean the affected lines and replace the filter before deciding when to attempt the next full wet dress rehearsal.Despite the issue, NASA confirmed that valuable data was collected from the same areas where hydrogen leaks were seen in the past.<h2>Why hydrogen leaks matter for Artemis II</h2>Liquid hydrogen is a critical fuel for the Space Launch System. Even small issues can force delays because hydrogen is difficult to handle safely.NASA has spent nearly three years fixing leak problems first seen during early tests in 2022. However, similar issues resurfaced earlier this month, raising concerns about whether the system is finally stable.Data from the latest test will help engineers decide if the hydrogen problem has been fully understood or if further fixes are needed before launch.<h2>Artemis II&nbsp;</h2>The Artemis II mission will carry four astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen on a journey around the Moon. It will be the first crewed mission beyond Earth orbit since the Apollo era ended in 1972.During the mission, the Orion spacecraft will fly past the Moon’s far side, a region never seen directly by humans. Astronauts will observe lunar craters, lava plains and surface features, sending images and data back to Earth to support future Moon landings.NASA says these observations are vital for preparing later missions to the Moon’s south pole.<h2>Launch timeline</h2>NASA has said March remains the earliest possible launch window for Artemis II, with five potential dates between March 6 and March 11. If those dates are missed, the mission could be pushed to April.&nbsp;

NASA’s Artemis II faces a possible delay after engineers found reduced liquid hydrogen flow during a key test. The issue was traced to ground equipment, adding pressure to the Moon mission’s tight March-April launch window.

NASA’s long-awaited return to the Moon has faced another technical challenge. During a recent test of its Artemis II mission, engineers detected a reduced flow of liquid hydrogen while preparing the rocket for a key rehearsal ahead of the crewed lunar fly-by. The issue emerged during a ground test aimed at checking newly replaced seals in the rocket’s hydrogen system. While several test goals were met, the lower-than-expected hydrogen flow added another complication to a programme already under pressure. What went wrong during the latest Artemis test According to NASA, the problem appeared when teams tried to partially fill the liquid hydrogen tank of the Space Launch System. The test was meant to confirm that new seals could prevent leaks that disrupted earlier rehearsals. Engineers later traced the reduced flow to ground support equipment, not the rocket itself. A clogged filter is now the main suspect. NASA said teams will clean the affected lines and replace the filter before deciding when to attempt the next full wet dress rehearsal. Despite the issue, NASA confirmed that valuable data was collected from the same areas where hydrogen leaks were seen in the past. Why hydrogen leaks matter for Artemis II Liquid hydrogen is a critical fuel for the Space Launch System. Even small issues can force delays because hydrogen is difficult to handle safely. NASA has spent nearly three years fixing leak problems first seen during early tests in 2022. However, similar issues resurfaced earlier this month, raising concerns about whether the system is finally stable. Data from the latest test will help engineers decide if the hydrogen problem has been fully understood or if further fixes are needed before launch. Artemis II The Artemis II mission will carry four astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen on a journey around the Moon. It will be the first crewed mission beyond Earth orbit since the Apollo era ended in 1972. During the mission, the Orion spacecraft will fly past the Moon’s far side, a region never seen directly by humans. Astronauts will observe lunar craters, lava plains and surface features, sending images and data back to Earth to support future Moon landings. NASA says these observations are vital for preparing later missions to the Moon’s south pole. Launch timeline NASA has said March remains the earliest possible launch window for Artemis II, with five potential dates between March 6 and March 11. If those dates are missed, the mission could be pushed to April.

NASA’s Artemis II faces a possible delay after engineers found reduced liquid hydrogen flow during a key test. The issue was traced to ground equipment, adding pressure to the Moon mission’s tight March-April launch window.

NASA’s Artemis moon mission faces new issue after test shows reduced hydrogen flow

Quantum teleportation sends information, not matter, using entanglement from one place to another. In 2024, scientists teleported a quantum state of light over 30 km of fibre-optic cable alongside live internet traffic. 

What is Quantum Teleportation? How scientists made a breakthrough for the first time

Harvard scientist Avi Loeb has claimed that there could be 35 million interstellar objects inside Earth's orbit. In 2025, 3I/ATLAS, the third known interstellar object, was discovered in the solar system and became the star of the astronomy world overnight. But Loeb has presented calculations, according to which objects from the outer world are extremely common. He studied two meteors that probably came from another star system to estimate the number of interstellar objects in our solar system. CNEOS-22 was detected in 2022 over the Pacific, and CNEOS-25 was spotted over the Barents Sea in the Arctic in 2025. They were both around six feet and four feet across, but large enough to exceed the Solar System's escape velocity. Loeb stated that such meteors collide with Earth on average once every three years. Using this premise, he concluded that these objects exist in large numbers in Earth's orbit.&nbsp;"Given the detection of two interstellar meteors in the CNEOS fireballs database over a period of 7 years, the inferred collision rate of meter-scale interstellar objects with Earth is about 0.3 per year," Loeb wrote. He added, "This implies that there are about 35 million meter-scale interstellar objects embedded at any time within the orbit of the Earth around the Sun." The scientists calculated that each object carries about 3 million metric tons of material, which means that "hundred trillion (10^{14}) metric tons of interstellar material is present" in the interior of Earth’s orbit around the Sun.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/3iatlas-latest-update-nasa-tess-images-jupiter-1769745274633">NASA's TESS captures 3I/ATLAS once again. But some data is missing. Here's what happened</a> Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/3i-atlas-is-not-unique-scientist-says-a-trillion-interstellar-objects-are-in-the-solar-system-right-now-1767097867958">Scientist says a trillion 3I/ATLAS-like objects are in the solar system right now</a><h2>35 million interstellar objects</h2>3I/ATLAS was larger than these meteors, as it likely didn't disintegrate much. But the 35 million interstellar objects that Loeb claims are present inside Earth's orbit are probably fragments of objects like 3I/ATLAS. Loeb is planning to carry out ocean expeditions to recover material from CNEOS-22 and CNEOS-25. Performing radioactive dating could reveal how long the meteor travelled through interstellar space and its origin.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/3i-atlas-could-be-coming-from-a-star-that-is-already-dead-a-star-that-s-so-ancient-1767162151025">3I/ATLAS could be coming from a star that is already dead: ‘A star that’s so ancient...’</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/3i-atlas-heartbeat-aligns-with-a-144-second-timing-system-used-by-ancient-indians-researcher-claims-1766144196301">3I/ATLAS 'heartbeat' aligns with a 144-second timing system used by ancient Indians, researcher claims</a><h2>3I/ATLAS and other interstellar objects</h2>Before 3I/ATLAS, scientists discovered 'Oumuamua, a dry, rocky body floating through space that had come from outside our solar system. Its elongated shape stumped astronomers who struggled to explain its origins. Next came 2I/Borisov, an interstellar comet that became only the second object to be spotted coming from an outer world. 3I/ATLAS was discovered on July 1 by the ATLAS telescope in Chile. It became a sensation instantly, especially after scientists learned that it was born billions of years before our solar system. 3I/ATLAS is estimated to be 7-13 billion years old. Its trajectory proved that it was not bound to our Sun's gravitation, which showed that it was an interstellar object. For months, astronomers across the world tracked 3I/ATLAS and saw it changing speed, brightness and its path.&nbsp; &nbsp;

3I/ATLAS might have been only the third interstellar object we noticed, but a scientist claims that there could be millions of such objects within Earth's orbit around the sun, travelling from interstellar space. He estimates that they would weigh 100 trillion metric tons when combined.

Harvard scientist Avi Loeb has claimed that there could be 35 million interstellar objects inside Earth's orbit. In 2025, 3I/ATLAS, the third known interstellar object, was discovered in the solar system and became the star of the astronomy world overnight. But Loeb has presented calculations, according to which objects from the outer world are extremely common. He studied two meteors that probably came from another star system to estimate the number of interstellar objects in our solar system. CNEOS-22 was detected in 2022 over the Pacific, and CNEOS-25 was spotted over the Barents Sea in the Arctic in 2025. They were both around six feet and four feet across, but large enough to exceed the Solar System's escape velocity. Loeb stated that such meteors collide with Earth on average once every three years. Using this premise, he concluded that these objects exist in large numbers in Earth's orbit. "Given the detection of two interstellar meteors in the CNEOS fireballs database over a period of 7 years, the inferred collision rate of meter-scale interstellar objects with Earth is about 0.3 per year," Loeb wrote. He added, "This implies that there are about 35 million meter-scale interstellar objects embedded at any time within the orbit of the Earth around the Sun." The scientists calculated that each object carries about 3 million metric tons of material, which means that "hundred trillion (10^{14}) metric tons of interstellar material is present" in the interior of Earth’s orbit around the Sun. Also Read: NASA's TESS captures 3I/ATLAS once again. But some data is missing. Here's what happened Also Read: Scientist says a trillion 3I/ATLAS-like objects are in the solar system right now 35 million interstellar objects 3I/ATLAS was larger than these meteors, as it likely didn't disintegrate much. But the 35 million interstellar objects that Loeb claims are present inside Earth's orbit are probably fragments of objects like 3I/ATLAS. Loeb is planning to carry out ocean expeditions to recover material from CNEOS-22 and CNEOS-25. Performing radioactive dating could reveal how long the meteor travelled through interstellar space and its origin. Also Read: 3I/ATLAS could be coming from a star that is already dead: ‘A star that’s so ancient...’ Also Read: 3I/ATLAS 'heartbeat' aligns with a 144-second timing system used by ancient Indians, researcher claims 3I/ATLAS and other interstellar objects Before 3I/ATLAS, scientists discovered 'Oumuamua, a dry, rocky body floating through space that had come from outside our solar system. Its elongated shape stumped astronomers who struggled to explain its origins. Next came 2I/Borisov, an interstellar comet that became only the second object to be spotted coming from an outer world. 3I/ATLAS was discovered on July 1 by the ATLAS telescope in Chile. It became a sensation instantly, especially after scientists learned that it was born billions of years before our solar system. 3I/ATLAS is estimated to be 7-13 billion years old. Its trajectory proved that it was not bound to our Sun's gravitation, which showed that it was an interstellar object. For months, astronomers across the world tracked 3I/ATLAS and saw it changing speed, brightness and its path.

3I/ATLAS might have been only the third interstellar object we noticed, but a scientist claims that there could be millions of such objects within Earth's orbit around the sun, travelling from interstellar space. He estimates that they would weigh 100 trillion metric tons when combined.

Scientist claims 35 million interstellar objects reside between Sun and Earth - '100 trillion metric tons...'

A planetary system located at the farthest edges of the Milky Way has a planetary line-up that goes against basic scientific logic. A star called LHS 1903, located 116 light-years away from Earth, has four planets. Interestingly, the planet closest to it is rocky, followed by two gaseous planets and then...surprise...another rocky planet. Typically, rocky planets are closest to their star, while the gaseous ones follow them, and that's about it. This pattern of rocky to gaseous is the norm in every planetary system seen in the Milky Way. So why does the LHS 1903 system have a rocky planet at the end? The discovery was made by an international research team that observed the system using the European Space Agency's CHaracterising ExOPlanet Satellite (CHEOPS) telescope. The research was published on February 12, 2026, in the peer-reviewed journal Science.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-like-exoplanet-found-146-light-years-away-1770206371665">Is this another Earth? Astronomers find Earth-like exoplanet 146 light-years away</a><h2>How are planets formed?</h2>LHS 1903 &nbsp;is a cool, faint red dwarf star with four planets around it, but they defy the basic playbook of planetary formation and placement. In any system, the rocky planets form nearer to the star since the radiation blows away all the gas. The rocky material left behind coalesces to form these planets, such as Mercury, Venus, Earth and Mars, in our solar system. The gas swept outwards and collects in the far reaches to form gas planets. This is where it ends. But the latest observation shows that for some reason, the LHS 1903 system has a rocky planet at the end. Scientists say either it lost its gas in the later stages of its life, or it never had any. Lead author, Thomas Wilson from the University of Warwick said, "This strange disorder makes it a unique inside-out system. Rocky planets don’t usually form far away from their home star, on the outside of the gaseous worlds."Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/not-water-or-location-but-the-chemical-goldilocks-zone-is-the-secret-reason-earth-exists-1770804882558">Not water or location, but the 'chemical Goldilocks zone' is the secret reason Earth exists</a><h2>Each planet was born at a different time</h2>The researchers examined the theory that the planets may have switched places at some point in time, or the last one lost its gases. None of these options was feasible, and they came up with a more plausible explanation. According to the study, instead of forming all at once, each planet in the system was born one by one. Co-author Annelies Mortier, from the University of Birmingham, said, "The most compelling theory to explain the rocky planet says that LHS 1903 gave birth to its four planets one after another from the inner to outermost planet, instead of bearing quadruplets at once. This means that each planet evolved separately, sweeping up nearby dust and gas, with further out worlds waiting their turn for the next planet to form."&nbsp;So by the time it was the fourth planet's turn, the environment was very different, and all the gases likely ran out, leaving it to become a rocky world. Scientists say it changes their understanding of how planets form, and has left them wondering whether it is an exception, or the first look at a new way planets form. &nbsp;

LHS 1903 is located 116 light-years away and has four planets, which are placed incorrectly. The placement of the planets goes against standard knowledge and has never been seen before. Scientists are calling it an inside-out star system. 

