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Astronomers led by Valerio Carruba of São Paulo State University (UNESP) have identified a largely unseen population of asteroids co‑orbiting the Sun in resonance with Venus, objects few have noticed, but which may one day pose serious risk to Earth, his team published findings in Astronomy &amp; Astrophysics. These Venus co‑orbital asteroids, also known as 1:1 mean‑motion resonant objects, share roughly the same orbital period around the Sun as Venus, without being satellites of the planet itself.&nbsp;There are currently around 20 known co‑orbitals of Venus. Most of them have high orbital eccentricity (e &gt; 0.38), meaning their paths around the Sun are quite elongated, bringing them far enough from Venus’s path (and the glare of the Sun) that telescopes can sometimes pick them up. But the key result of the recent study is that this observed distribution is almost certainly biased, there may be many more with lower eccentricities that are effectively invisible with current ground‑based methods.<h3>Potential Hazard: City‑Killer Size and Earth‑Crossing Orbits</h3>The study emphasises that many of these asteroids are large enough, at least 140 metres wide, to be classified as ‘city killers’ if they were to strike Earth. Such an impact could devastate a large urban area. While none of the known co‑orbitals currently pose an imminent threat, simulations spanning several co‑orbital cycles (on the order of 12,000 years each) show that some could evolve into Earth‑crossing orbits under gravitational perturbations. In particular, six known co‑orbitals were identified as having future potential to become what astronomers term Potentially Hazardous Asteroids (PHAs), with minimum orbital intersection distances small enough to merit attention. The study covers long‑term dynamics over up to about 36,000 years, three average co‑orbital cycles, to estimate how often transitions to risky orbits might happen.<h3>Why Are They Hard to Spot?</h3>The greatest challenge is observational: these low‑eccentricity co‑orbitals spend much of their orbits very close to the Sun in our sky, where Sun glare severely limits what ground‑based telescopes can see. Generally, objects with high eccentricity wander farther from the Sun’s vicinity, making them more likely to be found. But those with nearly circular orbits, which never stray far, remain hidden. Another factor is the timing and geometry: when these bodies are observable, it may be only during brief windows, just after sunset or before sunrise, and only at certain angles relative to the Sun when glare is less overwhelming.&nbsp;Future telescopes and missions could close some of these observational gaps. NASA’s NEO Surveyor, slated to launch in the next few years, is designed to view in infrared wavelengths, allowing detection of objects that are faint, dark, or hidden by sunlight, and to spot asteroids coming from close to the Sun. The Vera C. Rubin Observatory may also catch some of these during favourable configurations. Carruba’s team indicates that while many low‑eccentricity Venus co‑orbitals are currently undetectable, some will enter favourable viewing windows, and new survey capabilities could reveal them.<h3>What It Means for Earth</h3>No immediate danger: The current known co‑orbitals are not on a collision course with Earth for the foreseeable future.Long‑term risk: Over thousands of years, gravitational effects can shift orbits. Objects that are safe now may become hazardous.Need for better surveys: Effectively defending Earth against such threats depends not only on what we see, but on estimating what we cannot yet see. Space‑based infrared observations could prove crucial.

The study emphasises that many of these asteroids are large enough, at least 140 metres wide, to be classified as ‘city killers’ if they were to strike Earth. Such an impact could devastate a large urban area.

Astronomers led by Valerio Carruba of São Paulo State University (UNESP) have identified a largely unseen population of asteroids co‑orbiting the Sun in resonance with Venus, objects few have noticed, but which may one day pose serious risk to Earth, his team published findings in Astronomy & Astrophysics. These Venus co‑orbital asteroids, also known as 1:1 mean‑motion resonant objects, share roughly the same orbital period around the Sun as Venus, without being satellites of the planet itself. There are currently around 20 known co‑orbitals of Venus. Most of them have high orbital eccentricity (e > 0.38), meaning their paths around the Sun are quite elongated, bringing them far enough from Venus’s path (and the glare of the Sun) that telescopes can sometimes pick them up. But the key result of the recent study is that this observed distribution is almost certainly biased, there may be many more with lower eccentricities that are effectively invisible with current ground‑based methods. Potential Hazard: City‑Killer Size and Earth‑Crossing Orbits The study emphasises that many of these asteroids are large enough, at least 140 metres wide, to be classified as ‘city killers’ if they were to strike Earth. Such an impact could devastate a large urban area. While none of the known co‑orbitals currently pose an imminent threat, simulations spanning several co‑orbital cycles (on the order of 12,000 years each) show that some could evolve into Earth‑crossing orbits under gravitational perturbations. In particular, six known co‑orbitals were identified as having future potential to become what astronomers term Potentially Hazardous Asteroids (PHAs), with minimum orbital intersection distances small enough to merit attention. The study covers long‑term dynamics over up to about 36,000 years, three average co‑orbital cycles, to estimate how often transitions to risky orbits might happen. Why Are They Hard to Spot? The greatest challenge is observational: these low‑eccentricity co‑orbitals spend much of their orbits very close to the Sun in our sky, where Sun glare severely limits what ground‑based telescopes can see. Generally, objects with high eccentricity wander farther from the Sun’s vicinity, making them more likely to be found. But those with nearly circular orbits, which never stray far, remain hidden. Another factor is the timing and geometry: when these bodies are observable, it may be only during brief windows, just after sunset or before sunrise, and only at certain angles relative to the Sun when glare is less overwhelming. Future telescopes and missions could close some of these observational gaps. NASA’s NEO Surveyor, slated to launch in the next few years, is designed to view in infrared wavelengths, allowing detection of objects that are faint, dark, or hidden by sunlight, and to spot asteroids coming from close to the Sun. The Vera C. Rubin Observatory may also catch some of these during favourable configurations. Carruba’s team indicates that while many low‑eccentricity Venus co‑orbitals are currently undetectable, some will enter favourable viewing windows, and new survey capabilities could reveal them. What It Means for Earth No immediate danger: The current known co‑orbitals are not on a collision course with Earth for the foreseeable future. Long‑term risk: Over thousands of years, gravitational effects can shift orbits. Objects that are safe now may become hazardous. Need for better surveys: Effectively defending Earth against such threats depends not only on what we see, but on estimating what we cannot yet see. Space‑based infrared observations could prove crucial.

The study emphasises that many of these asteroids are large enough, at least 140 metres wide, to be classified as ‘city killers’ if they were to strike Earth. Such an impact could devastate a large urban area.

Invisible ‘city killer’ asteroids orbiting Venus could hit Earth without warning, scientists warn

Scientists have discovered that the moon is getting 1½ inches (3.8 centimetres) farther away from the Earth each year. The distance was measured by scientists after bouncing laser beams off mirrors placed there by spacecraft and astronauts to travel to the moon and back.&nbsp;The distance of the Moon changes over the course of a month as it revolves around the Earth. The moon's orbit is not a perfect circle and changes by about 12,400 miles (20,000 km) while orbiting the Earth. This change results in some full moons getting a bit bigger than others, which are called supermoons, according to a report in The Conversation.<h3>Why is the Moon getting farther away?</h3>Basically, the moon is getting farther away because of tides as it comes from a difference in gravity with the Earth. Moon's gravity force is about 4% stronger on the side of Earth when it faces toward it as compared to the opposite side of the Earth facing away, because with distance, gravity gets weaker.&nbsp;This tidal force causes the oceans to rotate into two bulges that point toward and away from the Moon. This happens because the gravitational force that the Moon pulls on the Earth is not an average force, but it is the same everywhere.&nbsp;The gravitational pull of the Moon is stronger on the side of Earth nearest to it, creating a water bulge facing the Moon. On the far side, where the pull is weaker, another bulge forms as water lags behind the rest of the planet.&nbsp;As Earth rotates, these bulges shift position but continue to align with the moon’s gravitational influence. In coastal cities such as New York and Los Angeles, this effect causes sea levels to rise and fall by roughly five feet.&nbsp;However, the bulges don’t line up perfectly with the moon. Because Earth spins, they are dragged slightly ahead. These forward-shifted bulges then tug back on the moon, not only pulling it inward toward Earth but also nudging it forward in its orbit, much like a car gaining a push of speed while rounding a curve.&nbsp;This forward pull from the closer tidal bulge results in the moon speeding up, causing the size of its orbit to increase. As a result, the bottom line of the gravity of the closer tidal bulge on the Earth pulls the moon forward, increasing the size of the moon's orbit. This led the moon to get slightly farther away from the Earth; however, this effect is negligible, which is only detectable on average over years.

The distance of the Moon changes over the course of a month as it revolves around the Earth. The moon's orbit is not a perfect circle and changes by about 12,400 miles (20,000 km) while orbiting the Earth. 

Scientists have discovered that the moon is getting 1½ inches (3.8 centimetres) farther away from the Earth each year. The distance was measured by scientists after bouncing laser beams off mirrors placed there by spacecraft and astronauts to travel to the moon and back. The distance of the Moon changes over the course of a month as it revolves around the Earth. The moon's orbit is not a perfect circle and changes by about 12,400 miles (20,000 km) while orbiting the Earth. This change results in some full moons getting a bit bigger than others, which are called supermoons, according to a report in The Conversation. Why is the Moon getting farther away? Basically, the moon is getting farther away because of tides as it comes from a difference in gravity with the Earth. Moon's gravity force is about 4% stronger on the side of Earth when it faces toward it as compared to the opposite side of the Earth facing away, because with distance, gravity gets weaker. This tidal force causes the oceans to rotate into two bulges that point toward and away from the Moon. This happens because the gravitational force that the Moon pulls on the Earth is not an average force, but it is the same everywhere. The gravitational pull of the Moon is stronger on the side of Earth nearest to it, creating a water bulge facing the Moon. On the far side, where the pull is weaker, another bulge forms as water lags behind the rest of the planet. As Earth rotates, these bulges shift position but continue to align with the moon’s gravitational influence. In coastal cities such as New York and Los Angeles, this effect causes sea levels to rise and fall by roughly five feet. However, the bulges don’t line up perfectly with the moon. Because Earth spins, they are dragged slightly ahead. These forward-shifted bulges then tug back on the moon, not only pulling it inward toward Earth but also nudging it forward in its orbit, much like a car gaining a push of speed while rounding a curve. This forward pull from the closer tidal bulge results in the moon speeding up, causing the size of its orbit to increase. As a result, the bottom line of the gravity of the closer tidal bulge on the Earth pulls the moon forward, increasing the size of the moon's orbit. This led the moon to get slightly farther away from the Earth; however, this effect is negligible, which is only detectable on average over years.

The distance of the Moon changes over the course of a month as it revolves around the Earth. The moon's orbit is not a perfect circle and changes by about 12,400 miles (20,000 km) while orbiting the Earth.&nbsp;

Moon drifting away from Earth? Scientists claim THIS is the reason behind strange phenomenon

Researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) have unveiled the MycoToilet, the world's first mushroom-powered waterless toilet, at the UBC Botanical Garden in Vancouver, Canada. This innovative prototype transforms human waste into nutrient-rich compost using mycelium, the root networks of mushrooms, without the need for water, electricity, or chemicals. The design features a modern, sustainable structure that integrates seamlessly into natural environments, making it suitable for parks, remote communities, and areas lacking conventional plumbing. The MycoToilet exemplifies the fusion of scientific innovation and environmental sustainability. By leveraging fungi’s natural decomposition abilities, the system offers a circular approach to sanitation, turning what was once a waste problem into a resource for agriculture and soil improvement.<h3>How the MycoToilet Operates</h3>The MycoToilet employs a mycelium-based biocomposite system combined with thermophilic microbes to decompose human waste efficiently. Solid waste is directed into a compartment lined with mycelium, where fungi absorb odours and facilitate the breakdown of organic matter into compost. This process accelerates pathogen elimination and reduces decomposition time by approximately 50 per cent compared to traditional composting methods. "We wanted to turn a daily routine everyone knows into a pleasant experience that reminds us of our connection to ecological cycles," said the associate professor at UBC's school of architecture and landscape architecture (SALA) and project lead, Joseph Dahmen.&nbsp;The system also ensures hygiene and odour control. Lab tests suggest mycelium liners remove more than 90 per cent of odor-causing compounds. Liquid waste is separated and processed differently to prevent contamination, while the solid waste is gradually converted into safe, nutrient-rich fertilizer. The technology allows for continuous use without requiring extensive maintenance, electricity, or water, making it a practical option for both urban and remote settings.<h3>Implications for Global Sanitation</h3>The introduction of the MycoToilet addresses significant global sanitation challenges. Around 40 per cent of the world’s population lacks access to proper sanitation facilities, resulting in health risks, water pollution, and environmental degradation. By converting waste into compost, the MycoToilet not only provides a sustainable sanitation solution but also contributes to soil fertility, offering an alternative to chemical fertilizers.&nbsp;Beyond its environmental benefits, the MycoToilet presents opportunities for rural communities, ecotourism sites, and environmentally sensitive areas. It demonstrates how innovative approaches can simultaneously address human health, agricultural needs, and ecological conservation.&nbsp;

By leveraging fungi’s natural decomposition abilities, the system offers a circular approach to sanitation, turning what was once a waste problem into a resource for agriculture and soil improvement.

Researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) have unveiled the MycoToilet, the world's first mushroom-powered waterless toilet, at the UBC Botanical Garden in Vancouver, Canada. This innovative prototype transforms human waste into nutrient-rich compost using mycelium, the root networks of mushrooms, without the need for water, electricity, or chemicals. The design features a modern, sustainable structure that integrates seamlessly into natural environments, making it suitable for parks, remote communities, and areas lacking conventional plumbing. The MycoToilet exemplifies the fusion of scientific innovation and environmental sustainability. By leveraging fungi’s natural decomposition abilities, the system offers a circular approach to sanitation, turning what was once a waste problem into a resource for agriculture and soil improvement. How the MycoToilet Operates The MycoToilet employs a mycelium-based biocomposite system combined with thermophilic microbes to decompose human waste efficiently. Solid waste is directed into a compartment lined with mycelium, where fungi absorb odours and facilitate the breakdown of organic matter into compost. This process accelerates pathogen elimination and reduces decomposition time by approximately 50 per cent compared to traditional composting methods. "We wanted to turn a daily routine everyone knows into a pleasant experience that reminds us of our connection to ecological cycles," said the associate professor at UBC's school of architecture and landscape architecture (SALA) and project lead, Joseph Dahmen. The system also ensures hygiene and odour control. Lab tests suggest mycelium liners remove more than 90 per cent of odor-causing compounds. Liquid waste is separated and processed differently to prevent contamination, while the solid waste is gradually converted into safe, nutrient-rich fertilizer. The technology allows for continuous use without requiring extensive maintenance, electricity, or water, making it a practical option for both urban and remote settings. Implications for Global Sanitation The introduction of the MycoToilet addresses significant global sanitation challenges. Around 40 per cent of the world’s population lacks access to proper sanitation facilities, resulting in health risks, water pollution, and environmental degradation. By converting waste into compost, the MycoToilet not only provides a sustainable sanitation solution but also contributes to soil fertility, offering an alternative to chemical fertilizers. Beyond its environmental benefits, the MycoToilet presents opportunities for rural communities, ecotourism sites, and environmentally sensitive areas. It demonstrates how innovative approaches can simultaneously address human health, agricultural needs, and ecological conservation.

By leveraging fungi’s natural decomposition abilities, the system offers a circular approach to sanitation, turning what was once a waste problem into a resource for agriculture and soil improvement.

Mushroom-powered toilet? This MycoToilet converts human waste into fertilizer without using a single drop of water!

