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California, United States
Christmas will be full of brightness for NASA's Parker Solar Probe as it will fly closest to the fiery surface of the sun ever in human history on Christmas Eve.
This is the closest any man-made machine will travel to the burning star. Parker will be at a distance of 3.8 million miles from the surface of the star. 
It will zoom towards the star at around 430,000 mph while cutting through the plumes of plasma while encircling it, said the space agency in a statement.
During its closest approach, the probe will lose contact with the 110-pound spacecraft, which is the fastest object ever created on Earth. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-to-be-hit-by-devastating-solar-flare-which-will-be-equal-to-billions-of-atomic-bombs-warn-scientists-784116">Earth to be hit by devastating solar flare which will be equal to billions of atomic bombs, warn scientists</a>
On December 27, a beacon tone will be transmitted by Parker to mission operators at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Maryland to confirm its health after the flyby.
Speaking about the NASA probe, Parker programme scientist Arik Posner said, “We can’t wait to receive that first status update from the spacecraft and start receiving the science data in the coming weeks."
<h2>NASA's Parker probe and its ambitious plan</h2>
In 2018, the Parker probe was launched by NASA as part of its Living With a Star programme, which is aimed at “touching” the sun. 
Since then, the Parker probe has circled the flaming hot sun more than 20 times to explore its outermost layer called the corona, which can uncover how life is affected by the sun-earth system.
The study of the corona provides them with insight into topics which include solar wind and space weather that can interact with the magnetic field of Earth and can damage the satellites, supercharge the northern lights, and knock out power grids.
Watch: ISRO Successfully Launches ESA’s Proba-3 Mission To Study Sun’s Corona
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/05/469723-breaking-news-1-recovered.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0512_WION_ORG_PROBA_3_Launch_WEB.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=128&tags=isro,PSLV,ESA,space news,india,proba-3 launch" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
The flyby on Christmas Eve will be among the first of three last close swings planned as part of the mission.
“No human-made object has ever passed this close to a star, so Parker will truly be returning data from uncharted territory,” explained Nick Pinkine, Parker Solar Probe mission operations manager at APL.
“We’re excited to hear back from the spacecraft when it swings back around the Sun,” he said.
The mission was renamed to honour American physicist Eugene Parker in 2017, making it the first NASA spacecraft to have been named after a living person.
(With inputs taken from agencies)

For the first time, a man-made machine will travel to the closest to the burning surface of the sun and will remain at a distance of 3.8 million miles

 



California, United States Christmas will be full of brightness for NASA's Parker Solar Probe as it will fly closest to the fiery surface of the sun ever in human history on Christmas Eve. This is the closest any man-made machine will travel to the burning star. Parker will be at a distance of 3.8 million miles from the surface of the star. It will zoom towards the star at around 430,000 mph while cutting through the plumes of plasma while encircling it, said the space agency in a statement. During its closest approach, the probe will lose contact with the 110-pound spacecraft, which is the fastest object ever created on Earth. Also Read: Earth to be hit by devastating solar flare which will be equal to billions of atomic bombs, warn scientists On December 27, a beacon tone will be transmitted by Parker to mission operators at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Maryland to confirm its health after the flyby. Speaking about the NASA probe, Parker programme scientist Arik Posner said, “We can’t wait to receive that first status update from the spacecraft and start receiving the science data in the coming weeks." NASA's Parker probe and its ambitious plan In 2018, the Parker probe was launched by NASA as part of its Living With a Star programme, which is aimed at “touching” the sun. Since then, the Parker probe has circled the flaming hot sun more than 20 times to explore its outermost layer called the corona, which can uncover how life is affected by the sun-earth system. The study of the corona provides them with insight into topics which include solar wind and space weather that can interact with the magnetic field of Earth and can damage the satellites, supercharge the northern lights, and knock out power grids. Watch: ISRO Successfully Launches ESA’s Proba-3 Mission To Study Sun’s Corona The flyby on Christmas Eve will be among the first of three last close swings planned as part of the mission. “No human-made object has ever passed this close to a star, so Parker will truly be returning data from uncharted territory,” explained Nick Pinkine, Parker Solar Probe mission operations manager at APL. “We’re excited to hear back from the spacecraft when it swings back around the Sun,” he said. The mission was renamed to honour American physicist Eugene Parker in 2017, making it the first NASA spacecraft to have been named after a living person. (With inputs taken from agencies)