A planetary system located at the farthest edges of the Milky Way has a planetary line-up that goes against basic scientific logic. A star called LHS 1903, located 116 light-years away from Earth, has four planets. Interestingly, the planet closest to it is rocky, followed by two gaseous planets and then...surprise...another rocky planet. Typically, rocky planets are closest to their star, while the gaseous ones follow them, and that's about it. This pattern of rocky to gaseous is the norm in every planetary system seen in the Milky Way. So why does the LHS 1903 system have a rocky planet at the end? The discovery was made by an international research team that observed the system using the European Space Agency's CHaracterising ExOPlanet Satellite (CHEOPS) telescope. The research was published on February 12, 2026, in the peer-reviewed journal Science. Also Read: Is this another Earth? Astronomers find Earth-like exoplanet 146 light-years away How are planets formed? LHS 1903 is a cool, faint red dwarf star with four planets around it, but they defy the basic playbook of planetary formation and placement. In any system, the rocky planets form nearer to the star since the radiation blows away all the gas. The rocky material left behind coalesces to form these planets, such as Mercury, Venus, Earth and Mars, in our solar system. The gas swept outwards and collects in the far reaches to form gas planets. This is where it ends. But the latest observation shows that for some reason, the LHS 1903 system has a rocky planet at the end. Scientists say either it lost its gas in the later stages of its life, or it never had any. Lead author, Thomas Wilson from the University of Warwick said, "This strange disorder makes it a unique inside-out system. Rocky planets don’t usually form far away from their home star, on the outside of the gaseous worlds." Also Read: Not water or location, but the 'chemical Goldilocks zone' is the secret reason Earth exists Each planet was born at a different time The researchers examined the theory that the planets may have switched places at some point in time, or the last one lost its gases. None of these options was feasible, and they came up with a more plausible explanation. According to the study, instead of forming all at once, each planet in the system was born one by one. Co-author Annelies Mortier, from the University of Birmingham, said, "The most compelling theory to explain the rocky planet says that LHS 1903 gave birth to its four planets one after another from the inner to outermost planet, instead of bearing quadruplets at once. This means that each planet evolved separately, sweeping up nearby dust and gas, with further out worlds waiting their turn for the next planet to form." So by the time it was the fourth planet's turn, the environment was very different, and all the gases likely ran out, leaving it to become a rocky world. Scientists say it changes their understanding of how planets form, and has left them wondering whether it is an exception, or the first look at a new way planets form.

LHS 1903 is located 116 light-years away and has four planets, which are placed incorrectly. The placement of the planets goes against standard knowledge and has never been seen before. Scientists are calling it an inside-out star system.&nbsp;

Rock, gas, gas, rock? Star system with 'strange disorder' baffles scientists

Imagine our scientists at ISRO like detectives searching for the perfect place to dig treasure on the Moon. Well, they just found it! They have identified a special location called MM-4 in the Mons Mouton area, right near the Moon’s South Pole. This is where India’s next big space mission, called Chandrayaan-4, will land around 2028. It is like finding the perfect address for your new home—everything has to be just right.&nbsp;Mons Mouton (MM) is a mountain-like highland area near the Moon’s South Pole, and it is considered important because this region may have water ice and safer terrain for future missions.&nbsp;Now, why is this Chandrayaan-4 mission so special and exciting for all of us? Think of it this way: our earlier Moon missions were like sending a camera to take pictures and send them back. But Chandrayaan-4 is different. It is India’s first mission that will actually collect Moon soil and rock pieces and bring them back to Earth. Yes, you read it right—we will have real Moon samples in our Indian laboratories! Scientists will study these samples like examining precious gems under a microscope. The spacecraft will have five special parts working together—first it goes there, then it collects samples, then it launches back, and finally it returns home safely. It is like a perfectly planned operation where everything must work without any mistakes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-japan-annual-summit-pm-modi-hails-isro-jaxa-collaboration-on-chandrayaan-5-mission-1756487042954">India-Japan Annual Summit: PM Modi hails ISRO, JAXA collaboration on Chandrayaan-5 mission</a>&nbsp;So why did our scientists choose the Moon’s South Pole, and specifically this MM-4 spot? Here is the exciting part that affects all of us. The South Pole has special areas that stay in permanent shadow, like the darkest corner of your room that never gets sunlight. These cold, shadowy areas are like natural freezers that have kept water ice trapped there for billions of years. This water ice is not just frozen water—it is treasure! If scientists can find enough of it, we can make drinking water for people, oxygen for them to breathe, and even rocket fuel. Imagine astronauts staying on the Moon without carrying everything from Earth. That is the dream, and it starts with finding this water ice.&nbsp;But landing on the Moon’s South Pole is not easy. The terrain is very rough, with mountains, craters, and huge boulders scattered everywhere, like an obstacle course. A wrong landing can mean disaster—the spacecraft could crash or break. ISRO needed to find a spot that is relatively flat and smooth, gets enough sunlight for solar power to work, is free from dangerous boulders, and has good communication link with Earth. It is like finding a parking space in Mumbai that is not too slanted, not too dark, and not too crowded with obstacles.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-japan-discuss-progress-of-chandrayaan-5-lupex-moon-landing-mission-9073130">India and Japan discuss progress of Chandrayaan-5-LUPEX moon landing mission</a>&nbsp;ISRO scientists took high-quality pictures using a special camera on the Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft that is still orbiting the Moon. They studied four possible sites like MM-1, MM-3, MM-4, and MM-5. They looked at every detail—the slope angle, the height, how many hazards like rocks and craters were there, and where were the safe flat patches where the lander could touch down. After careful examination, MM-4 emerged as the clear winner. In a one-kilometre area around it, the slope is only about five degrees—that is very gentle, almost like a slightly tilted table. The hazards are the lowest at around nine per cent. There are five hundred and sixty-eight safe spots where the lander can land. It is like comparing four houses for rent, and this MM-4 is the safest one with the best views and strongest foundation.&nbsp;What will India gain from landing here? First is safety—the mission needs to land successfully to collect samples. Second is scientific knowledge—the samples from this highland area near the South Pole will teach us about the Moon’s ancient history, its rocks, and whether water ice really exists nearby. Third is preparation—if we confirm water ice exists here, it will help India plan longer stays on the Moon or even build a base there one day. This would make India a major player in space exploration, earning respect from all nations worldwide.&nbsp;Other countries are watching this spot too. China’s missions have visited different Moon areas. America also wanted to send a rover here to search for ice. The South Pole has become like a hotspot where everyone wants to explore because of the resources it holds. By choosing MM-4, ISRO proves it is making smart, careful decisions using its own Moon data. Success in Chandrayaan-4 will not just bring Moon pieces to our labs but will inspire countless people and open doors to discoveries we cannot imagine today.

ISRO has selected MM-4 near the Moon’s South Pole as its spot for Chandrayaan-4’s 2028 landing. This mission will collect Moon soil and rocks and return to Earth with them, helping India study lunar history and possible water ice.

Imagine our scientists at ISRO like detectives searching for the perfect place to dig treasure on the Moon. Well, they just found it! They have identified a special location called MM-4 in the Mons Mouton area, right near the Moon’s South Pole. This is where India’s next big space mission, called Chandrayaan-4, will land around 2028. It is like finding the perfect address for your new home—everything has to be just right. Mons Mouton (MM) is a mountain-like highland area near the Moon’s South Pole, and it is considered important because this region may have water ice and safer terrain for future missions. Now, why is this Chandrayaan-4 mission so special and exciting for all of us? Think of it this way: our earlier Moon missions were like sending a camera to take pictures and send them back. But Chandrayaan-4 is different. It is India’s first mission that will actually collect Moon soil and rock pieces and bring them back to Earth. Yes, you read it right—we will have real Moon samples in our Indian laboratories! Scientists will study these samples like examining precious gems under a microscope. The spacecraft will have five special parts working together—first it goes there, then it collects samples, then it launches back, and finally it returns home safely. It is like a perfectly planned operation where everything must work without any mistakes. Also Read: India-Japan Annual Summit: PM Modi hails ISRO, JAXA collaboration on Chandrayaan-5 mission So why did our scientists choose the Moon’s South Pole, and specifically this MM-4 spot? Here is the exciting part that affects all of us. The South Pole has special areas that stay in permanent shadow, like the darkest corner of your room that never gets sunlight. These cold, shadowy areas are like natural freezers that have kept water ice trapped there for billions of years. This water ice is not just frozen water—it is treasure! If scientists can find enough of it, we can make drinking water for people, oxygen for them to breathe, and even rocket fuel. Imagine astronauts staying on the Moon without carrying everything from Earth. That is the dream, and it starts with finding this water ice. But landing on the Moon’s South Pole is not easy. The terrain is very rough, with mountains, craters, and huge boulders scattered everywhere, like an obstacle course. A wrong landing can mean disaster—the spacecraft could crash or break. ISRO needed to find a spot that is relatively flat and smooth, gets enough sunlight for solar power to work, is free from dangerous boulders, and has good communication link with Earth. It is like finding a parking space in Mumbai that is not too slanted, not too dark, and not too crowded with obstacles. Also Read: India and Japan discuss progress of Chandrayaan-5-LUPEX moon landing mission ISRO scientists took high-quality pictures using a special camera on the Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft that is still orbiting the Moon. They studied four possible sites like MM-1, MM-3, MM-4, and MM-5. They looked at every detail—the slope angle, the height, how many hazards like rocks and craters were there, and where were the safe flat patches where the lander could touch down. After careful examination, MM-4 emerged as the clear winner. In a one-kilometre area around it, the slope is only about five degrees—that is very gentle, almost like a slightly tilted table. The hazards are the lowest at around nine per cent. There are five hundred and sixty-eight safe spots where the lander can land. It is like comparing four houses for rent, and this MM-4 is the safest one with the best views and strongest foundation. What will India gain from landing here? First is safety—the mission needs to land successfully to collect samples. Second is scientific knowledge—the samples from this highland area near the South Pole will teach us about the Moon’s ancient history, its rocks, and whether water ice really exists nearby. Third is preparation—if we confirm water ice exists here, it will help India plan longer stays on the Moon or even build a base there one day. This would make India a major player in space exploration, earning respect from all nations worldwide. Other countries are watching this spot too. China’s missions have visited different Moon areas. America also wanted to send a rover here to search for ice. The South Pole has become like a hotspot where everyone wants to explore because of the resources it holds. By choosing MM-4, ISRO proves it is making smart, careful decisions using its own Moon data. Success in Chandrayaan-4 will not just bring Moon pieces to our labs but will inspire countless people and open doors to discoveries we cannot imagine today.

ISRO has selected MM-4 near the Moon’s South Pole as its spot for Chandrayaan-4’s 2028 landing. This mission will collect Moon soil and rocks and return to Earth with them, helping India study lunar history and possible water ice.

Moon treasure hunt: India finds the perfect location on the map

NASA is preparing to send four astronauts to the International Space Station under its SpaceX Crew-12 mission, marking the 12th crew rotation flight under the Commercial Crew Programme. The mission will carry astronauts from the United States, Europe and Russia for an eight-month stay in orbit, focused on science, technology tests and station maintenance.The crew will travel aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft named Freedom, launched on a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral in Florida.&nbsp;<h2>SpaceX Crew-12 mission</h2>Crew-12 is a long-duration mission to the International Space Station. The astronauts will join Expedition 74, living and working in space for around eight months.The mission will focus on research that supports future Moon and Mars missions and delivers benefits on Earth. This includes experiments on human health, plant growth, and new space technologies.The Dragon spacecraft used for Crew-12 has already flown multiple missions, including earlier NASA crew flights and private astronaut missions.&nbsp;<h2>Astronauts on Crew-12</h2>The mission brings together four crew members from different space agencies.NASA astronaut&nbsp;Jessica Meir is the mission commander. This will be her second spaceflight. She previously spent more than 200 days aboard the space station and took part in the first all-women spacewalks.NASA astronaut&nbsp;Jack Hathaway will serve as pilot. Crew-12 will be his first space mission. Hathaway is a US Navy commander with more than 2,500 flight hours.Joining them are&nbsp;Sophie Adenot from the European Space Agency and&nbsp;Andrey Fedyaev from Roscosmos, both serving as mission specialists. For Adenot, this will be her first spaceflight, while Fedyaev has already completed one long-duration mission aboard the ISS.&nbsp;<h2>What science Crew-12 will carry out in space</h2>During their stay, the astronauts will run a wide range of experiments. According to NASA, these include studies on pneumonia-causing bacteria to improve treatments, research on blood flow in microgravity, and tests to produce intravenous fluids on demand in space.The crew will also work on automated plant health monitoring and experiments involving plants and nitrogen-fixing microbes. These studies aim to improve food production for future deep-space missions.In addition, Crew-12 will help maintain the space station, support visiting cargo spacecraft and assist with crew handovers.&nbsp;<h2>How the launch and docking will happen</h2>After liftoff, the Falcon 9 rocket will push Dragon to speeds of about 17,500 miles per hour. The spacecraft will then perform a series of automated manoeuvres to dock with the space-facing port of the station’s Harmony module.Although Dragon is designed to dock on its own, the crew can take manual control if needed. Once docked, the astronauts will be welcomed by the Expedition 74 crew already on board.&nbsp;<h2>Why Crew-12 matters for NASA’s future plans</h2>NASA says the International Space Station remains a key testbed for long-duration human spaceflight. Lessons from missions like Crew-12 help the agency prepare for the Artemis programme, which aims to return humans to the Moon and later send astronauts to Mars.As commercial companies handle routine trips to low Earth orbit, NASA is focusing more on deep-space exploration. Crew-12 is part of that transition, combining international cooperation, commercial spacecraft and long-term science in space.

NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 will send four astronauts to the International Space Station for an eight-month mission focused on science, station upkeep and preparing for Moon and Mars missions.

NASA is preparing to send four astronauts to the International Space Station under its SpaceX Crew-12 mission, marking the 12th crew rotation flight under the Commercial Crew Programme. The mission will carry astronauts from the United States, Europe and Russia for an eight-month stay in orbit, focused on science, technology tests and station maintenance. The crew will travel aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft named Freedom, launched on a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral in Florida. SpaceX Crew-12 mission Crew-12 is a long-duration mission to the International Space Station. The astronauts will join Expedition 74, living and working in space for around eight months. The mission will focus on research that supports future Moon and Mars missions and delivers benefits on Earth. This includes experiments on human health, plant growth, and new space technologies. The Dragon spacecraft used for Crew-12 has already flown multiple missions, including earlier NASA crew flights and private astronaut missions. Astronauts on Crew-12 The mission brings together four crew members from different space agencies. NASA astronaut Jessica Meir is the mission commander. This will be her second spaceflight. She previously spent more than 200 days aboard the space station and took part in the first all-women spacewalks. NASA astronaut Jack Hathaway will serve as pilot. Crew-12 will be his first space mission. Hathaway is a US Navy commander with more than 2,500 flight hours. Joining them are Sophie Adenot from the European Space Agency and Andrey Fedyaev from Roscosmos, both serving as mission specialists. For Adenot, this will be her first spaceflight, while Fedyaev has already completed one long-duration mission aboard the ISS. What science Crew-12 will carry out in space During their stay, the astronauts will run a wide range of experiments. According to NASA, these include studies on pneumonia-causing bacteria to improve treatments, research on blood flow in microgravity, and tests to produce intravenous fluids on demand in space. The crew will also work on automated plant health monitoring and experiments involving plants and nitrogen-fixing microbes. These studies aim to improve food production for future deep-space missions. In addition, Crew-12 will help maintain the space station, support visiting cargo spacecraft and assist with crew handovers. How the launch and docking will happen After liftoff, the Falcon 9 rocket will push Dragon to speeds of about 17,500 miles per hour. The spacecraft will then perform a series of automated manoeuvres to dock with the space-facing port of the station’s Harmony module. Although Dragon is designed to dock on its own, the crew can take manual control if needed. Once docked, the astronauts will be welcomed by the Expedition 74 crew already on board. Why Crew-12 matters for NASA’s future plans NASA says the International Space Station remains a key testbed for long-duration human spaceflight. Lessons from missions like Crew-12 help the agency prepare for the Artemis programme, which aims to return humans to the Moon and later send astronauts to Mars. As commercial companies handle routine trips to low Earth orbit, NASA is focusing more on deep-space exploration. Crew-12 is part of that transition, combining international cooperation, commercial spacecraft and long-term science in space.

NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 will send four astronauts to the International Space Station for an eight-month mission focused on science, station upkeep and preparing for Moon and Mars missions.

What is NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 mission: Everything you should know

On Tuesday, February 17, the first major celestial event of the year 2026 will occur. An Annular Solar Eclipse, also known as the "Ring of Fire," will be visible in remote parts of Antarctica. Only two research facilities might see it.

Annular solar eclipse 2026: Why almost no humans will see the ring of fire

Across India, food is deeply connected to culture, tradition, and daily life. Yet an uncomfortable reality is emerging: many commonly consumed foods are increasingly compromised by adulteration, contamination, and excessive industrial processing. What was once viewed as isolated malpractice is now being recognised as a systemic vulnerability within the modern food supply chain. Milk, paneer, spices, vegetables, eggs, meat, fish, and packaged foods, items consumed daily by millions, are under growing scientific scrutiny. Public-health experts warn that unsafe food exposure is becoming a major contributor to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and cancer. This is a study by Dr. Naval Kumar Verma, MD (Hom), Hon PhD (Doctor of Science), Global Wellness (AYUSH), and a food safety expert<h2>The expanding scope of food adulteration</h2>Food adulteration in India is no longer limited to sporadic incidents. Surveillance reports, food testing data, and regulatory findings indicate recurring lapses at multiple stages of production and distribution.&nbsp;Products frequently flagged include:• Milk, curd, paneer, and ghee • Spices and blended condiments • Fruits and vegetables exposed to pesticide residues • Eggs, poultry, meat, fish, and seafood • Packaged and processed ready-to-eat products&nbsp;The concern is structural rather than individual. From animal feed and farm inputs to processing facilities, cold-chain storage, and retail handling, weaknesses across the supply chain allow contamination risks to persist. Scientific assessments have reported antibiotic residues, hormonal growth stimulants, and microbial contamination, including Salmonella and E. coli, in egg production systems. Chemical traces originating from poultry feed further complicate safety concerns. Chronic exposure to such residues may contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), disruption of gut microbiota, and persistent low-grade inflammation.<h2>Poultry and meat</h2>In many industrial systems, antibiotics are used not only for treatment but also for growth promotion. Excessive or irrational use increases the risk of antibiotic-resistant bacteria entering the human food chain. Inadequate slaughter hygiene and the addition of chemical preservatives to extend shelf life add further risks. The World Health Organization recognises antimicrobial resistance linked to animal agriculture as one of the most serious global health threats, affecting infection management and modern medical care.<h2>Fish and seafood</h2>Reports frequently highlight artificial preservation using chemicals such as formalin, as well as contamination from heavy metals, including mercury and cadmium. Fish sourced from polluted waters may accumulate toxins over time, posing neurological, hormonal, and long-term cancer risks.<h2>Ultra-processed foods and metabolic disruption</h2>Beyond contamination, another major concern is the rapid expansion of ultra-processed foods. These products, whether vegetarian or non-vegetarian, are typically characterised by:• Refined carbohydrates • Industrially modified fats • High sodium content • Synthetic additives and stabilisers • Low fibre and micronutrient density&nbsp;Research increasingly links high consumption of ultra-processed foods to obesity, insulin resistance, fatty liver disease, cardiovascular disorders, and certain cancers. Large international cohort studies suggest that these risks persist even when total calorie intake is controlled. Ultra-processed diets can alter gut microbiota composition, promote abnormal fat storage, and accelerate biological ageing.<h2>Food adulteration as chronic biological stress</h2>Unsafe food should not be viewed merely as a regulatory violation. Repeated low-dose exposure to contaminants acts as sustained biological stress.Key mechanisms involved include:• Oxidative stress • Endocrine disruption • Chronic systemic inflammation • DNA damage • Impaired immune response&nbsp;These pathways form the biological foundation of many modern chronic diseases, including autoimmune conditions, infertility, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancers.<h2>The link to India’s rising disease burden</h2>India is experiencing an earlier onset of diabetes and obesity, an increase in hormone-related and digestive cancers, and a surge in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. While genetics play a role, environmental and dietary factors are central drivers. International health agencies emphasise that unsafe, ultra-processed, and contaminated food systems are closely intertwined with the global epidemic of NCDs. The growing burden of chronic disease suggests that food safety must be treated as a preventive healthcare priority, not merely a commercial regulation issue.<h2>Global best practices in food governance</h2>Countries with stronger public-health outcomes implement comprehensive food safety strategies, including:• Rigorous monitoring of antibiotic residues • Farm-to-plate traceability systems • Rapid recall and food alert mechanisms • Clear front-of-pack nutritional warning labels • Restrictions on marketing highly processed foodsThese measures recognise food as a public-health intervention rather than solely a market commodity. Nutritional policy must prioritise purity, safety, and long-term metabolic outcomes, not just caloric availability. Animal-based foods should adhere to strict residue limits and responsible farming standards aligned with human health protection.<h2>Reduction in ultra-processing</h2>Industrial formulations that disrupt endocrine and metabolic balance require stronger regulation and consumer awareness. Traditional dietary systems emphasise seasonal eating, digestive strength, and individual constitution. Emerging microbiome and systems-biology research increasingly validates these principles.<h2>Cancer prevention through food policy</h2>Healthcare systems manage disease; food policy has the power to prevent it.What citizens can do:<ul><li>Choose fresh, minimally processed, and traceable foods</li><li>&nbsp;Limit consumption of packaged and processed meats</li><li>&nbsp;Reduce refined and high-carbohydrate packaged products</li><li>&nbsp;Support responsibly sourced, antibiotic-free animal products</li><li>&nbsp;Demand transparency, testing, and stronger enforcement</li></ul><h2>Conclusion</h2>Food adulteration and ultra-processed dietary patterns represent a significant public-health challenge in India. The evidence indicates that unsafe food contributes to inflammation, and chronic inflammation drives non-communicable diseases and cancer. The future of public health will depend not only on hospitals and medicines, but on the integrity of the food system itself. Strengthening regulation, improving transparency, and promoting informed dietary choices are essential steps toward reversing this silent crisis.

India's food safety crisis: How contaminated and ultra-processed foods threaten public health

Across India, food is deeply connected to culture, tradition, and daily life. Yet an uncomfortable reality is emerging: many commonly consumed foods are increasingly compromised by adulteration, contamination, and excessive industrial processing. What was once viewed as isolated malpractice is now being recognised as a systemic vulnerability within the modern food supply chain. Milk, paneer, spices, vegetables, eggs, meat, fish, and packaged foods, items consumed daily by millions, are under growing scientific scrutiny. Public-health experts warn that unsafe food exposure is becoming a major contributor to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and cancer. This is a study by Dr. Naval Kumar Verma, MD (Hom), Hon PhD (Doctor of Science), Global Wellness (AYUSH), and a food safety expert The expanding scope of food adulteration Food adulteration in India is no longer limited to sporadic incidents. Surveillance reports, food testing data, and regulatory findings indicate recurring lapses at multiple stages of production and distribution. Products frequently flagged include: • Milk, curd, paneer, and ghee • Spices and blended condiments • Fruits and vegetables exposed to pesticide residues • Eggs, poultry, meat, fish, and seafood • Packaged and processed ready-to-eat products The concern is structural rather than individual. From animal feed and farm inputs to processing facilities, cold-chain storage, and retail handling, weaknesses across the supply chain allow contamination risks to persist. Scientific assessments have reported antibiotic residues, hormonal growth stimulants, and microbial contamination, including Salmonella and E. coli, in egg production systems. Chemical traces originating from poultry feed further complicate safety concerns. Chronic exposure to such residues may contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), disruption of gut microbiota, and persistent low-grade inflammation. Poultry and meat In many industrial systems, antibiotics are used not only for treatment but also for growth promotion. Excessive or irrational use increases the risk of antibiotic-resistant bacteria entering the human food chain. Inadequate slaughter hygiene and the addition of chemical preservatives to extend shelf life add further risks. The World Health Organization recognises antimicrobial resistance linked to animal agriculture as one of the most serious global health threats, affecting infection management and modern medical care. Fish and seafood Reports frequently highlight artificial preservation using chemicals such as formalin, as well as contamination from heavy metals, including mercury and cadmium. Fish sourced from polluted waters may accumulate toxins over time, posing neurological, hormonal, and long-term cancer risks. Ultra-processed foods and metabolic disruption Beyond contamination, another major concern is the rapid expansion of ultra-processed foods. These products, whether vegetarian or non-vegetarian, are typically characterised by: • Refined carbohydrates • Industrially modified fats • High sodium content • Synthetic additives and stabilisers • Low fibre and micronutrient density Research increasingly links high consumption of ultra-processed foods to obesity, insulin resistance, fatty liver disease, cardiovascular disorders, and certain cancers. Large international cohort studies suggest that these risks persist even when total calorie intake is controlled. Ultra-processed diets can alter gut microbiota composition, promote abnormal fat storage, and accelerate biological ageing. Food adulteration as chronic biological stress Unsafe food should not be viewed merely as a regulatory violation. Repeated low-dose exposure to contaminants acts as sustained biological stress. Key mechanisms involved include: • Oxidative stress • Endocrine disruption • Chronic systemic inflammation • DNA damage • Impaired immune response These pathways form the biological foundation of many modern chronic diseases, including autoimmune conditions, infertility, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancers. The link to India’s rising disease burden India is experiencing an earlier onset of diabetes and obesity, an increase in hormone-related and digestive cancers, and a surge in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. While genetics play a role, environmental and dietary factors are central drivers. International health agencies emphasise that unsafe, ultra-processed, and contaminated food systems are closely intertwined with the global epidemic of NCDs. The growing burden of chronic disease suggests that food safety must be treated as a preventive healthcare priority, not merely a commercial regulation issue. Global best practices in food governance Countries with stronger public-health outcomes implement comprehensive food safety strategies, including: • Rigorous monitoring of antibiotic residues • Farm-to-plate traceability systems • Rapid recall and food alert mechanisms • Clear front-of-pack nutritional warning labels • Restrictions on marketing highly processed foods These measures recognise food as a public-health intervention rather than solely a market commodity. Nutritional policy must prioritise purity, safety, and long-term metabolic outcomes, not just caloric availability. Animal-based foods should adhere to strict residue limits and responsible farming standards aligned with human health protection. Reduction in ultra-processing Industrial formulations that disrupt endocrine and metabolic balance require stronger regulation and consumer awareness. Traditional dietary systems emphasise seasonal eating, digestive strength, and individual constitution. Emerging microbiome and systems-biology research increasingly validates these principles. Cancer prevention through food policy Healthcare systems manage disease; food policy has the power to prevent it. What citizens can do: Choose fresh, minimally processed, and traceable foods Limit consumption of packaged and processed meats Reduce refined and high-carbohydrate packaged products Support responsibly sourced, antibiotic-free animal products Demand transparency, testing, and stronger enforcement Conclusion Food adulteration and ultra-processed dietary patterns represent a significant public-health challenge in India. The evidence indicates that unsafe food contributes to inflammation, and chronic inflammation drives non-communicable diseases and cancer. The future of public health will depend not only on hospitals and medicines, but on the integrity of the food system itself. Strengthening regulation, improving transparency, and promoting informed dietary choices are essential steps toward reversing this silent crisis.

