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Last year, Earth had a mini moon for a few weeks, and astronomers were all excited about it. Now a study has established that our planet has at least six such mini moons at any given time. A team os scientists from the US, Italy, Germany, Finland, and Sweden says that these cosmic objects are pieces of our actual moon which came apart following asteroid collisions. They are only around six feet in diameter and caught in the Earth's gravitational field. The authors noted that when the debris from the Moon was released from asteroid impacts, the larger chunks floated away. However, the smaller ones were pulled in and are in a somewhat stable orbit around Earth. These broken moon pieces, known as "lunar ejecta," orbit our planet for years before escaping. These temporarily bound objects (TBOs) then get caught in the Sun's gravity and start revolving around it. Some of them also crash into Earth or the Moon. More debris is released from the Moon and then undergoes the same process, as some of it ends up being Earth's new moons. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-can-t-figure-out-why-glaciers-in-world-s-most-dangerous-region-karakoram-range-are-growing-1753261712617">Scientists can't figure out why glaciers in world's most dangerous region are growing</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/total-solar-eclipse-2027-six-minutes-darkness-which-countries-cities-india-1752728414715">6-minute total solar eclipse will plunge major parts of world into darkness. Is your city on the list?</a><h2>Earth's mini moons</h2>Robert Jedicke, a researcher at the University of Hawaii, described it like a "square dance, where partners change regularly and sometimes leave the dance floor for a while." The study published in Icarus also cancels out scientific belief that every new mini moon that comes near Earth travels from the solar system's asteroid belt. "Given that 18 per cent of TBOs can also be classified as minimoons, our nominal results suggest that there should be about 6.5 minimoons larger than 1 m diameter in the [Earth-Moon system] at any time," the researchers wrote in their new report. To understand more about mini moons, scientists studied two such objects named Kamo'oalewa and 2024 PT5. Both the mini moons made headlines last year when they were spotted orbiting Earth. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sorry-space-buffs-but-planet-nine-might-be-an-illusion-a-new-world-has-revealed-that-1752635476153">New world Sedna discovered in solar system. What this means for Planet Nine</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sun-400000-kilometre-long-scar-solar-filament-plasma-explosion-1752727510857">Our Sun just inflicted a 400,000-kilometre-long scar on itself. Here's what happened</a><h2>Mini moons discovered orbiting Earth</h2>These cosmic creatures were found to have the same properties as the Moon. Kamo'oalewa, discovered in 2016 by the Pan-STARRS1 telescope in Hawaii, was large, measuring between 131 to 328 feet in diameter. It reflected light in the same way as the moon's surface composition. It also had the same composition of lunar rocks, which are rich in silicates. Mini moon 2024 PT5 also exhibited the same characteristics, Jedicke told Space.com. Asteroid 2024 PT5 was discovered on Aug 7, 2024. It was spotted by Sutherland, the South Africa telescope of the University of Hawaii’s Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS). As it came near Earth, it got caught in its gravity at a distance of about nine times the Moon is from Earth. The asteroid remained Earth's mini-moon from Sep 29 to Nov 25 in 2024. It revisited us this year and was at its closest point to our planet in January 2025, at which time scientists really dug into it to know about its history.

Earth has not one but seven moons at any given point in time. Scientists say that when asteroids collide with the Moon, the pieces released become mini moons for a few years. The mini moon Earth had last year is also believed to be a part of the Moon.

Last year, Earth had a mini moon for a few weeks, and astronomers were all excited about it. Now a study has established that our planet has at least six such mini moons at any given time. A team os scientists from the US, Italy, Germany, Finland, and Sweden says that these cosmic objects are pieces of our actual moon which came apart following asteroid collisions. They are only around six feet in diameter and caught in the Earth's gravitational field. The authors noted that when the debris from the Moon was released from asteroid impacts, the larger chunks floated away. However, the smaller ones were pulled in and are in a somewhat stable orbit around Earth. These broken moon pieces, known as "lunar ejecta," orbit our planet for years before escaping. These temporarily bound objects (TBOs) then get caught in the Sun's gravity and start revolving around it. Some of them also crash into Earth or the Moon. More debris is released from the Moon and then undergoes the same process, as some of it ends up being Earth's new moons. Also Read: Scientists can't figure out why glaciers in world's most dangerous region are growing Also Read: 6-minute total solar eclipse will plunge major parts of world into darkness. Is your city on the list? Earth's mini moons Robert Jedicke, a researcher at the University of Hawaii, described it like a "square dance, where partners change regularly and sometimes leave the dance floor for a while." The study published in Icarus also cancels out scientific belief that every new mini moon that comes near Earth travels from the solar system's asteroid belt. "Given that 18 per cent of TBOs can also be classified as minimoons, our nominal results suggest that there should be about 6.5 minimoons larger than 1 m diameter in the [Earth-Moon system] at any time," the researchers wrote in their new report. To understand more about mini moons, scientists studied two such objects named Kamo'oalewa and 2024 PT5. Both the mini moons made headlines last year when they were spotted orbiting Earth. Also Read: New world Sedna discovered in solar system. What this means for Planet Nine Also Read: Our Sun just inflicted a 400,000-kilometre-long scar on itself. Here's what happened Mini moons discovered orbiting Earth These cosmic creatures were found to have the same properties as the Moon. Kamo'oalewa, discovered in 2016 by the Pan-STARRS1 telescope in Hawaii, was large, measuring between 131 to 328 feet in diameter. It reflected light in the same way as the moon's surface composition. It also had the same composition of lunar rocks, which are rich in silicates. Mini moon 2024 PT5 also exhibited the same characteristics, Jedicke told Space.com. Asteroid 2024 PT5 was discovered on Aug 7, 2024. It was spotted by Sutherland, the South Africa telescope of the University of Hawaii’s Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS). As it came near Earth, it got caught in its gravity at a distance of about nine times the Moon is from Earth. The asteroid remained Earth's mini-moon from Sep 29 to Nov 25 in 2024. It revisited us this year and was at its closest point to our planet in January 2025, at which time scientists really dug into it to know about its history.

Earth has not one but seven moons at any given point in time. Scientists say that when asteroids collide with the Moon, the pieces released become mini moons for a few years. The mini moon that Earth got last year is also believed to be a part of the Moon.

Moon babies from asteroid collisions mean Earth has 7 moons at all times

While global warming is shrinking the world's ice, three glaciers in one of the remotest regions of the world are gaining ice. An astronaut captured them from the International Space Station (ISS), merging into one massive ice mass in the Karakoram mountain range. The Lolofond glacier, the Teram Shehr glacier, and the Siachen glacier are the three glaciers seen merging in the photo and together create the Karakoram anomaly. These glaciers are growing bigger, even though the rising temperatures in the world are threatening glaciers in Antarctica and the Arctic. Scientists have been baffled by the phenomenon for years and have racked their brains, trying to figure out what's going on with them. The Siachen Glacier in the eastern Karakoram is the longest glacier in the Karakoram and second-longest in the world's non-polar areas. It is located 18,875 ft above sea level and is 76 kilometres long and 3.5 kilometres wide at its broadest point. It has undergone some rapid changes which scientists have failed to explain. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/organism-growing-on-walls-of-chernobyl-reactor-number-4-loves-radiation-scientists-space-travel-nuclear-disaster-1753160712875">Chernobyl disaster site has nothing growing, except this organism that is thriving on radiation</a><h2>What is leading to the Karakoram glaciers growing?</h2>The Karakoram range stands on the borders of India, Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan. Scientists have tried to explain the unusual growth in these glaciers with various theories; however, none of them have been confirmed. Some experts believe the local weather is making them grow. Others think the dust and dirt embedded in the glaciers’ moraines protect the ice from the global high temperatures. The photo captured from space shows these moraines, the parallel layers formed from rock and dust trapped between glaciers as they merge. The point where the Teram Shehr and a smaller unnamed tributary glacier meet the Siachen glacier shows the moraines most clearly. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-are-freezing-human-poop-to-prevent-major-disaster-switzerland-vault-1752922224244">Scientists are freezing human poop to prevent major disaster 100 years from now</a><h2>Siachen Glacier, a point of conflict and natural wonder</h2>The Siachen glacier is a natural wonder. It is extremely cold and replete with harsh weather. It is Earth’s highest battleground as India and Pakistan have troops stationed near the glacier despite the harsh weather. The extreme living conditions at the glacier have also led to several people losing their lives. The region witnesses very low temperatures, strong winds, and heavy snowfall. In winters, blizzards can continue for weeks here, with temperatures plummeting to -50°C. It is a source of freshwater for several people living near the region. Climate change is causing the glacier to melt. However, the Karakoram anomaly shows that some glaciers are becoming stable and even seeing growth. This could be because of the Western Disturbances that bring snowfall in winter, according to a study. However, a sureshot answer remains elusive.

A photo of three glaciers in the Karakoram range taken from space shows them merging. These glaciers are growing even when others are melting because of climate change. Scientists have proposed various theories, but nothing conclusive.

While global warming is shrinking the world's ice, three glaciers in one of the remotest regions of the world are gaining ice. An astronaut captured them from the International Space Station (ISS), merging into one massive ice mass in the Karakoram mountain range. The Lolofond glacier, the Teram Shehr glacier, and the Siachen glacier are the three glaciers seen merging in the photo and together create the Karakoram anomaly. These glaciers are growing bigger, even though the rising temperatures in the world are threatening glaciers in Antarctica and the Arctic. Scientists have been baffled by the phenomenon for years and have racked their brains, trying to figure out what's going on with them. The Siachen Glacier in the eastern Karakoram is the longest glacier in the Karakoram and second-longest in the world's non-polar areas. It is located 18,875 ft above sea level and is 76 kilometres long and 3.5 kilometres wide at its broadest point. It has undergone some rapid changes which scientists have failed to explain. Also Read: Chernobyl disaster site has nothing growing, except this organism that is thriving on radiation What is leading to the Karakoram glaciers growing? The Karakoram range stands on the borders of India, Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan. Scientists have tried to explain the unusual growth in these glaciers with various theories; however, none of them have been confirmed. Some experts believe the local weather is making them grow. Others think the dust and dirt embedded in the glaciers’ moraines protect the ice from the global high temperatures. The photo captured from space shows these moraines, the parallel layers formed from rock and dust trapped between glaciers as they merge. The point where the Teram Shehr and a smaller unnamed tributary glacier meet the Siachen glacier shows the moraines most clearly. Also Read: Scientists are freezing human poop to prevent major disaster 100 years from now Siachen Glacier, a point of conflict and natural wonder The Siachen glacier is a natural wonder. It is extremely cold and replete with harsh weather. It is Earth’s highest battleground as India and Pakistan have troops stationed near the glacier despite the harsh weather. The extreme living conditions at the glacier have also led to several people losing their lives. The region witnesses very low temperatures, strong winds, and heavy snowfall. In winters, blizzards can continue for weeks here, with temperatures plummeting to -50°C. It is a source of freshwater for several people living near the region. Climate change is causing the glacier to melt. However, the Karakoram anomaly shows that some glaciers are becoming stable and even seeing growth. This could be because of the Western Disturbances that bring snowfall in winter, according to a study. However, a sureshot answer remains elusive.

A photo of three glaciers in the Karakoram range taken from space shows them merging. These glaciers are growing even when others are melting because of climate change. Scientists have proposed various theories, but nothing conclusive.

Scientists don't know why glaciers in world's most dangerous region are growing

The Chernobyl nuclear disaster of 1986 released high amounts of radioactive material into the environment, affecting people in Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia. Thirty plant workers died within weeks, and many more sustained radiation injuries. Everything within a 30-kilometre radius of the plant was evacuated. High radiation levels have led it to become a ghost town. No one can live there, and nothing can thrive in the radioactive environment. However, there is one thing that is thriving in Chernobyl - a black fungus. The disaster saw a runaway nuclear reaction, explosion, and fire in Reactor Number Four. Today, scientists are shocked to see something alive inside one of the most radioactive environments on Earth. Cladosporium sphaerospermum, a black fungus, has been discovered growing on the walls of reactor number 4 in Chernobyl. Called radiotrophic fungi, this was the first time it was ever seen anywhere in the world.<h2>Organism thrives in radiation-filled environment</h2>The radiation is not killing this fungus; instead, it is helping it thrive. This organism has adapted to its radioactive surroundings. The black fungus is absorbing deadly gamma radiation and converting it into energy in a process similar to photosynthesis. This fungus undergoes radiosynthesis, a process in which it uses radiation to grow. The fungus contains melanin, a pigment that absorbs and utilises ionising radiation to produce energy. This was first revealed in an article published in the National Library of Medicine in 2008. This has led scientists to ponder over its use to clean up radioactive sites. If found effective, it could become an integral tool in nuclear disaster recovery in future. A researcher studying the black fungus said, "It’s like nature engineered a biological radiation shield." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/man-sucked-into-mri-machine-after-entering-room-wearing-chain-dies-of-injuries-1753086456963">Man sucked into MRI machine after entering room wearing chain, dies of injuries</a>&nbsp;<h2>Chernobyl fungus can help with space travel</h2>This discovery has led scientists to use this fungus in situations where living organisms can be used to remove pollutants from the environment. So deploying them in high-radiation regions is one possibility where they can contain and potentially reduce radiation levels. However, another area where this black fungus can prove useful is space travel. Humans have been vying to travel in the void of space. Mars and Moon are on the list, with missions planned as early as the 2030s. However, the biggest challenge is the danger of radiation that can prove extremely harmful to the human body. C. sphaerospermum was sent to the International Space Station (ISS) to understand its potential to safeguard astronauts. Initial results show that the black fungus can prove to be a useful tool to further human space ambitions.&nbsp;Scientists think it can be used to develop habitats that shield astronauts from the harsh radiation. It can even protect spaces where food can be grown for space travellers. C. sphaerospermum not only adapts and thrives in an adverse radioactive environment, but it can also withstand low temperatures, high salt concentrations and extreme acidity. This makes it a promising ingredient to whip up the perfect recipe for space travel.

Chernobyl reactor number four has been conquered by an organism that thrives in a radioactive environment. It is like a biological radiation shield made by nature to fight radiation in the event of a nuclear disaster. In fact, it is probably cleaning Chernobyl.