Microplastics continue to be a menace to the environment and human health. Scientists have revealed that they have found traces of microplastics inside the bones as well. A meta-analysis carried out by a group of researchers reviewed currently available data on the impacts of microplastics on human bones. The meta-analysis showed that microplastics "were recently detected in human bone tissue." They have been a cause of concern for years as experts point to the various health hazards posed by them. Medical practitioners have previously flagged the ill effects of microplastics on human health. They are now also seen to be causing bone diseases. Rodrigo Bueno de Oliveira, one of the authors of the meta-analysis, said, "Although osteometabolic diseases are relatively well understood, there's a gap in our knowledge regarding the influence of microplastics on the development of these diseases." According to Science Daily, Oliveira has called for further investigation into the causal link between microplastics and bone disease.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/after-human-testicles-microplastics-discovered-in-human-penises-for-first-time-733810">After human testicles, microplastics discovered in human penises for first time</a>&nbsp;<h2>Microplastics can hinder red and white blood cell formation</h2>However, the little that we already know about microplastics and bone health has also raised huge concerns among doctors. Notably, microplastics are already known to affect cell viability, modify gene expression, and trigger inflammatory responses. If microplastics are indeed penetrating into human bones, then it is a major problem. Both bones and bone marrow play important roles in maintaining human and animal health. If microplastics enter these areas of our body, they could cause huge issues. Red and white blood cells and platelets form inside the bone marrow, and their blood-cell-creating functions are essential for survival. Authors of the meta-analysis state that they have evidence that shows microplastics can hinder the above functions.&nbsp;"Experimental animal studies indicated that MPs ingestion disturbs gut microbiota and reduces white blood cell counts, suggesting compromised bone marrow function," the authors wrote. The study has once again brought to light the ill effects of plastics and the scale at which they are entering everything on Earth. Data from the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources shows that over 500 million tons of plastic are produced every single year, and an estimated 22 million tons end up in the environment.

Microplastics have now been discovered inside human bones, causing yet another concern about plastic production and its presence in the environment. It has already entered the water, the human brain, testicles, penis and is even known to cause blockages. 

Microplastics continue to be a menace to the environment and human health. Scientists have revealed that they have found traces of microplastics inside the bones as well. A meta-analysis carried out by a group of researchers reviewed currently available data on the impacts of microplastics on human bones. The meta-analysis showed that microplastics "were recently detected in human bone tissue." They have been a cause of concern for years as experts point to the various health hazards posed by them. Medical practitioners have previously flagged the ill effects of microplastics on human health. They are now also seen to be causing bone diseases. Rodrigo Bueno de Oliveira, one of the authors of the meta-analysis, said, "Although osteometabolic diseases are relatively well understood, there's a gap in our knowledge regarding the influence of microplastics on the development of these diseases." According to Science Daily, Oliveira has called for further investigation into the causal link between microplastics and bone disease. Also Read: After human testicles, microplastics discovered in human penises for first time Microplastics can hinder red and white blood cell formation However, the little that we already know about microplastics and bone health has also raised huge concerns among doctors. Notably, microplastics are already known to affect cell viability, modify gene expression, and trigger inflammatory responses. If microplastics are indeed penetrating into human bones, then it is a major problem. Both bones and bone marrow play important roles in maintaining human and animal health. If microplastics enter these areas of our body, they could cause huge issues. Red and white blood cells and platelets form inside the bone marrow, and their blood-cell-creating functions are essential for survival. Authors of the meta-analysis state that they have evidence that shows microplastics can hinder the above functions. "Experimental animal studies indicated that MPs ingestion disturbs gut microbiota and reduces white blood cell counts, suggesting compromised bone marrow function," the authors wrote. The study has once again brought to light the ill effects of plastics and the scale at which they are entering everything on Earth. Data from the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources shows that over 500 million tons of plastic are produced every single year, and an estimated 22 million tons end up in the environment.

Microplastics have now been discovered inside human bones, causing yet another concern about plastic production and its presence in the environment. It has already entered the water, the human brain, testicles, penis and is even known to cause blockages.&nbsp;

Microplastics discovery deep inside human bones sends alarm bells ringing

&nbsp;Artificial intelligence is no longer confined to tasks and productivity, it is reshaping how people connect emotionally. A new study at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology has revealed that thousands are forming intimate, often accidental, relationships with chatbots, transforming digital tools into companions, confidants, and even partners. While many report reduced loneliness and improved mental health, others warn of dependency and blurred boundaries between reality and simulation. With lawsuits, policy debates, and corporate responses already underway, the findings raise urgent questions about what human intimacy looks like in an era of AI.&nbsp;The analysis from MIT Media Lab offers the first large-scale look at adults who form romantic or intimate bonds with chatbots, using 1,506 top posts from the Reddit community r/MyBoyfriendIsAI collected between December 2024 and August 2025. The study finds these relationships are neither rare nor always sought: many begin during routine, pragmatic interactions and deepen over time. The authors combined unsupervised thematic analysis with custom classifiers to map six dominant conversation themes and to measure concrete outcomes reported by users. The Reddit community that has been studied, has about 27,000 members; the sample captures the most engaged posts and therefore the most salient experiences shared publicly. The team deliberately treated posts as lived experience rather than an abstract technical problem, aiming to quantify both benefits (reduced loneliness, improved mood) and risks (dependency, dissociation).&nbsp;<h2>How these relationships begin and persist</h2> Contrary to expectation, most bonds did not start in dedicated companion apps: a significant number of posts named general-purpose LLMs such as ChatGPT, while purpose-built platforms like Replika accounted for only a small share. Many users describe an organic arc, from help with a task to personal disclosure to sustained emotional attachment, &nbsp;a trajectory the researchers call ‘accidental intimacy.’ &nbsp;The paper also documents behavioural strategies, prompt-writing, backup prompts and rituals, to preserve continuity across model updates, and reports that software changes can cause grief comparable to break-ups. Quantitatively, 25.4 per cent of analysed posts described clear net benefits (for example, reduced loneliness), while 3.0 per cent described net harm. Other recorded concerns included emotional dependency (9.5 per cent), reality dissociation (4.6 per cent), avoidance of real-world relationships (4.3 per cent) and, in a small number of cases, suicidal ideation (1.7 per cent). The authors stress selection biases and the limits of forum data, but say the pattern is clear: AI companionship can be both a lifeline and a source of risk, often for the same people.&nbsp;<h2>Policy and corporate responses</h2> The debate is already moving into courts and product roadmaps. Families have filed lawsuits alleging that conversational AI contributed to teen suicides, and regulators and firms are responding: OpenAI has described plans for age-aware experiences and parental controls for under-18 users. Policymakers and designers face a tension the researchers highlight , protect vulnerable users without dismissing adults’ autonomy to form meaningful connections.

The study finds these relationships are neither rare nor always sought: many begin during routine, pragmatic interactions and deepen over time. 

Artificial intelligence is no longer confined to tasks and productivity, it is reshaping how people connect emotionally. A new study at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology has revealed that thousands are forming intimate, often accidental, relationships with chatbots, transforming digital tools into companions, confidants, and even partners. While many report reduced loneliness and improved mental health, others warn of dependency and blurred boundaries between reality and simulation. With lawsuits, policy debates, and corporate responses already underway, the findings raise urgent questions about what human intimacy looks like in an era of AI. The analysis from MIT Media Lab offers the first large-scale look at adults who form romantic or intimate bonds with chatbots, using 1,506 top posts from the Reddit community r/MyBoyfriendIsAI collected between December 2024 and August 2025. The study finds these relationships are neither rare nor always sought: many begin during routine, pragmatic interactions and deepen over time. The authors combined unsupervised thematic analysis with custom classifiers to map six dominant conversation themes and to measure concrete outcomes reported by users. The Reddit community that has been studied, has about 27,000 members; the sample captures the most engaged posts and therefore the most salient experiences shared publicly. The team deliberately treated posts as lived experience rather than an abstract technical problem, aiming to quantify both benefits (reduced loneliness, improved mood) and risks (dependency, dissociation). How these relationships begin and persist Contrary to expectation, most bonds did not start in dedicated companion apps: a significant number of posts named general-purpose LLMs such as ChatGPT, while purpose-built platforms like Replika accounted for only a small share. Many users describe an organic arc, from help with a task to personal disclosure to sustained emotional attachment, a trajectory the researchers call ‘accidental intimacy.’ The paper also documents behavioural strategies, prompt-writing, backup prompts and rituals, to preserve continuity across model updates, and reports that software changes can cause grief comparable to break-ups. Quantitatively, 25.4 per cent of analysed posts described clear net benefits (for example, reduced loneliness), while 3.0 per cent described net harm. Other recorded concerns included emotional dependency (9.5 per cent), reality dissociation (4.6 per cent), avoidance of real-world relationships (4.3 per cent) and, in a small number of cases, suicidal ideation (1.7 per cent). The authors stress selection biases and the limits of forum data, but say the pattern is clear: AI companionship can be both a lifeline and a source of risk, often for the same people. Policy and corporate responses The debate is already moving into courts and product roadmaps. Families have filed lawsuits alleging that conversational AI contributed to teen suicides, and regulators and firms are responding: OpenAI has described plans for age-aware experiences and parental controls for under-18 users. Policymakers and designers face a tension the researchers highlight , protect vulnerable users without dismissing adults’ autonomy to form meaningful connections.

The study finds these relationships are neither rare nor always sought: many begin during routine, pragmatic interactions and deepen over time.&nbsp;

From chats to 'I do': New study reveals how thousands accidentally fall in love with AI chatbots

Interstellar comet 3I/Atlas is fast zooming towards the Sun. Meanwhile, our star is waking up and becoming active. The Sun will soon be raging in its current solar cycle and will release a coronal mass ejection (CME), which is expected to collide with 3I/Atlas. Will the whiplash affect the comet in any way? Scientists are intrigued to see if it does. This interstellar visitor is the third one after ‘Oumuamua and Comet Borisov. Its trajectory shows that it is coming from outside our solar system, has a dusty coma and now also has a tail after weeks of absence. Latest data on its motion gathered by the Minor Planet Centre, the International Astronomical Union, shows that 3I/Atlas has a nucleus that runs for over 5.6 kilometres. It is also quite large, and supposedly has a mass of over 33 billion tons. Harvard scientist Avi Loeb says that's an anomaly for a comet. If it were a naturally occurring space rock, then its size suggests that we should have found a hundred thousand interstellar objects smaller than it before stumbling upon 3I/Atlas.&nbsp;Coming back to the Sun, the comet is expected to bear the brunt. Spaceweather.com reported, citing a new NASA forecast model, that a CME will collide with interstellar comet 3I/Atlas on 25 September 2025, one day up or down. This sets the stage for the first-of-its-kind event as a CME is being released right when only the third interstellar comet is passing through the solar system. When the two smash into each other, the results could be fascinating. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/3i-atlas-anomalies-its-mass-is-likely-bigger-than-33-billion-tons-too-large-to-be-a-comet-1758857250208">3I/Atlas anomalies: Its mass is likely bigger than 33 billion tons, too large to be a comet</a><h2>What happened when solar plasma slammed a comet?</h2>Solar plasma has slammed into a comet in the past. On April 20, 2007, Comet Encke collided with a CME, and NASA's STEREO A spacecraft saw it happening. At that time, the CME disturbed the magnetic field around the comet, and its tail broke off. However, it was back within minutes. 3I/Atlas might also have its tail yanked off. Could the CME also change its trajectory? NASA doesn't think that the comet's path will be altered by the solar plasma. But a CME collision with the interstellar comet might not be caught by any of the telescopes, as 3I/Atlas will soon go behind the Sun. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/latest-update-on-3i-atlas-interstellar-comet-is-getting-brighter-1758273179867">Latest update on 3I/ATLAS: Interstellar comet is getting brighter</a>&nbsp;Travelling at a speed of 221,000 km/hr, the alien comet will soon come near Mars. On October 3, it will be at a short distance from the red planet, and this is when several of humanity's Mars missions might get to take a good look at &nbsp;3I/Atlas. The CaSSIS camera onboard ESA’s Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) and the Mars Express’s High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC) are all geared up to snap pictures of this alien visitor when it flies by Mars.

3I/Atlas could come face-to-face with our Sun's might pretty soon. The Sun could spit a huge amount of coronal mass ejection (CME) soon, which could crash into the comet. Will it kill 3I/Atlas? Or, could its trajectory change?

Interstellar comet 3I/Atlas is fast zooming towards the Sun. Meanwhile, our star is waking up and becoming active. The Sun will soon be raging in its current solar cycle and will release a coronal mass ejection (CME), which is expected to collide with 3I/Atlas. Will the whiplash affect the comet in any way? Scientists are intrigued to see if it does. This interstellar visitor is the third one after ‘Oumuamua and Comet Borisov. Its trajectory shows that it is coming from outside our solar system, has a dusty coma and now also has a tail after weeks of absence. Latest data on its motion gathered by the Minor Planet Centre, the International Astronomical Union, shows that 3I/Atlas has a nucleus that runs for over 5.6 kilometres. It is also quite large, and supposedly has a mass of over 33 billion tons. Harvard scientist Avi Loeb says that's an anomaly for a comet. If it were a naturally occurring space rock, then its size suggests that we should have found a hundred thousand interstellar objects smaller than it before stumbling upon 3I/Atlas. Coming back to the Sun, the comet is expected to bear the brunt. Spaceweather.com reported, citing a new NASA forecast model, that a CME will collide with interstellar comet 3I/Atlas on 25 September 2025, one day up or down. This sets the stage for the first-of-its-kind event as a CME is being released right when only the third interstellar comet is passing through the solar system. When the two smash into each other, the results could be fascinating. Also Read: 3I/Atlas anomalies: Its mass is likely bigger than 33 billion tons, too large to be a comet What happened when solar plasma slammed a comet? Solar plasma has slammed into a comet in the past. On April 20, 2007, Comet Encke collided with a CME, and NASA's STEREO A spacecraft saw it happening. At that time, the CME disturbed the magnetic field around the comet, and its tail broke off. However, it was back within minutes. 3I/Atlas might also have its tail yanked off. Could the CME also change its trajectory? NASA doesn't think that the comet's path will be altered by the solar plasma. But a CME collision with the interstellar comet might not be caught by any of the telescopes, as 3I/Atlas will soon go behind the Sun. Also Read: Latest update on 3I/ATLAS: Interstellar comet is getting brighter Travelling at a speed of 221,000 km/hr, the alien comet will soon come near Mars. On October 3, it will be at a short distance from the red planet, and this is when several of humanity's Mars missions might get to take a good look at 3I/Atlas. The CaSSIS camera onboard ESA’s Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) and the Mars Express’s High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC) are all geared up to snap pictures of this alien visitor when it flies by Mars.

3I/Atlas could come face-to-face with our Sun's might pretty soon. The Sun could spit a huge amount of coronal mass ejection (CME) soon, which could crash into the comet. Will it kill 3I/Atlas? Or, could its trajectory change?

Interstellar comet 3I/Atlas could soon lose its tail following a beating by our Sun

Humans are much older than earlier estimates, an analysis of a skull fossil in China has shown. Previous studies have suggested that humans first appeared in Africa 600,000 years ago, but the latest finding changes all that and pushes our origins back by 400,000 years. The Chinese skull Yunxian 2 was previously classified as being from the primitive human species Homo erectus. This species was a direct ancestor of modern humans and the first to walk fully upright. It is also believed to be the first human species to have left Africa. The fossilised cranium was found badly crushed in Hubei, China, in 1990. Homo erectus has long been seen as a direct ancestor of modern humans. Prof Chris Stringer, an anthropologist and research leader in human evolution at the Natural History Museum in London, led the study as his team reanalysed the skull. They created a model of the skull using CT scanning, light imaging and virtual reconstruction techniques. Small anatomical elements were also incorporated from Yunxian 1, another crushed fossil found at the site in 1989.<h2>Earliest humans were 'Dragon Man' and not Homo Erectus</h2>It showed that the skull likely belongs to a group called Homo longi (dragon man), a species closely linked to Denisovans and that lived alongside our own ancestors. This makes the fossil the closest ever found linked to the split between modern humans and our closest relatives, the Neanderthals and Denisovans. Study author Chris Stringer, an anthropologist and research leader in human evolution at the Natural History Museum in London, said, "This changes a lot of thinking because it suggests that by one million years ago our ancestors had already split into distinct groups, pointing to a much earlier and more complex human evolutionary split than previously believed. It more or less doubles the time of origin of Homo sapiens." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/human-hunt-for-intelligent-alien-life-could-help-us-outlive-all-the-stars-scientist-says-1758531158090">Humans can survive cosmic winter by befriending super intelligent aliens, scientist says</a>&nbsp;The reconstruction of the Yunxian 2 skull showed that it had primitive traits similar to Homo erectus, including a large, squat braincase, a strong brow ridge, and a more projecting lower face. But the features in the face and rear of the braincase, and a larger brain capacity, closely resemble Homo longi ('Dragon Man') and Homo sapiens. This showed that Yunxian 2 is not a Homo erectus, but is an early member of the lineage with Homo longi and several other Chinese fossils being a part of it. Springer says that this discovery points to the possibility that our common ancestor, and maybe even the first Homo sapiens, lived in western Asia rather than Africa.