Widespread food adulteration and ultra-processed diets are driving inflammation, antimicrobial resistance, and rising chronic diseases in India

The North Anatolian Fault (NAF) beneath the Marmara Sea near Istanbul, Turkey, hasn't had a major quake in more than 250 years. Stress is building right underneath it, while surrounding sections have ruptured towards the west, triggering devastating earthquakes. Researchers from the Institute of Science Tokyo used electromagnetic "x-rays" and were able to map the "invisible" structure of this fault. The 3D model reveals high-stress zones where tectonic plates are physically jammed together. The study was published in the journal Geology. Many scientists believe this section under the Marmara Sea is most likely the site of the next major earthquake. Istanbul is merely miles away, and sits in the eye of the storm. This map is a race against time to predict exactly where the crust will finally snap. For years, scientists have tried to create a detailed structure of the fault below the Marmara Sea. In the absence of a clear picture, the ability to accurately identify where future earthquakes might begin has remained limited.<h2>3D map of the North Anatolian Fault’s resistivity</h2>Dr. Yasuo Ogawa, Professor Emeritus and Research Fellow at the Multidisciplinary Resilience Research Center, Institute of Integrated Research and Dr. Tülay Kaya-Eken, Assistant Professor at Boğaziçi University, Türkiye, investigated the section under the Marmara Sea to remove the gap in knowledge. Together they were able to create the first full three-dimensional (3D) model of this crucial subsurface area. Using magnetotellurics—a technique that measures subtle changes in Earth’s electric and magnetic fields—they built the first 3D map of the North Anatolian Fault’s "resistivity." They identified areas where the rock is rigid (high resistivity) and where it is weakened by fluids (low resistivity). This helped them locate "locked" zones where immense stress has built up. These boundaries are likely where the next major rupture will begin, providing a new blueprint for disaster mitigation in Turkey.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/major-catastrophe-unfolding-in-antarctica-as-hundreds-of-earthquakes-slam-doomsday-glacier-1767680441864">Major catastrophe unfolding in Antarctica as hundreds of earthquakes slam Doomsday Glacier</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/120km-wide-tsunami-wave-triggered-by-kamchatka-earthquake-captured-by-nasa-from-space-1766638468766">NASA captures 120km-wide tsunami wave triggered by Kamchatka earthquake from space</a><h2>Identifying location of future megathrust earthquakes</h2>“We believe the resistive anomalies observed signify regions of stress accumulation, shedding light on the ongoing processes of fault mechanics at play in this critical region,” Ogawa said. Referring to their findings, the researchers believe future large earthquakes may begin at the boundaries where weaker and stronger sections of the crust meet or along the edges of highly resistive zones. Ogama added, "Our results can be used to estimate the location and potential magnitude of future megathrust earthquakes, with significant implications for disaster prevention and mitigation."

Turkey could be on the verge of a devastating earthquake triggered by a fault line that remained invisible for the longest time. A study has found that this region has been building stress for centuries, and when it is released, Turkey might bear the brunt.

The North Anatolian Fault (NAF) beneath the Marmara Sea near Istanbul, Turkey, hasn't had a major quake in more than 250 years. Stress is building right underneath it, while surrounding sections have ruptured towards the west, triggering devastating earthquakes. Researchers from the Institute of Science Tokyo used electromagnetic "x-rays" and were able to map the "invisible" structure of this fault. The 3D model reveals high-stress zones where tectonic plates are physically jammed together. The study was published in the journal Geology. Many scientists believe this section under the Marmara Sea is most likely the site of the next major earthquake. Istanbul is merely miles away, and sits in the eye of the storm. This map is a race against time to predict exactly where the crust will finally snap. For years, scientists have tried to create a detailed structure of the fault below the Marmara Sea. In the absence of a clear picture, the ability to accurately identify where future earthquakes might begin has remained limited. 3D map of the North Anatolian Fault’s resistivity Dr. Yasuo Ogawa, Professor Emeritus and Research Fellow at the Multidisciplinary Resilience Research Center, Institute of Integrated Research and Dr. Tülay Kaya-Eken, Assistant Professor at Boğaziçi University, Türkiye, investigated the section under the Marmara Sea to remove the gap in knowledge. Together they were able to create the first full three-dimensional (3D) model of this crucial subsurface area. Using magnetotellurics—a technique that measures subtle changes in Earth’s electric and magnetic fields—they built the first 3D map of the North Anatolian Fault’s "resistivity." They identified areas where the rock is rigid (high resistivity) and where it is weakened by fluids (low resistivity). This helped them locate "locked" zones where immense stress has built up. These boundaries are likely where the next major rupture will begin, providing a new blueprint for disaster mitigation in Turkey. Also Read: Major catastrophe unfolding in Antarctica as hundreds of earthquakes slam Doomsday Glacier Also Read: NASA captures 120km-wide tsunami wave triggered by Kamchatka earthquake from space Identifying location of future megathrust earthquakes “We believe the resistive anomalies observed signify regions of stress accumulation, shedding light on the ongoing processes of fault mechanics at play in this critical region,” Ogawa said. Referring to their findings, the researchers believe future large earthquakes may begin at the boundaries where weaker and stronger sections of the crust meet or along the edges of highly resistive zones. Ogama added, "Our results can be used to estimate the location and potential magnitude of future megathrust earthquakes, with significant implications for disaster prevention and mitigation."

Turkey could be on the verge of a devastating earthquake triggered by a fault line that remained invisible for the longest time. A study has found that this region has been building stress for centuries, and when it is released, Turkey might bear the brunt.

'Invisible' fault line silent for centuries could trigger the next mega earthquake in THIS region

Scientists have found that a lucky balance of chemicals is the reason why Earth supports life. While it does reside in the habitable zone, there is more that makes life thrive on a planet. According to a study, when Earth formed, it happened under an unusually precise set of chemical conditions that allowed for two crucial elements to be retained in perfect balance. Phosphorus and nitrogen are what make life possible on Earth. In their absence, it wouldn't matter where it sits in the solar system or the amount of water it has. The researchers say in the absence of these elements in perfect proportions, a rocky planet like Earth might seem like it can support life from the outside, but it wouldn't. "During the formation of a planet's core, there needs to be exactly the right amount of oxygen present so that phosphorus and nitrogen can remain on the surface of the planet," lead author Craig Walton, of ETH Zurich in Switzerland, said in a statement. Earth had it all when it took shape nearly 4.6 billion years ago. The findings were published February 9 in the journal Nature Astronomy.<h2>Planets, alien life and oxygen&nbsp;</h2>When planets are in their earliest stage of life, they are partially or fully molten. Later, the heavier metals sink and form the core, while the lighter elements move towards the surface. At this time, the amount of oxygen determines where other elements end up and if they would be available when life is born. Incredibly, the range for the perfect oxygen levels for both phosphorus and nitrogen to stay in a planet's mantle and crust is extremely narrow. If there is too little oxygen, phosphorus would combine with iron and move to the core. In its absence, DNA and cell membrane formation and energy transfer would not happen. With too much oxygen, nitrogen would flow out into space. The chemistry needed for life would not be there in both scenarios. For Earth to touch this sweet spot and sit inside this “chemical Goldilocks zone” makes it incredibly lucky. "Our models clearly show that the Earth is precisely within this range," Walton said in the statement.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/earth-has-a-tail-flowing-for-millions-of-kilometres-into-space-on-its-dark-side-1765431481520">Earth has a tail, flowing for millions of kilometres into space on its dark side</a> Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-would-earth-look-like-after-it-dies-mysterious-iron-bar-inside-ring-nebula-could-be-our-planet-s-fate-1768555967282">What would Earth look like after it dies? Mysterious iron bar inside Ring Nebula could be our planet's fate</a><h2>Why Mars doesn't have life</h2>They also looked at other planets like Mars, which does not sit in this chemical Goldilocks zone.The models show Mars has more phosphorus in the mantle than on Earth, but less nitrogen, conditions that would not support life. The study primarily challenges the assumption that a planet should be in the habitable zone - not too far, not too close to its star - for liquid water to exist, thus supporting life. This is basically the standard while searching for life in other worlds. However, the researcher says a planet could be in just the right place, but lacked the chemical balance during its birth, thus missing the crucial elements of life. "This makes searching for life on other planets a lot more specific. We should look for solar systems with stars that resemble our own sun," Walton said.&nbsp;

Earth is the only planet that supports life, and it is not just because of water or oxygen. Scientists have discovered that when our planet was born, it was sitting in the "chemical Goldilocks zone”, making it incredibly lucky.

Scientists have found that a lucky balance of chemicals is the reason why Earth supports life. While it does reside in the habitable zone, there is more that makes life thrive on a planet. According to a study, when Earth formed, it happened under an unusually precise set of chemical conditions that allowed for two crucial elements to be retained in perfect balance. Phosphorus and nitrogen are what make life possible on Earth. In their absence, it wouldn't matter where it sits in the solar system or the amount of water it has. The researchers say in the absence of these elements in perfect proportions, a rocky planet like Earth might seem like it can support life from the outside, but it wouldn't. "During the formation of a planet's core, there needs to be exactly the right amount of oxygen present so that phosphorus and nitrogen can remain on the surface of the planet," lead author Craig Walton, of ETH Zurich in Switzerland, said in a statement. Earth had it all when it took shape nearly 4.6 billion years ago. The findings were published February 9 in the journal Nature Astronomy. Planets, alien life and oxygen When planets are in their earliest stage of life, they are partially or fully molten. Later, the heavier metals sink and form the core, while the lighter elements move towards the surface. At this time, the amount of oxygen determines where other elements end up and if they would be available when life is born. Incredibly, the range for the perfect oxygen levels for both phosphorus and nitrogen to stay in a planet's mantle and crust is extremely narrow. If there is too little oxygen, phosphorus would combine with iron and move to the core. In its absence, DNA and cell membrane formation and energy transfer would not happen. With too much oxygen, nitrogen would flow out into space. The chemistry needed for life would not be there in both scenarios. For Earth to touch this sweet spot and sit inside this “chemical Goldilocks zone” makes it incredibly lucky. "Our models clearly show that the Earth is precisely within this range," Walton said in the statement. Also Read: Earth has a tail, flowing for millions of kilometres into space on its dark side Also Read: What would Earth look like after it dies? Mysterious iron bar inside Ring Nebula could be our planet's fate Why Mars doesn't have life They also looked at other planets like Mars, which does not sit in this chemical Goldilocks zone. The models show Mars has more phosphorus in the mantle than on Earth, but less nitrogen, conditions that would not support life. The study primarily challenges the assumption that a planet should be in the habitable zone - not too far, not too close to its star - for liquid water to exist, thus supporting life. This is basically the standard while searching for life in other worlds. However, the researcher says a planet could be in just the right place, but lacked the chemical balance during its birth, thus missing the crucial elements of life. "This makes searching for life on other planets a lot more specific. We should look for solar systems with stars that resemble our own sun," Walton said.

Earth is the only planet that supports life, and it is not just because of water or oxygen. Scientists have discovered that when our planet was born, it was sitting in the "chemical Goldilocks zone”, making it incredibly lucky.

