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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.

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?

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

The Supreme Court of India has held that administering stem cell therapy for the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is unethical and amounts to medical malpractice if it is outside an approved and monitored clinical trial. A bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan ruled that stem cell therapy is not recognised as a sound and relevant medical practice due to the lack of scientific support and empirical evidence on its efficacy.“Therefore, every use of stem cells in patients outside an approved clinical trial is unethical and shall be considered as malpractice,” the Supreme Court ruled.The stem cell therapy is permissible only for approved and monitored clinical trials with the intent to advance science, the bench added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-powell-says-unnecessary-high-interest-rates-hurting-economy-national-security-1769702026051">Trump slams Powell, says unnecessary high interest rates hurting economy, national security</a><h2>‘Mere classification of stem cells as drugs not enough’</h2>&nbsp;The court also made it clear that the mere classification of stem cells as “drugs” under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, does not make their therapeutic use for autism permissible as a clinical service.“Although the stem cells administered for therapeutic use in ASD are characterised as drugs under the Drugs Act, 1940, the same by itself is not determinative of the fact that it is permissible to be administered as a clinical service,” the bench said.If doctors offer such treatment as a routine clinical service, they fail to meet the reasonable standard of care owed to patients.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/economic-survey-flags-rising-digital-addiction-among-kids-youth-in-india-will-govt-put-curbs-1769688736105">Economic Survey flags rising digital addiction among kids, youth in India. Will govt put curbs?</a><h2>‘Every medical practitioner owes a duty to…’</h2>&nbsp;The bench observed that every medical practitioner owes a duty to exercise a reasonable degree of care, skill and knowledge expected of a prudent practitioner in the field.&nbsp;It further said that this standard is breached when doctors administer interventions that lack credible scientific backing or are expressly discouraged by authoritative medical bodies.“A medical practitioner cannot be said to meet the standard of reasonable care if he administers an intervention that lacks credible scientific evidence of safety and efficacy or where authoritative medical bodies unequivocally state that such a form of treatment is not recommended,” the judgment said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/menstrual-hygiene-is-fundamental-right-supreme-court-orders-free-pads-for-school-girls-1769770333164">Menstrual hygiene is fundamental right: Supreme Court orders free pads for school girls</a><h2>‘Consent invalid if it is not based on…’</h2>&nbsp;After examining the recommendations of the Ethics and Medical Registration Board of the National Medical Commission dated December 6, 2022, read with the Ethical Guidelines for Biomedical and Social Science Research, the National Guidelines for Stem Cell Research, 2017, and the National Ethical Guidelines formulated by the Indian Council of Medical Research, the court noted that these documents clearly state that stem cell therapy for autism is not recognised as a sound or relevant medical practice.“It is categorically mentioned therein that any stem cell use in patients must only be done within the purview of an approved and monitored clinical trial with the intent to advance science and medicine and not offering it as therapy,” the bench said.&nbsp;The court also held that consent is invalid if it is not based on adequate and credible scientific information.The court noted that offering a choice between no treatment and an unproven therapy does not amount to valid consent, especially when families are emotionally vulnerable.

The court said that consent is invalid if it is not based on adequate and credible scientific information, and it further noted that offering a choice between no treatment and an unproven therapy does not amount to valid consent, especially when families are emotionally vulnerable.