A new discovery in China has challenged a decades-old belief about the evolution of humans. Earliest humans were thought to have originated 600,000 years ago in Africa. But we are way older, probably a million years old.

Humans are much older than earlier estimates, an analysis of a skull fossil in China has shown. Previous studies have suggested that humans first appeared in Africa 600,000 years ago, but the latest finding changes all that and pushes our origins back by 400,000 years. The Chinese skull Yunxian 2 was previously classified as being from the primitive human species Homo erectus. This species was a direct ancestor of modern humans and the first to walk fully upright. It is also believed to be the first human species to have left Africa. The fossilised cranium was found badly crushed in Hubei, China, in 1990. Homo erectus has long been seen as a direct ancestor of modern humans. Prof Chris Stringer, an anthropologist and research leader in human evolution at the Natural History Museum in London, led the study as his team reanalysed the skull. They created a model of the skull using CT scanning, light imaging and virtual reconstruction techniques. Small anatomical elements were also incorporated from Yunxian 1, another crushed fossil found at the site in 1989. Earliest humans were 'Dragon Man' and not Homo Erectus It showed that the skull likely belongs to a group called Homo longi (dragon man), a species closely linked to Denisovans and that lived alongside our own ancestors. This makes the fossil the closest ever found linked to the split between modern humans and our closest relatives, the Neanderthals and Denisovans. Study author Chris Stringer, an anthropologist and research leader in human evolution at the Natural History Museum in London, said, "This changes a lot of thinking because it suggests that by one million years ago our ancestors had already split into distinct groups, pointing to a much earlier and more complex human evolutionary split than previously believed. It more or less doubles the time of origin of Homo sapiens." Also Read: Humans can survive cosmic winter by befriending super intelligent aliens, scientist says The reconstruction of the Yunxian 2 skull showed that it had primitive traits similar to Homo erectus, including a large, squat braincase, a strong brow ridge, and a more projecting lower face. But the features in the face and rear of the braincase, and a larger brain capacity, closely resemble Homo longi ('Dragon Man') and Homo sapiens. This showed that Yunxian 2 is not a Homo erectus, but is an early member of the lineage with Homo longi and several other Chinese fossils being a part of it. Springer says that this discovery points to the possibility that our common ancestor, and maybe even the first Homo sapiens, lived in western Asia rather than Africa.

A new discovery in China has challenged a decades-old belief about the evolution of humans. Earliest humans were thought to have originated 600,000 years ago in Africa. But we are way older, probably a million years old.

Humans are a million years old, lived in Asia and belong to 'Dragon Man', Chinese skull analysis shows

China President Xi Jinping announced in a high-level climate summit on Wednesday (Sept 24) that China will cut carbon emissions by 7-10 per cent by 2035. Currently, China is the world’s largest carbon-polluting nation. While announcing the goal, Xi also said that China plans to increase its installed capacity of wind and solar power within the next 10 years.&nbsp;He added that the installed capacity of wind and solar power will be more than six times. In addition, China has also decided to bolster non-fossil fuels' share in domestic energy consumption to over 30 per cent, according to a report by Al Jazeera.&nbsp;In the meantime, Xi urged all the developed countries to take the lead in advancing stronger climate measures, indirectly pointing at the United States for moving away from the goals of the Paris Agreement on climate.&nbsp;“Green and low-carbon transformation is the trend of our times. Despite some countries going against the trend, the international community should stay on the right track, maintain unwavering confidence, unwavering action, and undiminished efforts,” Xi said, calling for increased global climate cooperation.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the US President Donald Trump on Tuesday dismissed climate change as a 'con job' and criticised both the European Union and China for investing heavily in renewable energy. Even after decades of debate, climate change is worsening, global temperatures are edging closer to dangerous tipping points, while greenhouse gas emissions continue to climb at record levels.<h3>List of the most polluting countries worldwide till 2023</h3>According to data in <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/270499/co2-emissions-in-selected-countries/?srsltid=AfmBOopbJW_g5JbLsm4CFNaaxSvY6dyMjcKrA56Yqas9dmfFL6Shrswt">Statista</a>, China was the largest carbon polluter in the world in 2023, having released 11.9 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide (GtCO₂). After China, the US was the second-biggest emitter, with 4.9 GtCO₂ in 2023; however, since 2010, its CO₂ emissions had declined by 13 per cent. Whereas the CO₂ emissions of China have increased by more than 38 per cent in the same period.

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>S. No</td><td>Countries</td><td>Emissions Rate (GtCO₂)</td></tr><tr><td>1.</td><td>China</td><td>11.9 billion metric tons</td></tr><tr><td>2.</td><td>US&nbsp;</td><td>4.9 billion metric tons</td></tr><tr><td>3.</td><td>India&nbsp;</td><td>3 billion metric tons</td></tr><tr><td>4.</td><td>Russia</td><td>1.8 billion metric tons</td></tr><tr><td>5.</td><td>Japan</td><td>0.988 billion metric tons</td></tr><tr><td>6.</td><td>Iran</td><td>0.817 billion metric tons</td></tr><tr><td>7.</td><td>Saudi Arabia</td><td>0.736 billion metric tons</td></tr><tr><td>8.</td><td>Indonesia</td><td>0.733 billion metric tons</td></tr><tr><td>9.</td><td>Germany&nbsp;</td><td>0.596 billion metric tons</td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>South Korea</td><td>0.577 billion metric tons</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Even after decades, climate change is worsening, global temperatures are edging closer to dangerous tipping points, while greenhouse gas emissions continue to climb at record levels. Let's find out the top 10 carbon emitter countries in the world.

China President Xi Jinping announced in a high-level climate summit on Wednesday (Sept 24) that China will cut carbon emissions by 7-10 per cent by 2035. Currently, China is the world’s largest carbon-polluting nation. While announcing the goal, Xi also said that China plans to increase its installed capacity of wind and solar power within the next 10 years. He added that the installed capacity of wind and solar power will be more than six times. In addition, China has also decided to bolster non-fossil fuels' share in domestic energy consumption to over 30 per cent, according to a report by Al Jazeera. In the meantime, Xi urged all the developed countries to take the lead in advancing stronger climate measures, indirectly pointing at the United States for moving away from the goals of the Paris Agreement on climate. “Green and low-carbon transformation is the trend of our times. Despite some countries going against the trend, the international community should stay on the right track, maintain unwavering confidence, unwavering action, and undiminished efforts,” Xi said, calling for increased global climate cooperation. Meanwhile, the US President Donald Trump on Tuesday dismissed climate change as a 'con job' and criticised both the European Union and China for investing heavily in renewable energy. Even after decades of debate, climate change is worsening, global temperatures are edging closer to dangerous tipping points, while greenhouse gas emissions continue to climb at record levels. List of the most polluting countries worldwide till 2023 According to data in Statista, China was the largest carbon polluter in the world in 2023, having released 11.9 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide (GtCO₂). After China, the US was the second-biggest emitter, with 4.9 GtCO₂ in 2023; however, since 2010, its CO₂ emissions had declined by 13 per cent. Whereas the CO₂ emissions of China have increased by more than 38 per cent in the same period.

Even after decades, climate change is worsening, global temperatures are edging closer to dangerous tipping points, while greenhouse gas emissions continue to climb at record levels. Let's find out the top 10 carbon emitter countries in the world.

Highest carbon emissions by country: China ranks first, who else make the List? — Details inside

&nbsp;NASA's Artemis II mission is poised to make history as the first crewed lunar mission in over five decades. Scheduled for launch no earlier than February 5, 2026, from Kennedy Space Center, this 10-day journey will send four astronauts on a trajectory around the Moon, marking humanity's return to lunar proximity since Apollo 17 in 1972.<h3>The Crew and Their Mission</h3>&nbsp;The Artemis II crew comprises NASA astronauts Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, and Mission Specialist Christina Koch, alongside Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen. Together, they will embark on a free-return trajectory around the Moon, reaching over 9,200 kilometers beyond its surface before returning to Earth.&nbsp;This mission serves as a critical step in NASA's Artemis program, testing the Orion spacecraft's systems and the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket in deep space conditions. While Artemis II will not land on the Moon, it sets the stage for Artemis III, which aims to return astronauts to the lunar surface.<h3>Training for Deep Space Exploration</h3>The Artemis II astronauts have undergone rigorous training to prepare for the challenges of deep space exploration. Their preparation includes simulations of various mission scenarios, ensuring they are equipped to handle the complexities of the mission. Canadian Mission Commander of Artemis II, Reid Wiseman emphasised the team's readiness, stating, “We’re going to launch when this vehicle is ready, when this team is ready, and we’re going to execute this mission to the best of our abilities.”<h3>The Capsule 'Integrity'</h3>&nbsp;&nbsp;A defining feature of the mission is the Orion spacecraft itself, which the crew has named Integrity, the name was unveiled by Commander Reid Wiseman. Announced during a press conference in September 2025, the name reflects the values the astronauts and mission team uphold: trust, respect, candour, and humility. It honours the thousands of engineers, technicians, planners, and scientists worldwide who have contributed to making Artemis II possible.&nbsp;The name also symbolises the spirit of collaboration behind the mission. From the more than 3,00,000 individual spacecraft components to the international teamwork spanning NASA and the Canadian Space Agency, Integrity embodies the collective effort required to venture to the Moon and safely return. For the crew, it is a daily reminder of the responsibility, dedication, and professionalism that defines their mission.

The launch window includes several five-day periods in February, March, and April, with 26 April as the final possible date. While Artemis II will not land on the Moon, it sets the stage for Artemis III, which aims to return astronauts to the lunar surface.

NASA's Artemis II mission is poised to make history as the first crewed lunar mission in over five decades. Scheduled for launch no earlier than February 5, 2026, from Kennedy Space Center, this 10-day journey will send four astronauts on a trajectory around the Moon, marking humanity's return to lunar proximity since Apollo 17 in 1972. The Crew and Their Mission The Artemis II crew comprises NASA astronauts Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, and Mission Specialist Christina Koch, alongside Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen. Together, they will embark on a free-return trajectory around the Moon, reaching over 9,200 kilometers beyond its surface before returning to Earth. This mission serves as a critical step in NASA's Artemis program, testing the Orion spacecraft's systems and the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket in deep space conditions. While Artemis II will not land on the Moon, it sets the stage for Artemis III, which aims to return astronauts to the lunar surface. Training for Deep Space Exploration The Artemis II astronauts have undergone rigorous training to prepare for the challenges of deep space exploration. Their preparation includes simulations of various mission scenarios, ensuring they are equipped to handle the complexities of the mission. Canadian Mission Commander of Artemis II, Reid Wiseman emphasised the team's readiness, stating, “We’re going to launch when this vehicle is ready, when this team is ready, and we’re going to execute this mission to the best of our abilities.” The Capsule 'Integrity' A defining feature of the mission is the Orion spacecraft itself, which the crew has named Integrity, the name was unveiled by Commander Reid Wiseman. Announced during a press conference in September 2025, the name reflects the values the astronauts and mission team uphold: trust, respect, candour, and humility. It honours the thousands of engineers, technicians, planners, and scientists worldwide who have contributed to making Artemis II possible. The name also symbolises the spirit of collaboration behind the mission. From the more than 3,00,000 individual spacecraft components to the international teamwork spanning NASA and the Canadian Space Agency, Integrity embodies the collective effort required to venture to the Moon and safely return. For the crew, it is a daily reminder of the responsibility, dedication, and professionalism that defines their mission.

The launch window includes several five-day periods in February, March, and April, with 26 April as the final possible date. While Artemis II will not land on the Moon, it sets the stage for Artemis III, which aims to return astronauts to the lunar surface.

Inside NASA's Artemis II: Four astronauts, rigorous training and the Orion spacecraft named ‘Integrity’

In a significant development, India has successfully test-fired the Intermediate Range ‘Agni-Prime Missile’ from a rail-based Mobile launcher system on Thursday in a joint collaboration of DRDO and the Strategic Forces Command (SFC). The next-generation missile is equipped with several advanced features and is designed to cover a range of up to 2000 km.<h3>What is the rail-based mobile launcher system?</h3>It is a missile launch platform fitted onto specially modified rail wagons, enabling the weapon to be moved across the railway network for stealthy, flexible deployment under operational conditions. The launch vehicle is self-sustained with its own communication, power, and protection systems, allowing rapid reaction launches with reduced visibility.&nbsp;The launch system also features a canisterised missile setup, advanced communication systems, and rapid deployment capability. This kind of launcher places India among a select few nations developing or possessing rail-based missile deployment capability.<h3>What does this launcher system mean for the Indian military?</h3>According to a report by NDTV, the Indian military can now launch the Agni Prime missile (and other suitable projectiles) from the countryside or remotest areas, even without road support. The only requirement is access to a railway line. With nearly 70,000 kilometres of track as of March last year, India possesses the world’s fourth-largest railway network.&nbsp;The rail-based missile launcher offers more than wider launch points. It also means the military can move these missiles discreetly and hidden from enemy satellites in train tunnels. This system can also offer an increased number of storage facilities amid times of war, when enemies attempt to target military bases where the missiles might normally be stored.&nbsp;The rail-based Mobile launcher system and launch of a missile is part of push for self-reliance in its Defence capabilities of India which has been envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's push for ‘Aatmanirbharta' in every sphere.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-india-test-fire-agni-prime-missile-from-rail-based-launcher-defence-minister-calls-it-first-of-its-kind-1758776763675">WATCH: India test-fire 'Agni-Prime Missile' from rail-based launcher, Defence Minister calls it 'First-of-Its-Kind'</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;

 The launch vehicle is self-sustained with its own communication, power, and protection systems, allowing rapid reaction launches with reduced visibility. It also features a canisterised missile setup, advanced communication systems, and rapid deployment capability. 