Not water or location, but the 'chemical Goldilocks zone' is the secret reason Earth exists

Radioactive domestic pigs and wild boar are interbreeding near the Fukushima nuclear plant disaster, creating nuclear hogs. They are not glowing monsters; they are biological time machines. Scientists have found that after the 2011 tsunami triggered an evacuation around the plant, domestic pigs started mating with the Japanese wild boar, and the resulting hybrids are "fast-forwarding" evolution. In 2011, a magnitude earthquake shook the Fukushima region in Japan. The massive temblor and the tsunami damaged the nuclear power plant, triggering an immediate evacuation. Nearly 164,000 residents were forced to leave their homes within hours. They left behind domesticated animals like pigs who started mating with feral boars. The hybrid offspring are roaming the area today and are “ghost hogs” who are living proof of how a world left behind by humans led to evolution happening in “fast-forward”, a living simulation of how life reclaims a post-human world at five times the normal speed. Their findings were published in the Journal of Forest Research.&nbsp;Shingo Kaneko of Fukushima University partnered with Hirosaki University geneticist Donovan Anderson to understand how domestic pig genetics have influenced the successive generations of hybrid boars. They tracked the "Nuclear Hogs" of Fukushima and found something amazing happening with them. The interbreeding formed a temporal shortcut. While a wild boar breeds once a year, the domestic pig is "polyestrous," meaning they can breed all year round. When the two combined, the "maternal clock" of the domestic pig took over. Because the hybrid offspring inherited the domestic mother’s ability to breed year-round, the population accelerated at an unprecedented speed. In the time it would take a normal boar population to go through three generations, the Fukushima hybrids have gone through nearly ten.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/no-superpowers-yet-something-is-thriving-in-fukushima-s-radioactive-water-how-1770122053685">No superpowers, yet something is thriving in Fukushima's radioactive water. How?</a><h2>Domestic pig DNA is being wiped off</h2>“While it has been previously suggested that hybridization between rewilded swine and wild boars can contribute to population growth, this study demonstrates—through the analysis of a large-scale hybridization event following the Fukushima nuclear accident—that the rapid reproductive cycle of domestic swine is inherited through the maternal lineage,” Kaneko said in a statement. The team also noted that this is causing the domestic "pig" DNA to being purged. Because the hybrids breed so fast and back-cross with the surviving wild boars, the "wild" genes are winning the race.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/organism-growing-on-walls-of-chernobyl-reactor-number-4-loves-radiation-scientists-space-travel-nuclear-disaster-1753160712875">Chernobyl disaster site has nothing growing, except this organism that is thriving on radiation</a><h2>Human absence leads nature to quickly take over</h2>Scientists say that the mechanism likely exists in other parts of the world as well, and they think it can help manage invasive species in places like Texas or Alberta. However, the biggest takeaway of this finding is that human absence leads nature to take over at breakneck speed. Evolution did not wait for the radiation to fade and instead sped up towards making a return to the wild.

“Ghost hogs” are running wild near the Fukushima nuclear plant. Their genes show an evolution that has jumped several generations because the wild boars mated with the domestic pigs. The finding shows how a world without humans fast forwards evolution.

Radioactive domestic pigs and wild boar are interbreeding near the Fukushima nuclear plant disaster, creating nuclear hogs. They are not glowing monsters; they are biological time machines. Scientists have found that after the 2011 tsunami triggered an evacuation around the plant, domestic pigs started mating with the Japanese wild boar, and the resulting hybrids are "fast-forwarding" evolution. In 2011, a magnitude earthquake shook the Fukushima region in Japan. The massive temblor and the tsunami damaged the nuclear power plant, triggering an immediate evacuation. Nearly 164,000 residents were forced to leave their homes within hours. They left behind domesticated animals like pigs who started mating with feral boars. The hybrid offspring are roaming the area today and are “ghost hogs” who are living proof of how a world left behind by humans led to evolution happening in “fast-forward”, a living simulation of how life reclaims a post-human world at five times the normal speed. Their findings were published in the Journal of Forest Research. Shingo Kaneko of Fukushima University partnered with Hirosaki University geneticist Donovan Anderson to understand how domestic pig genetics have influenced the successive generations of hybrid boars. They tracked the "Nuclear Hogs" of Fukushima and found something amazing happening with them. The interbreeding formed a temporal shortcut. While a wild boar breeds once a year, the domestic pig is "polyestrous," meaning they can breed all year round. When the two combined, the "maternal clock" of the domestic pig took over. Because the hybrid offspring inherited the domestic mother’s ability to breed year-round, the population accelerated at an unprecedented speed. In the time it would take a normal boar population to go through three generations, the Fukushima hybrids have gone through nearly ten. Also Read: No superpowers, yet something is thriving in Fukushima's radioactive water. How? Domestic pig DNA is being wiped off “While it has been previously suggested that hybridization between rewilded swine and wild boars can contribute to population growth, this study demonstrates—through the analysis of a large-scale hybridization event following the Fukushima nuclear accident—that the rapid reproductive cycle of domestic swine is inherited through the maternal lineage,” Kaneko said in a statement. The team also noted that this is causing the domestic "pig" DNA to being purged. Because the hybrids breed so fast and back-cross with the surviving wild boars, the "wild" genes are winning the race. Also Read: Chernobyl disaster site has nothing growing, except this organism that is thriving on radiation Human absence leads nature to quickly take over Scientists say that the mechanism likely exists in other parts of the world as well, and they think it can help manage invasive species in places like Texas or Alberta. However, the biggest takeaway of this finding is that human absence leads nature to take over at breakneck speed. Evolution did not wait for the radiation to fade and instead sped up towards making a return to the wild.

“Ghost hogs” are running wild near the Fukushima nuclear plant. Their genes show an evolution that has jumped several generations because the wild boars mated with the domestic pigs. The finding shows how a world without humans fast forwards evolution.

The nuclear hogs of Fukushima have skipped generational evolution. Here's why

Everyone complaining that they are tired all the time, step aside. Only people currently in one particular decade of their life have the right to say, according to science. Researchers have found that the most exhausting period of our lives arrives after we turn 40. By this age, even though the body isn't as young as it was in your 20s, life's demands are still sky high. You still have kids to raise and work to do. So you have to do it all, but not be at your best. According to Professor Michelle Spear, an anatomist from the University of Bristol, it is not just about getting older, but is linked to several small biological changes happening together. She told Daily Mail that this "midlife fatigue" is a result of "mismatch between biology and demand".&nbsp;She says that even though our bodies are still producing energy at this age, it does not happen in the same way as in our 20s. It occurs "under different conditions than in earlier adulthood, while the demands placed on that energy often peak." However, she states that these biological imbalances, which drain our energy, are only temporary. But they are enough to leave us feeling tired and fatigued, more than at any other times of our lives. Spear added that in our 40s, we undergo a cellular change. In our 20s, mitochondria, the parts of our cells responsible for making energy, do so in a way that less of it is wasted and inflammatory by-products are not as much. So even if you do not exercise as much or sleep late, the body is not affected as much. However, the same activities in your 40s will have a detrimental effect because of the subtle physical changes that begin to occur.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/hot-flushes-anxiety-brain-fog-during-menopause-doctors-break-down-what-women-should-know-1769865297063">Menopause isn’t just hot flushes: Doctors break down what women should know</a><h2>More exercise, poor sleep quality, perimenopause — Endless list of problems</h2>So despite continuous energy production, we feel sapped because our body is using more of it. Strength training is one effective way to prevent muscle loss and mitigate the impact of this condition. Another aspect is the difference between how stress and less sleep impact us in our 40s as compared to 20s or 30s. Adding to the problem is the fact that getting a good night's sleep becomes difficult with age. So you need to sleep well to feel energetic, and yet sleep eludes you, making it a tough problem to navigate. Professor Spear says, "Hormonal changes, particularly fluctuating oestrogen and progesterone for women during perimenopause, directly affect the brain regions that regulate sleep depth and body temperature."&nbsp;Our body's stress response becomes more active with age, which leads to cortisol rising at night instead of falling, making us feel less rested. Along with all this, people in their 40s face a huge amount of cognitive and emotional load because of all the responsibilities. So you are physically and mentally drained because of all the work and your body is not supporting you. Spear added, "Midlife fatigue, in particular, often reflects cumulative load rather than ageing itself." &nbsp;

Scientists say the most tiring times in our lives arrive when we turn 40. This decade throws everything off balance. There are physical changes, stress, hormonal issues, poor sleep, low muscle strength, and yet the workload keeps increasing.

Everyone complaining that they are tired all the time, step aside. Only people currently in one particular decade of their life have the right to say, according to science. Researchers have found that the most exhausting period of our lives arrives after we turn 40. By this age, even though the body isn't as young as it was in your 20s, life's demands are still sky high. You still have kids to raise and work to do. So you have to do it all, but not be at your best. According to Professor Michelle Spear, an anatomist from the University of Bristol, it is not just about getting older, but is linked to several small biological changes happening together. She told Daily Mail that this "midlife fatigue" is a result of "mismatch between biology and demand". She says that even though our bodies are still producing energy at this age, it does not happen in the same way as in our 20s. It occurs "under different conditions than in earlier adulthood, while the demands placed on that energy often peak." However, she states that these biological imbalances, which drain our energy, are only temporary. But they are enough to leave us feeling tired and fatigued, more than at any other times of our lives. Spear added that in our 40s, we undergo a cellular change. In our 20s, mitochondria, the parts of our cells responsible for making energy, do so in a way that less of it is wasted and inflammatory by-products are not as much. So even if you do not exercise as much or sleep late, the body is not affected as much. However, the same activities in your 40s will have a detrimental effect because of the subtle physical changes that begin to occur. Also Read: Menopause isn’t just hot flushes: Doctors break down what women should know More exercise, poor sleep quality, perimenopause — Endless list of problems So despite continuous energy production, we feel sapped because our body is using more of it. Strength training is one effective way to prevent muscle loss and mitigate the impact of this condition. Another aspect is the difference between how stress and less sleep impact us in our 40s as compared to 20s or 30s. Adding to the problem is the fact that getting a good night's sleep becomes difficult with age. So you need to sleep well to feel energetic, and yet sleep eludes you, making it a tough problem to navigate. Professor Spear says, "Hormonal changes, particularly fluctuating oestrogen and progesterone for women during perimenopause, directly affect the brain regions that regulate sleep depth and body temperature." Our body's stress response becomes more active with age, which leads to cortisol rising at night instead of falling, making us feel less rested. Along with all this, people in their 40s face a huge amount of cognitive and emotional load because of all the responsibilities. So you are physically and mentally drained because of all the work and your body is not supporting you. Spear added, "Midlife fatigue, in particular, often reflects cumulative load rather than ageing itself."

Scientists say the most tiring times in our lives arrive when we turn 40. This decade throws everything off balance. There are physical changes, stress, hormonal issues, poor sleep, low muscle strength, and yet the workload keeps increasing.

EXHAUSTED in your 40s? You are the only ones who can rightfully complain, according to science

The shocking case surrounding the suicide of three minor sisters in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghaziabad has shaken the entire nation, with concerns raised about the online safety of minors and the popularity of Korean culture. On Tuesday (Feb 4), three girls, aged 16, 14 and 12, tragically died after jumping off the ninth floor of their residential building. The incident has opened broader debates after their obsession with Korean culture and online task-based game came to light.The diary left behind by them revealed disturbing details. They described their love for Korean culture and how much it mattered to them, adding that it was a huge part of their lives and they felt a strong emotional connection to the actors and music they followed.<h2>How do addictions build up in children?</h2>However, these addictions don’t build up overnight. Ananya Murkute, Counselling Psychologist at Cankids KidScan, explained how children can fall into a trap of any addiction. “Nowadays, most families are nuclear, where both parents are working and busy with their hectic schedules. In such scenarios, many parents are unable to spend quality time with their children. Because of this, children may end up feeling lonely,” she said.Murkute further explained, “To combat this loneliness, they fall into habits like playing games online, talking to strangers online, etc. These habits give their brains temporary dopamine (A chemical that makes humans feel happy). This vicious cycle of feeling lonely and then looking for temporary dopamine is how children fall into the trap of any addiction.”<h2>Are task-based games riskier?</h2>She highlighted how task-based games like the Korean Love Game, which the Ghaziabad sisters played, can be riskier than other games. She noted that these games do not differentiate between healthy and unhealthy tasks and can push children to complete the task to feel self-satisfied.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-death-would-be-better-ghaziabad-sisters-suicide-note-reveals-korean-obsession-beatings-1770274730080">‘Death would be better...’: Ghaziabad sisters’ suicide note reveals Korean obsession, beatings</a>“The human brain is actually designed to feel self-satisfied and fulfilled. These task-based games make children feel fulfilled when they complete a certain task,” she said. “These task-based games are dangerous because they do not differentiate between healthy and unhealthy tasks. As a result, our children, too, without thinking twice, just try to complete the task for that feeling of self-satisfaction.”<h2>How to identify patterns of online gaming addiction in children?</h2>While in many cases, like the recent case involving the three sisters, these addictions creep up quietly, there are certain signs that can help in identifying patterns of such dangerous addictions in children.According to Murkute that early signs may involve children playing games on mobile the whole day, and they are not able to function if they are not given access to mobiles. Another possible indicator may be that their self-esteem dips if they do not win in these games. Children prefer playing games instead of talking to people, and family in real life can also be an early warning sign.<h2>What can parents do?</h2>Murkute suggested what parents can do to prevent their children from falling into dangerous addictions. “Try to take out some time every day for your kids and let them know you are there for them. ⁠Do not create fear in them about parents. Instead, try to be friendly with them and let them know that they can share anything with you. Be emotionally present for them,” she said.“⁠Try to set a boundary around their screen time and have healthy discussions with them about why mobiles are not good for them. Try to channelise their energies into some hobby classes,” she added.

A tragic incident involving minors has reignited concerns over children’s online safety, gaming addiction and emotional isolation, highlighting the need for parental involvement, awareness and healthier digital boundaries.