The Chernobyl nuclear disaster of 1986 released high amounts of radioactive material into the environment, affecting people in Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia. Thirty plant workers died within weeks, and many more sustained radiation injuries. Everything within a 30-kilometre radius of the plant was evacuated. High radiation levels have led it to become a ghost town. No one can live there, and nothing can thrive in the radioactive environment. However, there is one thing that is thriving in Chernobyl - a black fungus. The disaster saw a runaway nuclear reaction, explosion, and fire in Reactor Number Four. Today, scientists are shocked to see something alive inside one of the most radioactive environments on Earth. Cladosporium sphaerospermum, a black fungus, has been discovered growing on the walls of reactor number 4 in Chernobyl. Called radiotrophic fungi, this was the first time it was ever seen anywhere in the world. Organism thrives in radiation-filled environment The radiation is not killing this fungus; instead, it is helping it thrive. This organism has adapted to its radioactive surroundings. The black fungus is absorbing deadly gamma radiation and converting it into energy in a process similar to photosynthesis. This fungus undergoes radiosynthesis, a process in which it uses radiation to grow. The fungus contains melanin, a pigment that absorbs and utilises ionising radiation to produce energy. This was first revealed in an article published in the National Library of Medicine in 2008. This has led scientists to ponder over its use to clean up radioactive sites. If found effective, it could become an integral tool in nuclear disaster recovery in future. A researcher studying the black fungus said, "It’s like nature engineered a biological radiation shield." Also Read: Man sucked into MRI machine after entering room wearing chain, dies of injuries Chernobyl fungus can help with space travel This discovery has led scientists to use this fungus in situations where living organisms can be used to remove pollutants from the environment. So deploying them in high-radiation regions is one possibility where they can contain and potentially reduce radiation levels. However, another area where this black fungus can prove useful is space travel. Humans have been vying to travel in the void of space. Mars and Moon are on the list, with missions planned as early as the 2030s. However, the biggest challenge is the danger of radiation that can prove extremely harmful to the human body. C. sphaerospermum was sent to the International Space Station (ISS) to understand its potential to safeguard astronauts. Initial results show that the black fungus can prove to be a useful tool to further human space ambitions. Scientists think it can be used to develop habitats that shield astronauts from the harsh radiation. It can even protect spaces where food can be grown for space travellers. C. sphaerospermum not only adapts and thrives in an adverse radioactive environment, but it can also withstand low temperatures, high salt concentrations and extreme acidity. This makes it a promising ingredient to whip up the perfect recipe for space travel.

Chernobyl reactor number four has been conquered by an organism that thrives in a radioactive environment. It is like a biological radiation shield made by nature to fight radiation in the event of a nuclear disaster. In fact, it is probably cleaning Chernobyl.

Chernobyl disaster site has nothing growing, except this organism that is thriving on radiation

In a mind-breaking breakthrough, researchers have discovered that the sea star – the infamous crown of thorns starfish, the notorious brainless coral predator is not a mindless creature as once perceived in marine biology. These starfish coordinate their behaviour using signals to form a collective consciousness that helps them move and act together. This means the creature with no brain and blood uses chemical mind control to move and hunt in sync.The study reveals that starfish use their spines as both sensors and secretors. These spines release unique proteins known as COTSPs (Crown-of-Thorns Starfish-Secreted Proteins) which disperse in the water and influence the behaviour of nearby starfish.These starfish might come across as harmless creatures, but they are incredibly destructive predator which organises and devours acres of coral reefs in just months. The protein is not a result of any immune or stress response, nor is it a result of any other physical action like skin shedding. It is a communication tool. However, it remains a mystery what messages they carry. The result, though, is a coordinated, almost military-style march toward coral colonies.Scientists put them in lab tanks and watched them as starfish suddenly oriented themselves, moved together, and swarmed the signal source like zombie soldiers under one command.Starfish operate without a brain; they have a ring-like mouth and radial nerves in their arms. This discovery is a big deal as it gives scientists better scope to counter the swarm as a whole instead of tackling each one individually. Researchers have already synthesised the chemical signals and used them to lure starfish into traps. These "attractins" could help curb the reef-killing outbreaks of these predators, offering a non-toxic, scalable way to protect coral ecosystems.&nbsp;

Researchers from the Australian Institute of Marine Science University, of the Sunshine Coast (Australia), and the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology have made this incredible discovery about starfish that is going to change common perception about animal communication. 

In a mind-breaking breakthrough, researchers have discovered that the sea star – the infamous crown of thorns starfish, the notorious brainless coral predator is not a mindless creature as once perceived in marine biology. These starfish coordinate their behaviour using signals to form a collective consciousness that helps them move and act together. This means the creature with no brain and blood uses chemical mind control to move and hunt in sync. The study reveals that starfish use their spines as both sensors and secretors. These spines release unique proteins known as COTSPs (Crown-of-Thorns Starfish-Secreted Proteins) which disperse in the water and influence the behaviour of nearby starfish. These starfish might come across as harmless creatures, but they are incredibly destructive predator which organises and devours acres of coral reefs in just months. The protein is not a result of any immune or stress response, nor is it a result of any other physical action like skin shedding. It is a communication tool. However, it remains a mystery what messages they carry. The result, though, is a coordinated, almost military-style march toward coral colonies. Scientists put them in lab tanks and watched them as starfish suddenly oriented themselves, moved together, and swarmed the signal source like zombie soldiers under one command. Starfish operate without a brain; they have a ring-like mouth and radial nerves in their arms. This discovery is a big deal as it gives scientists better scope to counter the swarm as a whole instead of tackling each one individually. Researchers have already synthesised the chemical signals and used them to lure starfish into traps. These "attractins" could help curb the reef-killing outbreaks of these predators, offering a non-toxic, scalable way to protect coral ecosystems.

Researchers from the Australian Institute of Marine Science University of the Sunshine Coast, and the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology have made this incredible discovery about starfish that is going to change common perception about animal communication.&nbsp;

No brain, no problem: Starfish use chemical ‘Mind Control’ to launch underwater raids

Scientists in Japan have come up with a simple solution to the growing debris in low Earth orbit: a paper plane. No joke! A team of researchers from the University of Tokyo made a paper plane out of an A4 sheet and had it fly out of the International Space Station (ISS) in a simulation. Did it survive atmospheric reentry? The idea was put forward by the scientists in a paper published in Acta Astronautica. They showed how origami paper can solve the trash problem in space. The study argues that metals need not be solely relied upon to build spacecraft. A standard sheet of paper is also perfect for the job as it will burn up in the atmosphere during reentry. Typically, when a spacecraft reenters Earth's atmosphere, it leaves behind metallic particles and chemicals that damage the ozone layer. The research aims to show how a more sustainable orbital environment can be created by using paper. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/wildlife-exodus-at-yellowstone-national-park-have-animals-sensed-volcanic-eruption-1753171288116">Wildlife exodus at Yellowstone National Park: Have animals sensed a disaster?</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-are-freezing-human-poop-to-prevent-major-disaster-switzerland-vault-1752922224244">Scientists are freezing human poop to prevent major disaster 100 years from now</a><h2>A4 paper sheet plane in space?</h2>The experiment comprised a paper plane made of an uncoated A4 sheet, with an aluminium tail and placed in a wind tunnel to see what would happen to it in space. The layers at the nose were folded to shift its centre of mass upstream and ensure aerodynamic stability. The researchers clarified in the paper, "Such spacecraft have not yet flown in space. It is unclear whether their flight dynamics in the highly rarefied atmosphere in [low Earth orbit] would be similar to those of a usual ground-based origami plane, and whether the plane would survive or burn up during atmospheric entry." However, they agreed that the entire plane cannot be made out of paper, and only specific parts can be built using the sustainable solution. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-detect-signs-that-mammoth-rivers-flowed-in-antarctica-80-million-years-ago-1752831341102">Scientists detect signs that mammoth rivers flowed in Antarctica 80 million years ago</a><h2>What will happen to paper plane if it flies out of ISS?</h2>The simulation had the paper plane being launched from the ISS at an altitude of 400 kilometres and a speed of 17,448 miles per hour. It remained stable and glided swiftly through the space-like environment. Then at a lower altitude of 120 kilometres above Earth’s surface, it started tumbling out of control. The paper states that this is expected at this position. Also, the severe aerodynamic heating would burn up the paper plane in the atmosphere at an altitude of around 90 to 110 kilometres. After this, a physical model of the plane was placed in the Kashiwa Hypersonic and High Enthalpy Wind Tunnel at the University of Tokyo. It was subjected to Mach 7 speeds for about seven seconds to see if it would disintegrate. The plane’s nose bent and the wings started charring, although it did not break apart. The researchers said it likely would have had they kept going. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sun-400000-kilometre-long-scar-solar-filament-plasma-explosion-1752727510857">Our Sun just inflicted a 400,000-kilometre-long scar on itself. Here's what happened</a><h2>Shortcomings of paper plane in space</h2>However, an origami paper spacecraft has its challenges. It cannot be used for all kinds of missions. Researchers suggest a version could be used as a passive probe to measure atmospheric density. It could also be a platform for low-cost and short-lived missions in low Earth orbit. Besides, it would be really small and won't reflect radar as strongly compared to a traditional spacecraft. A miniaturised position, navigation, and timing transceiver could be added to it, they stated. It would also be extremely sensitive to aerodynamic drag, and won't be able to stay in orbit for long durations. So it can only be used for short-duration missions.

Scientists in Japan have come up with an innovative solution to deal with the problem of trash in space. They have suggested using paper planes to reduce metals and chemicals spacecraft leave behind when reentering Earth atmosphere. Can it work?  

Scientists in Japan have come up with a simple solution to the growing debris in low Earth orbit: a paper plane. No joke! A team of researchers from the University of Tokyo made a paper plane out of an A4 sheet and had it fly out of the International Space Station (ISS) in a simulation. Did it survive atmospheric reentry? The idea was put forward by the scientists in a paper published in Acta Astronautica. They showed how origami paper can solve the trash problem in space. The study argues that metals need not be solely relied upon to build spacecraft. A standard sheet of paper is also perfect for the job as it will burn up in the atmosphere during reentry. Typically, when a spacecraft reenters Earth's atmosphere, it leaves behind metallic particles and chemicals that damage the ozone layer. The research aims to show how a more sustainable orbital environment can be created by using paper. Also Read: Wildlife exodus at Yellowstone National Park: Have animals sensed a disaster? Also Read: Scientists are freezing human poop to prevent major disaster 100 years from now A4 paper sheet plane in space? The experiment comprised a paper plane made of an uncoated A4 sheet, with an aluminium tail and placed in a wind tunnel to see what would happen to it in space. The layers at the nose were folded to shift its centre of mass upstream and ensure aerodynamic stability. The researchers clarified in the paper, "Such spacecraft have not yet flown in space. It is unclear whether their flight dynamics in the highly rarefied atmosphere in [low Earth orbit] would be similar to those of a usual ground-based origami plane, and whether the plane would survive or burn up during atmospheric entry." However, they agreed that the entire plane cannot be made out of paper, and only specific parts can be built using the sustainable solution. Also Read: Scientists detect signs that mammoth rivers flowed in Antarctica 80 million years ago What will happen to paper plane if it flies out of ISS? The simulation had the paper plane being launched from the ISS at an altitude of 400 kilometres and a speed of 17,448 miles per hour. It remained stable and glided swiftly through the space-like environment. Then at a lower altitude of 120 kilometres above Earth’s surface, it started tumbling out of control. The paper states that this is expected at this position. Also, the severe aerodynamic heating would burn up the paper plane in the atmosphere at an altitude of around 90 to 110 kilometres. After this, a physical model of the plane was placed in the Kashiwa Hypersonic and High Enthalpy Wind Tunnel at the University of Tokyo. It was subjected to Mach 7 speeds for about seven seconds to see if it would disintegrate. The plane’s nose bent and the wings started charring, although it did not break apart. The researchers said it likely would have had they kept going. Also Read: Our Sun just inflicted a 400,000-kilometre-long scar on itself. Here's what happened Shortcomings of paper plane in space However, an origami paper spacecraft has its challenges. It cannot be used for all kinds of missions. Researchers suggest a version could be used as a passive probe to measure atmospheric density. It could also be a platform for low-cost and short-lived missions in low Earth orbit. Besides, it would be really small and won't reflect radar as strongly compared to a traditional spacecraft. A miniaturised position, navigation, and timing transceiver could be added to it, they stated. It would also be extremely sensitive to aerodynamic drag, and won't be able to stay in orbit for long durations. So it can only be used for short-duration missions.

Scientists in Japan have come up with an innovative solution to deal with the problem of trash in space. They have suggested using paper planes to reduce metals and chemicals spacecraft leave behind when reentering Earth's atmosphere. Can it work? &nbsp;

NO KIDDING! Scientists want to use PAPER PLANE spacecraft for space missions because...

The Earth will spin a little faster than its usual rotation on July 22 (Tuesday), making it slightly shorter than the normal day. The difference will be just 1.34 milliseconds, which is slightly less than the standard 24 hours timing. The gap will be so small that people won't notice it but scientists are paying close attention to it because of a strange pattern that has started happening recently. According to scientists, if this trend continues, then we might have to remove a second from atomic clocks by the year 2029. The speed of the Earth’s rotation is not constant and a study in 2023 states that, billions of years ago, Earth’s days lasted only about 19 hours and this happened due to the effects of the Sun and the Moon pulling on the Earth’s atmosphere and oceans.&nbsp;Also Check - <a href="What is NISAR satellite and it's mission? India, US join hands for first time for Earth-observation project | Details inside">What is NISAR satellite and it's mission? India, US join hands for first time for Earth-observation project | Details inside</a><h2>So why is Earth now spinning faster?</h2>Scientists still don't have an accurate answer for why Earth is moving so faster but some studies suggest that the Moon has been slowing down and it is deeply effecting the Earth's rotation for billion of years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Other things like movements in Earth’s core, the oceans and the atmosphere also play a role in these long-term changes. It also changes the planet’s spinning speed over the time.&nbsp;For 2025, scientists have mentioned that July 9, July 22 and August 5 might be the shortest days in the year. But the new data shows that July 10 was actually the shortest day so far at a gap of 1.36 milliseconds under 24 hours.&nbsp;Now, July 22 is expected to come close at 1.34 milliseconds and it will make this date as the second-shortest day this year.&nbsp;

For 2025, scientists have mentioned that July 9, July 22 and August 5 might be the shortest days in the year. But the new data shows that July 10 was actually the shortest day so far.

The Earth will spin a little faster than its usual rotation on July 22 (Tuesday), making it slightly shorter than the normal day. The difference will be just 1.34 milliseconds, which is slightly less than the standard 24 hours timing. The gap will be so small that people won't notice it but scientists are paying close attention to it because of a strange pattern that has started happening recently. According to scientists, if this trend continues, then we might have to remove a second from atomic clocks by the year 2029. The speed of the Earth’s rotation is not constant and a study in 2023 states that, billions of years ago, Earth’s days lasted only about 19 hours and this happened due to the effects of the Sun and the Moon pulling on the Earth’s atmosphere and oceans. Also Check - What is NISAR satellite and it's mission? India, US join hands for first time for Earth-observation project | Details inside So why is Earth now spinning faster? Scientists still don't have an accurate answer for why Earth is moving so faster but some studies suggest that the Moon has been slowing down and it is deeply effecting the Earth's rotation for billion of years. Other things like movements in Earth’s core, the oceans and the atmosphere also play a role in these long-term changes. It also changes the planet’s spinning speed over the time. For 2025, scientists have mentioned that July 9, July 22 and August 5 might be the shortest days in the year. But the new data shows that July 10 was actually the shortest day so far at a gap of 1.36 milliseconds under 24 hours. Now, July 22 is expected to come close at 1.34 milliseconds and it will make this date as the second-shortest day this year.