In a significant development, India has successfully test-fired the Intermediate Range ‘Agni-Prime Missile’ from a rail-based Mobile launcher system on Thursday in a joint collaboration of DRDO and the Strategic Forces Command (SFC). The next-generation missile is equipped with several advanced features and is designed to cover a range of up to 2000 km. What is the rail-based mobile launcher system? It is a missile launch platform fitted onto specially modified rail wagons, enabling the weapon to be moved across the railway network for stealthy, flexible deployment under operational conditions. The launch vehicle is self-sustained with its own communication, power, and protection systems, allowing rapid reaction launches with reduced visibility. The launch system also features a canisterised missile setup, advanced communication systems, and rapid deployment capability. This kind of launcher places India among a select few nations developing or possessing rail-based missile deployment capability. What does this launcher system mean for the Indian military? According to a report by NDTV, the Indian military can now launch the Agni Prime missile (and other suitable projectiles) from the countryside or remotest areas, even without road support. The only requirement is access to a railway line. With nearly 70,000 kilometres of track as of March last year, India possesses the world’s fourth-largest railway network. The rail-based missile launcher offers more than wider launch points. It also means the military can move these missiles discreetly and hidden from enemy satellites in train tunnels. This system can also offer an increased number of storage facilities amid times of war, when enemies attempt to target military bases where the missiles might normally be stored. The rail-based Mobile launcher system and launch of a missile is part of push for self-reliance in its Defence capabilities of India which has been envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's push for ‘Aatmanirbharta' in every sphere. Also read: WATCH: India test-fire 'Agni-Prime Missile' from rail-based launcher, Defence Minister calls it 'First-of-Its-Kind'

The launch vehicle is self-sustained with its own communication, power, and protection systems, allowing rapid reaction launches with reduced visibility. It also features a canisterised missile setup, advanced communication systems, and rapid deployment capability.&nbsp;

What is rail based mobile launcher system? India's 'Agni-Prime Missile' with 2,000 km range fired from train

A team from IIT Bombay is making progress in building a pair of scientific-use satellites that can help track and unravel some interesting high-energy phenomenon in our universe. Titled Daksha, the proposed space mission could help better humanity's understanding of Exploding Stars, Gamma-Ray Bursts, Solar flares, High-altitude lightning, among others. The data that would be generated from this future mission would enhance research in Astrophysics, Solar studies, Atmospheric sciences.Exploding stars or Supernovae refer to massive explosions that mark the death of a star. Gamma-Ray Bursts are the most energetic explosions known in the universe and they release intense gamma radiation, it could be caused by the collapse of a massive star. Gamma-Ray Bursts emit more energy in a few seconds than the Sun in its entire life, and such phenomenon could affect life on Earth if it occurred nearby. Such varied explosions also created all the heavy elements like gold and uranium in the universe.Solar flares are a sudden burst of energy from the Sun's surface. These high-energy particles travel at very high speeds and have the potential to disrupt satellite communications, GPS, space missions, astronaut missions etc. High-altitude lightning is unlike conventional lightning, and it takes place in earth's upper atmosphere and the region near space.According to Dr. Varun Bhalerao, an astrophysicist at IIT Bombay, Daksha is meant to study all the above phenomenon and offer a wide-angle view of space. He explained that existing space telescopes operated by foreign space agencies have a zoomed in view of a certain region in space, but Daksha can offer a wide view and more coverage.Outlining the journey so far, Dr. Varun says, "back in 2018, Indian space agency ISRO invited Indian scientists and academia to propose space telescope ideas, and ours happened to be ranked highly, which got us some seed funding for creating a proof of concept". With that, we made detectors and sensors with the right kind of sensitivity, and now we are waiting for further steps such as approvals from ISRO and the Indian cabinet, the country's apex decision-making body, he told WION.Elaborating on the payloads or scientific equipment that would be mounted on the twin Daksha satellite, Dr. Varun said that each satellite would carry a 150kg science payload that would be developed by his team, and the satellite structure, solar panels, other standard components would be provided by ISRO.He emphasized that the twin Daksha satellites could continuously look out for any high-energy activity that is occurring in our Universe, and the payloads are sensitive enough to capture activity that is billions of light years away. "In terms of volumetric coverage, India's Daksha will be 5 times better than the NASA-ESA Fermi satellite, and 13 times better than NASA's SWIFT satellite. This means, even if a specific type of explosion or high-energy event in space is far away or too faint to be captured, we can capture it because of our equipment sensitivity and wide field of view, as opposed to the zoomed in view of other space telescopes," Dr. Varun explained to WION.

Gamma-Ray Bursts are the most energetic explosions known in the universe and they release intense gamma radiation, it could be caused by the collapse of a massive star. 

A team from IIT Bombay is making progress in building a pair of scientific-use satellites that can help track and unravel some interesting high-energy phenomenon in our universe. Titled Daksha, the proposed space mission could help better humanity's understanding of Exploding Stars, Gamma-Ray Bursts, Solar flares, High-altitude lightning, among others. The data that would be generated from this future mission would enhance research in Astrophysics, Solar studies, Atmospheric sciences. Exploding stars or Supernovae refer to massive explosions that mark the death of a star. Gamma-Ray Bursts are the most energetic explosions known in the universe and they release intense gamma radiation, it could be caused by the collapse of a massive star. Gamma-Ray Bursts emit more energy in a few seconds than the Sun in its entire life, and such phenomenon could affect life on Earth if it occurred nearby. Such varied explosions also created all the heavy elements like gold and uranium in the universe. Solar flares are a sudden burst of energy from the Sun's surface. These high-energy particles travel at very high speeds and have the potential to disrupt satellite communications, GPS, space missions, astronaut missions etc. High-altitude lightning is unlike conventional lightning, and it takes place in earth's upper atmosphere and the region near space. According to Dr. Varun Bhalerao, an astrophysicist at IIT Bombay, Daksha is meant to study all the above phenomenon and offer a wide-angle view of space. He explained that existing space telescopes operated by foreign space agencies have a zoomed in view of a certain region in space, but Daksha can offer a wide view and more coverage. Outlining the journey so far, Dr. Varun says, "back in 2018, Indian space agency ISRO invited Indian scientists and academia to propose space telescope ideas, and ours happened to be ranked highly, which got us some seed funding for creating a proof of concept". With that, we made detectors and sensors with the right kind of sensitivity, and now we are waiting for further steps such as approvals from ISRO and the Indian cabinet, the country's apex decision-making body, he told WION. Elaborating on the payloads or scientific equipment that would be mounted on the twin Daksha satellite, Dr. Varun said that each satellite would carry a 150kg science payload that would be developed by his team, and the satellite structure, solar panels, other standard components would be provided by ISRO. He emphasized that the twin Daksha satellites could continuously look out for any high-energy activity that is occurring in our Universe, and the payloads are sensitive enough to capture activity that is billions of light years away. "In terms of volumetric coverage, India's Daksha will be 5 times better than the NASA-ESA Fermi satellite, and 13 times better than NASA's SWIFT satellite. This means, even if a specific type of explosion or high-energy event in space is far away or too faint to be captured, we can capture it because of our equipment sensitivity and wide field of view, as opposed to the zoomed in view of other space telescopes," Dr. Varun explained to WION.

Gamma-Ray Bursts are the most energetic explosions known in the universe and they release intense gamma radiation, it could be caused by the collapse of a massive star.&nbsp;

IIT Bombay's Daksha satellites to unravel mysteries of the Universe

India has successfully conducted a test of the Intermediate Range ‘Agni-Prime Missile’ from a rail-based Mobile launcher system on Thursday. The project was launched in a collaboration between DRDO and the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) under a full operational scenario on September 24, 2025. Equipped with several advanced features, the next-generation missile is designed to cover a range of up to 2000 km.&nbsp;The first-of-its-kind launch was successfully executed using a specially developed rail-based mobile launcher that can operate seamlessly on the railway network without any preconditions. This system offers cross-country mobility and can initiate a launch within minimal reaction time while maintaining reduced visibility. The launcher is fully autonomous, equipped with advanced communication systems, independent launch capabilities and protective features.<h3>Defence minister calls it ‘first-of-its-kind launch’</h3>Defence minister Rajnath Singh confirmed the successful test in a statement on his social media platform X, calling it a "first-of-its-kind launch" that highlights the growing strategic capabilities of India.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">India has carried out the successful launch of Intermediate Range Agni-Prime Missile from a Rail based Mobile launcher system. This next generation missile is designed to cover a range up to 2000 km and is equipped with various advanced features. The first-of-its-kind launch… <a href="https://t.co/00GpGSNOeE">pic.twitter.com/00GpGSNOeE</a>&mdash; Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1971051269692494275?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“The first-of-its-kind launch carried out today from a specially designed rail-based Mobile Launcher has the capability to move on the Rail network without any preconditions, which allows users to have cross-country mobility and launch within a short reaction time with reduced visibility,” he said.&nbsp;"Congratulations to DRDO, Strategic Forces Command (SFC) and the Armed Forces on the successful test of the Intermediate Range Agni-Prime missile. This successful flight test has put India in the group of select nations having capabilities that have developed a canisterised launch system from a mobile rail network," he added.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Road Mobile Agni-P has entered service after a series of successful flight trials. And this test followed the successful launch of the missile in August at Chandipur, Odisha. In addition, a trial of Agni-5 was conducted under ‘Mission Divyastra’ in March 2024, showcasing MIRV (multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicle) capability.

The next-generation missile designed to cover a range of up to 2000 km was successfully launched under joint collaboration of the DRDO and the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) using a specially developed rail-based mobile launcher.

India has successfully conducted a test of the Intermediate Range ‘Agni-Prime Missile’ from a rail-based Mobile launcher system on Thursday. The project was launched in a collaboration between DRDO and the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) under a full operational scenario on September 24, 2025. Equipped with several advanced features, the next-generation missile is designed to cover a range of up to 2000 km. The first-of-its-kind launch was successfully executed using a specially developed rail-based mobile launcher that can operate seamlessly on the railway network without any preconditions. This system offers cross-country mobility and can initiate a launch within minimal reaction time while maintaining reduced visibility. The launcher is fully autonomous, equipped with advanced communication systems, independent launch capabilities and protective features. Defence minister calls it ‘first-of-its-kind launch’ Defence minister Rajnath Singh confirmed the successful test in a statement on his social media platform X, calling it a "first-of-its-kind launch" that highlights the growing strategic capabilities of India.

The next-generation missile designed to cover a range of up to 2000 km was successfully launched under joint collaboration of the DRDO and the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) using a specially developed rail-based mobile launcher.

WATCH: India test-fire 'Agni-Prime Missile' from rail-based launcher, Defence Minister calls it 'First-of-Its-Kind'

For the first time, doctors have successfully slowed the progression of Huntington's disease by 75%, offering hope to patients and their families. Huntington’s disease, a cruel genetic disorder that typically causes fatal neurological decline within two decades, has seen its progression dramatically slowed in a trial using innovative gene therapy. Professor Sarah Tabrizi, leading the research at University College London, called the results "spectacular," as data reveals that the progression of the disease is now slowed by 75%, meaning patients could live for decades with a much higher quality of life. Instead of deteriorating over one year, the disease now progresses at a rate that would typically take four years.&nbsp;The therapy, which involves complex brain surgery lasting up to 18 hours, uses cutting-edge gene-editing technology to slow the production of the toxic huntingtin protein that destroys brain cells. This is done by delivering a specially designed DNA sequence deep into the brain to suppress the harmful protein. The surgery is guided in real-time using MRI to target critical areas of the brain.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/solar-micronova-could-cook-us-earth-faces-mass-extinction-threat-in-10-25-years-1758623442603">Solar 'micronova' could cook us: Earth faces mass extinction threat in 10-25 years</a><h2>What is Huntington's Disease?</h2>Huntington's disease is a genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. Symptoms typically appear in a person's 30s or 40s and gets worse over time. The disease causes movement problems, cognitive decline, and psychiatric issues, leading to death within 10 to 20 years of symptom onset. Huntington's is caused by a mutation in the huntingtin gene, and those with one affected parent have a 50% chance of inheriting the disease.<h2>Trial Results and Impact</h2>The treatment’s success has been demonstrated in a clinical trial involving 29 patients, where the disease's progression was significantly slowed. Results showed a 75% reduction in the disease's advancement, as measured by cognitive function, motor skills, and daily living capabilities. The data also revealed that the therapy had a protective effect on brain cells, as neurofilament levels—which indicate nerve cell death—did not increase as expected, but instead remained stable or improved.<h2>The Road Ahead</h2>While this development is groundbreaking, it comes with significant challenges. The procedure, involving delicate brain surgery, is both highly complex and expensive. This means the treatment will likely be out of reach for many people unless future advancements can make it more accessible. Despite these barriers, Professor Tabrizi and her team are optimistic, already planning further trials, including preventative treatments for those at risk but who have not yet shown symptoms. There are still many questions, including how widely the treatment can be distributed and whether it can be adapted for earlier intervention. However, the results show a tangible possibility of a better life for those living with Huntington's disease.<h2>Cost Considerations and Future Access</h2>The treatment’s anticipated high cost could limit its availability, especially since gene therapies are generally expensive. Professor Ed Wild, a consultant neurologist involved in the research, highlighted that while the surgery and therapy are costly, their long-term effects could make them more affordable over time. For comparison, the NHS currently funds a £2.6 million-per-patient gene therapy for hemophilia B. Gene therapy’s potential to transform the way we approach degenerative diseases is clear. While it may not be available for everyone in the immediate future, this development marks the start of a new era in the treatment of genetic disorders like Huntington's.

Historic medical breakthrough! Gene therapy slows Huntington's disease by 75%, offering new hope for patients

For the first time, doctors have successfully slowed the progression of Huntington's disease by 75%, offering hope to patients and their families. Huntington’s disease, a cruel genetic disorder that typically causes fatal neurological decline within two decades, has seen its progression dramatically slowed in a trial using innovative gene therapy. Professor Sarah Tabrizi, leading the research at University College London, called the results "spectacular," as data reveals that the progression of the disease is now slowed by 75%, meaning patients could live for decades with a much higher quality of life. Instead of deteriorating over one year, the disease now progresses at a rate that would typically take four years. The therapy, which involves complex brain surgery lasting up to 18 hours, uses cutting-edge gene-editing technology to slow the production of the toxic huntingtin protein that destroys brain cells. This is done by delivering a specially designed DNA sequence deep into the brain to suppress the harmful protein. The surgery is guided in real-time using MRI to target critical areas of the brain. Also Read: Solar 'micronova' could cook us: Earth faces mass extinction threat in 10-25 years What is Huntington's Disease? Huntington's disease is a genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. Symptoms typically appear in a person's 30s or 40s and gets worse over time. The disease causes movement problems, cognitive decline, and psychiatric issues, leading to death within 10 to 20 years of symptom onset. Huntington's is caused by a mutation in the huntingtin gene, and those with one affected parent have a 50% chance of inheriting the disease. Trial Results and Impact The treatment’s success has been demonstrated in a clinical trial involving 29 patients, where the disease's progression was significantly slowed. Results showed a 75% reduction in the disease's advancement, as measured by cognitive function, motor skills, and daily living capabilities. The data also revealed that the therapy had a protective effect on brain cells, as neurofilament levels—which indicate nerve cell death—did not increase as expected, but instead remained stable or improved. The Road Ahead While this development is groundbreaking, it comes with significant challenges. The procedure, involving delicate brain surgery, is both highly complex and expensive. This means the treatment will likely be out of reach for many people unless future advancements can make it more accessible. Despite these barriers, Professor Tabrizi and her team are optimistic, already planning further trials, including preventative treatments for those at risk but who have not yet shown symptoms. There are still many questions, including how widely the treatment can be distributed and whether it can be adapted for earlier intervention. However, the results show a tangible possibility of a better life for those living with Huntington's disease. Cost Considerations and Future Access The treatment’s anticipated high cost could limit its availability, especially since gene therapies are generally expensive. Professor Ed Wild, a consultant neurologist involved in the research, highlighted that while the surgery and therapy are costly, their long-term effects could make them more affordable over time. For comparison, the NHS currently funds a £2.6 million-per-patient gene therapy for hemophilia B. Gene therapy’s potential to transform the way we approach degenerative diseases is clear. While it may not be available for everyone in the immediate future, this development marks the start of a new era in the treatment of genetic disorders like Huntington's.

A new gene therapy has successfully slowed Huntington's disease by 75%, giving patients new hope for a longer, higher quality life despite the devastating illness.