The Supreme Court of India has held that administering stem cell therapy for the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is unethical and amounts to medical malpractice if it is outside an approved and monitored clinical trial. A bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan ruled that stem cell therapy is not recognised as a sound and relevant medical practice due to the lack of scientific support and empirical evidence on its efficacy. “Therefore, every use of stem cells in patients outside an approved clinical trial is unethical and shall be considered as malpractice,” the Supreme Court ruled. The stem cell therapy is permissible only for approved and monitored clinical trials with the intent to advance science, the bench added. Also Read: Trump slams Powell, says unnecessary high interest rates hurting economy, national security ‘Mere classification of stem cells as drugs not enough’ The court also made it clear that the mere classification of stem cells as “drugs” under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, does not make their therapeutic use for autism permissible as a clinical service. “Although the stem cells administered for therapeutic use in ASD are characterised as drugs under the Drugs Act, 1940, the same by itself is not determinative of the fact that it is permissible to be administered as a clinical service,” the bench said. If doctors offer such treatment as a routine clinical service, they fail to meet the reasonable standard of care owed to patients. Also Read: Economic Survey flags rising digital addiction among kids, youth in India. Will govt put curbs? ‘Every medical practitioner owes a duty to…’ The bench observed that every medical practitioner owes a duty to exercise a reasonable degree of care, skill and knowledge expected of a prudent practitioner in the field. It further said that this standard is breached when doctors administer interventions that lack credible scientific backing or are expressly discouraged by authoritative medical bodies. “A medical practitioner cannot be said to meet the standard of reasonable care if he administers an intervention that lacks credible scientific evidence of safety and efficacy or where authoritative medical bodies unequivocally state that such a form of treatment is not recommended,” the judgment said. Also Read: Menstrual hygiene is fundamental right: Supreme Court orders free pads for school girls ‘Consent invalid if it is not based on…’ After examining the recommendations of the Ethics and Medical Registration Board of the National Medical Commission dated December 6, 2022, read with the Ethical Guidelines for Biomedical and Social Science Research, the National Guidelines for Stem Cell Research, 2017, and the National Ethical Guidelines formulated by the Indian Council of Medical Research, the court noted that these documents clearly state that stem cell therapy for autism is not recognised as a sound or relevant medical practice. “It is categorically mentioned therein that any stem cell use in patients must only be done within the purview of an approved and monitored clinical trial with the intent to advance science and medicine and not offering it as therapy,” the bench said. The court also held that consent is invalid if it is not based on adequate and credible scientific information. The court noted that offering a choice between no treatment and an unproven therapy does not amount to valid consent, especially when families are emotionally vulnerable.

The court said that consent is invalid if it is not based on adequate and credible scientific information, and it further noted that offering a choice between no treatment and an unproven therapy does not amount to valid consent, especially when families are emotionally vulnerable.

‘Stem cell therapy for autism is unethical, medical malpractice,’ says Supreme Court

Russian scientists at Troitsk Institute are testing a propulsion system, a prototype plasma rocket engine for deep space exploration. This is not a conventional chemical rocket; it uses plasma, accelerated by electromagnetic fields, to generate continuous thrust. The engine is being developed by Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom. It could reduce the interplanetary travel time from several months to less than a month.<h2>Plasma rockets vs chemical rockets</h2>Plasma rockets are fundamentally different from conventional chemical rockets. For hundreds of years, space exploration has depended on chemical rockets. Chemical rockets pack fuel into a tank and combust it for thrust the rocket upwards. The method is destructive. It is brute force, not elegance, an idea born out of necessity, not imagination. Each rocket consumes a gigantic amount of energy. The system has its drawbacks, such as burning an excessive amount of fuel for long missions.&nbsp;Plasma rockets, on the other hand has high fuel efficiency; they rely on electromagnetic fields to accelerate charged hydrogen particles, requiring less than 1/10 of the original fuel required. The field has gained increased attention from scientists. Contrary to chemical rockets, Plasma rockets generate much lower thrusts but can travel for a longer duration, gradually building up a higher speed that can travel for a longer duration. If the Russian system reaches a longer distance, then it will have significant implications for space exploration. Plasma rockets require an onboard nuclear reactor to provide a constant energy supply. The expectation is that in space, there is abundant hydrogen, so it will be useful for SITU refuelling.&nbsp;<h2>What is the Russian Media claiming about the plasma engine?</h2>The prototype engine is currently being tested inside a 14m long vacuum chamber designed to simulate space conditions. According to the Russian newspaper Izvestia, the engine operates at a power level of 300 kilowatts in a pulsed periodic mode and has demonstrated a lifespan of 2,400 hours, which would be enough for a Mars travel, including the acceleration and deceleration phase. Researchers claim that the engine accelerates charged hydrogen particles, including protons and electrons, to speeds reaching 100 km per second, compared to the exhaust velocities of 4.5 km per second of a traditional rocket.&nbsp;However, plasma engines already exist on many satellites in orbits, including systems on OneWeb aircraft and NASA’s Psyche mission launched in 2023. Most of them have an exhaust velocity of 30-50 km per second. The Russian claim of 100 km per second marks a significant step forward.&nbsp;