For 2025, scientists have mentioned that July 9, July 22 and August 5 might be the shortest days in the year. But the new data shows that July 10 was actually the shortest day so far.

Earth will spin faster on July 22 to create 2nd-shortest day in history, the gap between rotations will be...

India’s space agency ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and America’s NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) are joining hands together for a major satellite mission called NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar). This is the first Earth-observation satellite project in which two countries have agreed to work together. The ISRO confirmed the launch of the satellite for July 30 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 5:40 pm IST.<h2>What is NISAR Satellite and its mission?</h2>NISAR Satellite stands for NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar. It is a powerful Earth-monitoring satellite that will provide detailed 3D images of our planet.&nbsp;It is one of the most expensive space missions between India and the United States. The total cost of this mission is around $1.5 billion. What makes it special, is that it uses advanced radar technology to create detailed 3D maps of the Earths land and its ice surfaces. It is the first satellite in orbit with dual-frequency radar, combining NASA’s L-band and ISRO’s S-band radars.<h2>Who will lead the launch?</h2>India through ISRO will handle the launch of this satellite using its GSLV rocket. Engineers from both countries worked together to build key parts of the satellite, including a 12-meter-wide antenna and complex radar systems.<h2>Specifications of NISAR satellite:</h2><ul><li>The satellite will orbit the Earth every 12 days</li><li>Tells us about the changes in forests and ecosystems</li><li>Provide information regarding earth movements like earthquakes, landslides and volcanic activity</li><li>Provides details about glacier melting and ice sheet movement</li><li>Updates about the soil moisture and groundwater shifts</li><li>Information about rising sea levels and urban growth</li><li>Reliable in all weather conditions (can collect data through clouds and thick vegetation)</li></ul><h2>A symbol of partnership between India and United States</h2>NISAR mission will not only aim to improve how we understand and protect our Earth, but it also stands as a strong example of how international collaboration between important organisations can advance science and technology and how it can provide benefits for the humanity.&nbsp;

NISAR mission will not only aim to improve how we understand and protect our Earth but it also stands as a strong example of how international collaboration between important organisations can advance science and technology.

India’s space agency ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and America’s NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) are joining hands together for a major satellite mission called NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar). This is the first Earth-observation satellite project in which two countries have agreed to work together. The ISRO confirmed the launch of the satellite for July 30 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 5:40 pm IST. What is NISAR Satellite and its mission? NISAR Satellite stands for NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar. It is a powerful Earth-monitoring satellite that will provide detailed 3D images of our planet. It is one of the most expensive space missions between India and the United States. The total cost of this mission is around $1.5 billion. What makes it special, is that it uses advanced radar technology to create detailed 3D maps of the Earths land and its ice surfaces. It is the first satellite in orbit with dual-frequency radar, combining NASA’s L-band and ISRO’s S-band radars. Who will lead the launch? India through ISRO will handle the launch of this satellite using its GSLV rocket. Engineers from both countries worked together to build key parts of the satellite, including a 12-meter-wide antenna and complex radar systems. Specifications of NISAR satellite: The satellite will orbit the Earth every 12 days Tells us about the changes in forests and ecosystems Provide information regarding earth movements like earthquakes, landslides and volcanic activity Provides details about glacier melting and ice sheet movement Updates about the soil moisture and groundwater shifts Information about rising sea levels and urban growth Reliable in all weather conditions (can collect data through clouds and thick vegetation) A symbol of partnership between India and United States NISAR mission will not only aim to improve how we understand and protect our Earth, but it also stands as a strong example of how international collaboration between important organisations can advance science and technology and how it can provide benefits for the humanity.

NISAR mission will not only aim to improve how we understand and protect our Earth but it also stands as a strong example of how international collaboration between important organisations can advance science and technology.

What is NISAR satellite and it's mission? India, US join hands for first time for Earth-observation project | Details inside

Have children of same sex and you are now planning for another child of opposite sex? What are the likely chances, probably not that high, according to a study that investigated the maternal and genetic factors that influence the sex of offspring.&nbsp;A study published Friday in the journal Science Advances challenged assumptions that birth sex is random. In its finding the study reveals that families with three boys have a 61% chance of having a male child as the next sibling. While for families with three girls the chances of having a girl child next is as high as 58%.&nbsp;This finding busts the believe that for each pregnancy, there is an equal chance of having either a boy or a girl. Over 58,000 women with two or more singleton births from 1956 to 2015 were analysed in the research that came to this conclusion.&nbsp;Researchers also pointed to the mother’s age and genetics on giving birth. Women who started having kids after the age of 28 had higher chances of giving birth to children of same sex.&nbsp;“We don’t know why these genes would be associated with sex at birth, but they are, and that opens up new questions," said Jorge Chavarro, the senior author of the study and a professor of nutrition and epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to The Washington Post.&nbsp;Two genes associated with giving birth to only boys or only girls were also identified during the study. However, one limitation that the study had is it did not have any data on fathers.&nbsp;Researchers concluded that more research was needed in this direction and said, “Until then, families desiring offspring of more than one sex who have already had two or three children of the same sex should be aware that when trying for their next one, they are probably doing a coin toss with a two-headed coin." &nbsp;

This finding published in the journal Science Advances busts the believe that for each pregnancy, there is an equal chance of having either a boy or a girl. 

Have children of same sex and you are now planning for another child of opposite sex? What are the likely chances, probably not that high, according to a study that investigated the maternal and genetic factors that influence the sex of offspring. A study published Friday in the journal Science Advances challenged assumptions that birth sex is random. In its finding the study reveals that families with three boys have a 61% chance of having a male child as the next sibling. While for families with three girls the chances of having a girl child next is as high as 58%. This finding busts the believe that for each pregnancy, there is an equal chance of having either a boy or a girl. Over 58,000 women with two or more singleton births from 1956 to 2015 were analysed in the research that came to this conclusion. Researchers also pointed to the mother’s age and genetics on giving birth. Women who started having kids after the age of 28 had higher chances of giving birth to children of same sex. “We don’t know why these genes would be associated with sex at birth, but they are, and that opens up new questions," said Jorge Chavarro, the senior author of the study and a professor of nutrition and epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to The Washington Post. Two genes associated with giving birth to only boys or only girls were also identified during the study. However, one limitation that the study had is it did not have any data on fathers. Researchers concluded that more research was needed in this direction and said, “Until then, families desiring offspring of more than one sex who have already had two or three children of the same sex should be aware that when trying for their next one, they are probably doing a coin toss with a two-headed coin."

This finding published in the journal Science Advances busts the believe that for each pregnancy, there is an equal chance of having either a boy or a girl.&nbsp;

Baby boy or girl? It's not just random, says new study revealing secrets of children's' gender at birth

A recently flagged and yet-to-be peer-reviewed paper highlights that the planet Uranus is in a stable orbital resonance with a minor planet, a Centaur named 2015 OU₁₉₄. They have a 3:4 orbital resonance, for every 4 orbits that Uranus completes around the Sun, 2015 OU₁₉₄ completes 3. This locks the two in a coordinated, celestial orbital dance, keeping them from drifting apart or colliding. Scientists suggest that it has lasted for 100o years or even a million years and is likely to continue for another half a million years.<h2>Why does it matter?</h2>In the vast space between Uranus and Neptune, 2015 OU₁₉₄ follows a nearly circular orbit. Centaurs are rocky and icy objects that are found between Jupiter and Neptune. They usually exhibit chaotic, shifting orbits. A stable, long-term dance like this is extraordinary. This also hints at hidden gravitational relationships between the bodies in the outer solar system. &nbsp;Researchers led by Daniel Bamberger from the Northolt Branch Observatories in Germany scanned through the archival data of 2017 and 2018 from the observation of &nbsp;2015 OU₁₉₄. and extended the data points from 1 to 3.5 years, this longer observation provided them true nature of the orbital resonance. They published a research paper titled ‘A minor planet in an outer resonance with Uranus’, uncovering the extraordinary findings.Moreover, other centaurs like 2013 RG₉₈ have also been revealed, which had been engaged in an orbital dance of 3:4 resonance with Uranus. Other candidates like 2014 NX₆₅ also show a strong gravitational influence from Neptune.&nbsp;These also imply that a similar relationship may also be valid for more objects in the outer Solar System, and these partnerships might be fundamental to the understanding of that region.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Scientists claim that Uranus has found something they call ‘Girlfriend’, a mysterious celestial dance partner with an orbital resonance, and they have been together for more than thousands or millions of years and could continue for another half a million years.

A recently flagged and yet-to-be peer-reviewed paper highlights that the planet Uranus is in a stable orbital resonance with a minor planet, a Centaur named 2015 OU₁₉₄. They have a 3:4 orbital resonance, for every 4 orbits that Uranus completes around the Sun, 2015 OU₁₉₄ completes 3. This locks the two in a coordinated, celestial orbital dance, keeping them from drifting apart or colliding. Scientists suggest that it has lasted for 100o years or even a million years and is likely to continue for another half a million years. Why does it matter? In the vast space between Uranus and Neptune, 2015 OU₁₉₄ follows a nearly circular orbit. Centaurs are rocky and icy objects that are found between Jupiter and Neptune. They usually exhibit chaotic, shifting orbits. A stable, long-term dance like this is extraordinary. This also hints at hidden gravitational relationships between the bodies in the outer solar system. Researchers led by Daniel Bamberger from the Northolt Branch Observatories in Germany scanned through the archival data of 2017 and 2018 from the observation of 2015 OU₁₉₄. and extended the data points from 1 to 3.5 years, this longer observation provided them true nature of the orbital resonance. They published a research paper titled ‘A minor planet in an outer resonance with Uranus’, uncovering the extraordinary findings. Moreover, other centaurs like 2013 RG₉₈ have also been revealed, which had been engaged in an orbital dance of 3:4 resonance with Uranus. Other candidates like 2014 NX₆₅ also show a strong gravitational influence from Neptune. These also imply that a similar relationship may also be valid for more objects in the outer Solar System, and these partnerships might be fundamental to the understanding of that region.

Scientists claim that Uranus has found something they call ‘Girlfriend’, a mysterious celestial dance partner with an orbital resonance, and they have been together for more than thousands or millions of years and could continue for another half a million years.

They are doing a cosmic dance: A new study reveals that Uranus has a 'Girlfriend'

Scientists are freezing human poop to avert a disaster in the future. The Microbiota Vault project aims to collect 10,000 poop samples by 2029 in order to preserve microbes that can one day help humanity. The doomsday vault is currently at the University of Zurich, but the founders are looking for a more permanent place, ideally an extremely cold region like Canada or Switzerland. It is not a new project, and was launched in 2018. However, it was only in its test phase, where scientists were trying to understand the feasibility of collecting and exporting poop and fermented foods from across the world. Now it is ready to go big and preserve thousands more samples to preserve microbes. The details of the expansion of the project were published in the journal Nature Communications. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-detect-signs-that-mammoth-rivers-flowed-in-antarctica-80-million-years-ago-1752831341102">Scientists detect signs that mammoth rivers flowed in Antarctica 80 million years ago</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sun-400000-kilometre-long-scar-solar-filament-plasma-explosion-1752727510857">Our Sun just inflicted a 400,000-kilometre-long scar on itself. Here's what happened</a><h2>Preserving microbes from poop</h2>Preserving microbes is the main deal of the project. Besides human poop, the storage facility also has 200 types of fermented food, as they are filled with "gut-friendly" microbes. The team also plans on adding environmental microbes to the collection. The long-term plan is to have backup copies of microbes found in humans, animals, plants and the environment so they can be someday used to treat diseases, for medical research and restoring ecosystems. The researchers stated in the journal that microbial loss is becoming an issue not only in humans, but also in the environment. Human health and agricultural systems are taking the hit, triggering allergies, autoimmune disorders and affecting environmental resilience. The commentary blames human activities for the disruption of the microbiomes. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/eight-babies-born-in-uk-with-dna-of-three-free-from-genetic-disease-1752772365089">Eight babies born in UK with DNA of three to prevent genetic disease</a>&nbsp;"Conventional agriculture, the thawing of permafrost due to human-caused climate change, and the overuse of antibiotics are eroding microbiomes so much that they might need to be rescued in the future," the team wrote. Dr. Martin Blaser, director of the Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine at Rutgers University in New Jersey and co-author of the new commentary, said in a statement, "Human activities are depleting our microbiome, and there's lots of evidence of that." However, they admit that they can't be sure whether reintroducing microbes into the human gut or the environment can help restore it. Blaser is hopeful that science will advance to a level where &nbsp;"really good restorative techniques" can help achieve it. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/a-woman-smelled-her-husband-s-parkinson-s-12-years-before-symptoms-arrived-she-has-now-helped-develop-a-new-test-1752737444305">A woman smelled her husband's Parkinson's 12 years before symptoms arrived. She has now helped develop a new test</a><h2>Learning from "doomsday" seed vault in Norway</h2>The Microbiota Vault started as the founders were impressed with the "doomsday" Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway. This vault holds around 1.3 million plant samples to preserve the genetic diversity of crops from around the world. Meanwhile, the Swiss vault currently has 1,204 faecal samples and 190 food samples from Benin, Brazil, Ethiopia, Ghana, Laos, Thailand and Switzerland. They are stored at minus 80 degrees Celsius. Blaser believes the vault is an "obligation to the future generations" and may be, these microbes "could prevent a major disaster 100 years from now." &nbsp;

Human poop is being frozen in Switzerland to preserve microbes that scientists say can save humanity from disaster hundreds of years later. Over 1,000 samples are already placed in the vault, while the founders are now trying to get 10,000 more.