The shocking case surrounding the suicide of three minor sisters in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghaziabad has shaken the entire nation, with concerns raised about the online safety of minors and the popularity of Korean culture. On Tuesday (Feb 4), three girls, aged 16, 14 and 12, tragically died after jumping off the ninth floor of their residential building. The incident has opened broader debates after their obsession with Korean culture and online task-based game came to light. The diary left behind by them revealed disturbing details. They described their love for Korean culture and how much it mattered to them, adding that it was a huge part of their lives and they felt a strong emotional connection to the actors and music they followed. How do addictions build up in children? However, these addictions don’t build up overnight. Ananya Murkute, Counselling Psychologist at Cankids KidScan, explained how children can fall into a trap of any addiction. “Nowadays, most families are nuclear, where both parents are working and busy with their hectic schedules. In such scenarios, many parents are unable to spend quality time with their children. Because of this, children may end up feeling lonely,” she said. Murkute further explained, “To combat this loneliness, they fall into habits like playing games online, talking to strangers online, etc. These habits give their brains temporary dopamine (A chemical that makes humans feel happy). This vicious cycle of feeling lonely and then looking for temporary dopamine is how children fall into the trap of any addiction.” Are task-based games riskier? She highlighted how task-based games like the Korean Love Game, which the Ghaziabad sisters played, can be riskier than other games. She noted that these games do not differentiate between healthy and unhealthy tasks and can push children to complete the task to feel self-satisfied. Also read | ‘Death would be better...’: Ghaziabad sisters’ suicide note reveals Korean obsession, beatings “The human brain is actually designed to feel self-satisfied and fulfilled. These task-based games make children feel fulfilled when they complete a certain task,” she said. “These task-based games are dangerous because they do not differentiate between healthy and unhealthy tasks. As a result, our children, too, without thinking twice, just try to complete the task for that feeling of self-satisfaction.” How to identify patterns of online gaming addiction in children? While in many cases, like the recent case involving the three sisters, these addictions creep up quietly, there are certain signs that can help in identifying patterns of such dangerous addictions in children. According to Murkute that early signs may involve children playing games on mobile the whole day, and they are not able to function if they are not given access to mobiles. Another possible indicator may be that their self-esteem dips if they do not win in these games. Children prefer playing games instead of talking to people, and family in real life can also be an early warning sign. What can parents do? Murkute suggested what parents can do to prevent their children from falling into dangerous addictions. “Try to take out some time every day for your kids and let them know you are there for them. ⁠Do not create fear in them about parents. Instead, try to be friendly with them and let them know that they can share anything with you. Be emotionally present for them,” she said. “⁠Try to set a boundary around their screen time and have healthy discussions with them about why mobiles are not good for them. Try to channelise their energies into some hobby classes,” she added.

A tragic incident involving minors has reignited concerns over children’s online safety, gaming addiction and emotional isolation, highlighting the need for parental involvement, awareness and healthier digital boundaries.

When online games turn deadly: What Ghaziabad sisters’ tragedy tells us about dark side of online gaming addiction

Scientists who set up camp on the Doomsday Glacier, officially known as the Thwaites Glacier, faced failure after their drilling instruments got stuck after reaching only about half a mile down the ice. The team of researchers had to get a drill to bore through the ice and faced a tight deadline. The task had to be achieved by February 7, since the ship that took them had to return to New Zealand on this day. However, all their efforts went in vain as the machinery could only reach three-quarters of its final destination, the New York Times reported. They intended to place instruments in the warming waters below the ice that is fast melting. Scientists are making efforts to learn about Thwaites as it is predicted to eventually drown the world's coastlines. The team was supposed to learn about the warming waters below the glacier, which is contributing to its withering away.&nbsp;To carve the hole, scientists and engineers first made a borehole around one foot in diameter. They then used hot water to reach about 3,300 feet deep into the ice. Constant application of hot water was needed to prevent the hole from refreezing, which is estimated to happen in just 48 hours. This happened last weekend, and the mission's success depended on securing the instruments in place by Monday (February 2). The weather was expected to worsen in the region this week, making helicopter operations difficult, leading to the team being stranded. They need to leave by February 7.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/major-catastrophe-unfolding-in-antarctica-as-hundreds-of-earthquakes-slam-doomsday-glacier-1767680441864">Major catastrophe unfolding in Antarctica as hundreds of earthquakes slam Doomsday Glacier</a><h2>First data gathered from Thwaites Glacier’s ‘main trunk’</h2>While they managed to dip and remove a set of pilot instruments, their main equipment got stuck in the ice before it could reach the end point. However, the good news is that the scientists collected first ever data from beneath the glacier’s "main trunk". They now have proof that the waters under the glacier are warm.Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/doomsday-thwaites-glacier-camp-study-melting-1769681591672"> Scientists set up camp on 'Doomsday Glacier', but they are on a tight deadline: Here is why it matters</a>&nbsp;Thwaites Glacier is predicted to collapse entirely by the early 22nd century. When this happens, global sea levels could rise by 10 feet. This occurrence is bound to happen, and scientists are racing to study the glacier before it disappears. Another study also noted that the glacier has been struck by 362 glacial earthquakes between 2010 and 2023, making it extremely unstable. Glacial earthquakes have been recorded in Greenland in the past, but they were hard to detect in Antarctica, according to the study published in Geophysical Research Letters

A team studying the Doomsday Glacier, or the Thwaites Glacier, faced a major setback when they could only drill about three-fourths of the intended distance. The plan was to place instruments at the bottom of the glacier, but harsh weather meant it could not happen.  

Scientists who set up camp on the Doomsday Glacier, officially known as the Thwaites Glacier, faced failure after their drilling instruments got stuck after reaching only about half a mile down the ice. The team of researchers had to get a drill to bore through the ice and faced a tight deadline. The task had to be achieved by February 7, since the ship that took them had to return to New Zealand on this day. However, all their efforts went in vain as the machinery could only reach three-quarters of its final destination, the New York Times reported. They intended to place instruments in the warming waters below the ice that is fast melting. Scientists are making efforts to learn about Thwaites as it is predicted to eventually drown the world's coastlines. The team was supposed to learn about the warming waters below the glacier, which is contributing to its withering away. To carve the hole, scientists and engineers first made a borehole around one foot in diameter. They then used hot water to reach about 3,300 feet deep into the ice. Constant application of hot water was needed to prevent the hole from refreezing, which is estimated to happen in just 48 hours. This happened last weekend, and the mission's success depended on securing the instruments in place by Monday (February 2). The weather was expected to worsen in the region this week, making helicopter operations difficult, leading to the team being stranded. They need to leave by February 7. Also Read: Major catastrophe unfolding in Antarctica as hundreds of earthquakes slam Doomsday Glacier First data gathered from Thwaites Glacier’s ‘main trunk’ While they managed to dip and remove a set of pilot instruments, their main equipment got stuck in the ice before it could reach the end point. However, the good news is that the scientists collected first ever data from beneath the glacier’s "main trunk". They now have proof that the waters under the glacier are warm. Also Read: Scientists set up camp on 'Doomsday Glacier', but they are on a tight deadline: Here is why it matters Thwaites Glacier is predicted to collapse entirely by the early 22nd century. When this happens, global sea levels could rise by 10 feet. This occurrence is bound to happen, and scientists are racing to study the glacier before it disappears. Another study also noted that the glacier has been struck by 362 glacial earthquakes between 2010 and 2023, making it extremely unstable. Glacial earthquakes have been recorded in Greenland in the past, but they were hard to detect in Antarctica, according to the study published in Geophysical Research Letters

A team studying the Doomsday Glacier, or the Thwaites Glacier, faced a major setback when they could only drill about three-fourths of the intended distance. The plan was to place instruments at the bottom of the glacier, but harsh weather meant it could not happen. &nbsp;

Scientists drilled 3,300 feet deep into Doomsday Glacier. It wasn't enough

Astronomers have identified a candidate exoplanet almost 146 light-years from Earth that has a striking resemblance to Earth. The planet has almost the same orbital path as our Earth and has a star which is astonishingly similar to our Sun. Among the 6000 or more exoplanets known to earth this has the most potential.&nbsp;<h2>How was the planet discovered?</h2>The planet was discovered by amateur researchers in the citizen science project "Planet Hunters." It went through archive data from the Kepler space telescope of the K2 mission, which monitored the brightness of more than 5000 stars between 2009 and 2018. They observed only a single transit in 2017: the star dimmed slightly for about 10 hours. Normally, several such transit is required. But the researchers are confident about the size and orbital period from the duration and depth of this single signal.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/epstein-files-jpmorgan-baal-occult-claims-explained-1770134864645">Epstein Files: JPMorgan wire transfer sparks online occult claims over ‘Baal’ reference</a><h2>Could this be another Earth?</h2>The planet identified as HD 137010 b has an orbit only six per cent larger than the Earth's and takes 355 days for one complete rotation. Its central star is also similar to our sun, only 1,000 degrees cooler and significantly less luminous. The planet receives less than a third of the energy that we receive from the sun. Its surface temperature is minus 68 to minus 70 degrees Celsius, which is more similar to Mars than a habitable Earth.<h2>Is it habitable?</h2>The exoplanet is placed at the outer edge of the habitable zone. In principle, liquid water could be possible at the orbit of the Earth. There is little information about the atmosphere of the new Earth; however, climate model shows that if the planet has a dense atmosphere with high carbon dioxide levels, a greenhouse effect could warm the surface and liquid water could be induced. Due to its short distance from its star, the planet would be an ideal candidate for future atmospheric analysis. This could focus on gases like oxygen or methane, which are considered possible indicators of life. But given its massive distance from our earth, it will take hundreds of thousands of years to reach the planet with the available technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Astronomers have identified an Earth-like exoplanet 146 light-years away with a similar orbit and a Sun-like star. Could it support life?

Astronomers have identified a candidate exoplanet almost 146 light-years from Earth that has a striking resemblance to Earth. The planet has almost the same orbital path as our Earth and has a star which is astonishingly similar to our Sun. Among the 6000 or more exoplanets known to earth this has the most potential. How was the planet discovered? The planet was discovered by amateur researchers in the citizen science project "Planet Hunters." It went through archive data from the Kepler space telescope of the K2 mission, which monitored the brightness of more than 5000 stars between 2009 and 2018. They observed only a single transit in 2017: the star dimmed slightly for about 10 hours. Normally, several such transit is required. But the researchers are confident about the size and orbital period from the duration and depth of this single signal.

The newly identified planet follows an orbit strikingly close to Earth’s and circles a star similar to the Sun, making it one of the most promising candidates yet.

Is this another Earth? Astronomers find Earth-like exoplanet 146 light-years away

The Indian Government's plan to enhance and promote Astrophysics and Astronomy would be executed at a cost of ₹3,600cr (approx $400), over a period of five years, said Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology(DST). This would include the setting up of two all-new ground-based telescopes, the upgradation of an existing ground-based telescope, and the setting up of a state-of-the-art planetarium. All these efforts, which are to be undertaken by the Indian Government's DST, are expected to materialise in five years. Together, these facilities will strengthen cutting-edge research, data dissemination, advanced training, and public outreach, said the Government. Elaborating on the plans, Karandikar said that the National Large Solar Telescope (NLST)at Merak, Ladakh will provide early access to critical solar data and, in synergy with ISRO's Aditya-L1 sun-observing satellite mission, will generate unique datasets vital for next-generation space-weather forecasting. The NLST is likely to cost between₹800-1,000cr. Aditya-L1 is a satellite that's meant to observe solar weather and related phenomena and is India's first satellite meant for the purpose.To be located at an altitude of 4,500 meters in the Himalayas, the National Large Optical–Near Infrared Telescope (NLOT) is expected to set new benchmarks for ground-based optical–infrared astronomy. Karandikar said that this would come up at a cost of ₹1,800cr. It would be based at Hanle, Ladakh, under pristine observing conditions.Further, the Himalayan Chandra Telescope at Hanle, Ladakh, would be upgraded. The telescope is based in a dry, cold desert with a sparse human population, with the ancient Hanle monastery as its nearest neighbour. The cloudless skies and low atmospheric water vapour make it one of the best sites in the world for optical, infrared, sub-millimetre, and millimetre wavelengths. In addition to this, a state-of-the-art 'Cosmos-2' planetarium capable of creating and projecting stunning visuals of the universe, both in real-time and from archival data, would be set up.

India will invest ₹3,600 crore over five years to boost astrophysics, building new telescopes in Ladakh, upgrading existing facilities, and setting up a state-of-the-art planetarium to advance research and outreach.

The Indian Government's plan to enhance and promote Astrophysics and Astronomy would be executed at a cost of ₹3,600cr (approx $400), over a period of five years, said Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology(DST). This would include the setting up of two all-new ground-based telescopes, the upgradation of an existing ground-based telescope, and the setting up of a state-of-the-art planetarium. All these efforts, which are to be undertaken by the Indian Government's DST, are expected to materialise in five years. Together, these facilities will strengthen cutting-edge research, data dissemination, advanced training, and public outreach, said the Government. Elaborating on the plans, Karandikar said that the National Large Solar Telescope (NLST) at Merak, Ladakh will provide early access to critical solar data and, in synergy with ISRO's Aditya-L1 sun-observing satellite mission, will generate unique datasets vital for next-generation space-weather forecasting. The NLST is likely to cost between₹800-1,000cr. Aditya-L1 is a satellite that's meant to observe solar weather and related phenomena and is India's first satellite meant for the purpose. To be located at an altitude of 4,500 meters in the Himalayas, the National Large Optical–Near Infrared Telescope (NLOT) is expected to set new benchmarks for ground-based optical–infrared astronomy. Karandikar said that this would come up at a cost of ₹1,800cr. It would be based at Hanle, Ladakh, under pristine observing conditions. Further, the Himalayan Chandra Telescope at Hanle, Ladakh, would be upgraded. The telescope is based in a dry, cold desert with a sparse human population, with the ancient Hanle monastery as its nearest neighbour. The cloudless skies and low atmospheric water vapour make it one of the best sites in the world for optical, infrared, sub-millimetre, and millimetre wavelengths. In addition to this, a state-of-the-art 'Cosmos-2' planetarium capable of creating and projecting stunning visuals of the universe, both in real-time and from archival data, would be set up.