Infection cases caused by drug-resistant ‘nightmare bacteria’ surged nearly 70% between 2019 and 2023, according to a new report from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention scientists. The findings were published on Monday in the Annals of Internal Medicine, in which researchers noted that the rise was largely attributed to bacteria carrying the NDM gene, which makes infections extremely difficult to treat.&nbsp;Currently, only two antibiotics are effective for infections, but these drugs are expensive and must be administered through an IV. Initially considered rare and linked mostly to patients who had received treatment abroad, these bacteria are now appearing more frequently within the United States. Although the overall number of cases remains relatively small, the CDC report highlighted that infections linked to the NDM gene have increased more than fivefold in recent years, as per the US News.<h3>What is 'Nightmare Bacteria'?</h3>Nightmare Bacteria is a term which mostly refers to the bacteria group known as Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE). It includes pathogens such as Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. When all other options have been exhausted, these bacteria are resistant to the antibiotics carbapenems, which are frequently reserved for severe infections.&nbsp;The primary factor behind the recent rise in the US is the spread of bacteria carrying the NDM gene (New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase), which enables them to block the effects of multiple antibiotic medications by neutralising them, as per the report in CNBC TV18.<h3>What are the early signs of infection of 'Nightmare Bacteria'?</h3>The early signs of CRE infections are quite challenging as their symptoms frequently appear similar to those of more common bacterial diseases. Warning signs differ depending on how far the infection has progressed. In urinary tract infections, patients may experience fever, cloudy urine, painful urination, and frequent urges to pass urine. Lung infections such as pneumonia often present with coughing, chest discomfort, fever, and shortness of breath.&nbsp;In cases where the infection spreads to the bloodstream and causes sepsis, symptoms may include a rapid heartbeat, chills, high fever, low blood pressure, and mental confusion. Since these indicators often resemble those of other medical conditions, laboratory tests are essential for accurate detection. Any delay in confirming the diagnosis can make effective treatment considerably more difficult.&nbsp;

The major cause of the current rise in the US is bacteria with the NDM gene (New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase), which allows bacteria to render multiple antibiotic medications ineffective by neutralising them

Infection cases caused by drug-resistant ‘nightmare bacteria’ surged nearly 70% between 2019 and 2023, according to a new report from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention scientists. The findings were published on Monday in the Annals of Internal Medicine, in which researchers noted that the rise was largely attributed to bacteria carrying the NDM gene, which makes infections extremely difficult to treat. Currently, only two antibiotics are effective for infections, but these drugs are expensive and must be administered through an IV. Initially considered rare and linked mostly to patients who had received treatment abroad, these bacteria are now appearing more frequently within the United States. Although the overall number of cases remains relatively small, the CDC report highlighted that infections linked to the NDM gene have increased more than fivefold in recent years, as per the US News. What is 'Nightmare Bacteria'? Nightmare Bacteria is a term which mostly refers to the bacteria group known as Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE). It includes pathogens such as Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. When all other options have been exhausted, these bacteria are resistant to the antibiotics carbapenems, which are frequently reserved for severe infections. The primary factor behind the recent rise in the US is the spread of bacteria carrying the NDM gene (New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase), which enables them to block the effects of multiple antibiotic medications by neutralising them, as per the report in CNBC TV18. What are the early signs of infection of 'Nightmare Bacteria'? The early signs of CRE infections are quite challenging as their symptoms frequently appear similar to those of more common bacterial diseases. Warning signs differ depending on how far the infection has progressed. In urinary tract infections, patients may experience fever, cloudy urine, painful urination, and frequent urges to pass urine. Lung infections such as pneumonia often present with coughing, chest discomfort, fever, and shortness of breath. In cases where the infection spreads to the bloodstream and causes sepsis, symptoms may include a rapid heartbeat, chills, high fever, low blood pressure, and mental confusion. Since these indicators often resemble those of other medical conditions, laboratory tests are essential for accurate detection. Any delay in confirming the diagnosis can make effective treatment considerably more difficult.

The primary factor behind the recent rise in the US is the spread of bacteria carrying the NDM gene (New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase), which enables them to block the effects of multiple antibiotic medications by neutralising them.

What is Nightmare Bacteria? Drug-resistant pathogens are rapidly increasing in the US

A catastrophic space storm could wipe out 90 per cent of humanity, a space weather expert has warned. In fact, we are in the middle of this storm and the devastation could unfold any time. Ben Davidson, founder of Space Weather News, says a geomagnetic disaster could kill most life from the planet, and science backs it. He told the Matt Beall Limitless podcast that the Sun would be the main culprit in this event. A solar "micronova" could cause a magnetic pole shift, which could lead to a change in the climate, triggering destruction through various events, tsunamis, and ultimately a mass extinction. A solar explosion is very likely to occur as the Sun has been highly active in the past few years. “This is a near extinction-level event, and we are in the middle of it right now!” Davidson said. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/solar-superstorm-to-hit-earth-this-week-what-will-happen-1747894017392">Solar superstorm headed our way can raise the price of gas, cause 'internet apocalypse'</a>&nbsp;Solar storms are a regular occurrence. However, if our star unleases a huge amount of plasma, it could do more than just disrupt communication networks, experts say. Davidson said that a solar explosion of varying levels occurs every 6,000 years or so. A severe storm happens once every 12,000 years. The Carrington Event in 1959 is linked to a huge solar storm that disrupted telegraph systems and set wires ablaze. The next one that Earth will see is expected to be a much more bigger geostorm. Davidson said it could happen anywhere from 10 to 25 years. Earth’s magnetic shield is also weakening because of changes in the molten iron currents within Earth's outer core. As the magentic poles shift and this field weakens, the storm would have much deeper and scarier reach.<h2>How a geostorm will trigger chaos on Earth</h2>Even if the geostorm does not cook everything right away, it will damage power grids, affect water production, deliveries, emergency response and more, thus shattering the system within days. “Within three days, there's no gasoline at the pump. There's no food at the store,” Davidson warned. According to him, everything that is expected to happen with the climate in such a scenario is already happening. Which means, it is already underway. Experts have already warned that the rising CO2 levels are likely to cause a mass extinction in the next 250 million years. Meanwhile, in this century, a mega tsunami has been predicted which will submerge much of the coastal areas. So, besides human-caused climate change, it seems our Sun is also ready to roast us.

A space storm specialist has warned that Earth could face mass extinction within this decade as a geostorm is due to occur any time. In fact, we are already witnessing some changes in the form of the worsening climate.

A catastrophic space storm could wipe out 90 per cent of humanity, a space weather expert has warned. In fact, we are in the middle of this storm and the devastation could unfold any time. Ben Davidson, founder of Space Weather News, says a geomagnetic disaster could kill most life from the planet, and science backs it. He told the Matt Beall Limitless podcast that the Sun would be the main culprit in this event. A solar "micronova" could cause a magnetic pole shift, which could lead to a change in the climate, triggering destruction through various events, tsunamis, and ultimately a mass extinction. A solar explosion is very likely to occur as the Sun has been highly active in the past few years. “This is a near extinction-level event, and we are in the middle of it right now!” Davidson said. Also Read: Solar superstorm headed our way can raise the price of gas, cause 'internet apocalypse' Solar storms are a regular occurrence. However, if our star unleases a huge amount of plasma, it could do more than just disrupt communication networks, experts say. Davidson said that a solar explosion of varying levels occurs every 6,000 years or so. A severe storm happens once every 12,000 years. The Carrington Event in 1959 is linked to a huge solar storm that disrupted telegraph systems and set wires ablaze. The next one that Earth will see is expected to be a much more bigger geostorm. Davidson said it could happen anywhere from 10 to 25 years. Earth’s magnetic shield is also weakening because of changes in the molten iron currents within Earth's outer core. As the magentic poles shift and this field weakens, the storm would have much deeper and scarier reach. How a geostorm will trigger chaos on Earth Even if the geostorm does not cook everything right away, it will damage power grids, affect water production, deliveries, emergency response and more, thus shattering the system within days. “Within three days, there's no gasoline at the pump. There's no food at the store,” Davidson warned. According to him, everything that is expected to happen with the climate in such a scenario is already happening. Which means, it is already underway. Experts have already warned that the rising CO2 levels are likely to cause a mass extinction in the next 250 million years. Meanwhile, in this century, a mega tsunami has been predicted which will submerge much of the coastal areas. So, besides human-caused climate change, it seems our Sun is also ready to roast us.

A space storm specialist has warned that Earth could face mass extinction within this decade as a geostorm is due to occur any time. In fact, we are already witnessing some changes in the form of the worsening climate.

Solar 'micronova' could cook us: Earth faces mass extinction threat in 10-25 years

An asteroid that entered over France and exploded at quite a low altitude has uncovered a new impact risk that Earth's planetary defences might not be ready to fight. Asteroid 2023 CX1 burst into a fireball after disintegrating in the sky at an altitude of around 28 kilometres. According to a research that looked into the asteroid explosion, the asteroid did not start breaking apart after entering, and instead had a single explosion, releasing much of its energy at a very low height. Meteorites and other space rocks that enter Earth start disintegrating as soon as they hit the atmosphere, breaking apart in smaller chunks, thus releasing their energy slowly. But asteroid 2023 CX1 remained intact for a longer duration and only exploded after it came pretty close to the ground. NASA's Ames Research Centre calcualted that the meteor released a dynamic pressure of 4 MPa. A zone of high overpressures was created because of this, which was around four times bigger than expected for an asteroid of this size. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/asteroid-ky26-smaller-and-faster-than-expected-new-challenge-for-japan-s-hayabusa2-1758376594361">Asteroid KY26 smaller and faster than expected, new challenge for Japan’s Hayabusa2</a><h2>What happens if a bigger asteroid explodes near the ground?</h2>This finding presents a scenario that has never been explored before in planetary defence. According to the study, if in future an asteroid similar to 2023 CX1 was to hit Earth, and undergoes a similar burst, then it could cause a significant damage at the ground level. This means that people working to secure the planet from asteroids and comets have a new problem on their hands. They now need to rethink what is considered a "safe" small impact in the future. The problem turns even bigger if a bigger piece of space rock were to hit Earth. If it behaves like 2023 CX1, it could wreak havoc. In the absence of multiple detonations in its trajectory, a single large blow occurs near the ground, making it act like a bomb, Auriane Egal, who conducted the research at the University of Western Ontario in Canada, said. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-did-china-shoot-down-a-meteor-with-a-missile-scientists-doubt-friday-s-fireball-came-from-space-1758011374415">Watch: Did China shoot down a meteor with a missile? Scientists doubt Friday's fireball came from space</a>&nbsp;She added that if a bigger asteroid entered Earth, the shock to the surface of our atmosphere would be significantly stronger. “This kind of fragmentation is more dangerous,” Egal continued. “If you have a larger asteroid, its effects are going to be amplified. Maybe we need to evacuate a larger area near the predicted impact location.” Explaining why 2023 CX1 behaved in this manner, Egal said it belings to a parent rock in the inner asteroid belt where many collisions likely "toughened" it up. “We have multiple shock veins in the meteorite that are witnesses [to] lots of impacts,” she said. This is why it held strong until the last minute.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Asteroid 2023 CX1 exploded over France two years ago. The rock did not undergo multiple detonations, and instead burst into a huge fireball very near to the ground. Scientists are now worried that we are not prepared for such an asteroid impact. 

An asteroid that entered over France and exploded at quite a low altitude has uncovered a new impact risk that Earth's planetary defences might not be ready to fight. Asteroid 2023 CX1 burst into a fireball after disintegrating in the sky at an altitude of around 28 kilometres. According to a research that looked into the asteroid explosion, the asteroid did not start breaking apart after entering, and instead had a single explosion, releasing much of its energy at a very low height. Meteorites and other space rocks that enter Earth start disintegrating as soon as they hit the atmosphere, breaking apart in smaller chunks, thus releasing their energy slowly. But asteroid 2023 CX1 remained intact for a longer duration and only exploded after it came pretty close to the ground. NASA's Ames Research Centre calcualted that the meteor released a dynamic pressure of 4 MPa. A zone of high overpressures was created because of this, which was around four times bigger than expected for an asteroid of this size. Also Read: Asteroid KY26 smaller and faster than expected, new challenge for Japan’s Hayabusa2 What happens if a bigger asteroid explodes near the ground? This finding presents a scenario that has never been explored before in planetary defence. According to the study, if in future an asteroid similar to 2023 CX1 was to hit Earth, and undergoes a similar burst, then it could cause a significant damage at the ground level. This means that people working to secure the planet from asteroids and comets have a new problem on their hands. They now need to rethink what is considered a "safe" small impact in the future. The problem turns even bigger if a bigger piece of space rock were to hit Earth. If it behaves like 2023 CX1, it could wreak havoc. In the absence of multiple detonations in its trajectory, a single large blow occurs near the ground, making it act like a bomb, Auriane Egal, who conducted the research at the University of Western Ontario in Canada, said. Also Read: Watch: Did China shoot down a meteor with a missile? Scientists doubt Friday's fireball came from space She added that if a bigger asteroid entered Earth, the shock to the surface of our atmosphere would be significantly stronger. “This kind of fragmentation is more dangerous,” Egal continued. “If you have a larger asteroid, its effects are going to be amplified. Maybe we need to evacuate a larger area near the predicted impact location.” Explaining why 2023 CX1 behaved in this manner, Egal said it belings to a parent rock in the inner asteroid belt where many collisions likely "toughened" it up. “We have multiple shock veins in the meteorite that are witnesses [to] lots of impacts,” she said. This is why it held strong until the last minute.

Asteroid 2023 CX1 exploded over France two years ago. The rock did not undergo multiple detonations, and instead burst into a huge fireball very near to the ground. Scientists are now worried that we are not prepared for such an asteroid impact.&nbsp;

Asteroid explosion 'near ground' in France is giving scientists sleepless nights. Here's why

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Sep 22) pushed anti-vaccination sentiments as he urged pregnant women to avoid using Tylenol during pregnancy over purported autism risks. At a White House press conference, Trump tied the painkiller, which is known as paracetamol outside America, to autism — a link not backed by medical consensus — while calling for major changes to the way babies are vaccinated.<h2>Trump's anti-vax rant</h2>Leaning heavily into anti-vaccine talking points, Trump repeated claims long promoted by his health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. He argued that newborns should not receive the Hepatitis B vaccine — despite decades of research showing it prevents maternal transmission of the virus — and suggested childhood vaccines were overloaded with “too much liquid.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tells-pregnant-women-to-tough-it-out-without-paracetamol-claims-amish-have-no-autism-because-they-lack-tylenol-1758589438052">Trump tells pregnant women to ‘tough it out’ without paracetamol, claims Amish have ‘no autism’ because they lack Tylenol</a>Trump, who does not have any medical degrees, said that children should not get vaccinated against Hepatitis B until the age of 12 years. He said that "Hepatitis B is sexually transmitted," and stated that thus "There's no reason to give a baby that's almost just born hepatitis B." While it is true that Hep-B is mostly spread via sexual contact, it can be passed from a mother to her child during pregnancy. &nbsp;“They pump so much stuff into those beautiful little babies, it's a disgrace,” Trump said. “It looks like they’re pumping into a horse,” he claimed, but once again said, "I'm not a doctor, but I'm giving my opinion."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paracetamol-causes-autism-trump-admin-to-reveal-alarming-side-effects-of-tylenol-use-by-pregnant-women-1758529171001">Paracetamol causes autism? Trump admin to reveal alarming side effects of Tylenol use by pregnant women</a><h2>Echoes of "injecting bleach": Trump's latest remarks spark déjà vu</h2>The comments echoed Trump’s pandemic-era riffs about disinfectant injections and “light inside the body,” when he was widely mocked for dispensing medical theories from the podium.For doctors, the concern is more immediate. “Spacing out or delaying vaccines means children will not have immunity against these diseases at times when they are most at risk,” said Susan Kressly, president of the American Academy of Paediatrics. “Any effort to misrepresent sound science poses a threat to the health of children.”

US President Donald Trump, in a press conference, promoted anti-vaccination theories, suggesting that children's vaccination schedules should be changed, claiming that

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Sep 22) pushed anti-vaccination sentiments as he urged pregnant women to avoid using Tylenol during pregnancy over purported autism risks. At a White House press conference, Trump tied the painkiller, which is known as paracetamol outside America, to autism — a link not backed by medical consensus — while calling for major changes to the way babies are vaccinated. Trump's anti-vax rant Leaning heavily into anti-vaccine talking points, Trump repeated claims long promoted by his health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. He argued that newborns should not receive the Hepatitis B vaccine — despite decades of research showing it prevents maternal transmission of the virus — and suggested childhood vaccines were overloaded with “too much liquid.” Also read | Trump tells pregnant women to ‘tough it out’ without paracetamol, claims Amish have ‘no autism’ because they lack Tylenol Trump, who does not have any medical degrees, said that children should not get vaccinated against Hepatitis B until the age of 12 years. He said that "Hepatitis B is sexually transmitted," and stated that thus "There's no reason to give a baby that's almost just born hepatitis B." While it is true that Hep-B is mostly spread via sexual contact, it can be passed from a mother to her child during pregnancy. “They pump so much stuff into those beautiful little babies, it's a disgrace,” Trump said. “It looks like they’re pumping into a horse,” he claimed, but once again said, "I'm not a doctor, but I'm giving my opinion." Also read | Paracetamol causes autism? Trump admin to reveal alarming side effects of Tylenol use by pregnant women Echoes of "injecting bleach": Trump's latest remarks spark déjà vu The comments echoed Trump’s pandemic-era riffs about disinfectant injections and “light inside the body,” when he was widely mocked for dispensing medical theories from the podium. For doctors, the concern is more immediate. “Spacing out or delaying vaccines means children will not have immunity against these diseases at times when they are most at risk,” said Susan Kressly, president of the American Academy of Paediatrics. “Any effort to misrepresent sound science poses a threat to the health of children.”