Russian scientists are testing a plasma rocket engine that uses electromagnetic fields instead of fuel combustion, potentially cutting Mars travel time to under a month.

Russian scientists at Troitsk Institute are testing a propulsion system, a prototype plasma rocket engine for deep space exploration. This is not a conventional chemical rocket; it uses plasma, accelerated by electromagnetic fields, to generate continuous thrust. The engine is being developed by Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom. It could reduce the interplanetary travel time from several months to less than a month. Plasma rockets vs chemical rockets Plasma rockets are fundamentally different from conventional chemical rockets. For hundreds of years, space exploration has depended on chemical rockets. Chemical rockets pack fuel into a tank and combust it for thrust the rocket upwards. The method is destructive. It is brute force, not elegance, an idea born out of necessity, not imagination. Each rocket consumes a gigantic amount of energy. The system has its drawbacks, such as burning an excessive amount of fuel for long missions. Plasma rockets, on the other hand has high fuel efficiency; they rely on electromagnetic fields to accelerate charged hydrogen particles, requiring less than 1/10 of the original fuel required. The field has gained increased attention from scientists. Contrary to chemical rockets, Plasma rockets generate much lower thrusts but can travel for a longer duration, gradually building up a higher speed that can travel for a longer duration. If the Russian system reaches a longer distance, then it will have significant implications for space exploration. Plasma rockets require an onboard nuclear reactor to provide a constant energy supply. The expectation is that in space, there is abundant hydrogen, so it will be useful for SITU refuelling. What is the Russian Media claiming about the plasma engine? The prototype engine is currently being tested inside a 14m long vacuum chamber designed to simulate space conditions. According to the Russian newspaper Izvestia, the engine operates at a power level of 300 kilowatts in a pulsed periodic mode and has demonstrated a lifespan of 2,400 hours, which would be enough for a Mars travel, including the acceleration and deceleration phase. Researchers claim that the engine accelerates charged hydrogen particles, including protons and electrons, to speeds reaching 100 km per second, compared to the exhaust velocities of 4.5 km per second of a traditional rocket. However, plasma engines already exist on many satellites in orbits, including systems on OneWeb aircraft and NASA’s Psyche mission launched in 2023. Most of them have an exhaust velocity of 30-50 km per second. The Russian claim of 100 km per second marks a significant step forward.

Russian scientists are testing a plasma rocket engine that uses electromagnetic fields instead of fuel combustion, potentially cutting Mars travel time to under a month.

Russian scientists test plasma engine that could cut Mars travel to about 30 Days