Scientists are freezing human poop to avert a disaster in the future. The Microbiota Vault project aims to collect 10,000 poop samples by 2029 in order to preserve microbes that can one day help humanity. The doomsday vault is currently at the University of Zurich, but the founders are looking for a more permanent place, ideally an extremely cold region like Canada or Switzerland. It is not a new project, and was launched in 2018. However, it was only in its test phase, where scientists were trying to understand the feasibility of collecting and exporting poop and fermented foods from across the world. Now it is ready to go big and preserve thousands more samples to preserve microbes. The details of the expansion of the project were published in the journal Nature Communications. Also Read: Scientists detect signs that mammoth rivers flowed in Antarctica 80 million years ago Also Read: Our Sun just inflicted a 400,000-kilometre-long scar on itself. Here's what happened Preserving microbes from poop Preserving microbes is the main deal of the project. Besides human poop, the storage facility also has 200 types of fermented food, as they are filled with "gut-friendly" microbes. The team also plans on adding environmental microbes to the collection. The long-term plan is to have backup copies of microbes found in humans, animals, plants and the environment so they can be someday used to treat diseases, for medical research and restoring ecosystems. The researchers stated in the journal that microbial loss is becoming an issue not only in humans, but also in the environment. Human health and agricultural systems are taking the hit, triggering allergies, autoimmune disorders and affecting environmental resilience. The commentary blames human activities for the disruption of the microbiomes. Also Read: Eight babies born in UK with DNA of three to prevent genetic disease "Conventional agriculture, the thawing of permafrost due to human-caused climate change, and the overuse of antibiotics are eroding microbiomes so much that they might need to be rescued in the future," the team wrote. Dr. Martin Blaser, director of the Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine at Rutgers University in New Jersey and co-author of the new commentary, said in a statement, "Human activities are depleting our microbiome, and there's lots of evidence of that." However, they admit that they can't be sure whether reintroducing microbes into the human gut or the environment can help restore it. Blaser is hopeful that science will advance to a level where "really good restorative techniques" can help achieve it. Also Read: A woman smelled her husband's Parkinson's 12 years before symptoms arrived. She has now helped develop a new test Learning from "doomsday" seed vault in Norway The Microbiota Vault started as the founders were impressed with the "doomsday" Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway. This vault holds around 1.3 million plant samples to preserve the genetic diversity of crops from around the world. Meanwhile, the Swiss vault currently has 1,204 faecal samples and 190 food samples from Benin, Brazil, Ethiopia, Ghana, Laos, Thailand and Switzerland. They are stored at minus 80 degrees Celsius. Blaser believes the vault is an "obligation to the future generations" and may be, these microbes "could prevent a major disaster 100 years from now."

Human poop is being frozen in Switzerland to preserve microbes that scientists say can save humanity from disaster hundreds of years later. Over 1,000 samples are already placed in the vault, while the founders are now trying to get 10,000 more.

Scientists are freezing human poop to prevent major disaster 100 years from now

In 2023, the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) in the US detected something strange happening in space - the collision of two massive black holes. One black hole was around 103 times and the other 137 times the mass of our Sun, collided on November 23, 2023 - around 10 billion light-years away. The collision formed a colossal black hole 265 times our Sun’s mass. It was the largest black hole merger ever recorded and was named GW231123, The Guardian reported.&nbsp;What is a black hole?&nbsp;It is a region in space where gravity has an intense presence. Nothing - and it means not even light - can escape the black hole. A black hole forms when a gigantic star - around 10-20 times the Sun’s mass - collapses before exhausting its nuclear fuel. As per a report by USA Today, the collision forms a boundary beyond which escape is impossible. The collision of black holes is a cataclysmic event that reshapes our understanding of the universe. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-settlers-accused-of-killing-117-sheep-in-west-bank-attack-1752899347586/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-settlers-accused-of-killing-117-sheep-in-west-bank-attack-1752899347586/embed</a>&nbsp;What do astrophysicists say?&nbsp;The phenomenon is a key to galaxy formation. When galaxies collide, their central supermassive black holes often merge, forming larger ones, as seen in the Milky Way’s future collision with Andromeda in 4 billion years.&nbsp;However, the collision of black holes is not a frequent incident. The process unfolds over millions to billions of years, driven by complex astrophysical mechanisms. For astrophysicists, GW231123 challenges black hole formation models, supports the concept of intermediate-mass black holes, and opens new pathways in multi-messenger astronomy, News 18 reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



The phenomenon is a key to galaxy formation. When galaxies collide, their central supermassive black holes often merge, forming larger ones, as seen in the Milky Way future collision with Andromeda in 4 billion years.

In 2023, the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) in the US detected something strange happening in space - the collision of two massive black holes. One black hole was around 103 times and the other 137 times the mass of our Sun, collided on November 23, 2023 - around 10 billion light-years away. The collision formed a colossal black hole 265 times our Sun’s mass. It was the largest black hole merger ever recorded and was named GW231123, The Guardian reported. What is a black hole? It is a region in space where gravity has an intense presence. Nothing - and it means not even light - can escape the black hole. A black hole forms when a gigantic star - around 10-20 times the Sun’s mass - collapses before exhausting its nuclear fuel. As per a report by USA Today, the collision forms a boundary beyond which escape is impossible. The collision of black holes is a cataclysmic event that reshapes our understanding of the universe. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-settlers-accused-of-killing-117-sheep-in-west-bank-attack-1752899347586/embed What do astrophysicists say? The phenomenon is a key to galaxy formation. When galaxies collide, their central supermassive black holes often merge, forming larger ones, as seen in the Milky Way’s future collision with Andromeda in 4 billion years. However, the collision of black holes is not a frequent incident. The process unfolds over millions to billions of years, driven by complex astrophysical mechanisms. For astrophysicists, GW231123 challenges black hole formation models, supports the concept of intermediate-mass black holes, and opens new pathways in multi-messenger astronomy, News 18 reported.

The phenomenon is a key to galaxy formation. When galaxies collide, their central supermassive black holes often merge, forming larger ones, as seen in the Milky Way’s future collision with Andromeda in 4 billion years.

This is what happens when 2 black holes collide - and it’s terrifying

Scientists have discovered carvings left by ancient rivers millions of years ago under the Antarctic Ice Sheet. As these rivers eroded, large, flat surfaces were formed beneath the ice in East Antarctica between 80 million and 34 million years ago. The research was published on July 11 in the journal Nature Geoscience. Experts are now trying to understand what led to the creation of these features under the ice, as this could help make more accurate predictions about future ice loss. Neil Ross, a geophysicist at Newcastle University in the UK, said in a statement, "We've long been intrigued and puzzled about fragments of evidence for 'flat' landscapes beneath the Antarctic ice sheets." The researchers added that this reveals "how these ancient surfaces formed, their role in determining the present-day flow of the ice, and their possible influence on how the East Antarctic Ice Sheet will evolve in a warming world."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/radio-signals-tear-through-earth-and-out-of-antarctic-ice-they-could-be-coming-from-edge-of-universe-1749887206535">Mysterious radio signals just tore through Antarctic ice. They could be coming from edge of universe</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/34-million-year-old-world-discovered-buried-deep-inside-antarctic-ice-1749703933178">34-million-year-old world discovered buried deep inside Antarctic ice</a><h2>East Antarctic Ice Sheet at risk of collapse</h2>Climate change risks that global sea levels to rise by several feet in the coming decades. The East Antarctic Ice Sheet could also melt, triggering sea levels to rise by 160 feet. Scientists say that accurately predicting how much the ice sheet might melt in the coming years requires an understanding of past behaviour and the conditions at its base. Radar data from four previous surveys were used in the study to map the shape of the bedrock beneath the ice. "When we were examining the radar images of the sub-ice topography in this region, these remarkably flat surfaces started to pop out almost everywhere we looked," study co-author Guy Paxman, a polar geophysicist at Durham University in the UK, said in the statement. "The flat surfaces we have found have managed to survive relatively intact for over 30 million years, indicating that parts of the ice sheet have preserved rather than eroded the landscape." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dinosaurs-survived-a-freezing-dark-land-in-australia-antarctica-120-million-years-ago-1749279100852">Dinosaurs survived a freezing dark land in Australia-Antarctica 120 million years ago</a><h2>Rivers under Antarctic ice</h2>The discovery includes a 3,500 kilometre section of the East Antarctic coastline, comprising flat expanses and deep troughs in some places. The troughs supposedly formed when meltwater dipped as the East Antarctic Ice Sheet expanded. Talking about the timing of the formation of the carvings, they are believed to have formed before the East Antarctic coastline existed, but some time after the supercontinent of Gondwana broke apart. This puts the timeline somewhere between 80 million and 34 million years ago. Ice also moves at different speeds in the two regions. Over the flat surfaces, it moves more slowly, while in the troughs between them, the ice flows much faster. Scientists say that retrieving rock samples from under the ice and analysing them will help with predictions about how much ice loss could occur in the future, triggering a rise in sea level.

Scientists have discovered evidence of ancient rivers in Antarctica that slowly eroded, leaving carvings and troughs that still exist. This could help understand how a mammoth ice sheet can one day collapse because of climate change. 

Scientists have discovered carvings left by ancient rivers millions of years ago under the Antarctic Ice Sheet. As these rivers eroded, large, flat surfaces were formed beneath the ice in East Antarctica between 80 million and 34 million years ago. The research was published on July 11 in the journal Nature Geoscience. Experts are now trying to understand what led to the creation of these features under the ice, as this could help make more accurate predictions about future ice loss. Neil Ross, a geophysicist at Newcastle University in the UK, said in a statement, "We've long been intrigued and puzzled about fragments of evidence for 'flat' landscapes beneath the Antarctic ice sheets." The researchers added that this reveals "how these ancient surfaces formed, their role in determining the present-day flow of the ice, and their possible influence on how the East Antarctic Ice Sheet will evolve in a warming world." Also Read: Mysterious radio signals just tore through Antarctic ice. They could be coming from edge of universe Also Read: 34-million-year-old world discovered buried deep inside Antarctic ice East Antarctic Ice Sheet at risk of collapse Climate change risks that global sea levels to rise by several feet in the coming decades. The East Antarctic Ice Sheet could also melt, triggering sea levels to rise by 160 feet. Scientists say that accurately predicting how much the ice sheet might melt in the coming years requires an understanding of past behaviour and the conditions at its base. Radar data from four previous surveys were used in the study to map the shape of the bedrock beneath the ice. "When we were examining the radar images of the sub-ice topography in this region, these remarkably flat surfaces started to pop out almost everywhere we looked," study co-author Guy Paxman, a polar geophysicist at Durham University in the UK, said in the statement. "The flat surfaces we have found have managed to survive relatively intact for over 30 million years, indicating that parts of the ice sheet have preserved rather than eroded the landscape." Also Read: Dinosaurs survived a freezing dark land in Australia-Antarctica 120 million years ago Rivers under Antarctic ice The discovery includes a 3,500 kilometre section of the East Antarctic coastline, comprising flat expanses and deep troughs in some places. The troughs supposedly formed when meltwater dipped as the East Antarctic Ice Sheet expanded. Talking about the timing of the formation of the carvings, they are believed to have formed before the East Antarctic coastline existed, but some time after the supercontinent of Gondwana broke apart. This puts the timeline somewhere between 80 million and 34 million years ago. Ice also moves at different speeds in the two regions. Over the flat surfaces, it moves more slowly, while in the troughs between them, the ice flows much faster. Scientists say that retrieving rock samples from under the ice and analysing them will help with predictions about how much ice loss could occur in the future, triggering a rise in sea level.

Scientists have discovered evidence of ancient rivers in Antarctica that slowly eroded, leaving carvings and troughs that still exist. This could help understand how a mammoth ice sheet can one day collapse because of climate change.&nbsp;

Scientists detect signs that mammoth rivers flowed in Antarctica 80 million years ago

The best time to view the Perseids is the midnight until pre-dawn hours. Here are the 7 stunning stargazing locations for the Perseid Meteor Shower during mid-August. 

The best time to view the Perseids is the midnight until pre-dawn hours. Here are seven stunning stargazing locations to see the meteor shower during mid-August.&nbsp;

Where to see Perseid Meteor Shower 2025: 7 stunning stargazing spots

NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab is having a "going out of business sale" for its satellites, according to NASA Watch, a blog run by former NASA astrobiologist Keith Cowing. This comes amid the Trump administration's plans to cut funding to the space agency, thus hitting several projects related not only to other cosmic bodies, but also Earth. On sale are several Earth-monitoring satellites that studied the effects of climate change, the environment and predicted hurricanes. There are also some that are yet to be launched, such as the Geostationary Littoral Imaging and Monitoring Radiometer (GLIMR) instrument, The Byte reported. The sale, according to NASA Watch, is a way to raise funds for other projects. Cowing wrote that the Trump administration's 2026 budget request had asked for the satellites to be "shut down". Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/apollo-11-anniversary-conspiracy-theories-about-moon-landing-being-faked-swirl-once-again-1752748307052">Apollo 11 anniversary: Conspiracy theories about moon landing being faked swirl once again</a>&nbsp;<h2>NASA budget cuts</h2>NASA budget cuts angered several experts, who called it "an extinction-level event for space science and exploration". The Trump administration is planning to cut down NASA's science directorate budget by more than half. However, Cowing said that NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab isn't really hopeful of things changing and is going ahead with the shutdown of the satellites. He wrote that the lab is looking to offload the satellites to "government and private sector buyers", which would help it raise funds. The Byte asked Cowing for more details, to which he responded that he "posts what he knows", and things are still evolving. Meanwhile, his story drew unhappy reactions from the scientific community.&nbsp;Meanwhile, there were some who found humour in the post, especially Cowing's words - "going out of business sale". JPL senior engineer Luis Amaro wrote in a LinkedIn post, "We got to keep a sense of humor these days at JPL." Yusef Johnson, mission integration lead of NASA's Artemis IV mission, one of the major projects to take a hit from budget cuts, called out the people who voted for Trump, adding, "Snake oil still sells." Notably, these satellites provide crucial data about the environment and weather patterns, alerting about major changes and the corresponding events like hurricanes. Trump has often denied that climate change is real, and experts say that this non-serious attitude is responsible for shutting down several operations at NASA. &nbsp;

NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab is selling off some satellites as part of the ‘going out of business sale’, NASA Watch reported. The space agency's budget for the year 2026 is reportedly going to be cut down massively. This sale is apparently to raise funds.

NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab is having a "going out of business sale" for its satellites, according to NASA Watch, a blog run by former NASA astrobiologist Keith Cowing. This comes amid the Trump administration's plans to cut funding to the space agency, thus hitting several projects related not only to other cosmic bodies, but also Earth. On sale are several Earth-monitoring satellites that studied the effects of climate change, the environment and predicted hurricanes. There are also some that are yet to be launched, such as the Geostationary Littoral Imaging and Monitoring Radiometer (GLIMR) instrument, The Byte reported. The sale, according to NASA Watch, is a way to raise funds for other projects. Cowing wrote that the Trump administration's 2026 budget request had asked for the satellites to be "shut down". Also Read: Apollo 11 anniversary: Conspiracy theories about moon landing being faked swirl once again NASA budget cuts NASA budget cuts angered several experts, who called it "an extinction-level event for space science and exploration". The Trump administration is planning to cut down NASA's science directorate budget by more than half. However, Cowing said that NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab isn't really hopeful of things changing and is going ahead with the shutdown of the satellites. He wrote that the lab is looking to offload the satellites to "government and private sector buyers", which would help it raise funds. The Byte asked Cowing for more details, to which he responded that he "posts what he knows", and things are still evolving. Meanwhile, his story drew unhappy reactions from the scientific community. Meanwhile, there were some who found humour in the post, especially Cowing's words - "going out of business sale". JPL senior engineer Luis Amaro wrote in a LinkedIn post, "We got to keep a sense of humor these days at JPL." Yusef Johnson, mission integration lead of NASA's Artemis IV mission, one of the major projects to take a hit from budget cuts, called out the people who voted for Trump, adding, "Snake oil still sells." Notably, these satellites provide crucial data about the environment and weather patterns, alerting about major changes and the corresponding events like hurricanes. Trump has often denied that climate change is real, and experts say that this non-serious attitude is responsible for shutting down several operations at NASA.

NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab is selling off some satellites as part of the ‘going out of business sale’, NASA Watch reported. The space agency's budget for the year 2026 is reportedly going to be cut down massively. This sale is apprently to raise funds.

Satellites for sale: NASA JPL is looking to get rid of some satellites already in space

Eight healthy babies were born in the UK using an experimental technique that combines the DNA from three people to prevent passing on devastating rare diseases from mothers to children, researchers said on Wednesday (Jul 16). The milestone method combines the egg and sperm from parents with a second egg from a donor woman. While the technique has been legal in the country for over a decade, its first proof has now surfaced, showing children born free of incurable mitochondrial disease, which is usually passed on from mothers.&nbsp;The mitochondrial disease can result in severe disabilities and can also lead to death in some babies within days of being born. Couples who have a family history of such cases are at risk of the disease.&nbsp;Children born through the new technique inherit most of their DNA, the genetic blueprint, from their parents, but also get about 0.1 per cent of it from the second woman. This brings a difference in what is passed down. This method is also allowed in Australia but not in many other nations like the US.&nbsp;The latest research “marks an important milestone,” said Dr. Zev Williams, the director of the Columbia University Fertility Centre, who was not involved in the work. “Expanding the range of reproductive options... will empower more couples to pursue safe and healthy pregnancies.”Scientists at Britain’s Newcastle University and Monash University in Australia reported in the New England Journal of Medicine on Wednesday that they performed the new technique in fertilised embryos from 22 patients. Following this, eight babies were born free of mitochondrial diseases. One woman is still pregnant.&nbsp;While one of the right babies had slightly higher levels of abnormal mitochondria, it was not considered high enough to result in disease, said Robin Lovell-Badge, a stem cell and developmental genetics scientist at the Francis Crick Institute, who was not involved in the research. However, the baby should be monitored.&nbsp;Lovell-Badge said the resulting baby would have no traits from the woman who donated the mitochondria as it makes up less than one per cent of the DNA of the baby. “If you had a bone marrow transplant from a donor... you will have much more DNA from another person,” he said.Critics have earlier raised concerns that we can’t know the possible impacts of these techniques on future generations. However, advocates believe it could provide a promising alternative for some families.&nbsp;In the UK, couples who seek babies born through the donated mitochondria technique need to get approval from the country’s fertility regulator. As of now, 35 patients have been authorised to undergo the new method.

The mitochondrial disease can result in severe disabilities and can also lead to death in some babies within days of being born. Couples who have a family history of such cases are at risk of the disease.

Eight healthy babies were born in the UK using an experimental technique that combines the DNA from three people to prevent passing on devastating rare diseases from mothers to children, researchers said on Wednesday (Jul 16). The milestone method combines the egg and sperm from parents with a second egg from a donor woman. While the technique has been legal in the country for over a decade, its first proof has now surfaced, showing children born free of incurable mitochondrial disease, which is usually passed on from mothers. The mitochondrial disease can result in severe disabilities and can also lead to death in some babies within days of being born. Couples who have a family history of such cases are at risk of the disease. Children born through the new technique inherit most of their DNA, the genetic blueprint, from their parents, but also get about 0.1 per cent of it from the second woman. This brings a difference in what is passed down. This method is also allowed in Australia but not in many other nations like the US. The latest research “marks an important milestone,” said Dr. Zev Williams, the director of the Columbia University Fertility Centre, who was not involved in the work. “Expanding the range of reproductive options... will empower more couples to pursue safe and healthy pregnancies.” Scientists at Britain’s Newcastle University and Monash University in Australia reported in the New England Journal of Medicine on Wednesday that they performed the new technique in fertilised embryos from 22 patients. Following this, eight babies were born free of mitochondrial diseases. One woman is still pregnant. While one of the right babies had slightly higher levels of abnormal mitochondria, it was not considered high enough to result in disease, said Robin Lovell-Badge, a stem cell and developmental genetics scientist at the Francis Crick Institute, who was not involved in the research. However, the baby should be monitored. Lovell-Badge said the resulting baby would have no traits from the woman who donated the mitochondria as it makes up less than one per cent of the DNA of the baby. “If you had a bone marrow transplant from a donor... you will have much more DNA from another person,” he said. Critics have earlier raised concerns that we can’t know the possible impacts of these techniques on future generations. However, advocates believe it could provide a promising alternative for some families. In the UK, couples who seek babies born through the donated mitochondria technique need to get approval from the country’s fertility regulator. As of now, 35 patients have been authorised to undergo the new method.

The mitochondrial disease can result in severe disabilities and can also lead to death in some babies within days of being born. Couples who have a family history of such cases are at risk of the disease.

Eight babies born in UK with DNA of three to prevent genetic disease

Carrier-based jets play multi-role missions for navies of the respective countries around the world. Have a look at these six strike fighters, which are considered top-notch in their class, with some unique abilities that set them apart from each other

Carrier-based jets play multi-role missions for navies of the respective countries around the world. Have a look at these six strike fighters, which are considered top-notch in their class, with some unique abilities that set them apart from each other

Meet the top 6 aircraft carrier-based fighter jets in the world

A prehistoric lizard that roamed North America during the age of dinosaurs has been formally identified, more than fifteen years after its fossilised remains were first collected. Named Bolg amondol, this ancient reptile was an armoured, meat-eating member of the Monstersauria clade, the same lineage that today includes the Gila monster and beaded lizards. What makes the discovery remarkable is not only the creature itself, but the story behind how it came to light. The bones, excavated from the Kaiparowits Formation in southern Utah in 2005, sat unrecognised in a museum drawer until palaeontologist Hank Woolley re-examined them. The specimen had been labelled simply as 'lizard', but detailed study revealed distinctive features that set it apart as a new species.&nbsp;<h2>A lizard fit for Middle-earth</h2>&nbsp;The name Bolg amondol draws from J.R.R. Tolkien’s writings, with Bolg referring to the goblin prince in The Hobbit, and amondol meaning 'mound-headed' in Tolkien’s Elvish language. The reference is fitting: fossil evidence shows Bolg had a robust, bony skull with ridged armour plates, lending it a distinctive mound-like appearance.&nbsp;Living around 76 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous, Bolg amondol was roughly the size of a modern raccoon, measuring three to four feet in length. Its sharp teeth and protective osteoderms suggest it was a faunivorous predator, feeding on small animals, insects and possibly even dinosaur eggs. This places Bolg among the ranks of mid-sized reptilian hunters that shared the landscape with larger dinosaurs such as tyrannosaurs and ceratopsians.&nbsp;<h2>An unexpected transcontinental connection</h2>&nbsp;One of the most intriguing aspects of Bolg amondol is its evolutionary relationship. Though discovered in North America, its closest known relative is a prehistoric monstersaur from the Gobi Desert in Asia. This points to an ancient biogeographic link, suggesting that these armoured lizards once traversed land bridges connecting continents.The fossils’ discovery in the Kaiparowits Formation, a rich fossil site within Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, helps fill gaps in our knowledge of Late Cretaceous ecosystems. While dinosaurs often dominate public imagination, finds like Bolg highlight the diversity of other reptiles that coexisted in these ancient environments.Bolg amondol lived approximately 76 million years ago, during the Late Cretaceous period. It shared its world with some of the most famous dinosaurs, quietly thriving in the shadow of giants.&nbsp;<h2>Hiding in plain sight</h2>&nbsp;Despite being collected nearly two decades ago, Bolg amondol’s identity remained hidden until museum collections were revisited. This underscores how much untapped scientific value can lie in existing fossil collections, waiting to be recognised through careful study.&nbsp;The research, published in Royal Society Open Science, adds an important piece to the puzzle of Monstersauria evolution and expands our understanding of ancient reptilian life beyond the iconic dinosaurs. Bolg amondol stands as a reminder that even small fossils can tell stories as compelling as any mythical creature.&nbsp;

Named Bolg amondol, this ancient reptile was an armoured, meat-eating member of the Monstersauria clade, the same lineage that today includes the Gila monster and beaded lizards. 

A prehistoric lizard that roamed North America during the age of dinosaurs has been formally identified, more than fifteen years after its fossilised remains were first collected. Named Bolg amondol, this ancient reptile was an armoured, meat-eating member of the Monstersauria clade, the same lineage that today includes the Gila monster and beaded lizards. What makes the discovery remarkable is not only the creature itself, but the story behind how it came to light. The bones, excavated from the Kaiparowits Formation in southern Utah in 2005, sat unrecognised in a museum drawer until palaeontologist Hank Woolley re-examined them. The specimen had been labelled simply as 'lizard', but detailed study revealed distinctive features that set it apart as a new species. A lizard fit for Middle-earth The name Bolg amondol draws from J.R.R. Tolkien’s writings, with Bolg referring to the goblin prince in The Hobbit, and amondol meaning 'mound-headed' in Tolkien’s Elvish language. The reference is fitting: fossil evidence shows Bolg had a robust, bony skull with ridged armour plates, lending it a distinctive mound-like appearance. Living around 76 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous, Bolg amondol was roughly the size of a modern raccoon, measuring three to four feet in length. Its sharp teeth and protective osteoderms suggest it was a faunivorous predator, feeding on small animals, insects and possibly even dinosaur eggs. This places Bolg among the ranks of mid-sized reptilian hunters that shared the landscape with larger dinosaurs such as tyrannosaurs and ceratopsians. An unexpected transcontinental connection One of the most intriguing aspects of Bolg amondol is its evolutionary relationship. Though discovered in North America, its closest known relative is a prehistoric monstersaur from the Gobi Desert in Asia. This points to an ancient biogeographic link, suggesting that these armoured lizards once traversed land bridges connecting continents. The fossils’ discovery in the Kaiparowits Formation, a rich fossil site within Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, helps fill gaps in our knowledge of Late Cretaceous ecosystems. While dinosaurs often dominate public imagination, finds like Bolg highlight the diversity of other reptiles that coexisted in these ancient environments. Bolg amondol lived approximately 76 million years ago, during the Late Cretaceous period. It shared its world with some of the most famous dinosaurs, quietly thriving in the shadow of giants. Hiding in plain sight Despite being collected nearly two decades ago, Bolg amondol’s identity remained hidden until museum collections were revisited. This underscores how much untapped scientific value can lie in existing fossil collections, waiting to be recognised through careful study. The research, published in Royal Society Open Science, adds an important piece to the puzzle of Monstersauria evolution and expands our understanding of ancient reptilian life beyond the iconic dinosaurs. Bolg amondol stands as a reminder that even small fossils can tell stories as compelling as any mythical creature.

Named Bolg amondol, this ancient reptile was an armoured, meat-eating member of the Monstersauria clade, the same lineage that today includes the Gila monster and beaded lizards.&nbsp;

Scientists discover an armoured ‘goblin prince’ lizard that crawled beneath dinosaurs!

Apollo 11 took off for the Moon on July 16, 1969, and landed on July 20. Neil Armstrong became the first man to put a foot on the Moon. The world watched as NASA achieved the historic feat. However, ever since then, conspiracy theories have swirled that the landing was faked by the space agency. People point to the fact that humans have not been able to return to the Moon since the Apollo missions ended. If NASA has the technology to reach the Moon in five days with people on board, why hasn't it been able to do it again? As the 56th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission approaches, social media is once again abuzz with chatter that Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins never actually went to the Moon. People have dug up old interviews of Aldrin, where he seemingly admits that America never went to the Moon.&nbsp;The first interview was on the Conan O'Brien Show in 2000. The host talks about watching the astronauts land on the Moon as a young boy. Aldrin interjects, "No, you didn't. There wasn't any television, and there wasn't anyone taking a picture. You watched an animation." People have often raised doubts about the photos and videos of the Moon showing Armstrong and Aldrin walking on the lunar surface. The two spent two and a quarter hours on the lunar surface exploring Tranquillity Base, the site where they landed. They also brought back samples of lunar soil and spent a total of 21 hours, 36 minutes on the Moon.&nbsp;<h2>Animations of Apollo moon landing</h2>"You watched animation so you associated what you saw with… you heard me talking about, you know, how many feet we're going to the left and right and then I said contact light, engine stopped, a few other things and then Neil said 'Houston, tranquillity base," Aldrin told O'Brien. However, what Aldrin was really referring to here was the TV animations that television channels used while covering the story. NASA has maintained that the Apollo missions were real. It points to telemetry data, lunar rock samples, and the testimonies of thousands of engineers, scientists, and astronauts as proof of the mission’s authenticity.&nbsp;In another interview from 2015, a little girl asks Aldrin why no one has returned to the Moon. He responds, "Because we didn't go there, and that's the way it happened." However, this is also an edited clip and is cut off before Aldrin clarifies what he meant. The astronaut clarified that the reason why it didn't happen again was because government priorities had changed and there was lack of funding. The 1970s in the US witnessed political turmoil because of the Watergate scandal and the Pentagon Papers. There was growing mistrust among the public, and it spilt over to the Apollo mission as well.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Apollo 11 anniversary: Buzz Aldrin, the second man to land on the Moon, said some things which are now being used on social media to state that the landing was faked. People started raising doubts about the mission in the 70s.  

Apollo 11 took off for the Moon on July 16, 1969, and landed on July 20. Neil Armstrong became the first man to put a foot on the Moon. The world watched as NASA achieved the historic feat. However, ever since then, conspiracy theories have swirled that the landing was faked by the space agency. People point to the fact that humans have not been able to return to the Moon since the Apollo missions ended. If NASA has the technology to reach the Moon in five days with people on board, why hasn't it been able to do it again? As the 56th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission approaches, social media is once again abuzz with chatter that Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins never actually went to the Moon. People have dug up old interviews of Aldrin, where he seemingly admits that America never went to the Moon. The first interview was on the Conan O'Brien Show in 2000. The host talks about watching the astronauts land on the Moon as a young boy. Aldrin interjects, "No, you didn't. There wasn't any television, and there wasn't anyone taking a picture. You watched an animation." People have often raised doubts about the photos and videos of the Moon showing Armstrong and Aldrin walking on the lunar surface. The two spent two and a quarter hours on the lunar surface exploring Tranquillity Base, the site where they landed. They also brought back samples of lunar soil and spent a total of 21 hours, 36 minutes on the Moon. Animations of Apollo moon landing "You watched animation so you associated what you saw with… you heard me talking about, you know, how many feet we're going to the left and right and then I said contact light, engine stopped, a few other things and then Neil said 'Houston, tranquillity base," Aldrin told O'Brien. However, what Aldrin was really referring to here was the TV animations that television channels used while covering the story. NASA has maintained that the Apollo missions were real. It points to telemetry data, lunar rock samples, and the testimonies of thousands of engineers, scientists, and astronauts as proof of the mission’s authenticity. In another interview from 2015, a little girl asks Aldrin why no one has returned to the Moon. He responds, "Because we didn't go there, and that's the way it happened." However, this is also an edited clip and is cut off before Aldrin clarifies what he meant. The astronaut clarified that the reason why it didn't happen again was because government priorities had changed and there was lack of funding. The 1970s in the US witnessed political turmoil because of the Watergate scandal and the Pentagon Papers. There was growing mistrust among the public, and it spilt over to the Apollo mission as well.