US President Donald Trump, in a press conference, promoted anti-vaccination theories, suggesting that children's vaccination schedules should be changed, claiming that&nbsp;

‘They pump babies like horses’: Trump slams vaccines, urges parents to delay Hep-B shot until child turns 12

A gravitational wave event detected in 2019 might have led astronomers to discover the first wormhole in the universe. LIGO and Virgo picked up the wave that lasted less than a tenth of a second. Scientists analysed the event and deduced that it was the result of a collision between two black holes. However, six years later, they think they might have been partly wrong. While the scientists still think that a merger between two black holes triggered the waves, it probably didn't happen in our universe. Instead, what we witnessed was the reverberation from an alternate universe that reached us through a wormhole. The signal named GW190521 is still the "preferred interpretation", as per researchers of a new study, but they are not denying the wormhole theory either. The revelation was made by physicist Qi Lai of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences in a preprint uploaded to arXiv.<h2>What are wormholes?</h2>Wormholes are hypothetical structures in the universe that connect two points in the universe. These two points could either be divided by space or time. The wormhole acts as a bridge between the distant points, and hence, is also known as the Einstein–Rosen bridge and was proposed by Albert Einstein and Nathan Rosen in 1935. If the 2019 event did come from a wormhole formed because of the merger of the two black holes, it would prove that these objects, popularised by space fiction movies and TV shows, are real. However, the study authors are playing it safe and not just calling it a collapsing wormhole formed from a mega collision. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/human-hunt-for-intelligent-alien-life-could-help-us-outlive-all-the-stars-scientist-says-1758531158090">Humans can survive cosmic winter by befriending super intelligent aliens, scientist says</a>&nbsp;To explain their wormhole theory, Lai and team wrote that gravitational waves are generated when massive, dense objects, such as black holes and neutron stars, collide. But, in case the event occurs with a black hole pair in a binary orbit, their interacting gravitational fields also generate ripples as they are pulled towards each other. These ripples start off weak and gradually become stronger. The mass of the merger is 142 times the mass of the Sun; hence, the wave should have been detectable. But they were missing in the case of GW190521. This led the researchers to state that the black holes were not locked together and were passing each other when they became entangled in each other's gravitational fields.<h2>Humans may have probably seen their first wormhole</h2>Another explanation given by the researchers for the short burst of gravitational waves is that a binary black hole merger resulted in a wormhole that collapsed and formed a single black hole. Such an event would trigger only a short burst. A waveform model of what this gravitational wave signal would look like was made and compared with data collected in 2019. They also constructed a waveform for a standard binary black hole merger. They noted that the binary black hole merger waveform was only slightly a better explanation for the signal, yet they think the wormhole scenario could still have happened. This would mean that GW190521 was the first time humanity likely observed another universe.&nbsp;

We might have seen our first wormhole in the universe. A signal detected in 2019 could have come from another universe, passing through a wormhole that collapsed after forming from a black hole collision in an alternate world.

A gravitational wave event detected in 2019 might have led astronomers to discover the first wormhole in the universe. LIGO and Virgo picked up the wave that lasted less than a tenth of a second. Scientists analysed the event and deduced that it was the result of a collision between two black holes. However, six years later, they think they might have been partly wrong. While the scientists still think that a merger between two black holes triggered the waves, it probably didn't happen in our universe. Instead, what we witnessed was the reverberation from an alternate universe that reached us through a wormhole. The signal named GW190521 is still the "preferred interpretation", as per researchers of a new study, but they are not denying the wormhole theory either. The revelation was made by physicist Qi Lai of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences in a preprint uploaded to arXiv. What are wormholes? Wormholes are hypothetical structures in the universe that connect two points in the universe. These two points could either be divided by space or time. The wormhole acts as a bridge between the distant points, and hence, is also known as the Einstein–Rosen bridge and was proposed by Albert Einstein and Nathan Rosen in 1935. If the 2019 event did come from a wormhole formed because of the merger of the two black holes, it would prove that these objects, popularised by space fiction movies and TV shows, are real. However, the study authors are playing it safe and not just calling it a collapsing wormhole formed from a mega collision. Also Read: Humans can survive cosmic winter by befriending super intelligent aliens, scientist says To explain their wormhole theory, Lai and team wrote that gravitational waves are generated when massive, dense objects, such as black holes and neutron stars, collide. But, in case the event occurs with a black hole pair in a binary orbit, their interacting gravitational fields also generate ripples as they are pulled towards each other. These ripples start off weak and gradually become stronger. The mass of the merger is 142 times the mass of the Sun; hence, the wave should have been detectable. But they were missing in the case of GW190521. This led the researchers to state that the black holes were not locked together and were passing each other when they became entangled in each other's gravitational fields. Humans may have probably seen their first wormhole Another explanation given by the researchers for the short burst of gravitational waves is that a binary black hole merger resulted in a wormhole that collapsed and formed a single black hole. Such an event would trigger only a short burst. A waveform model of what this gravitational wave signal would look like was made and compared with data collected in 2019. They also constructed a waveform for a standard binary black hole merger. They noted that the binary black hole merger waveform was only slightly a better explanation for the signal, yet they think the wormhole scenario could still have happened. This would mean that GW190521 was the first time humanity likely observed another universe.

We might have seen our first wormhole in the universe. A signal detected in 2019 could have come from another universe, passing through a wormhole that collapsed after forming from a black hole collision in an alternate world.

Scientists think we have received a signal from a parallel universe via a WORMHOLE

Leopard sharks were seen engaging in a threesome in New Caledonia, the first time any kind of sexual encounter was seen in these marine creatures. The scene was witnessed and recorded by Dr Hugo Lassauce, a researcher at the University of the Sunshine Coast, while snorkelling. Lassauce was in the waters, carrying out a survey of the leopard shark population off the coast of Nouméa, when he saw three of them in a grasping battle. Two males were grasping a female shark's pectoral fins on the sand. He knew something was about to happen and decided to wait. An hour's wait yielded fruit as the sexual rendezvous began. Lassauce said the whole thing was "over in minutes" and lasted only 110 seconds. The first male took 63 seconds, while the second was done in 47 seconds. The males lay flat while the sprightly female shark left the scene. “Then the males lost all their energy and lay immobile on the bottom while the female swam away actively,” Lassauce said. The findings were published in a study in the Journal of Ethology. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ghostly-silence-from-blue-whales-an-ominous-sign-for-the-world-scientists-warn-1753863195541">Ghostly silence from blue whales is an ominous sign for the world</a>&nbsp;<h2>See video of the shark threesome</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">📍 Nouméa, New Caledonia 🇳🇨 For the first time in the wild, scientists have documented group copulation in the Endangered Indo-Pacific leopard shark (Stegostoma tigrinum). 🔗 Read more here: <a href="https://t.co/3Bxn7HqbWH">https://t.co/3Bxn7HqbWH</a><a href="https://twitter.com/ZebraSharkNC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZebraSharkNC</a> <a href="https://t.co/c7j1IieeSX">pic.twitter.com/c7j1IieeSX</a>&mdash; ReShark (@resharkorg) <a href="https://twitter.com/resharkorg/status/1970014393544110542?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>First time leopard sharks were seen mating in any form</h2>Scientists say this is the first time a leopard shark has been observed mating in the wild. Previously, other shark species had been observed mating in groups, which happened with multiple males and one female. Dolphins are seen mating all the time, but researchers say leopard sharks are not like dolphins. Leopard sharks are a globally endangered species, and experts say this observation will help with conservation efforts. The video from New Caledonia indicates that this site is a mating site for leopard sharks. Dr Christine Dudgeon, a marine ecology and evolution expert, said that this information can help devise ways to promote mating and conservation strategies. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baffling-sound-coming-from-pacific-born-from-something-humans-did-46-years-ago-1758525907990">Baffling sound coming from Pacific born from something humans did 46 years ago</a>&nbsp;Dudgeon expressed surprise at witnessing a threesome among the sharks. “It’s surprising and fascinating that two males were involved sequentially on this occasion. From a genetic diversity perspective, we want to find out how many fathers contribute to the batches of eggs laid each year by females," she said. Experts working to conserve and promote reproduction among the leopard sharks have also been working on artificial insemination to “rewild” the species.

Leopard sharks have been seen engaging in sexual activity for the first time ever. Not only this, three of these marine creatures were caught on camera entangled in a threesome, with two males and one female shark.

Leopard sharks were seen engaging in a threesome in New Caledonia, the first time any kind of sexual encounter was seen in these marine creatures. The scene was witnessed and recorded by Dr Hugo Lassauce, a researcher at the University of the Sunshine Coast, while snorkelling. Lassauce was in the waters, carrying out a survey of the leopard shark population off the coast of Nouméa, when he saw three of them in a grasping battle. Two males were grasping a female shark's pectoral fins on the sand. He knew something was about to happen and decided to wait. An hour's wait yielded fruit as the sexual rendezvous began. Lassauce said the whole thing was "over in minutes" and lasted only 110 seconds. The first male took 63 seconds, while the second was done in 47 seconds. The males lay flat while the sprightly female shark left the scene. “Then the males lost all their energy and lay immobile on the bottom while the female swam away actively,” Lassauce said. The findings were published in a study in the Journal of Ethology. Also Read: Ghostly silence from blue whales is an ominous sign for the world See video of the shark threesome

Leopard sharks have been seen engaging in sexual activity for the first time ever. Not only this, three of these marine creatures were caught on camera entangled in a threesome, with two males and one female shark.

110-second deep sea threesome: Three leopard sharks caught mating on camera | Video

In the vacuum of space, where Earth’s breathable atmosphere is absent, providing astronauts with a continuous supply of oxygen is essential. This necessity has led to the development of sophisticated systems aboard spacecraft to ensure a safe and sustainable environment for crew members.&nbsp;Each astronaut consumes approximately 2 pounds (about 0.9 kg) of oxygen per day. Maintaining a cabin atmosphere similar to Earth's, at about 14.7 psi pressure and 21 per cent oxygen concentration, is crucial for comfort and health. Given the extended durations of missions, especially aboard the International Space Station (ISS), relying solely on stored oxygen is impractical. Onboard oxygen generation systems are therefore essential.&nbsp;<h2>Onboard Oxygen Generation Systems</h2> 1. Oxygen Generation Assembly (OGA): The OGA aboard the ISS uses electrolysis to split water into oxygen and hydrogen. This process provides breathable oxygen and contributes to water recovery, as the hydrogen produced is used in other chemical processes aboard the station.&nbsp;2. Elektron System: Operated by the Russian segment of the ISS, the Elektron system performs a similar function, generating oxygen through electrolysis. It is a critical component in maintaining the station's atmosphere and supports the OGA in oxygen production.&nbsp;3. Advanced Closed Loop System (ACLS): Developed by the European Space Agency, the ACLS improves oxygen production efficiency by integrating carbon dioxide removal and water recycling. This system reduces the need for resupply missions by recovering oxygen from waste products.&nbsp;oxygen in space, astronauts oxygen, spacecraft oxygen, ISS life support, oxygen generation, spacewalk oxygen, EMU suit, oxygen storage, electrolysis in space, OGA system, ACLS system, Elektron system, SFOG canisters, pressurized oxygen tanks, space exploration, NASA oxygen, ESA oxygen systems, long-duration missions, Mars mission prep, oxygen recycling, carbon dioxide removal, water electrolysis, breathable atmosphere, space safety, life support systems, EVA oxygen, astronaut survival, space technology, oxygen supply spacecraft, zero gravity oxygen&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Backup Oxygen Systems</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>Even with reliable onboard systems, contingency options exist:<ol><li>Solid Fuel Oxygen Generation (SFOG) Canisters: These chemical generators produce oxygen by decomposing lithium perchlorate into oxygen gas.</li></ol>2. Pressurized Oxygen Tanks: Stored oxygen is available for immediate use during emergencies or spacewalks.&nbsp;<h2>Oxygen During Spacewalks</h2>&nbsp;During extravehicular activities, astronauts rely on the Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU), which includes a Primary Life Support System. The PLSS provides a portable supply of oxygen, temperature regulation, and carbon dioxide removal, ensuring astronaut safety in the vacuum of space.&nbsp;Advancements in oxygen production continue to evolve. Technologies are being developed to recover oxygen from carbon dioxide, significantly reducing dependence on Earth resupply. Such innovations are crucial for long-duration missions, including potential human expeditions to Mars. &nbsp;

Each astronaut consumes approximately 2 pounds (about 0.9 kg) of oxygen per day. Maintaining a cabin atmosphere similar to Earth's, at about 14.7 psi pressure and 21 per cent oxygen concentration, is crucial for comfort and health.

In the vacuum of space, where Earth’s breathable atmosphere is absent, providing astronauts with a continuous supply of oxygen is essential. This necessity has led to the development of sophisticated systems aboard spacecraft to ensure a safe and sustainable environment for crew members. Each astronaut consumes approximately 2 pounds (about 0.9 kg) of oxygen per day. Maintaining a cabin atmosphere similar to Earth's, at about 14.7 psi pressure and 21 per cent oxygen concentration, is crucial for comfort and health. Given the extended durations of missions, especially aboard the International Space Station (ISS), relying solely on stored oxygen is impractical. Onboard oxygen generation systems are therefore essential. Onboard Oxygen Generation Systems 1. Oxygen Generation Assembly (OGA): The OGA aboard the ISS uses electrolysis to split water into oxygen and hydrogen. This process provides breathable oxygen and contributes to water recovery, as the hydrogen produced is used in other chemical processes aboard the station. 2. Elektron System: Operated by the Russian segment of the ISS, the Elektron system performs a similar function, generating oxygen through electrolysis. It is a critical component in maintaining the station's atmosphere and supports the OGA in oxygen production. 3. Advanced Closed Loop System (ACLS): Developed by the European Space Agency, the ACLS improves oxygen production efficiency by integrating carbon dioxide removal and water recycling. This system reduces the need for resupply missions by recovering oxygen from waste products. oxygen in space, astronauts oxygen, spacecraft oxygen, ISS life support, oxygen generation, spacewalk oxygen, EMU suit, oxygen storage, electrolysis in space, OGA system, ACLS system, Elektron system, SFOG canisters, pressurized oxygen tanks, space exploration, NASA oxygen, ESA oxygen systems, long-duration missions, Mars mission prep, oxygen recycling, carbon dioxide removal, water electrolysis, breathable atmosphere, space safety, life support systems, EVA oxygen, astronaut survival, space technology, oxygen supply spacecraft, zero gravity oxygen Backup Oxygen Systems Even with reliable onboard systems, contingency options exist: Solid Fuel Oxygen Generation (SFOG) Canisters: These chemical generators produce oxygen by decomposing lithium perchlorate into oxygen gas. 2. Pressurized Oxygen Tanks: Stored oxygen is available for immediate use during emergencies or spacewalks. Oxygen During Spacewalks During extravehicular activities, astronauts rely on the Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU), which includes a Primary Life Support System. The PLSS provides a portable supply of oxygen, temperature regulation, and carbon dioxide removal, ensuring astronaut safety in the vacuum of space. Advancements in oxygen production continue to evolve. Technologies are being developed to recover oxygen from carbon dioxide, significantly reducing dependence on Earth resupply. Such innovations are crucial for long-duration missions, including potential human expeditions to Mars.

Each astronaut consumes approximately 2 pounds (about 0.9 kg) of oxygen per day. Maintaining a cabin atmosphere similar to Earth's, at about 14.7 psi pressure and 21 per cent oxygen concentration, is crucial for comfort and health.