Polar Bears are getting fatter as the ice in the arctics are melting quickly, and scientists suggest “a fat bear is a healthy bear”. This observation is contrary to the earlier notion that shrinking ice caps put them at risk of losing their habitat. At least in the Svalbard region, scientists have observed that Polar Bears are getting enough carbs to gain body fat.&nbsp;The Barents Sea has experienced a greater increase in temperature than any other region in the Arctic in the past four decades. It is a shallow marginal sea of the Arctic Ocean that borders the Svalbard archipelago. The area has lost sea habitat twice as fast as any other area in the Arctic.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-helicopters-forest-fire-anjaw-arunachal-pradesh-1769751495066">Indian Air Force's Mi-17V5 helicopters dropped 12,000 litres of water in the rarefied Himalayan air</a>"And I would have expected to see a decline in body condition when the loss of sea ice has been so profound," said Jon Aars.Jon Aars, a scientist at the Norwegian Polar Institute have tracked and measured 770 adult polar bears in Svalbard between 1992 and 2019 have seen that they have become plumper by feasting on land-based prey such as reindeer and walruses, species that had recovered after being over-exploited by humans. He reasoned that warmer temperatures have also made it easier for the polar bear to hunt, as seals have smaller areas of sea ice available to them, often gathering collectively in those areas, providing a hunting ground for them. Researchers have also found that melting ice is pushing polar bears to get creative on land.&nbsp;“Some of them would be on land as much as 90% of the time now, which is a lot,” said Jon Aars.&nbsp;However, the similar dynamics can not be attributed to polar bears in Hudson Bay, north-eastern Canada. Sarah Cubaynes, a researcher at the French environmental research centre, has said that the Svalbard findings are surprising as polar bears in other regions have greatly lost their body mass.&nbsp;

Scientists studying polar bears in Norway’s Svalbard region found them fat and healthy despite rapid Arctic ice loss, challenging climate assumptions.

Polar Bears are getting fatter as the ice in the arctics are melting quickly, and scientists suggest “a fat bear is a healthy bear”. This observation is contrary to the earlier notion that shrinking ice caps put them at risk of losing their habitat. At least in the Svalbard region, scientists have observed that Polar Bears are getting enough carbs to gain body fat. The Barents Sea has experienced a greater increase in temperature than any other region in the Arctic in the past four decades. It is a shallow marginal sea of the Arctic Ocean that borders the Svalbard archipelago. The area has lost sea habitat twice as fast as any other area in the Arctic. Also Read: Indian Air Force's Mi-17V5 helicopters dropped 12,000 litres of water in the rarefied Himalayan air "And I would have expected to see a decline in body condition when the loss of sea ice has been so profound," said Jon Aars. Jon Aars, a scientist at the Norwegian Polar Institute have tracked and measured 770 adult polar bears in Svalbard between 1992 and 2019 have seen that they have become plumper by feasting on land-based prey such as reindeer and walruses, species that had recovered after being over-exploited by humans. He reasoned that warmer temperatures have also made it easier for the polar bear to hunt, as seals have smaller areas of sea ice available to them, often gathering collectively in those areas, providing a hunting ground for them. Researchers have also found that melting ice is pushing polar bears to get creative on land. “Some of them would be on land as much as 90% of the time now, which is a lot,” said Jon Aars. However, the similar dynamics can not be attributed to polar bears in Hudson Bay, north-eastern Canada. Sarah Cubaynes, a researcher at the French environmental research centre, has said that the Svalbard findings are surprising as polar bears in other regions have greatly lost their body mass.

Scientists studying polar bears in Norway’s Svalbard region found them fat and healthy despite rapid Arctic ice loss, challenging climate assumptions.