Apollo 11 anniversary: Buzz Aldrin, the second man to land on the Moon, said some things which are now being used on social media to state that the landing was faked. People started raising doubts about the mission in the 70s. &nbsp;

Apollo 11 anniversary: Conspiracy theories about moon landing being faked swirl once again

A woman who smelled her husband's Parkinson's 12 years before it was diagnosed has helped create a new test to detect the condition. Scientists at the University of Manchester joined hands with her after discovering that a person's sebum can be a crucial biomarker to help identify Parkinson's even before the symptoms appear. The test can detect the disease as early as seven years before it starts showing up. The woman named Joy Milne is also now known as "Super Smeller". Using the mass spectrometry technique, researchers discovered that sebum, the oil that is secreted and covers our face, carries distinctive Parkinson’s markers. This provided a breakthrough moment and helped them develop a non-invasive swab test. Being able to predict Parkinson's years in advance can help manage the condition better, even before the symptoms arrive. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-makes-a-person-psychopath-scientists-reveal-the-problem-with-their-brain-1752653681823">What makes a person PSYCHOPATH? Scientists reveal the problem with their brain</a><h2>Warning sign for Parkinson's</h2>Researchers from the University of Manchester collaborated with Salford Royal NHS Trust and the University of Innsbruck for the test. They took skin swabs from three groups of people - those with Parkinson’s, healthy volunteers, and people with a sleep disorder called isolated REM Sleep Behaviour Disorder (iRBD), which is considered a warning sign for Parkinson's. They analysed these samples and found distinct chemical profiles present in their sebum of people with iRBD that were different from healthy individuals. However, they were comparatively milder than those who had already had Parkinson's. This proved that Parkinson’s disease starts leaving a trace on the body that can be detected even before physical symptoms appear, the researchers said. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/having-too-many-bad-dreams-you-might-be-ageing-faster-than-others-1752574255678">'Our sleeping brains...': Too many bad dreams? You might be ageing faster than others</a><h2>Milne smelled Parkinson's 12 years before symptoms emerged</h2>Milne knew something was wrong with her husband when he started giving out a distinct odour. She previously told the BBC that it was a “musty, rather unpleasant smell” that mostly came from around his shoulders and the back of his neck. Even his skin started showing signs of a change. However, at that time, she did not know what it could be. After Les was diagnosed with Parkinson's, he joined a support group. There, Joy met others who gave out a similar smell. This is when she realised that his body had started giving out signals years ago, and that the smell was an indicator of Parkinson's. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-stumbled-upon-four-jet-black-eggs-20-000-feet-below-ocean-they-turned-out-to-be-1752050826299">Scientists stumbled upon four pitch-black eggs 20,000 feet below ocean. They turned out to be...</a>&nbsp;Milne came in handy while deciphering which swabs carried hints of Parkinson's. She was able to distinguish between swabs from people with iRBD and Parkinson’s patients. Milne also detected both diseases in two iRBD individuals, who were later diagnosed with Parkinson’s. The study was conducted on more than 80 people, 46 of whom had Parkinson’s, 28 of whom were healthy and nine with iRBD. At least 55 significant features were found in the sebum.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Joy Milne knew something was wrong when she noticed a change in the way her husband smelled. Twelve years later, he was diagnosed with Parkinson's. She has now helped develop a new Parkinson's test because of her “Super Smeller” tag.

A woman who smelled her husband's Parkinson's 12 years before it was diagnosed has helped create a new test to detect the condition. Scientists at the University of Manchester joined hands with her after discovering that a person's sebum can be a crucial biomarker to help identify Parkinson's even before the symptoms appear. The test can detect the disease as early as seven years before it starts showing up. The woman named Joy Milne is also now known as "Super Smeller". Using the mass spectrometry technique, researchers discovered that sebum, the oil that is secreted and covers our face, carries distinctive Parkinson’s markers. This provided a breakthrough moment and helped them develop a non-invasive swab test. Being able to predict Parkinson's years in advance can help manage the condition better, even before the symptoms arrive. Also Read: What makes a person PSYCHOPATH? Scientists reveal the problem with their brain Warning sign for Parkinson's Researchers from the University of Manchester collaborated with Salford Royal NHS Trust and the University of Innsbruck for the test. They took skin swabs from three groups of people - those with Parkinson’s, healthy volunteers, and people with a sleep disorder called isolated REM Sleep Behaviour Disorder (iRBD), which is considered a warning sign for Parkinson's. They analysed these samples and found distinct chemical profiles present in their sebum of people with iRBD that were different from healthy individuals. However, they were comparatively milder than those who had already had Parkinson's. This proved that Parkinson’s disease starts leaving a trace on the body that can be detected even before physical symptoms appear, the researchers said. Also Read: 'Our sleeping brains...': Too many bad dreams? You might be ageing faster than others Milne smelled Parkinson's 12 years before symptoms emerged Milne knew something was wrong with her husband when he started giving out a distinct odour. She previously told the BBC that it was a “musty, rather unpleasant smell” that mostly came from around his shoulders and the back of his neck. Even his skin started showing signs of a change. However, at that time, she did not know what it could be. After Les was diagnosed with Parkinson's, he joined a support group. There, Joy met others who gave out a similar smell. This is when she realised that his body had started giving out signals years ago, and that the smell was an indicator of Parkinson's. Also Read: Scientists stumbled upon four pitch-black eggs 20,000 feet below ocean. They turned out to be... Milne came in handy while deciphering which swabs carried hints of Parkinson's. She was able to distinguish between swabs from people with iRBD and Parkinson’s patients. Milne also detected both diseases in two iRBD individuals, who were later diagnosed with Parkinson’s. The study was conducted on more than 80 people, 46 of whom had Parkinson’s, 28 of whom were healthy and nine with iRBD. At least 55 significant features were found in the sebum.

Joy Milne knew something was wrong when she noticed a change in the way her husband smelled. Twelve years later, he was diagnosed with Parkinson's. She has now helped develop a new Parkinson's test because of her “Super Smeller” tag.

A woman smelled her husband's Parkinson's 12 years before symptoms arrived. She has now helped develop a new test

NASA have made several intriguing discoveries, including the presence of organic molecules on Mars and possible water ice on the Moon, but some discoveries are so bizarre, they have baffled many scientists. Here are some of the strange findings made by NASA.

NASA have made several intriguing discoveries, including the presence of organic molecules on Mars and possible water ice on the Moon, but some discoveries are so bizarre, they have baffled many scientists. Here are some of the strange findings made by NASA.

Unexplained doorways, mysterious faces: Strange things found by NASA on Mars that will blow your mind

The Sun has scarred itself, quite literally. A massive explosion on the Sun's surface on July 15 left a “canyon of fire”, a huge mark that astronomers on Earth captured. The solar filament eruption happened on the Sun’s upper left side, releasing a powerful blast of plasma and magnetic fields into space. The event was of such a huge proportion that it left a fiery scar on the Sun. The dent on the sun is 400,000 kilometres long and 20,000 km high, according to Tony Phillips, an astronomer who works with Spaceweather.com. He called it "a grand canyon" on the Sun. Astronomers were already prepared for something like this to happen. They spotted an unusually large, cold and dense gas filament suspended above the Sun’s surface a few days ago. When it finally collapsed, the Solar Dynamics Observatory caught it on camera. Filament eruptions are common on the Sun and are triggered by small instabilities in the Sun’s magnetic field. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sorry-space-buffs-but-planet-nine-might-be-an-illusion-a-new-world-has-revealed-that-1752635476153">New world Sedna discovered in solar system. What this means for Planet Nine</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/total-solar-eclipse-2027-six-minutes-darkness-which-countries-cities-india-1752728414715">6-minute total solar eclipse will plunge major parts of world into darkness. Is your city on the list?</a><h2>Coronal Mass Ejections and impact on Earth</h2>Scientists are not sure how long the Sun will remain scarred. They will continue to keep an eye on it to understand when and how it fills up. The Sun has been highly active for the past years. It has reached a solar maximum when it releases plasma and plumes of flares more regularly. Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) are sent across space and impact planets with radiation. On Earth, this activity triggers auroras. Colourful auroras are generated when the solar flares and the matter released by the sun interact with the magnetic field of our planet. However, these flares and CMEs can also prove dangerous. They can impact astronauts in space who can suffer from the harmful radiation. Satellites can also be impacted, cutting off radio communication. However, the plasma eruption in the latest event is directed away from Earth. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sunspot-blasts-strong-x-ray-solar-flares-causing-blackouts-in-pacific-there-is-more-to-come-1750302555516">Sunspot blasts strong X-ray solar flares causing blackouts in Hawaii. There is more to come</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-telescope-nancy-grace-roman-space-telescope-will-record-100-000-cosmic-blasts-including-stars-that-killed-themselves-1752661652776">New NASA telescope will record 100,000 cosmic blasts, including stars that killed themselves 10 billion years ago</a> &nbsp;A month ago, the Sun released an X flare towards Earth. The most powerful solar flare was unleashed from Sunspot region 4114. Certain areas over the Pacific Ocean reported radio blackouts. Multiple coronal mass ejections (CMEs) were recorded in 24 hours from sunspot region 4114. This highly violent activity is expected to continue in the coming months. Scientists are regularly monitoring the Sun to remain alert and watch out for a solar whiplash.

The Sun has a huge scar on it after a solar filament exploded on the surface recently. Astronomers spotted a huge plasma whip above it a few days back. The eruption not only released plasma and solar material into space, but also hit the Sun really hard.

The Sun has scarred itself, quite literally. A massive explosion on the Sun's surface on July 15 left a “canyon of fire”, a huge mark that astronomers on Earth captured. The solar filament eruption happened on the Sun’s upper left side, releasing a powerful blast of plasma and magnetic fields into space. The event was of such a huge proportion that it left a fiery scar on the Sun. The dent on the sun is 400,000 kilometres long and 20,000 km high, according to Tony Phillips, an astronomer who works with Spaceweather.com. He called it "a grand canyon" on the Sun. Astronomers were already prepared for something like this to happen. They spotted an unusually large, cold and dense gas filament suspended above the Sun’s surface a few days ago. When it finally collapsed, the Solar Dynamics Observatory caught it on camera. Filament eruptions are common on the Sun and are triggered by small instabilities in the Sun’s magnetic field. Also Read: New world Sedna discovered in solar system. What this means for Planet Nine Also Read: 6-minute total solar eclipse will plunge major parts of world into darkness. Is your city on the list? Coronal Mass Ejections and impact on Earth Scientists are not sure how long the Sun will remain scarred. They will continue to keep an eye on it to understand when and how it fills up. The Sun has been highly active for the past years. It has reached a solar maximum when it releases plasma and plumes of flares more regularly. Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) are sent across space and impact planets with radiation. On Earth, this activity triggers auroras. Colourful auroras are generated when the solar flares and the matter released by the sun interact with the magnetic field of our planet. However, these flares and CMEs can also prove dangerous. They can impact astronauts in space who can suffer from the harmful radiation. Satellites can also be impacted, cutting off radio communication. However, the plasma eruption in the latest event is directed away from Earth. Also Read: Sunspot blasts strong X-ray solar flares causing blackouts in Hawaii. There is more to come Also Read: New NASA telescope will record 100,000 cosmic blasts, including stars that killed themselves 10 billion years ago A month ago, the Sun released an X flare towards Earth. The most powerful solar flare was unleashed from Sunspot region 4114. Certain areas over the Pacific Ocean reported radio blackouts. Multiple coronal mass ejections (CMEs) were recorded in 24 hours from sunspot region 4114. This highly violent activity is expected to continue in the coming months. Scientists are regularly monitoring the Sun to remain alert and watch out for a solar whiplash.

The Sun has a huge scar on it after a solar filament exploded on the surface recently. Astronomers spotted a huge plasma whip above it a few days back. The eruption not only released plasma and solar material into space, but also hit the Sun really hard.

Our Sun just inflicted a 400,000-kilometre-long scar on itself. Here's what happened

A historic solar eclipse is set to take place on August 2, 2027. The sun will be hidden from sight, plunging the world into darkness for a total of six minutes. The longest total solar eclipse in recorded history happened on June 15, 743 BC, when everything went dark for 7 minutes and 28 seconds. The path of totality of the eclipse is approximately 275 km wide as it will cover several continents. It is also being called the "Great North African Eclipse" because it will cover several countries in Africa. The 2027 solar eclipse is special for its duration and also because something like this is not going to happen for another 100 years. The next such event will occur in 2114. It will start over the Atlantic Ocean and travel through the Strait of Gibraltar, southern Spain, northern Africa, and stretch into the Arabian Peninsula. It will fade over the Indian Ocean. Its huge path means it will be visible to millions of people. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-telescope-nancy-grace-roman-space-telescope-will-record-100-000-cosmic-blasts-including-stars-that-killed-themselves-1752661652776">New NASA telescope will record 100,000 cosmic blasts, including stars that killed themselves 10 billion years ago</a><h2>Why is 2027 solar eclipse six minutes long?</h2> The "Great North African Eclipse" is a result of a rare cosmic alignment involving the Sun, the Moon and Earth. All three bodies will be in a position that would make the eclipse last long. Earth will be at aphelion, its farthest point from the Sun from where our star will appear smaller. At the same time, the Moon will be at perigee, its closest point to Earth, making it appear larger. The Moon will cast its shadow on a path near the equator and move more slowly. This would make the total solar eclipse last longer. Everyone who is right on the path of totality will get to see the shadow lingering for even longer. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sun-400000-kilometre-long-scar-solar-filament-plasma-explosion-1752727510857">Our Sun has a fresh 400,000-kilometre-long scar and it might not heal soon. Here's what happened</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sorry-space-buffs-but-planet-nine-might-be-an-illusion-a-new-world-has-revealed-that-1752635476153">New world Sedna discovered in solar system. What this means for Planet Nine</a><h2>Best places to see 2027 total solar eclipse</h2>&nbsp;The 2027 solar eclipse will begin in the Atlantic Ocean and make landfall around the Strait of Gibraltar. Totality will first be visible in Southern Spain, Gibraltar, and Morocco. Next in line will be Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt, where the eclipse will occur when the sun is at its highest point in the sky. It will then cross the Red Sea, plunging Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Somalia into darkness. In the Spanish cities of Cádiz and Málaga, it would be completely dark for over four minutes. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/voyager-1-at-one-light-day-spacecraft-to-hit-astonishing-milestone-after-49-years-1752561939383">Voyager 1 at one light-day: Spacecraft to reach unthinkable milestone after 49 years</a>Morocco’s Tangier and Tetouan will be two of the best places to see the total solar eclipse, as they will be right under the central shadow stripe. Benghazi in Libya would also make for a good haunt, as the dark skies will last nearly five minutes. Near Egypt’s historic city of Luxor, it will be pitch black for more than six minutes. Italy's island of Lampedusa would have almost total coverage. Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah and Mecca, and parts of Yemen and Somalia, would be the last ones to see the eclipse. However, the 2027 solar eclipse won't be visible in India.&nbsp;

Total solar eclipse of 2027: On August 2, 2027, the Great North African Eclipse will plunge the world into darkness for six minutes. Several countries will witness a magnificent total solar eclipse. Something like this is not expected to happen for another 100 years.