India will invest ₹3,600 crore over five years to boost astrophysics, building new telescopes in Ladakh, upgrading existing facilities, and setting up a state-of-the-art planetarium to advance research and outreach.

At $400mn, India to establish telescopes to enhance astronomical observations

First, the mutant wolves of Chernobyl, then black mold and now bacteria - the common factor between these three is that they are all thriving in extremely radioactive environments. Scientists were stunned to see that grey wolves in the radioactive environment had undergone genetic adaptations that helped them not only survive but thrive. Then they found black mould growing on the walls. A discovery at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station in Japan has now shocked experts. Microbes have been found crawling in an environment that should not technically support life, Popular Mechanics reported. After the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, the plant had to shut down because of meltdowns. At the time, water seeped into radioactive waste and remained within the reactor buildings. A huge colony of microbes soon took over this region when nothing should have thrived. One would assume that these microbes probably have genetic resistance like the grey wolves of Chernobyl, which helped them live in such a hostile environment.<h2>No genetic variations, no special powers, but microbes thrived in radioactive water</h2>Shockingly, that is not the case. Biologists Tomoro Warashina and Akio Kanai from Keio University in Tokyo analysed the microbe samples taken from the highly radioactive water below the reactor building. They expected to find radiation-resistant microbial species, but surprisingly, found no radiation-resistant microbial species, and no signs of special genetic resistance to the harmful effects of radiation. Yet, they were thriving in the sludge. The microbiome they analysed had been exposed to persistent radiation. After checking the water for genetic markers of different microbes, Warashina and Kanai discovered bacteria from the Limnobacter and Brevirhabdus genera. The scientists also found a smaller amount of iron oxidisers from the Hoeflea and Sphinopyxis genera.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/organism-growing-on-walls-of-chernobyl-reactor-number-4-loves-radiation-scientists-space-travel-nuclear-disaster-1753160712875">Chernobyl disaster site has nothing growing, except this organism that is thriving on radiation</a> Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/dogs-in-chernobyl-suddenly-turned-blue-this-week-and-no-one-knows-why-they-were-not-1761634745979">Dogs in Chernobyl have suddenly turned blue, and no, it is not because of radiation</a><h2>What protected microbes against nuclear radiation?</h2>None of them had any resistance to radiation, but they were thriving in a toxic environment that would not have been suitable for any other forms of life. How were they doing it? The researchers reason that it could be because of the biofilms on the surfaces of metals. The mixture of emergency cooling water and seawater inside the torus room likely led to the formation of the biofilms. They theorised that the slime covering the bacterial masses could have offered them extra protection from radiation. “The proportions of bacterial genera known to be radiation resistant were extremely low, suggesting that the impact of radioactivity on selection within the torus room water was minimal,” they wrote.

Under the Fukushima Nuclear Power Station in Japan, something strange has been observed. The waters here are highly radioactive and so not suitable for any form of life. But scientists have observed an organism thriving in the nuclear environment.  

First, the mutant wolves of Chernobyl, then black mold and now bacteria - the common factor between these three is that they are all thriving in extremely radioactive environments. Scientists were stunned to see that grey wolves in the radioactive environment had undergone genetic adaptations that helped them not only survive but thrive. Then they found black mould growing on the walls. A discovery at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station in Japan has now shocked experts. Microbes have been found crawling in an environment that should not technically support life, Popular Mechanics reported. After the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, the plant had to shut down because of meltdowns. At the time, water seeped into radioactive waste and remained within the reactor buildings. A huge colony of microbes soon took over this region when nothing should have thrived. One would assume that these microbes probably have genetic resistance like the grey wolves of Chernobyl, which helped them live in such a hostile environment. No genetic variations, no special powers, but microbes thrived in radioactive water Shockingly, that is not the case. Biologists Tomoro Warashina and Akio Kanai from Keio University in Tokyo analysed the microbe samples taken from the highly radioactive water below the reactor building. They expected to find radiation-resistant microbial species, but surprisingly, found no radiation-resistant microbial species, and no signs of special genetic resistance to the harmful effects of radiation. Yet, they were thriving in the sludge. The microbiome they analysed had been exposed to persistent radiation. After checking the water for genetic markers of different microbes, Warashina and Kanai discovered bacteria from the Limnobacter and Brevirhabdus genera. The scientists also found a smaller amount of iron oxidisers from the Hoeflea and Sphinopyxis genera. Also Read: Chernobyl disaster site has nothing growing, except this organism that is thriving on radiation Also Read: Dogs in Chernobyl have suddenly turned blue, and no, it is not because of radiation What protected microbes against nuclear radiation? None of them had any resistance to radiation, but they were thriving in a toxic environment that would not have been suitable for any other forms of life. How were they doing it? The researchers reason that it could be because of the biofilms on the surfaces of metals. The mixture of emergency cooling water and seawater inside the torus room likely led to the formation of the biofilms. They theorised that the slime covering the bacterial masses could have offered them extra protection from radiation. “The proportions of bacterial genera known to be radiation resistant were extremely low, suggesting that the impact of radioactivity on selection within the torus room water was minimal,” they wrote.

Under the Fukushima Nuclear Power Station in Japan, something strange has been observed. The waters here are highly radioactive and so not suitable for any form of life. But scientists have observed an organism thriving in the nuclear environment. &nbsp;

No superpowers, yet something is thriving in Fukushima's radioactive water. How?

Why did humans stop going to the Moon after the Apollo missions ended? NASA did the unthinkable by putting not one, but 12 men on the Moon. However, in 1972, it ended the mission, and it was never revived until the Artemis mission. Why?

Lost tech or lost interest? The truth behind why humans haven't returned to the Moon

NASA fuelled up the Artemis 2 mission's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket on Monday (February 2) as part of a crucial test before Orion lifts off for the Moon. The space agency mission loaded the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with more than 700,000 gallons (2.65 million litres) of cryogenic liquid hydrogen (LH2) and liquid oxygen (LOX) on Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Florida. Artemis 2 is scheduled to lift off not before February 8. However, the test showed a leak. Can this push the launch date forward? The good news is that even though the teams had to stop loading LH2 into the SLS core stage twice to deal with leaks, they were able to fix the problem immediately. The fuelling test ran over two days, starting January 31 and ending with the fuelling of the rocket. The wet dress rehearsal won't be over till 1 am EST, as all the loaded-up fuel will then be drained out. NASA hasn't officially called the test a success, as the test is still going on. It will hold a press conference at 12 pm EST on Tuesday (February 3) and reveal the details of the fuelling test.<h2>What were the leaks in Artemis 2 SLS?</h2>NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch and Canada's Jeremy Hansen are set to go on a 10-day trip around the moon. The initial plan was to take off on February 6. But since the wet rehearsal was moved forward by two days because of bad weather, the actual launch date was also pushed ahead to February 8. The leaks weren't unexpected, as Artemis 1 had faced similar leaks, given how LH2 can seep out of even the tiniest of places. Artemis 1 was supposed to launch in the spring of 2022, but it finally lifted off in November. The mission successfully sent an uncrewed Orion capsule to lunar orbit and back to Earth. The mission forms the basis for Artemis 2 as it showed that the spacecraft and other hardware could handle the rigours of deep space.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/artemis-2-wet-launch-begins-nasa-kennedy-space-center-1769928410232">Artemis 2 wet launch begins at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center: Launch date, astronauts and other details</a><h2>Why Artemis 2 mission matters?</h2>Artemis 2 will take humans out of Earth's orbit for the first time in over 50 years. The mission is crucial as NASA aims to land astronauts on the lunar surface once again after a long gap. The Apollo missions proved to be a huge step for humanity as Neil Armstrong and others touched down on the Moon in 1969. The fuel test precedes the final launch as it offers a chance to check all systems. Cryogenic liquid hydrogen (LH2) has extremely tiny molecules which can leak from the smallest nook. The fuel test revealed that this could happen on the main day as well, and NASA engineers could troubleshoot it timely.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/an-american-flag-that-has-waited-56-years-to-go-to-space-finally-gets-its-chance-with-artemis-2-1769173675138">An American flag that has waited 56 years to go to space finally gets its chance with Artemis 2</a><h2>Why have humans never returned to the Moon after Apollo missions?</h2>However, ever since the Apollo mission ended, no one had ever returned to the Moon. This has been attributed to the loss of technology over the years, leading NASA to once again work on a robust mission. However, experts say the moon was never again on the radar. The political ambitions were fulfilled, a lot of lunar samples were collected, and NASA shifted its focus elsewhere. Besides, the Apollo mission cost billions of dollars. This Artemis 2 mission matters because humans are not only trying to build a colony on the Moon, but also use it as a base to launch towards Mars. A nuclear power reactor and a space station orbiting the Moon are in the plans, and will catapult humans towards exploring deep space like never before.

NASA Artemis 2 launch test: The wet rehearsal was carried out over two days, and the SLS rocket was loaded with fuel on the final day. It was a humongous task, which highlighted some problems with the rocket. Will Artemis 2 take off on February 8?

NASA fuelled up the Artemis 2 mission's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket on Monday (February 2) as part of a crucial test before Orion lifts off for the Moon. The space agency mission loaded the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with more than 700,000 gallons (2.65 million litres) of cryogenic liquid hydrogen (LH2) and liquid oxygen (LOX) on Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Florida. Artemis 2 is scheduled to lift off not before February 8. However, the test showed a leak. Can this push the launch date forward? The good news is that even though the teams had to stop loading LH2 into the SLS core stage twice to deal with leaks, they were able to fix the problem immediately. The fuelling test ran over two days, starting January 31 and ending with the fuelling of the rocket. The wet dress rehearsal won't be over till 1 am EST, as all the loaded-up fuel will then be drained out. NASA hasn't officially called the test a success, as the test is still going on. It will hold a press conference at 12 pm EST on Tuesday (February 3) and reveal the details of the fuelling test. What were the leaks in Artemis 2 SLS? NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch and Canada's Jeremy Hansen are set to go on a 10-day trip around the moon. The initial plan was to take off on February 6. But since the wet rehearsal was moved forward by two days because of bad weather, the actual launch date was also pushed ahead to February 8. The leaks weren't unexpected, as Artemis 1 had faced similar leaks, given how LH2 can seep out of even the tiniest of places. Artemis 1 was supposed to launch in the spring of 2022, but it finally lifted off in November. The mission successfully sent an uncrewed Orion capsule to lunar orbit and back to Earth. The mission forms the basis for Artemis 2 as it showed that the spacecraft and other hardware could handle the rigours of deep space. Also Read: Artemis 2 wet launch begins at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center: Launch date, astronauts and other details Why Artemis 2 mission matters? Artemis 2 will take humans out of Earth's orbit for the first time in over 50 years. The mission is crucial as NASA aims to land astronauts on the lunar surface once again after a long gap. The Apollo missions proved to be a huge step for humanity as Neil Armstrong and others touched down on the Moon in 1969. The fuel test precedes the final launch as it offers a chance to check all systems. Cryogenic liquid hydrogen (LH2) has extremely tiny molecules which can leak from the smallest nook. The fuel test revealed that this could happen on the main day as well, and NASA engineers could troubleshoot it timely. Also Read: An American flag that has waited 56 years to go to space finally gets its chance with Artemis 2 Why have humans never returned to the Moon after Apollo missions? However, ever since the Apollo mission ended, no one had ever returned to the Moon. This has been attributed to the loss of technology over the years, leading NASA to once again work on a robust mission. However, experts say the moon was never again on the radar. The political ambitions were fulfilled, a lot of lunar samples were collected, and NASA shifted its focus elsewhere. Besides, the Apollo mission cost billions of dollars. This Artemis 2 mission matters because humans are not only trying to build a colony on the Moon, but also use it as a base to launch towards Mars. A nuclear power reactor and a space station orbiting the Moon are in the plans, and will catapult humans towards exploring deep space like never before.

NASA Artemis 2 launch test: The wet rehearsal was carried out over two days, and the SLS rocket was loaded with fuel on the final day. It was a humongous task, which highlighted some problems with the rocket. Will Artemis 2 take off on February 8?

Artemis 2 wet rehearsal faces leaks: NASA loads 2.65mn litres fuel on rocket. Why the fuel test matters?