Polar bears in Norway found fat and healthy despite rapid Arctic ice loss

Thwaites Glacier, also known as the Doomsday Glacier, can produce underwater tsunamis ranging from 30 to more than 300 feet, according to researchers. This happens when glaciers collapse, creating a wave that could reach extreme heights. We know that iceberg calving happens, but what happens underneath the water at this time? "These big underwater waves, with amplitudes of 10s to possibly hundreds of meters, what that can do is mix deep water with water closer to the surface. We have to understand that in order to make those better predictions about sea ice melt,” said British Antarctic Survey (BAS) Oceanographer Dr Alex Brearley.&nbsp;&nbsp;Scientists are using underwater torpedo drones to observe the occurrences under the glaciers. When calving events happen in the Thwaites Glacier, underwater tsunamis are triggered. These tsunamis are speeding up the mixing of cold and warm waters, rising sea levels, etc. All of which could be an indicator of what’s to come, should environmental catastrophe strike.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/doomsday-gets-closer-cracks-on-thwaites-glacier-have-doubled-in-two-decades-1766981007538">Doomsday gets closer: Cracks on Thwaites Glacier have doubled in two decades</a><h2>Why does this matter?</h2> These underwater tsunamis are dangerous because they mix warm and cold water. As the ocean churns, deep, warm water moves upwards to the surface. This warm water slams into the bottom of the glacier and the surrounding sea ice. This causes the ice to melt much faster than scientists previously predicted.<h2>Doomsday Glacier and sea level rise</h2> Thwaites Glacier is a major risk to the world's coastlines. Studies estimate that if it collapses entirely, it could raise global sea levels by about two feet. This event could then act as a catalyst and cause the rest of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet to fall as well, raising sea levels by 10 feet<h2>How are they studying it?</h2> Humans can't study these tsunamis closely. So scientists are using underwater "torpedo" drones to measure the waves caused by the calving events. These hidden "underwater tsunamis" are a newly discovered gear in the climate change machine that is accelerating how fast our oceans are rising. &nbsp;

 Doomsday Glacier is producing underwater tsunamis, which are not easy to study. Scientists have found a way to observe and analyse them. As the glacier melts, more of these waves will occur. How is it changing?

Thwaites Glacier, also known as the Doomsday Glacier, can produce underwater tsunamis ranging from 30 to more than 300 feet, according to researchers. This happens when glaciers collapse, creating a wave that could reach extreme heights. We know that iceberg calving happens, but what happens underneath the water at this time? "These big underwater waves, with amplitudes of 10s to possibly hundreds of meters, what that can do is mix deep water with water closer to the surface. We have to understand that in order to make those better predictions about sea ice melt,” said British Antarctic Survey (BAS) Oceanographer Dr Alex Brearley. Scientists are using underwater torpedo drones to observe the occurrences under the glaciers. When calving events happen in the Thwaites Glacier, underwater tsunamis are triggered. These tsunamis are speeding up the mixing of cold and warm waters, rising sea levels, etc. All of which could be an indicator of what’s to come, should environmental catastrophe strike. Also Read: Doomsday gets closer: Cracks on Thwaites Glacier have doubled in two decades Why does this matter? These underwater tsunamis are dangerous because they mix warm and cold water. As the ocean churns, deep, warm water moves upwards to the surface. This warm water slams into the bottom of the glacier and the surrounding sea ice. This causes the ice to melt much faster than scientists previously predicted. Doomsday Glacier and sea level rise Thwaites Glacier is a major risk to the world's coastlines. Studies estimate that if it collapses entirely, it could raise global sea levels by about two feet. This event could then act as a catalyst and cause the rest of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet to fall as well, raising sea levels by 10 feet How are they studying it? Humans can't study these tsunamis closely. So scientists are using underwater "torpedo" drones to measure the waves caused by the calving events. These hidden "underwater tsunamis" are a newly discovered gear in the climate change machine that is accelerating how fast our oceans are rising.

Doomsday Glacier is producing underwater tsunamis, which are not easy to study. Scientists have found a way to observe and analyse them. As the glacier melts, more of these waves will occur. How is it changing?