Oxygen in zero gravity: How spacecraft produce life-saving air for astronauts

Astronomers have, for the first time, directly observed the formation of a planet. An international team, co-led by researchers at the University of Galway, detected WISPIT 2b, a young gas giant forming around the star WISPIT 2, approximately 430 light-years away in the constellation Aquila. Until now, gaps in protoplanetary disks were only theorised as signs of planet formation. WISPIT 2b was captured within one such gap, confirming the long-suspected process. The results were published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.&nbsp;<h2>Advanced Technology Reveals Planetary Formation</h2>&nbsp;The discovery was made possible by MagAO-X, an advanced adaptive optics system on the 6.5-meter Magellan Telescope in Chile. The instrument detects hydrogen-alpha (Hα) light, emitted as the young planet accretes hydrogen gas, producing a faint red glow. Lead researcher Laird Close of the University of Arizona explained that “once we activated the adaptive optics system, the planet jumped right out at us.” The team also identified a second candidate, CC1, closer to the star and potentially nine times the mass of Jupiter. Observations were confirmed using infrared data from the Large Binocular Telescope and the SPHERE system on the Very Large Telescope in Chile.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Insights into Planetary Formation and Evolution</h2>&nbsp;WISPIT 2b orbits at about 56 astronomical units (AU) from its star, roughly 3.5 billion miles, placing it far beyond Neptune’s orbit in our solar system. CC1 orbits closer, at around 14–15 AU. Graduate student Gabriel Weible compared the discovery to 'baby pictures' of Jupiter and Saturn, though WISPIT 2b and CC1 are around ten times more massive than our gas giants. The fleeting glow of young planets makes such observations rare, requiring precise timing and advanced instrumentation. This glimpse provides a unique opportunity to study the early stages of planetary development and the processes that shape solar systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;The capture of WISPIT 2b represents a milestone in astronomy, offering a direct look at planet formation. As adaptive optics and imaging technology continue to improve, astronomers hope to observe more newborn planets, deepening our understanding of how planetary systems, including our own, come into existence.

The discovery was made possible by MagAO-X, an advanced adaptive optics system on the 6.5-meter Magellan Telescope in Chile. The instrument detects hydrogen-alpha (Hα) light, emitted as the young planet accretes hydrogen gas, producing a faint red glow. 

Astronomers have, for the first time, directly observed the formation of a planet. An international team, co-led by researchers at the University of Galway, detected WISPIT 2b, a young gas giant forming around the star WISPIT 2, approximately 430 light-years away in the constellation Aquila. Until now, gaps in protoplanetary disks were only theorised as signs of planet formation. WISPIT 2b was captured within one such gap, confirming the long-suspected process. The results were published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters. Advanced Technology Reveals Planetary Formation The discovery was made possible by MagAO-X, an advanced adaptive optics system on the 6.5-meter Magellan Telescope in Chile. The instrument detects hydrogen-alpha (Hα) light, emitted as the young planet accretes hydrogen gas, producing a faint red glow. Lead researcher Laird Close of the University of Arizona explained that “once we activated the adaptive optics system, the planet jumped right out at us.” The team also identified a second candidate, CC1, closer to the star and potentially nine times the mass of Jupiter. Observations were confirmed using infrared data from the Large Binocular Telescope and the SPHERE system on the Very Large Telescope in Chile. Insights into Planetary Formation and Evolution WISPIT 2b orbits at about 56 astronomical units (AU) from its star, roughly 3.5 billion miles, placing it far beyond Neptune’s orbit in our solar system. CC1 orbits closer, at around 14–15 AU. Graduate student Gabriel Weible compared the discovery to 'baby pictures' of Jupiter and Saturn, though WISPIT 2b and CC1 are around ten times more massive than our gas giants. The fleeting glow of young planets makes such observations rare, requiring precise timing and advanced instrumentation. This glimpse provides a unique opportunity to study the early stages of planetary development and the processes that shape solar systems. The capture of WISPIT 2b represents a milestone in astronomy, offering a direct look at planet formation. As adaptive optics and imaging technology continue to improve, astronomers hope to observe more newborn planets, deepening our understanding of how planetary systems, including our own, come into existence.

The discovery was made possible by MagAO-X, an advanced adaptive optics system on the 6.5-meter Magellan Telescope in Chile. The instrument detects hydrogen-alpha (Hα) light, emitted as the young planet accretes hydrogen gas, producing a faint red glow.&nbsp;

Scientists capture a newborn planet forming on camera for the first time

Israeli-American physicist Avi Loeb says that if humans encounter technologically superior aliens and manage to befriend them, we can live as a species in the cosmos longer than the stars in the universe. Loeb is known for his strong views on extraterrestrial life. He believes that there is life outside the solar system. In a big push forward, Loeb started the Galileo Project, whose main principle is that "humans can no longer ignore the possible existence of Extraterrestrial Technological Civilisations (ETCs), and that science should not dogmatically reject potential extraterrestrial explanations because of social stigma or cultural preferences." Loeb recently wrote in his blog post that finding alien life can help humans outlive the stars, whose maximum lifespan is a few trillion years. The Harvard professor believes the cosmos holds several experiences that humans have yet to have on Earth. This is one way humans can benefit from befriending an alien civilisation. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/latest-update-on-3i-atlas-interstellar-comet-is-getting-brighter-1758273179867">Latest update on 3I/ATLAS: Interstellar comet is getting brighter</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/is-3i-atlas-not-alone-scientist-says-invisible-probe-may-be-racing-ahead-and-could-strike-mars-1756785567924">Is 3I/ATLAS not alone? Scientist says an invisible ‘probe’ racing ahead of it could strike Mars</a><h2>Why should humans search for aliens?</h2>"Finding extraterrestrial siblings would inspire us to reach out beyond the limited experiences we have had so far on our home planet. There are richer opportunities in our cosmic street than available at home," Loeb wrote. He added that an advanced alien race might have even managed to create their own artificial star, and it could help them survive the "cosmic winter", a time in space when all the stars will fizzle out. He said that humans could "join a camping site of intelligent beings around an artificial source of heat", which would "allow humanity to survive the future cosmic winter for potentially more than ten trillion years, the longest lifespan of stars." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/wake-up-call-for-humanity-scientist-wants-3i-atlas-to-be-alien-spaceship-here-s-why-1756095787834">'Wake-up call for humanity’: Scientist wants 3I/ATLAS to be alien spaceship — Here’s why</a><h2>Could interstellar comet 3I/Atlas be alien craft?</h2>Loeb is hopeful of the existence of alien life that has outpaced humans in the field of technology, so much so that they can even undertake interstellar trips. In this context, Loeb has also claimed that 3I/Atlas, the interstellar object racing towards the inner solar system, could be a spaceship sent by an advanced alien civilisation to examine Earth and other planets. He points out several anomalies in 3I/Atlas, which hint that it is not a natural cosmic object. Its trajectory, the light it generates, the speed at which it is travelling, the unexpected brightness and the absence of a cometary tail in earlier pictures, presented a different picture. All of the traits exhibited by 3I/Atlas in these areas went against those of a regular comet. Loeb even thinks that this "mothership" could be coming to seed the planets with probes.&nbsp;Meanwhile, scientists are planning on taking a better look at 3I/Atlas when it comes near Mars on October 3. The CaSSIS camera on ESA’s Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) and the Mars Express’s High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC) will be used to study the interstellar object. The HiRISE camera onboard the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and China's Tianwen-1 mission to Mars can also capture images of 3I/Atlas.&nbsp;<h2>When will alien comet 3I/Atlas come near Earth&nbsp;</h2>Interstellar object 3I/ATLAS won't come near Earth and will remain at a distance of 269 million km from our planet. Its closest approach to Earth will happen on December 19, 2025. The object travelling at a staggering speed of 60,000 km/second will do a flyby of Mars on October 3 and reach perihelion, that is, come closest to the Sun, on 29 October 2025. It is expected to fly away and out of the solar system without ever returning.&nbsp;

A scientist says contacting aliens could prove to be a boon for humans, as encountering an intelligent and advanced civilisation might help us live for trillions of years, longer than even the stars in the universe. 

Israeli-American physicist Avi Loeb says that if humans encounter technologically superior aliens and manage to befriend them, we can live as a species in the cosmos longer than the stars in the universe. Loeb is known for his strong views on extraterrestrial life. He believes that there is life outside the solar system. In a big push forward, Loeb started the Galileo Project, whose main principle is that "humans can no longer ignore the possible existence of Extraterrestrial Technological Civilisations (ETCs), and that science should not dogmatically reject potential extraterrestrial explanations because of social stigma or cultural preferences." Loeb recently wrote in his blog post that finding alien life can help humans outlive the stars, whose maximum lifespan is a few trillion years. The Harvard professor believes the cosmos holds several experiences that humans have yet to have on Earth. This is one way humans can benefit from befriending an alien civilisation. Also Read: Latest update on 3I/ATLAS: Interstellar comet is getting brighter Also Read: Is 3I/ATLAS not alone? Scientist says an invisible ‘probe’ racing ahead of it could strike Mars Why should humans search for aliens? "Finding extraterrestrial siblings would inspire us to reach out beyond the limited experiences we have had so far on our home planet. There are richer opportunities in our cosmic street than available at home," Loeb wrote. He added that an advanced alien race might have even managed to create their own artificial star, and it could help them survive the "cosmic winter", a time in space when all the stars will fizzle out. He said that humans could "join a camping site of intelligent beings around an artificial source of heat", which would "allow humanity to survive the future cosmic winter for potentially more than ten trillion years, the longest lifespan of stars." Also Read: 'Wake-up call for humanity’: Scientist wants 3I/ATLAS to be alien spaceship — Here’s why Could interstellar comet 3I/Atlas be alien craft? Loeb is hopeful of the existence of alien life that has outpaced humans in the field of technology, so much so that they can even undertake interstellar trips. In this context, Loeb has also claimed that 3I/Atlas, the interstellar object racing towards the inner solar system, could be a spaceship sent by an advanced alien civilisation to examine Earth and other planets. He points out several anomalies in 3I/Atlas, which hint that it is not a natural cosmic object. Its trajectory, the light it generates, the speed at which it is travelling, the unexpected brightness and the absence of a cometary tail in earlier pictures, presented a different picture. All of the traits exhibited by 3I/Atlas in these areas went against those of a regular comet. Loeb even thinks that this "mothership" could be coming to seed the planets with probes. Meanwhile, scientists are planning on taking a better look at 3I/Atlas when it comes near Mars on October 3. The CaSSIS camera on ESA’s Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) and the Mars Express’s High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC) will be used to study the interstellar object. The HiRISE camera onboard the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and China's Tianwen-1 mission to Mars can also capture images of 3I/Atlas. When will alien comet 3I/Atlas come near Earth Interstellar object 3I/ATLAS won't come near Earth and will remain at a distance of 269 million km from our planet. Its closest approach to Earth will happen on December 19, 2025. The object travelling at a staggering speed of 60,000 km/second will do a flyby of Mars on October 3 and reach perihelion, that is, come closest to the Sun, on 29 October 2025. It is expected to fly away and out of the solar system without ever returning.

A scientist says contacting aliens could prove to be a boon for humans, as encountering an intelligent and advanced civilisation might help us live for trillions of years, longer than even the stars in the universe.&nbsp;

Humans can survive cosmic winter by befriending super intelligent aliens, scientist says

Nearly 46 years ago, scientists noticed strange pinging sounds coming from an area in the central Pacific Ocean. Their source remained a mystery for decades. It has now been found to be a remnant of a human activity, showcasing how interfering with nature can have repercussions. In 1979, a deep-sea mining experiment was carried out in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ). This region is rich in nickel, manganese, copper, zinc, and cobalt deposits that are present in rocks known as polymetallic nodules. These materials are used in electric vehicle batteries, and for this reason, the CCZ has been on the radar of the mining industry. Years ago, an experiment tried to understand whether these materials can be mined, and how this might affect the marine system. Later, after the mining experiment was over, the region started emitting strange sounds. Scientists remained confused about their origin. A study has found that the pinging sound is the result of human activity. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/dark-oxygen-13-000ft-inside-the-ocean-offers-clues-on-life-in-the-solar-system-1758277151383">13,000ft-deep secret: Scientists discover oxygen in the darkest region where it shouldn't exist</a>&nbsp;The mining experiment left visible marks on the ocean floor. A study led by the National Oceanography Centre and the Natural History Museum in London, published in the journal Nature, states that the mining machinery affected the region and is the reason for the sound. The ocean floor caught the sound of the machines, and this is what researchers have been hearing all these years. The machines are no longer there, yet the sound remains, which is shocking. Dr Adrian Glover, the study’s author, said that the machinery left a sonic imprint, and "the scars made by the mining machine 44 years ago look almost as if they were made yesterday." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/thousands-of-barrels-with-mysterious-chemical-dumped-off-the-coast-of-california-are-making-halo-rings-1757582289880">Thousands of barrels with mysterious chemical found in the ocean in California cause major scare</a>&nbsp;<h2>Should oceans be mined?</h2>The mining also affected the marine ecosystem, as sea creatures that inhabited the region vanished. The study showed that mobile organisms, such as xenophyophores, are now making a comeback here, although the original animals remain missing. The biological recovery is good news, but the ecosystem remains affected, considering the original species are yet to colonise the area again. The mining experiment shows that mining the seabed might not be a good idea, as it can affect the ecosystem for hundreds of years. Disturbing the marine ecosystem can spell doom for the entire world. This is also the place where scientists found "dark oxygen", that is, oxygen found in the darkest part of the ocean where sunlight does not reach. It was an astonishing discovery since oxygen was being created without photosynthesis.&nbsp;

A strange sound from the Pacific had been baffling scientists for years. They have now uncovered the origins of the pinging. It is not a natural sound but is the result of human activity. It shows that there is a need to safeguard our oceans from human impact.  

Nearly 46 years ago, scientists noticed strange pinging sounds coming from an area in the central Pacific Ocean. Their source remained a mystery for decades. It has now been found to be a remnant of a human activity, showcasing how interfering with nature can have repercussions. In 1979, a deep-sea mining experiment was carried out in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ). This region is rich in nickel, manganese, copper, zinc, and cobalt deposits that are present in rocks known as polymetallic nodules. These materials are used in electric vehicle batteries, and for this reason, the CCZ has been on the radar of the mining industry. Years ago, an experiment tried to understand whether these materials can be mined, and how this might affect the marine system. Later, after the mining experiment was over, the region started emitting strange sounds. Scientists remained confused about their origin. A study has found that the pinging sound is the result of human activity. Also Read: 13,000ft-deep secret: Scientists discover oxygen in the darkest region where it shouldn't exist The mining experiment left visible marks on the ocean floor. A study led by the National Oceanography Centre and the Natural History Museum in London, published in the journal Nature, states that the mining machinery affected the region and is the reason for the sound. The ocean floor caught the sound of the machines, and this is what researchers have been hearing all these years. The machines are no longer there, yet the sound remains, which is shocking. Dr Adrian Glover, the study’s author, said that the machinery left a sonic imprint, and "the scars made by the mining machine 44 years ago look almost as if they were made yesterday." Also Read: Thousands of barrels with mysterious chemical found in the ocean in California cause major scare Should oceans be mined? The mining also affected the marine ecosystem, as sea creatures that inhabited the region vanished. The study showed that mobile organisms, such as xenophyophores, are now making a comeback here, although the original animals remain missing. The biological recovery is good news, but the ecosystem remains affected, considering the original species are yet to colonise the area again. The mining experiment shows that mining the seabed might not be a good idea, as it can affect the ecosystem for hundreds of years. Disturbing the marine ecosystem can spell doom for the entire world. This is also the place where scientists found "dark oxygen", that is, oxygen found in the darkest part of the ocean where sunlight does not reach. It was an astonishing discovery since oxygen was being created without photosynthesis.