A high school student discovered more than 1.5 million unidentified space objects scanning data on a retired telescope, doing the unthinkable. The 18-year-old published his findings in 2024 in&nbsp;The Astronomical Journal, and his work has now been peer reviewed. It started as a project for the Caltech Planet Finder Academy. Under the program, students are able to work on and experience real-world astronomy challenges. Matteo Paz was given archival data from NASA's NEOWISE (Near-Earth Object Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer) telescope. He had access to over 200 billion rows of spreadsheets, but could not humanly study and analyse all of them. He had the choice to restrict his research to a small subset of data.<h2>Algorithm scanned NEOWISE data and revealed millions of objects</h2>However, he took it up a notch and built an algorithm to scan and process the archive. Paz developed a machine-learning pipeline in six weeks that automated ML training and deployments. His algorithm could accurately detect light sources that were too faint and changed so subtly that they could have never been picked up by the naked eye.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/monk-eilmer-of-malmesbury-saw-halley-comet-first-1769586208160">'You source of tears...': A monk saw the 76-year comet TWICE 600 years before Edmond Halley did</a>&nbsp;Paz's algorithm was so good that it started detecting the tiniest of flickering and pulsing. There were objects that were fading and then returning. These included binary stars (quasars). It ended up finding 1.5 million such cosmic objects that had never been seen before. His work was not only published, but he was also awarded $250K in the Regeneron Science Talent Search. Now scientists are wondering whether Paz's algorithm can be used to find such goldmines in the data of other telescopes that are no longer functioning. Kepler is one such telescope that was retired in the last decade, but contains a treasure trove of information, a lot of which remains to be scanned and studied.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-star-vanished-in-andromeda-galaxy-now-a-strange-red-source-is-puzzling-astronomers-1769174134762">A star vanished in Andromeda galaxy. Now a strange red source is puzzling astronomers</a><h2>NASA and telescope to detect asteroids</h2>NASA's NEOWISE telescope contains data spanning more than a decade. It was designed to find and measure asteroids and comets, and find anomalous objects in the solar system. The space telescope was launched in 2009 and discovered over 3,000 near-Earth objects (NEOs). It went momentarily out of service in 2011, before being revived in 2013 to identify hazardous asteroids. It was retired in August 2024. Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help identify many more cosmic objects, and the technology is already being applied to NASA's James Webb Space Telescope. &nbsp;

NASA telescopes have so much data that a huge amount of it remains to be analysed. A high school student found 1.5 million objects in the universe on just one telescope designed to find asteroids. His findings earned him $250K.

A high school student discovered more than 1.5 million unidentified space objects scanning data on a retired telescope, doing the unthinkable. The 18-year-old published his findings in 2024 in The Astronomical Journal, and his work has now been peer reviewed. It started as a project for the Caltech Planet Finder Academy. Under the program, students are able to work on and experience real-world astronomy challenges. Matteo Paz was given archival data from NASA's NEOWISE (Near-Earth Object Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer) telescope. He had access to over 200 billion rows of spreadsheets, but could not humanly study and analyse all of them. He had the choice to restrict his research to a small subset of data. Algorithm scanned NEOWISE data and revealed millions of objects However, he took it up a notch and built an algorithm to scan and process the archive. Paz developed a machine-learning pipeline in six weeks that automated ML training and deployments. His algorithm could accurately detect light sources that were too faint and changed so subtly that they could have never been picked up by the naked eye. Also Read: 'You source of tears...': A monk saw the 76-year comet TWICE 600 years before Edmond Halley did Paz's algorithm was so good that it started detecting the tiniest of flickering and pulsing. There were objects that were fading and then returning. These included binary stars (quasars). It ended up finding 1.5 million such cosmic objects that had never been seen before. His work was not only published, but he was also awarded $250K in the Regeneron Science Talent Search. Now scientists are wondering whether Paz's algorithm can be used to find such goldmines in the data of other telescopes that are no longer functioning. Kepler is one such telescope that was retired in the last decade, but contains a treasure trove of information, a lot of which remains to be scanned and studied. Also Read: A star vanished in Andromeda galaxy. Now a strange red source is puzzling astronomers NASA and telescope to detect asteroids NASA's NEOWISE telescope contains data spanning more than a decade. It was designed to find and measure asteroids and comets, and find anomalous objects in the solar system. The space telescope was launched in 2009 and discovered over 3,000 near-Earth objects (NEOs). It went momentarily out of service in 2011, before being revived in 2013 to identify hazardous asteroids. It was retired in August 2024. Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help identify many more cosmic objects, and the technology is already being applied to NASA's James Webb Space Telescope.

NASA telescopes have so much data that a huge amount of it remains to be analysed. A high school student found 1.5 million objects in the universe on just one telescope designed to find asteroids. His findings earned him $250K.

1.5mn cosmic objects detected on retired telescope using AI by high schooler. Why it matters

NASA has started preparations for the Artemis 2 mission, with a "wet rehearsal" scheduled for February 2. The space agency will conduct a mission countdown simulation, during which it will perform a critical fueling test for the Space Launch System rocket ahead of the actual launch. While the actual fuelling test takes place on Monday, work began at approximately 8 pm ET on January 31. This is because launch flight controllers and pad engineers are required to take control of their stations 49 hours before the T-0 "launch" time scheduled for 9 pm ET on Monday. The wet dress rehearsal was earlier scheduled to start on the night of January 29, but was delayed because of cold weather. This is the last major test SLS has to pass before a crew of four astronauts takes off for the Moon for the first time in over 50 years. However, the two-day delay in the simulation has also led to the actual launch being pushed forward by two days. Instead of the original date of February 6, the rocket will now be launched no earlier than February 8.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/nasa-artemis-ii-launch-date-announced-humanity-returns-to-the-moon-after-53-years-1768364901950">Artemis II launch date announced: Humanity returns to the Moon after 53 years</a><h2>Artemis 2 launch window and astronauts</h2>The first launch window for Artemis 2 starts February 8 and will last until February 11. The Artemis 2 fueling test is being conducted at Launch Pad 39A of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The actual launch will happen from Launch Pad 39B at the same centre. NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen will leave Earth's orbit for 10 days. They will board the Orion spacecraft and conduct a close flyby of the Moon to evaluate whether all equipment is working fine. Orion will then use the Moon's gravity to slingshot towards Earth.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/an-american-flag-that-has-waited-56-years-to-go-to-space-finally-gets-its-chance-with-artemis-2-1769173675138">An American flag that has waited 56 years to go to space finally gets its chance with Artemis 2</a><h2>Artemis 3 launch: Mission might not land humans on the Moon</h2>Artemis III is the actual planned landing mission that will be launched no earlier than mid-2027. However, NASA might have to alter its plans and may not land astronauts on the Moon. This is because of the heat shield issues on Orion and development delays in Starship. Due to valve problems in the spacecraft's life support system, Artemis III might turn into a crewed visit to the Lunar Gateway - a planned space station to be assembled in orbit around the Moon as part of the Artemis mission. The Gateway will serve as a communications hub, science laboratory, and habitation module for crews exploring the lunar surface. &nbsp;

Artemis 2 wet launch started on January 31 night,  with the countdown clock beginning at 8:13 pm EST, or L-48 hours. A simulated launch window opens at 9 pm on Monday, February 2. Artemis 2 will take off not before February 8.

NASA has started preparations for the Artemis 2 mission, with a "wet rehearsal" scheduled for February 2. The space agency will conduct a mission countdown simulation, during which it will perform a critical fueling test for the Space Launch System rocket ahead of the actual launch. While the actual fuelling test takes place on Monday, work began at approximately 8 pm ET on January 31. This is because launch flight controllers and pad engineers are required to take control of their stations 49 hours before the T-0 "launch" time scheduled for 9 pm ET on Monday. The wet dress rehearsal was earlier scheduled to start on the night of January 29, but was delayed because of cold weather. This is the last major test SLS has to pass before a crew of four astronauts takes off for the Moon for the first time in over 50 years. However, the two-day delay in the simulation has also led to the actual launch being pushed forward by two days. Instead of the original date of February 6, the rocket will now be launched no earlier than February 8. Also Read: Artemis II launch date announced: Humanity returns to the Moon after 53 years Artemis 2 launch window and astronauts The first launch window for Artemis 2 starts February 8 and will last until February 11. The Artemis 2 fueling test is being conducted at Launch Pad 39A of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The actual launch will happen from Launch Pad 39B at the same centre. NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen will leave Earth's orbit for 10 days. They will board the Orion spacecraft and conduct a close flyby of the Moon to evaluate whether all equipment is working fine. Orion will then use the Moon's gravity to slingshot towards Earth. Also Read: An American flag that has waited 56 years to go to space finally gets its chance with Artemis 2 Artemis 3 launch: Mission might not land humans on the Moon Artemis III is the actual planned landing mission that will be launched no earlier than mid-2027. However, NASA might have to alter its plans and may not land astronauts on the Moon. This is because of the heat shield issues on Orion and development delays in Starship. Due to valve problems in the spacecraft's life support system, Artemis III might turn into a crewed visit to the Lunar Gateway - a planned space station to be assembled in orbit around the Moon as part of the Artemis mission. The Gateway will serve as a communications hub, science laboratory, and habitation module for crews exploring the lunar surface.

Artemis 2 wet launch started on January 31 night, &nbsp;with the countdown clock beginning at 8:13 pm EST, or L-48 hours. A simulated launch window opens at 9 pm on Monday, February 2. Artemis 2 will take off not before February 8.

Artemis 2 wet launch begins at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center: Launch date, astronauts and other details

Researchers from the University of Adelaide have discovered that Central Asia’s mountain ranges owed their formation to the ancient Tethys Ocean, which disappeared millions of years ago. The study published in Communications Earth &amp; Environment states that this vast body of water worked together with local tectonic collisions to set the stage for the Himalayas and other major mountain ranges. It underlines the findings that ancient oceanic subductions played a major role in sculpting continents. The Tethys Ocean stretched between massive continental plates and contributed to shaping Eurasia’s internal structure, according to the study. During the Meso-Cenozoic era, the ocean slowly closed. Massive continental plates of Gondwana (including India and Africa) and Eurasia collided, and the ocean vanished. The resulting tectonic pressure did not just create the Himalayas, but also reactivated ancient fault lines far into the interior of the continent.&nbsp;The study shows that ancient oceanic subductions, even though extremely far from Asia, influenced the formation of the continent. This proves that Earth's systems are interconnected way beyond what is visible. The mountain valleys formed resembled the modern Basin-and-Range Province of the western United States, and were the backdrop for dinosaurs. "During the Cretaceous period, dinosaurs would have seen a mountainous landscape as well, similar to the present-day Basin-and-Range Province in the western USA," Stijn Gloriem, co-author of the study, said.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-keeps-the-mighty-himalayas-aloft-study-debunks-100-year-old-theory-1759145723932">Himalayas are not standing on Indian and Eurasian plates alone, as a secret third layer is revealed</a><h2>Climate change and mantle processes did not influence Central Asia much</h2>As older geological sutures were activated, &nbsp;a network of ridges and basins was formed millions of years before the Himalayas were born. Scientists say that their findings prove that Central Asia did not form simply from tectonic collisions, mantle convection, and climate change. “We found that climate change and mantle processes had only a little influence on the Central Asian landscape, which persisted in an arid climate for much of the last 250 million years,” Dr Sam Boone, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Adelaide and lead author of the study, said.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/lost-continent-discovered-under-antarctica-and-india-8872820">Pieces of lost continent found under Antarctica and India point to one thing</a>&nbsp;Gloriem stressed that these ancient landscapes formed the basis of the modern mountains we see today. "It is thought that the extension in the Tethys, due to roll-back of subducting slabs of ocean crust, reactivated old suture zones into a series of roughly parallel ridges in Central Asia, up to thousands of kilometres away from the Himalaya collision zone," he said. &nbsp;

The study by the University of Adelaide has found that an ocean completely closed up 100 million years ago and triggered the formation of Asia, and set the stage for mountain ranges like the Himalayas. 

Researchers from the University of Adelaide have discovered that Central Asia’s mountain ranges owed their formation to the ancient Tethys Ocean, which disappeared millions of years ago. The study published in Communications Earth & Environment states that this vast body of water worked together with local tectonic collisions to set the stage for the Himalayas and other major mountain ranges. It underlines the findings that ancient oceanic subductions played a major role in sculpting continents. The Tethys Ocean stretched between massive continental plates and contributed to shaping Eurasia’s internal structure, according to the study. During the Meso-Cenozoic era, the ocean slowly closed. Massive continental plates of Gondwana (including India and Africa) and Eurasia collided, and the ocean vanished. The resulting tectonic pressure did not just create the Himalayas, but also reactivated ancient fault lines far into the interior of the continent. The study shows that ancient oceanic subductions, even though extremely far from Asia, influenced the formation of the continent. This proves that Earth's systems are interconnected way beyond what is visible. The mountain valleys formed resembled the modern Basin-and-Range Province of the western United States, and were the backdrop for dinosaurs. "During the Cretaceous period, dinosaurs would have seen a mountainous landscape as well, similar to the present-day Basin-and-Range Province in the western USA," Stijn Gloriem, co-author of the study, said. Also Read: Himalayas are not standing on Indian and Eurasian plates alone, as a secret third layer is revealed Climate change and mantle processes did not influence Central Asia much As older geological sutures were activated, a network of ridges and basins was formed millions of years before the Himalayas were born. Scientists say that their findings prove that Central Asia did not form simply from tectonic collisions, mantle convection, and climate change. “We found that climate change and mantle processes had only a little influence on the Central Asian landscape, which persisted in an arid climate for much of the last 250 million years,” Dr Sam Boone, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Adelaide and lead author of the study, said. Also Read: Pieces of lost continent found under Antarctica and India point to one thing Gloriem stressed that these ancient landscapes formed the basis of the modern mountains we see today. "It is thought that the extension in the Tethys, due to roll-back of subducting slabs of ocean crust, reactivated old suture zones into a series of roughly parallel ridges in Central Asia, up to thousands of kilometres away from the Himalaya collision zone," he said.

The study by the University of Adelaide has found that an ocean completely closed up 100 million years ago and triggered the formation of Asia, and set the stage for mountain ranges like the Himalayas.&nbsp;

Ocean lost to time millions of years ago shaped Asia long before the Himalayas

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Ocean lost to time millions of years ago shaped Asia long before the Himalayas