300 foot underwater tsunamis triggered by Doomsday Glacier threaten the world

Scientists have managed to establish human presence on the Thwaites Glacier to understand everything about it before it vanishes. Also known as Doomsday Glacier, Thwaites is melting extremely fast and is estimated to disappear fully by the early 22nd century. The New York Times reported, that a camp was set up on the glacier on January 19, with roughly 17 tons of gear and drilling personnel ready to look deep inside it. The expedition aims to drill a hole in the ice and place instruments in the warming ocean waters below. This will reveal to the world how the sea is slowly killing the massive glacier. The program will continue for the next few weeks and won't be an easy one. Reaching the glacier was itself an arduous affair because of the weather. Although the researchers reached Thwaites earlier this month, helicopters from the ship could not land them on the glacier because of the invisibility caused by the clouds over the ice. But a lucky break in the weather allowed them to land cargo and erect a campsite.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>Setting camp on Thwaites Glacier - Why it matters</h2>The 10-member team does not have a lot of time on Thwaites and must battle the bad weather to finish their task - place monitoring equipment inside the glacier. Their ship, Araon, needs to leave for New Zealand by February 7 as it has another Antarctic voyage to take. Setting up on the glacier would have taken a week, which leaves them with only about 10-12 days. One of the team members told the outlet that it is important to stay safe, and they are hopeful of returning with "some hard-hitting scientific results that speak about our planet." If the scientists are successful in placing the equipment, they would be able to gather data on the sea temperature and the thinning ice remotely.<h2>What will happen if Doomsday Glacier collapses</h2>If the Doomsday Glacier collapses entirely, global sea levels could rise by 10 feet. Fresh studies have also shown that the glacier has been struck by hundreds of iceberg earthquakes between 2010 and 2023, making it extremely unstable. According to a study published in Geophysical Research Letters, 362 glacial earthquakes were recorded in Antarctica during this time period, and 245 of them slammed the Doomsday Glacier. Such tremors, known as glacial earthquakes, were first detected in 2003 along the coast of Greenland. They occur when large icebergs collapse. Scientists assumed that they were happening in Antarctica, but their lower magnitude made them hard to detect.&nbsp;

Thwaites, or the 'Doomsday Glacier' is melting away. Scientists have set up a campsite complete with bathrooms and other amenities on the glacier and will install equipment deep inside the ice. They need to do this before February 7.

Scientists have managed to establish human presence on the Thwaites Glacier to understand everything about it before it vanishes. Also known as Doomsday Glacier, Thwaites is melting extremely fast and is estimated to disappear fully by the early 22nd century. The New York Times reported, that a camp was set up on the glacier on January 19, with roughly 17 tons of gear and drilling personnel ready to look deep inside it. The expedition aims to drill a hole in the ice and place instruments in the warming ocean waters below. This will reveal to the world how the sea is slowly killing the massive glacier. The program will continue for the next few weeks and won't be an easy one. Reaching the glacier was itself an arduous affair because of the weather. Although the researchers reached Thwaites earlier this month, helicopters from the ship could not land them on the glacier because of the invisibility caused by the clouds over the ice. But a lucky break in the weather allowed them to land cargo and erect a campsite. Also Read: Major catastrophe unfolding in Antarctica as hundreds of earthquakes slam Doomsday Glacier Setting camp on Thwaites Glacier - Why it matters The 10-member team does not have a lot of time on Thwaites and must battle the bad weather to finish their task - place monitoring equipment inside the glacier. Their ship, Araon, needs to leave for New Zealand by February 7 as it has another Antarctic voyage to take. Setting up on the glacier would have taken a week, which leaves them with only about 10-12 days. One of the team members told the outlet that it is important to stay safe, and they are hopeful of returning with "some hard-hitting scientific results that speak about our planet." If the scientists are successful in placing the equipment, they would be able to gather data on the sea temperature and the thinning ice remotely. What will happen if Doomsday Glacier collapses If the Doomsday Glacier collapses entirely, global sea levels could rise by 10 feet. Fresh studies have also shown that the glacier has been struck by hundreds of iceberg earthquakes between 2010 and 2023, making it extremely unstable. According to a study published in Geophysical Research Letters, 362 glacial earthquakes were recorded in Antarctica during this time period, and 245 of them slammed the Doomsday Glacier. Such tremors, known as glacial earthquakes, were first detected in 2003 along the coast of Greenland. They occur when large icebergs collapse. Scientists assumed that they were happening in Antarctica, but their lower magnitude made them hard to detect.

Thwaites, or the 'Doomsday Glacier' is melting away. Scientists have set up a campsite complete with bathrooms and other amenities on the glacier and will install equipment deep inside the ice. They need to do this before February 7.