A historic solar eclipse is set to take place on August 2, 2027. The sun will be hidden from sight, plunging the world into darkness for a total of six minutes. The longest total solar eclipse in recorded history happened on June 15, 743 BC, when everything went dark for 7 minutes and 28 seconds. The path of totality of the eclipse is approximately 275 km wide as it will cover several continents. It is also being called the "Great North African Eclipse" because it will cover several countries in Africa. The 2027 solar eclipse is special for its duration and also because something like this is not going to happen for another 100 years. The next such event will occur in 2114. It will start over the Atlantic Ocean and travel through the Strait of Gibraltar, southern Spain, northern Africa, and stretch into the Arabian Peninsula. It will fade over the Indian Ocean. Its huge path means it will be visible to millions of people. Also Read: New NASA telescope will record 100,000 cosmic blasts, including stars that killed themselves 10 billion years ago Why is 2027 solar eclipse six minutes long? The "Great North African Eclipse" is a result of a rare cosmic alignment involving the Sun, the Moon and Earth. All three bodies will be in a position that would make the eclipse last long. Earth will be at aphelion, its farthest point from the Sun from where our star will appear smaller. At the same time, the Moon will be at perigee, its closest point to Earth, making it appear larger. The Moon will cast its shadow on a path near the equator and move more slowly. This would make the total solar eclipse last longer. Everyone who is right on the path of totality will get to see the shadow lingering for even longer. Also Read: Our Sun has a fresh 400,000-kilometre-long scar and it might not heal soon. Here's what happened Also Read: New world Sedna discovered in solar system. What this means for Planet Nine Best places to see 2027 total solar eclipse The 2027 solar eclipse will begin in the Atlantic Ocean and make landfall around the Strait of Gibraltar. Totality will first be visible in Southern Spain, Gibraltar, and Morocco. Next in line will be Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt, where the eclipse will occur when the sun is at its highest point in the sky. It will then cross the Red Sea, plunging Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Somalia into darkness. In the Spanish cities of Cádiz and Málaga, it would be completely dark for over four minutes. Also Read: Voyager 1 at one light-day: Spacecraft to reach unthinkable milestone after 49 years Morocco’s Tangier and Tetouan will be two of the best places to see the total solar eclipse, as they will be right under the central shadow stripe. Benghazi in Libya would also make for a good haunt, as the dark skies will last nearly five minutes. Near Egypt’s historic city of Luxor, it will be pitch black for more than six minutes. Italy's island of Lampedusa would have almost total coverage. Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah and Mecca, and parts of Yemen and Somalia, would be the last ones to see the eclipse. However, the 2027 solar eclipse won't be visible in India.

Total solar eclipse of 2027: On August 2, 2027, the Great North African Eclipse will plunge the world into darkness for six minutes. Several countries will witness a magnificent total solar eclipse. Something like this is not expected to happen for another 100 years.

6-minute total solar eclipse will plunge major parts of world into darkness. Is your city on the list?

Scientists have been wondering for years whether there is a ninth planet in our solar system. Now, a study by Japanese scientists seems to bust that belief. They have found an object orbiting the Sun at the very extremes of our star system and have named it Ammonite. Its scientific name is 2023 KQ14, and its discovery has raised a question mark on the existence of Planet Nine. An analysis of its orbit does not align with the calculations done on other cosmic objects roaming in that zone of the solar system. Astronomers in Japan came across “Ammonite” using the Subaru Telescope in Hawaii. They announced its discovery in a paper published on Tuesday (15 July) in Nature Astronomy. Is it a planet or a dwarf planet? Neither. Ammonite is a sednoid, the name given to any cosmic body encircling the Sun beyond Neptune with a highly eccentric orbit. It's only the fourth sednoid ever discovered. 2023 KQ14 comes as close as 66 astronomical units from the sun, and as far away as 252 au. One astronomical unit is equal to the distance between Earth and the Sun. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com//science/is-there-a-planet-nine-nasas-new-telescope-might-soon-answer-the-question-774356">Is Planet Nine lurking in the solar system? We might know in 2025</a><h2>Planet Nine believed to exist beyond Neptune</h2>What makes Ammonite stand out is its strange orbit, which is different from the other three sednoids. Beyond Neptune, in the Kuiper Belt, several small bodies are orbiting the Sun in highly elongated yet similarly oriented orbits. This includes the dwarf planet Sedna, and 2012 VP113, 2004 VN112, 2010 GB174, 2013 RF98 and 2007 TG422. This unusual clustering triggered the theory that something has pulled them all together there. Astronomers Konstantin Batygin and Mike Brown were the first to discuss it in 2016. This led them to believe that a bigger body is likely exerting gravitational pull on them. The existence of Planet Nine would explain this occurrence, as its gravitational pull could be a reason for their similarly aligned orbits. However, 2023 KQ14, despite having an elliptical orbit, follows a different path than the others. Study authors say this raises serious doubts about Planet Nine. "The fact that 2023 KQ14’s current orbit does not align with those of the other three sednoids lowers the likelihood of the Planet Nine hypothesis," said Dr. Yukun Huang of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan in a press release. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/scientists-detect-strongest-hints-of-planet-nine-lurking-way-beyond-pluto-9025324">Planet Nine might exist after all as scientists detect something lurking way beyond Pluto</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/-jumping-jupiter-evicted-a-gas-giant-from-the-solar-system-it-could-be-lurking-at-the-edge-as-planet-nine-1749795964293">One planet is missing from the solar system, blame 'Jumping Jupiter'</a><h2>Where could ninth planet be?&nbsp;</h2>So, what led to these objects gathering in this region of the solar system? Huang says it is possible that there once was a ninth planet whose presence pulled these bodies there, and also gave the other eight planets their current orbits. However, it could have been ejected, or it might still be out there, just even farther than where it was earlier hypothesised to be. "It is possible that a planet once existed in the Solar System but was later ejected, causing the unusual orbits we see today.” The latest study almost bursts the bubble of Planet Nine. Scientists have for years been obsessing over it, pointing to major evidence on its existence. It has always been believed to be just so far away that we have not had a chance to observe it. If Planet Nine does exist, it would be bigger in mass than Neptune, and would lie anywhere between 400 and 800 AU (Astronomical Units) from the Sun. The Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile is being touted as the frontrunner in the discovery of this ninth planet. This could happen as soon as the year 2026.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Scientists are almost sure that there is a ninth planet. But a study by Japanese astronomers hints that this might not be true. A new cosmic body called a sednoid has been discovered near the Kuiper Belt, and it almost proves that Planet Nine is a myth.  

Scientists have been wondering for years whether there is a ninth planet in our solar system. Now, a study by Japanese scientists seems to bust that belief. They have found an object orbiting the Sun at the very extremes of our star system and have named it Ammonite. Its scientific name is 2023 KQ14, and its discovery has raised a question mark on the existence of Planet Nine. An analysis of its orbit does not align with the calculations done on other cosmic objects roaming in that zone of the solar system. Astronomers in Japan came across “Ammonite” using the Subaru Telescope in Hawaii. They announced its discovery in a paper published on Tuesday (15 July) in Nature Astronomy. Is it a planet or a dwarf planet? Neither. Ammonite is a sednoid, the name given to any cosmic body encircling the Sun beyond Neptune with a highly eccentric orbit. It's only the fourth sednoid ever discovered. 2023 KQ14 comes as close as 66 astronomical units from the sun, and as far away as 252 au. One astronomical unit is equal to the distance between Earth and the Sun. Also Read: Is Planet Nine lurking in the solar system? We might know in 2025 Planet Nine believed to exist beyond Neptune What makes Ammonite stand out is its strange orbit, which is different from the other three sednoids. Beyond Neptune, in the Kuiper Belt, several small bodies are orbiting the Sun in highly elongated yet similarly oriented orbits. This includes the dwarf planet Sedna, and 2012 VP113, 2004 VN112, 2010 GB174, 2013 RF98 and 2007 TG422. This unusual clustering triggered the theory that something has pulled them all together there. Astronomers Konstantin Batygin and Mike Brown were the first to discuss it in 2016. This led them to believe that a bigger body is likely exerting gravitational pull on them. The existence of Planet Nine would explain this occurrence, as its gravitational pull could be a reason for their similarly aligned orbits. However, 2023 KQ14, despite having an elliptical orbit, follows a different path than the others. Study authors say this raises serious doubts about Planet Nine. "The fact that 2023 KQ14’s current orbit does not align with those of the other three sednoids lowers the likelihood of the Planet Nine hypothesis," said Dr. Yukun Huang of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan in a press release. Also Read: Planet Nine might exist after all as scientists detect something lurking way beyond Pluto Also Read: One planet is missing from the solar system, blame 'Jumping Jupiter' Where could ninth planet be? So, what led to these objects gathering in this region of the solar system? Huang says it is possible that there once was a ninth planet whose presence pulled these bodies there, and also gave the other eight planets their current orbits. However, it could have been ejected, or it might still be out there, just even farther than where it was earlier hypothesised to be. "It is possible that a planet once existed in the Solar System but was later ejected, causing the unusual orbits we see today.” The latest study almost bursts the bubble of Planet Nine. Scientists have for years been obsessing over it, pointing to major evidence on its existence. It has always been believed to be just so far away that we have not had a chance to observe it. If Planet Nine does exist, it would be bigger in mass than Neptune, and would lie anywhere between 400 and 800 AU (Astronomical Units) from the Sun. The Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile is being touted as the frontrunner in the discovery of this ninth planet. This could happen as soon as the year 2026.

Scientists are almost sure that there is a ninth planet. But a study by Japanese astronomers hints that this might not be true. A new cosmic body called a sednoid has been discovered near the Kuiper Belt, and it almost proves that Planet Nine is a myth. &nbsp;

New world Sedna discovered in solar system. What this means for Planet Nine

Scientists have recovered the oldest proteins from a fossilised rhinoceros tooth discovered in the Canadian Arctic. The 24-million-year-old tooth contains proteins that are 10 times older than the most ancient DNA known to man. It is now the oldest detailed protein sequence on record to be analysed. Ryan Sinclair Paterson, a postdoctoral researcher at the Globe Institute at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, who led the Canadian research, says tooth enamel is like a "vault". It is "so hard that it protects these proteins over deep time." He added that they have "unlocked the vault for this specific fossil." Scientists are hoping that the study of ancient proteins will do for fossils what the study of ancient DNA did for archaeological science. The latter has shed light on human species, kingdoms lost in history, ice age creatures and more. The study was published on July 9 in the scientific journal Nature.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-reveal-ghost-under-oman-forcibly-changed-india-s-direction-40-million-years-ago-1752313684421">Why is India where it is? Because 'ghost' force under Oman pushed it 40 million years ago</a>&nbsp;DNA is more fragile and degrades quickly. However, proteins can stay inside fossil specimens for several years. They do not provide as much insight into the creature, but proteins can still reveal the evolutionary history of the creature the fossil belongs to, its diet, and sometimes even the sex. “The next step is to demonstrate that it’s not just one sample, one lucky strike,” said coauthor Enrico Cappellini, a professor at the University of Copenhagen’s Globe Institute. He believes that in the coming years, the technology can be used to further probe other areas, including maybe even dinosaurs.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/archimedes-death-ray-burned-ships-1-000-feet-away-a-teenager-recreated-it-1752226957843">Myth or real? Archimedes DEATH RAY burned ships 1,000 feet away. A teenager recreated it</a>&nbsp;Cappellini and Paterson got together with their colleagues from the University of York and the Canadian Museum of Nature to extract sequences from seven proteins from the fossilised rhino tooth. They compared the sequences with those of living and extinct relatives of the species to understand how it evolved. They found that this rhino had diverged from the same family as rhinos that lived about 41 million to 25 million years ago. “In the fossil record, there were some crazy forms (of rhinoceros species). There’s the woolly rhinoceros, and maybe you’ve heard of the Siberian unicorn with the gigantic horn,” Paterson said. “What we were able to do is compare our mystery rhino with other forms and find out where it falls in the family tree.”&nbsp;<h2>Proteins from fossils in hot regions</h2>There was another study that suggests that biomolecules can survive for millions of years. Scientists from the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum Conservation Institute and Harvard University analysed 10 mammal fossils, including the relatives of today’s elephants, hippos and rhinos. Proteins were extracted from five of them, 1.5 million to 18 million years old. Their study revealed that prehistoric proteins can survive and be extracted from fossils in tropical regions.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Scientists have managed to extract proteins from a rhino fossil tooth discovered in the Canadian Arctic. An analysis has revealed its place in the rhino family tree. Now they are hoping to expand the technology to someday study dinosaurs. 