A strange sound from the Pacific had been baffling scientists for years. They have now uncovered the origins of the pinging. It is not a natural sound but is the result of human activity. It shows that there is a need to safeguard our oceans from human impact. &nbsp;

Baffling sound coming from Pacific born from something humans did 46 years ago

This week, the night sky offers a rare and captivating display as two of our solar system's most distant planets, Saturn and Neptune, reach opposition according to IFLScience. This celestial event positions Earth directly between these planets and the Sun, allowing them to be fully illuminated and visible throughout the night. For skywatchers, this is an exceptional opportunity to observe these distant worlds with the naked eye and through telescopes.&nbsp;<h2>Saturn at Opposition: A Glimpse of the Ringed Giant</h2>&nbsp;On September 21, 2025, Saturn reaches opposition, bringing it to its closest approach to Earth at approximately 1.28 billion kilometers. This alignment makes Saturn appear at its largest and brightest, fully illuminated by the Sun. The planet will rise in the east at sunset and set in the west at sunrise, remaining visible all night. In India, Saturn will be visible in the eastern sky after sunset, shining steadily as a pale yellow object in the constellation Pisces. The Seeliger effect, a phenomenon where the planet's rings appear brighter due to sunlight reflecting off the ring particles, will enhance the visibility of Saturn's iconic rings during this event.&nbsp;<h2>Neptune's Opposition: A Distant Blue World</h2>&nbsp;Two days later, on September 23, Neptune reaches opposition. At this time, Earth aligns directly between the Sun and Neptune, bringing the planet to its closest approach for the year. However, due to Neptune's vast distance of approximately 4.3 billion kilometers from Earth, it will appear as a faint blue dot through telescopes. Observers should look for Neptune in the eastern sky after sunset, where it will rise at sunset and set at sunrise, remaining visible throughout the night. In India, the best viewing times will be after sunset and before twilight begins, with Neptune reaching its highest point in the sky around midnight local time.&nbsp;Viewing Tips for StargazersFor optimal viewing of Saturn and Neptune, consider the following tips:Location: Choose a dark-sky location away from city lights to minimize light pollution.Timing: Both planets will be visible throughout the night, but the best viewing times are after sunset and before twilight begins.Equipment: While Saturn can be seen with the naked eye, using binoculars or a small telescope will provide a clearer view of its rings. Neptune, being farther away, requires a telescope to observe.Weather: Check local weather conditions for clear skies.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>A Rare Celestial Alignment</h2>The simultaneous opposition of Saturn and Neptune offers a unique opportunity for both amateur and professional astronomers to observe these distant planets. The increased brightness and proximity during opposition allow for more detailed observations, contributing to our understanding of the outer solar system. This rare alignment serves as a reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of our cosmic neighborhood.

This celestial event positions Earth directly between these planets and the Sun, allowing them to be fully illuminated and visible throughout the night. 

This week, the night sky offers a rare and captivating display as two of our solar system's most distant planets, Saturn and Neptune, reach opposition according to IFLScience. This celestial event positions Earth directly between these planets and the Sun, allowing them to be fully illuminated and visible throughout the night. For skywatchers, this is an exceptional opportunity to observe these distant worlds with the naked eye and through telescopes. Saturn at Opposition: A Glimpse of the Ringed Giant On September 21, 2025, Saturn reaches opposition, bringing it to its closest approach to Earth at approximately 1.28 billion kilometers. This alignment makes Saturn appear at its largest and brightest, fully illuminated by the Sun. The planet will rise in the east at sunset and set in the west at sunrise, remaining visible all night. In India, Saturn will be visible in the eastern sky after sunset, shining steadily as a pale yellow object in the constellation Pisces. The Seeliger effect, a phenomenon where the planet's rings appear brighter due to sunlight reflecting off the ring particles, will enhance the visibility of Saturn's iconic rings during this event. Neptune's Opposition: A Distant Blue World Two days later, on September 23, Neptune reaches opposition. At this time, Earth aligns directly between the Sun and Neptune, bringing the planet to its closest approach for the year. However, due to Neptune's vast distance of approximately 4.3 billion kilometers from Earth, it will appear as a faint blue dot through telescopes. Observers should look for Neptune in the eastern sky after sunset, where it will rise at sunset and set at sunrise, remaining visible throughout the night. In India, the best viewing times will be after sunset and before twilight begins, with Neptune reaching its highest point in the sky around midnight local time. Viewing Tips for Stargazers For optimal viewing of Saturn and Neptune, consider the following tips: Location: Choose a dark-sky location away from city lights to minimize light pollution. Timing: Both planets will be visible throughout the night, but the best viewing times are after sunset and before twilight begins. Equipment: While Saturn can be seen with the naked eye, using binoculars or a small telescope will provide a clearer view of its rings. Neptune, being farther away, requires a telescope to observe. Weather: Check local weather conditions for clear skies. A Rare Celestial Alignment The simultaneous opposition of Saturn and Neptune offers a unique opportunity for both amateur and professional astronomers to observe these distant planets. The increased brightness and proximity during opposition allow for more detailed observations, contributing to our understanding of the outer solar system. This rare alignment serves as a reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of our cosmic neighborhood.

This celestial event positions Earth directly between these planets and the Sun, allowing them to be fully illuminated and visible throughout the night.&nbsp;

Saturn and Neptune at their brightest: How to see the stunning planetary show this week...

A diver off the coast near Arzachena town in Sardinia, Italy, has uncovered a remarkable cache of fourth-century bronze coins, with initial assessments based on weight pointing to 30,000 to 50,000 pieces. The coins were found scattered across a sandy area between the beach and underwater seagrass. The team also suggested that fragments of amphorae likely came from workshops in Africa and parts of Asia, indicating trade movement through this route in late Roman times, according to a report in Earth.com.&nbsp;“The treasure found in the waters off Arzachena represents one of the most important coin discoveries,” in recent years, said Luigi La Rocca, general director of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape at Italy’s Ministry of Culture.&nbsp;The heritage of the government led archaeology to set the tone for the discovery, finding it an exact moment in the economy and politics of the Roman world, a time when new rulers and reforms reshaped daily transactions.<h3>Where were the coins found?</h3>These coins were discovered off the northeastern coast of Sardinia, near present-day Arzachena. The seabed in this region forms a shallow shelf, allowing currents to disperse objects across a wide area without quickly burying them beneath layers of sediment.&nbsp;Researchers identified two primary scatter zones within sandy patches framed by thick seagrass. This natural boundary is significant, as the roots of the plants stabilise the sand while still leaving coins and pottery fragments partly exposed at the surface.&nbsp;Among the findings are broken amphorae, suggesting the site was linked to active trade routes across the Mediterranean. With some vessels originating from North Africa and others from the eastern provinces, the evidence indicates that merchants were combining goods from multiple regions on a single journey.<h3>What coins tell us about money?</h3>Most of the coins are follis, a sizeable bronze piece introduced during Diocletian’s monetary reform. The earliest examples weighed close to ten grams and were coated with a thin layer of silver, an attempt to make base metal appear more valuable.&nbsp;As time passes, a signal of the pressures any empire faces while trying to fund armies, bureaucracy, and public works, the silvering and weight slipped. However, the face value of the coins kept everyday trade moving even as the metal content declined.&nbsp;By the early fourth century, folles served as a common currency across the Roman Empire. A sailor settling his bill used the same denomination a farmer used inland, making hoards like this valuable for historians in tracing the circulation and reach of currency.&nbsp;Though small in size, coins provide rich historical insights. Their images, inscriptions, and mint marks reveal rulers, political messages, and minting locations. Studying collections highlights broader patterns, such as links between coin surges and military or political events, or trade routes across seas.&nbsp;Metal composition and corrosion layers preserve environmental traces, while striking marks shed light on ancient minting techniques and workshop practices, making coins vital tools for historical research.

The coins were discovered off the northeastern coast of Sardinia, near present-day Arzachena. The seabed in this region forms a shallow shelf, allowing currents to disperse objects across a wide area without quickly burying them beneath layers of sediment.

A diver off the coast near Arzachena town in Sardinia, Italy, has uncovered a remarkable cache of fourth-century bronze coins, with initial assessments based on weight pointing to 30,000 to 50,000 pieces. The coins were found scattered across a sandy area between the beach and underwater seagrass. The team also suggested that fragments of amphorae likely came from workshops in Africa and parts of Asia, indicating trade movement through this route in late Roman times, according to a report in Earth.com. “The treasure found in the waters off Arzachena represents one of the most important coin discoveries,” in recent years, said Luigi La Rocca, general director of Archaeology, Fine Arts and Landscape at Italy’s Ministry of Culture. The heritage of the government led archaeology to set the tone for the discovery, finding it an exact moment in the economy and politics of the Roman world, a time when new rulers and reforms reshaped daily transactions. Where were the coins found? These coins were discovered off the northeastern coast of Sardinia, near present-day Arzachena. The seabed in this region forms a shallow shelf, allowing currents to disperse objects across a wide area without quickly burying them beneath layers of sediment. Researchers identified two primary scatter zones within sandy patches framed by thick seagrass. This natural boundary is significant, as the roots of the plants stabilise the sand while still leaving coins and pottery fragments partly exposed at the surface. Among the findings are broken amphorae, suggesting the site was linked to active trade routes across the Mediterranean. With some vessels originating from North Africa and others from the eastern provinces, the evidence indicates that merchants were combining goods from multiple regions on a single journey. What coins tell us about money? Most of the coins are follis, a sizeable bronze piece introduced during Diocletian’s monetary reform. The earliest examples weighed close to ten grams and were coated with a thin layer of silver, an attempt to make base metal appear more valuable. As time passes, a signal of the pressures any empire faces while trying to fund armies, bureaucracy, and public works, the silvering and weight slipped. However, the face value of the coins kept everyday trade moving even as the metal content declined. By the early fourth century, folles served as a common currency across the Roman Empire. A sailor settling his bill used the same denomination a farmer used inland, making hoards like this valuable for historians in tracing the circulation and reach of currency. Though small in size, coins provide rich historical insights. Their images, inscriptions, and mint marks reveal rulers, political messages, and minting locations. Studying collections highlights broader patterns, such as links between coin surges and military or political events, or trade routes across seas. Metal composition and corrosion layers preserve environmental traces, while striking marks shed light on ancient minting techniques and workshop practices, making coins vital tools for historical research.

The coins were discovered off the northeastern coast of Sardinia, near present-day Arzachena. The seabed in this region forms a shallow shelf, allowing currents to disperse objects across a wide area without quickly burying them beneath layers of sediment.

Amateur diver unearths 50,000 ancient 4th-century Roman coins beneath sea sand in Italy

Saturn's small icy moons, Enceladus, measuring only about 300 miles (500 kilometers) across, have become a focal point for scientists to hunt for life beyond Earth. Despite its small size, it releases huge plumes of water vapour, ice particles and organic compounds from cracks near its south pole, which have been viewed as hints of a hidden ocean that could host life.&nbsp;Surprisingly, new research unveiled at a planetary science gathering in Finland presents another possibility where researchers argued that several organic compounds previously detected in the plums could actually originate on the frozen surface of the moon, driven by relentless radiation from the magnetic field of Saturn, according to a report in Space.com.&nbsp;The results raise doubts about whether these wings truly signal alien life or are merely the echoes of lifeless chemicals on a frozen shell. "Although this doesn't rule out the possibility that Enceladus' ocean may be habitable, it does mean we need to be cautious in making that assumption just because of the composition of the plumes," study lead Grace Richards of Italy's National Institute for Astrophysics said in a statement.<h3>How did scientists find the possibility of life on Saturn's moon?</h3>Richards and her colleagues regenerated the environment on Enceladus in miniature inside a specialised laboratory in Hungary for their experiment. Using an ice chamber, the team froze a mixture of water, carbon dioxide, methane and ammonia to a bone-chilling temperature of -420 degrees Fahrenheit (-253 degrees Celsius), similar to the cold conditions near the moon's surface. Then, the ices were bombarded with high-energy "water-group ions," similar charged particles which are found on Saturn that constantly irradiate Enceladus.&nbsp;To study the chemical transformations caused by radiation, scientists employed infrared spectroscopy to track the unique molecular "fingerprints," or spectra, of the icy samples. As radiation interacted with the material, shifts in the spectra indicated the creation of new compounds. Across all five experiments, the irradiated ices generated carbon monoxide, cyanate, and ammonium, the same molecules identified in the plumes of Saturn’s moon Enceladus by NASA’s Cassini mission in 2005.&nbsp;When the samples were gradually warmed, more complex organic molecules emerged. These include carbamic acid, ammonium carbamate and potential amino acid precursors such as methanol and ethanol, as well as molecules like acetylene, acetaldehyde and formamide, known as fundamental ingredients for prebiotic chemistry, also formed, highlighting their potential role in supporting the chemical basis of life.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/doctors-in-china-successfully-implant-pig-s-lung-into-a-human-in-historic-first-1758439298137">Doctors in China successfully implant Pig’s lung into a human in historic first</a>&nbsp;"Although many of these products have not previously been detected on Enceladus' surface, some have been detected in Enceladus' plumes," Richards and her colleagues wrote in the paper. This leads to "questions about whether plume material is formed within the radiation-rich space environment or whether it originates in the subsurface ocean," study lead Grace Richards of Italy's National Institute for Astrophysics also said in a statement.&nbsp;NASA's Cassini mission, which ended with a dramatic plunge into the atmosphere of Saturn in 2017, gave its first and only direct "taste" of Enceladus' geysers for humankind. The instruments onboard the spacecraft, however, were not equipped to differentiate between molecules that may have originated in the moon’s deep ocean and those that could have formed within its icy crust.&nbsp;In parallel, China is developing a multi-phase mission plan featuring an orbiter, a lander, and a drilling robot capable of penetrating the surface to access the subsurface ocean. The aim is to directly investigate for possible biosignatures.

NASA's Cassini mission, which ended with a dramatic plunge into the atmosphere of Saturn in 2017, gave its first and only direct "taste" of Enceladus' geysers to researchers.

Saturn's small icy moons, Enceladus, measuring only about 300 miles (500 kilometers) across, have become a focal point for scientists to hunt for life beyond Earth. Despite its small size, it releases huge plumes of water vapour, ice particles and organic compounds from cracks near its south pole, which have been viewed as hints of a hidden ocean that could host life. Surprisingly, new research unveiled at a planetary science gathering in Finland presents another possibility where researchers argued that several organic compounds previously detected in the plums could actually originate on the frozen surface of the moon, driven by relentless radiation from the magnetic field of Saturn, according to a report in Space.com. The results raise doubts about whether these wings truly signal alien life or are merely the echoes of lifeless chemicals on a frozen shell. "Although this doesn't rule out the possibility that Enceladus' ocean may be habitable, it does mean we need to be cautious in making that assumption just because of the composition of the plumes," study lead Grace Richards of Italy's National Institute for Astrophysics said in a statement. How did scientists find the possibility of life on Saturn's moon? Richards and her colleagues regenerated the environment on Enceladus in miniature inside a specialised laboratory in Hungary for their experiment. Using an ice chamber, the team froze a mixture of water, carbon dioxide, methane and ammonia to a bone-chilling temperature of -420 degrees Fahrenheit (-253 degrees Celsius), similar to the cold conditions near the moon's surface. Then, the ices were bombarded with high-energy "water-group ions," similar charged particles which are found on Saturn that constantly irradiate Enceladus. To study the chemical transformations caused by radiation, scientists employed infrared spectroscopy to track the unique molecular "fingerprints," or spectra, of the icy samples. As radiation interacted with the material, shifts in the spectra indicated the creation of new compounds. Across all five experiments, the irradiated ices generated carbon monoxide, cyanate, and ammonium, the same molecules identified in the plumes of Saturn’s moon Enceladus by NASA’s Cassini mission in 2005. When the samples were gradually warmed, more complex organic molecules emerged. These include carbamic acid, ammonium carbamate and potential amino acid precursors such as methanol and ethanol, as well as molecules like acetylene, acetaldehyde and formamide, known as fundamental ingredients for prebiotic chemistry, also formed, highlighting their potential role in supporting the chemical basis of life. Also read: Doctors in China successfully implant Pig’s lung into a human in historic first "Although many of these products have not previously been detected on Enceladus' surface, some have been detected in Enceladus' plumes," Richards and her colleagues wrote in the paper. This leads to "questions about whether plume material is formed within the radiation-rich space environment or whether it originates in the subsurface ocean," study lead Grace Richards of Italy's National Institute for Astrophysics also said in a statement. NASA's Cassini mission, which ended with a dramatic plunge into the atmosphere of Saturn in 2017, gave its first and only direct "taste" of Enceladus' geysers for humankind. The instruments onboard the spacecraft, however, were not equipped to differentiate between molecules that may have originated in the moon’s deep ocean and those that could have formed within its icy crust. In parallel, China is developing a multi-phase mission plan featuring an orbiter, a lander, and a drilling robot capable of penetrating the surface to access the subsurface ocean. The aim is to directly investigate for possible biosignatures.

NASA's Cassini mission, which ended with a dramatic plunge into the atmosphere of Saturn in 2017, gave its first and only direct "taste" of Enceladus' geysers to researchers.

Is there life on 'Enceladus'? New study questions 'Alien' hints on Saturn’s moon

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