Scientists set up camp on 'Doomsday Glacier', but they are on a tight deadline: Here is why it matters

Full Snow Moon 2026: The full moon of February will rise soon. It will create a rare visual spectacle as a famous star cluster will make an appearance next to it. The night will be bright, surpassing any supermoon night.  

Full Snow Moon 2026: The full moon of February will rise soon. It will create a rare visual spectacle as a famous star cluster will make an appearance next to it. The night will be bright, surpassing any supermoon night. &nbsp;

Full Snow Moon 2026: No Supermoon, but it would still be one of the brightest nights. Here's why

Cold Earth candidate HD 137010 b is similar to our planet in size. It orbits around its star in 355 days, meaning it is almost the same distance from its star as Earth is from the Sun. However, it is colder than Mars because its star is colder than the Sun. 

Cold Earth candidate HD 137010 b is similar to our planet in size. It orbits around its star in 355 days, meaning it is almost the same distance from its star as Earth is from the Sun. However, it is colder than Mars because its star is colder than the Sun.&nbsp;

Retired Kepler Telescope was hiding a 'cold Earth' candidate 146 light-years away. Here is why it matters

New research indicates that Eilmer of Malmesbury, an 11th-century English Benedictine monk, was the first person to observe Halley’s Comet over 600 years before Edmond Halley. He saw the comet twice in his lifetime - 989 CE and 1066 CE - and recognised its periodic nature. This has been documented by the 12th-century chronicler William of Malmesbury, which makes Eilmer, and not Edmond Halley, the first person see the comet and recognise that it returns after a certain number of years. Today, we know that Halley's comet makes an appearance approximately every 76 years. Professor Simon Portegies Zwart from <a href="https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/news/2026/01/halleys-comet-wrongly-named-11th-century-english-monk-predates-british-astronomer">Leiden University</a>, along with other astronomers, states in research that Eilmer's achievement has remained unrecognised by historians. While the monk saw the comet in 989 and then again 77 years later, Edmond Halley caught a glimpse in 1705. Zwart, Lewis and others published their research in the book "Dorestad and Everything After. Ports, townscapes &amp; travellers in Europe, 800-1100".&nbsp;Eilmer, or Aethelmaer, was extremely young when he saw the comet for the first time. Gesta Regum Anglorum (Deeds of the Kings of the English) by William of Malmesbury also mentions Eilmer's exact words upon the comet's return: "You've come, have you? ... It is long since I saw you... You source of tears to many mothers." The chronicle shows that Eilmer knew it was the same comet he had seen as a young boy. However, Edmond Halley was the one who scientifically proved that the comet returns every 76 years or so. He analysed observations of bright comets in 1531, 1607, and 1682 using Isaac Newton's newly published theory of gravitation. He calculated that these were not three separate comets, but only one with an elliptical orbit with a period of approximately 76 years. He predicted its return in 1758, and it did. However, he passed away in 1742 and could not witness his prediction coming true.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>&nbsp;<h2>Why the Halley's Comet discovery matters</h2>The revelation that Halley's Comet was seen several years before proves that medieval scholars were far more observant and analytical regarding the natural world than previously thought. It challenges the narrative that rigorous scientific observation only began with the Enlightenment.<h2>Halley's Comet observations in 1066</h2> Historical records indicate that the comet remained visible in China for over two months in 1066. It reached peak brightness on 22 April, and was not seen in Brittany and the British Isles until 24 April. The comet was illustrated on the Bayeux Tapestry.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/webb-peers-deep-inside-the-eye-of-god-spotting-core-of-a-dead-star-1768999408201">Webb peers deep inside the Eye of God, spotting core of a dead star</a><h2>Halley's Comet omens and beliefs</h2> In ancient times, comets were associated with bad occurrences. When Halley's Comet visited in 1066, King Harold Godwinson ruled England for a short time from 6 January to 14 October. Before this, records retrieved by the researchers suggested that a comet was seen five times over centuries around this time, and all those appearances were linked to the deaths of kings, war or famine in the British Isles. There is even a comet not mentioned in the chronicles that came right before the death of Archbishop Sigeric of Canterbury in 995. Leiden researchers say it is a historical equivalent of fake news.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Halley's Comet might be named after Edmond Halley, but it was a British monk, Eilmer of Malmesbury, who first saw it centuries ago. He saw it as a young boy, and then years later, saw it again and doled out some ominous words.