Scientists have recovered the oldest proteins from a fossilised rhinoceros tooth discovered in the Canadian Arctic. The 24-million-year-old tooth contains proteins that are 10 times older than the most ancient DNA known to man. It is now the oldest detailed protein sequence on record to be analysed. Ryan Sinclair Paterson, a postdoctoral researcher at the Globe Institute at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, who led the Canadian research, says tooth enamel is like a "vault". It is "so hard that it protects these proteins over deep time." He added that they have "unlocked the vault for this specific fossil." Scientists are hoping that the study of ancient proteins will do for fossils what the study of ancient DNA did for archaeological science. The latter has shed light on human species, kingdoms lost in history, ice age creatures and more. The study was published on July 9 in the scientific journal Nature. Also Read: Why is India where it is? Because 'ghost' force under Oman pushed it 40 million years ago DNA is more fragile and degrades quickly. However, proteins can stay inside fossil specimens for several years. They do not provide as much insight into the creature, but proteins can still reveal the evolutionary history of the creature the fossil belongs to, its diet, and sometimes even the sex. “The next step is to demonstrate that it’s not just one sample, one lucky strike,” said coauthor Enrico Cappellini, a professor at the University of Copenhagen’s Globe Institute. He believes that in the coming years, the technology can be used to further probe other areas, including maybe even dinosaurs. Also Read: Myth or real? Archimedes DEATH RAY burned ships 1,000 feet away. A teenager recreated it Cappellini and Paterson got together with their colleagues from the University of York and the Canadian Museum of Nature to extract sequences from seven proteins from the fossilised rhino tooth. They compared the sequences with those of living and extinct relatives of the species to understand how it evolved. They found that this rhino had diverged from the same family as rhinos that lived about 41 million to 25 million years ago. “In the fossil record, there were some crazy forms (of rhinoceros species). There’s the woolly rhinoceros, and maybe you’ve heard of the Siberian unicorn with the gigantic horn,” Paterson said. “What we were able to do is compare our mystery rhino with other forms and find out where it falls in the family tree.” Proteins from fossils in hot regions There was another study that suggests that biomolecules can survive for millions of years. Scientists from the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum Conservation Institute and Harvard University analysed 10 mammal fossils, including the relatives of today’s elephants, hippos and rhinos. Proteins were extracted from five of them, 1.5 million to 18 million years old. Their study revealed that prehistoric proteins can survive and be extracted from fossils in tropical regions.

Scientists have managed to extract proteins from a rhino fossil tooth discovered in the Canadian Arctic. An analysis has revealed its place in the rhino family tree. Now they are hoping to expand the technology to someday study dinosaurs.&nbsp;

Oldest protein sequenced from 24-million-year-old rhino tooth found in Canadian Arctic

The universe is filled with all kinds of explosions - stars dying, black holes feeding on matter, triggering bright eruptions, galaxies clashing with each other and more. Now, scientists are hoping to capture all these events with a new NASA space telescope. The space agency's upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope may reveal around 100,000 celestial blasts. The most exciting discovery they are hoping to make is picturing the first stars of the universe destroying themselves, something that has not been seen before. A paper published in The Astrophysical Journal calls the survey Nancy Grace will carry out a gold mine. Cosmic eruptions can offer clues about several mysteries of the universe, such as dark energy, the force that is believed to be driving its expansion. Benjamin Rose, an assistant professor at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, and lead author of the study, said the new survey by NASA will help scientists “explore dark energy, dying stars, galactic powerhouses, or probably even entirely new things we’ve never seen before.” Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sorry-space-buffs-but-planet-nine-might-be-an-illusion-a-new-world-has-revealed-that-1752635476153">Sorry space buffs, but Planet Nine might be an illusion, a new world has revealed</a><h2>Cosmic videos of stars blowing up</h2>The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will carry out the High-Latitude Time-Domain Survey, as part of which it will scan a large region of the universe every five days for two years. Then, all its observations will be put together to create a cosmic movie full of explosions and eruptions. The primary aim of the program is to look for bursting stars, more specifically, a class of supernova called type Ia. "These stellar cataclysms allow scientists to measure cosmic distances and trace the universe’s expansion because they peak at about the same intrinsic brightness," NASA wrote. These supernovas can tell how fast the universe has expanded during different cosmic epochs, offering clues about the dark energy presumed to be at work. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/voyager-1-at-one-light-day-spacecraft-to-hit-astonishing-milestone-after-49-years-1752561939383">Voyager 1 at one light-day: Spacecraft to reach unthinkable milestone after 49 years</a> &nbsp;<h2>Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will see oldest stars exploding</h2>To predict how many of these cosmic explosions the High-Latitude Time-Domain Survey will be able to capture, researchers of the study carried out simulations. The number came out to be an astounding 27,000 type Ia supernovae—about 10 times more than what has been spotted by previous surveys. However, it will have its task cut out when it begins operations in 2027 as it will have to pick the la supernovae from a field of thousands of other exploding stars. Not only this, but it has the ability to scan the ancient universe, pushing the boundary to 11.5 billion years. Till now, most telescopes have scanned the universe that was about 8 billion years old. It can possibly see thousands of stars born at the time, and thousands of them that blew up around 10 billion years ago. By looking that far off in the universe, the Roman Space Telescope will help fill critical gaps in our understanding of the universe and record the oldest supernova ever seen.&nbsp;“Filling these data gaps could also fill in gaps in our understanding of dark energy,” Rose said. “Evidence is mounting that dark energy has changed over time, and Roman will help us understand that change by exploring cosmic history in ways other telescopes can’t.” Roman will also pick up about 60,000 core-collapse supernovae, which occur when a massive star runs out of fuel and collapses under its own weight. Ia supernovae originate from a binary star system that contains at least one white dwarf. But, both of the above will appear similar from where the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will be sitting.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Stars collapsing under their own weight</h2>However, scientists are confident that they would be able to differentiate between them. “By seeing the way an object’s light changes over time and splitting it into spectra — individual colours with patterns that reveal information about the object that emitted the light—we can distinguish between all the different types of flashes Roman will see,” said Rebekah Hounsell, co-author of the study.&nbsp;Besides these supernovas, the telescope is also expected to reveal some never-before-seen cosmic explosions. This includes at least 90 superluminous supernovae, which are 100 times brighter than a typical supernova. Then there could be 40 tidal disruption events, which would reveal more information about black holes. Then there could be the kilonovae that occur when two neutron stars, remnants of supernovae, collide. Till now, only one kilonova has been detected. The Roman Telescope can reveal at least five more.

The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope of NASA will go into operation in 2027 and will detect exploding stars in the ancient universe, going as far as 10 billion years. This means it will record the oldest supernova ever seen in the universe.

The universe is filled with all kinds of explosions - stars dying, black holes feeding on matter, triggering bright eruptions, galaxies clashing with each other and more. Now, scientists are hoping to capture all these events with a new NASA space telescope. The space agency's upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope may reveal around 100,000 celestial blasts. The most exciting discovery they are hoping to make is picturing the first stars of the universe destroying themselves, something that has not been seen before. A paper published in The Astrophysical Journal calls the survey Nancy Grace will carry out a gold mine. Cosmic eruptions can offer clues about several mysteries of the universe, such as dark energy, the force that is believed to be driving its expansion. Benjamin Rose, an assistant professor at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, and lead author of the study, said the new survey by NASA will help scientists “explore dark energy, dying stars, galactic powerhouses, or probably even entirely new things we’ve never seen before.” Also Read: Sorry space buffs, but Planet Nine might be an illusion, a new world has revealed Cosmic videos of stars blowing up The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will carry out the High-Latitude Time-Domain Survey, as part of which it will scan a large region of the universe every five days for two years. Then, all its observations will be put together to create a cosmic movie full of explosions and eruptions. The primary aim of the program is to look for bursting stars, more specifically, a class of supernova called type Ia. "These stellar cataclysms allow scientists to measure cosmic distances and trace the universe’s expansion because they peak at about the same intrinsic brightness," NASA wrote. These supernovas can tell how fast the universe has expanded during different cosmic epochs, offering clues about the dark energy presumed to be at work. Also Read: Voyager 1 at one light-day: Spacecraft to reach unthinkable milestone after 49 years Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will see oldest stars exploding To predict how many of these cosmic explosions the High-Latitude Time-Domain Survey will be able to capture, researchers of the study carried out simulations. The number came out to be an astounding 27,000 type Ia supernovae—about 10 times more than what has been spotted by previous surveys. However, it will have its task cut out when it begins operations in 2027 as it will have to pick the la supernovae from a field of thousands of other exploding stars. Not only this, but it has the ability to scan the ancient universe, pushing the boundary to 11.5 billion years. Till now, most telescopes have scanned the universe that was about 8 billion years old. It can possibly see thousands of stars born at the time, and thousands of them that blew up around 10 billion years ago. By looking that far off in the universe, the Roman Space Telescope will help fill critical gaps in our understanding of the universe and record the oldest supernova ever seen. “Filling these data gaps could also fill in gaps in our understanding of dark energy,” Rose said. “Evidence is mounting that dark energy has changed over time, and Roman will help us understand that change by exploring cosmic history in ways other telescopes can’t.” Roman will also pick up about 60,000 core-collapse supernovae, which occur when a massive star runs out of fuel and collapses under its own weight. Ia supernovae originate from a binary star system that contains at least one white dwarf. But, both of the above will appear similar from where the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will be sitting. Stars collapsing under their own weight However, scientists are confident that they would be able to differentiate between them. “By seeing the way an object’s light changes over time and splitting it into spectra — individual colours with patterns that reveal information about the object that emitted the light—we can distinguish between all the different types of flashes Roman will see,” said Rebekah Hounsell, co-author of the study. Besides these supernovas, the telescope is also expected to reveal some never-before-seen cosmic explosions. This includes at least 90 superluminous supernovae, which are 100 times brighter than a typical supernova. Then there could be 40 tidal disruption events, which would reveal more information about black holes. Then there could be the kilonovae that occur when two neutron stars, remnants of supernovae, collide. Till now, only one kilonova has been detected. The Roman Telescope can reveal at least five more.

The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope of NASA will go into operation in 2027 and will detect exploding stars in the ancient universe, going as far as 10 billion years. This means it will record the oldest supernova ever seen in the universe.

New NASA telescope will record 100,000 cosmic blasts, including stars that killed themselves 10 billion years ago

All kinds of clouds can be seen in the sky. The regular white ones, the dark black ones signalling the advent of a thunderstorm, roll clouds that look like a wave of a tsunami and are formed in some places during hot weather, and shelf cloud, another weather-related phenomenon. But there is one type of cloud in the sky that is not fully linked to natural occurrences. They are formed by aeroplanes flying through them. Known as fallstreak holes or hole-punch clouds, they are true to their name and look like someone made an opening in the cloud. Some people also describe them as having the appearance of "portals." They begin as altocumulus cloud layer, "composed of small water droplets that are below freezing called ‘supercooled water droplets'." Ice crystals in the layer of supercooled droplets lead them to grow rapidly and shrink or possibly evaporate the droplets completely, EarthSky reported. The heavier ice crystals in these clouds are formed because of aeroplanes. When an aircraft pierces through the clouds, heavy ice crystals are formed, which fall to Earth, leaving behind a circular void inside the clouds. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/5-500-year-old-beds-of-giants-discovered-in-europe-are-nothing-but-trapezoid-shaped-pyramids-1752641139932">5,500-year-old 'beds of giants' discovered in Europe are nothing but trapezoid-shaped...</a>&nbsp;Andrew Heymsfield of the National Center for Atmospheric Research and his team analysed these clouds as part of a new study. They found that aircraft propellers and wings are responsible for the formation of initial ice crystals in the clouds. The air expands and cools in the zones with locally low pressure, typically along the wing and propeller tips. It falls far below the original temperature of the cloud layer, triggering ice crystals.&nbsp;<h2>Airplanes freeze water and create snowfall</h2>This process has also been linked to creating rain and snow. Heymsfield's team found that this could happen at lower altitudes where jets can punch holes in clouds. Explaining the process, he said that when a plane flies through mid-level clouds, the expansion and cooling of air happens. Some of them can fall down as water droplets, creating rain, while others in the cloud freeze into ice and then turn to snow. This leaves behind a gap in the cloud, creating hole-punch clouds.&nbsp;Scientists found these holes in the clouds over Texas in places where planes had been flying regularly through the same region. In fact, there were hundreds of them, satellite imagery revealed. The researchers used a weather forecast model developed at NCAR and radar images of clouds from NASA’s CloudSat satellite to explain the science behind them. They saw that all kinds of aircraft - a commercial jet, a private jet or a military jet - were creating these holes. The hole-punch clouds continue to expand for hours after they have been pierced. Heymsfield says that people on the plane also witness this from inside, especially in humid, tropical areas, where "a little veil of clouds over the wings of the aircraft" can be seen. Here, the cooling is producing a super-cooled cloud.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Clouds with holes are not a natural occurrence but are being created by aeroplanes that fly through them. The punch-hold clouds have been seen in many regions. The science behind this also leads to rainfall and snowfall.

All kinds of clouds can be seen in the sky. The regular white ones, the dark black ones signalling the advent of a thunderstorm, roll clouds that look like a wave of a tsunami and are formed in some places during hot weather, and shelf cloud, another weather-related phenomenon. But there is one type of cloud in the sky that is not fully linked to natural occurrences. They are formed by aeroplanes flying through them. Known as fallstreak holes or hole-punch clouds, they are true to their name and look like someone made an opening in the cloud. Some people also describe them as having the appearance of "portals." They begin as altocumulus cloud layer, "composed of small water droplets that are below freezing called ‘supercooled water droplets'." Ice crystals in the layer of supercooled droplets lead them to grow rapidly and shrink or possibly evaporate the droplets completely, EarthSky reported. The heavier ice crystals in these clouds are formed because of aeroplanes. When an aircraft pierces through the clouds, heavy ice crystals are formed, which fall to Earth, leaving behind a circular void inside the clouds. Also Read: 5,500-year-old 'beds of giants' discovered in Europe are nothing but trapezoid-shaped... Andrew Heymsfield of the National Center for Atmospheric Research and his team analysed these clouds as part of a new study. They found that aircraft propellers and wings are responsible for the formation of initial ice crystals in the clouds. The air expands and cools in the zones with locally low pressure, typically along the wing and propeller tips. It falls far below the original temperature of the cloud layer, triggering ice crystals. Airplanes freeze water and create snowfall This process has also been linked to creating rain and snow. Heymsfield's team found that this could happen at lower altitudes where jets can punch holes in clouds. Explaining the process, he said that when a plane flies through mid-level clouds, the expansion and cooling of air happens. Some of them can fall down as water droplets, creating rain, while others in the cloud freeze into ice and then turn to snow. This leaves behind a gap in the cloud, creating hole-punch clouds. Scientists found these holes in the clouds over Texas in places where planes had been flying regularly through the same region. In fact, there were hundreds of them, satellite imagery revealed. The researchers used a weather forecast model developed at NCAR and radar images of clouds from NASA’s CloudSat satellite to explain the science behind them. They saw that all kinds of aircraft - a commercial jet, a private jet or a military jet - were creating these holes. The hole-punch clouds continue to expand for hours after they have been pierced. Heymsfield says that people on the plane also witness this from inside, especially in humid, tropical areas, where "a little veil of clouds over the wings of the aircraft" can be seen. Here, the cooling is producing a super-cooled cloud.

Clouds with holes are not a natural occurrence but are being created by aeroplanes that fly through them. The punch-hold clouds have been seen in many regions. The science behind this also leads to rainfall and snowfall.

Bizarre finding shows airplanes are triggering rain and snow. Here's how

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Oldest protein sequenced from 24-million-year-old rhino tooth