New research indicates that Eilmer of Malmesbury, an 11th-century English Benedictine monk, was the first person to observe Halley’s Comet over 600 years before Edmond Halley. He saw the comet twice in his lifetime - 989 CE and 1066 CE - and recognised its periodic nature. This has been documented by the 12th-century chronicler William of Malmesbury, which makes Eilmer, and not Edmond Halley, the first person see the comet and recognise that it returns after a certain number of years. Today, we know that Halley's comet makes an appearance approximately every 76 years. Professor Simon Portegies Zwart from Leiden University, along with other astronomers, states in research that Eilmer's achievement has remained unrecognised by historians. While the monk saw the comet in 989 and then again 77 years later, Edmond Halley caught a glimpse in 1705. Zwart, Lewis and others published their research in the book "Dorestad and Everything After. Ports, townscapes & travellers in Europe, 800-1100". Eilmer, or Aethelmaer, was extremely young when he saw the comet for the first time. Gesta Regum Anglorum (Deeds of the Kings of the English) by William of Malmesbury also mentions Eilmer's exact words upon the comet's return: "You've come, have you? ... It is long since I saw you... You source of tears to many mothers." The chronicle shows that Eilmer knew it was the same comet he had seen as a young boy. However, Edmond Halley was the one who scientifically proved that the comet returns every 76 years or so. He analysed observations of bright comets in 1531, 1607, and 1682 using Isaac Newton's newly published theory of gravitation. He calculated that these were not three separate comets, but only one with an elliptical orbit with a period of approximately 76 years. He predicted its return in 1758, and it did. However, he passed away in 1742 and could not witness his prediction coming true. Also Read: A star vanished in Andromeda galaxy. Now a strange red source is puzzling astronomers Why the Halley's Comet discovery matters The revelation that Halley's Comet was seen several years before proves that medieval scholars were far more observant and analytical regarding the natural world than previously thought. It challenges the narrative that rigorous scientific observation only began with the Enlightenment. Halley's Comet observations in 1066 Historical records indicate that the comet remained visible in China for over two months in 1066. It reached peak brightness on 22 April, and was not seen in Brittany and the British Isles until 24 April. The comet was illustrated on the Bayeux Tapestry. Also Read: Webb peers deep inside the Eye of God, spotting core of a dead star Halley's Comet omens and beliefs In ancient times, comets were associated with bad occurrences. When Halley's Comet visited in 1066, King Harold Godwinson ruled England for a short time from 6 January to 14 October. Before this, records retrieved by the researchers suggested that a comet was seen five times over centuries around this time, and all those appearances were linked to the deaths of kings, war or famine in the British Isles. There is even a comet not mentioned in the chronicles that came right before the death of Archbishop Sigeric of Canterbury in 995. Leiden researchers say it is a historical equivalent of fake news.

Halley's Comet might be named after Edmond Halley, but it was a British monk, Eilmer of Malmesbury, who first saw it centuries ago. He saw it as a young boy, and then years later, saw it again and doled out some ominous words.

'You source of tears...': A monk saw the 76-year comet TWICE 600 years before Edmond Halley did

Two total solar eclipses with long paths of totality are due to occur in 2026 and 2027. One of them will last for over 6 minutes and will be spread over a long area. The year 2028 will also witness another total solar eclipse.

Two total solar eclipses with long paths of totality are due to occur in 2026 and 2027. One of them will last for over 6 minutes and will be spread over a long area. The year 2028 will also witness another total solar eclipse.

3 total solar eclipses in 3 years: Where and how to see, and paths of totality

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