NASA probe to make closest approach ever in human history to fiery surface of sun on Christmas Eve

Researchers in Russia revealed on Monday (Dec 24) that the carcass of a 50,000-year-old female baby mammoth was found in the Yakutia region of Siberia in June.

<meta charset="utf-8" />

The remains of the female mammoth were named Yana after the river in whose basin it was found by some local residents. Experts said it is the best-preserved mammoth carcass in the world, and one of only seven remains ever found.

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<h2 dir="ltr">Mammoth remains 'found'</h2>

The remains of the mammoth were found in the Batagaika Crater, which has expanded since the 1960s, unveiling other historic finds such as a horse and bison, TASS, the Russian state news agency, reported.

&gt; The carcass was discovered as a portion of the crater collapsed unveiling half of the mammoth which led to the local residents finding it.

&gt; Maksim Cheprasov, a researcher, said it was a “unique discovery”. The carcass's front part fell to the bottom of the hole while the back half which included hind legs was in the permafrost. The back half was later collected by his colleagues.

&gt; The carcass weighs 180 kg (397 lbs) and is 120 cm (4 ft) tall and 200 cm long.

Watch |&nbsp;Remains of 50,000 Old Young Mammoth Found

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/remains-of-50000-old-young-mammoth-found-786388/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2 dir="ltr">Previous findings&nbsp;</h2>

North-Eastern Federal University is reviewing the carcass presently. Before the discovery of this baby mammoth, only six mammoth carcasses had been traced globally, five in Russia and one in Canada, the university said.&nbsp;

“We were all surprised by the exceptional preservation of the mammoth,” said the university rector, Anatoly Nikolayev.

Studies continue to learn more about the carcass’s exact age.

Watch |&nbsp;Mammoth Remains Found Nearly Intact In Siberian Permafrost

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mammoth-remains-found-nearly-intact-in-siberian-permafrost-786320/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</div>

Researchers in Russia revealed on Monday (Dec 24) that the carcass of a 50,000-year-old female baby mammoth was found in the Yakutia region of Siberia in June. The remains of the female mammoth were named Yana after the river in whose basin it was found by some local residents.

Researchers in Russia revealed on Monday (Dec 24) that the carcass of a 50,000-year-old female baby mammoth was found in the Yakutia region of Siberia in June. The remains of the female mammoth were named Yana after the river in whose basin it was found by some local residents. Experts said it is the best-preserved mammoth carcass in the world, and one of only seven remains ever found. Also Read: Chris Hemsworth-backed company plans to revive woolly mammoth by 2028 Mammoth remains 'found' The remains of the mammoth were found in the Batagaika Crater, which has expanded since the 1960s, unveiling other historic finds such as a horse and bison, TASS, the Russian state news agency, reported. > The carcass was discovered as a portion of the crater collapsed unveiling half of the mammoth which led to the local residents finding it. > Maksim Cheprasov, a researcher, said it was a “unique discovery”. The carcass's front part fell to the bottom of the hole while the back half which included hind legs was in the permafrost. The back half was later collected by his colleagues. > The carcass weighs 180 kg (397 lbs) and is 120 cm (4 ft) tall and 200 cm long. Watch | Remains of 50,000 Old Young Mammoth Found Previous findings North-Eastern Federal University is reviewing the carcass presently. Before the discovery of this baby mammoth, only six mammoth carcasses had been traced globally, five in Russia and one in Canada, the university said. “We were all surprised by the exceptional preservation of the mammoth,” said the university rector, Anatoly Nikolayev. Studies continue to learn more about the carcass’s exact age. Watch | Mammoth Remains Found Nearly Intact In Siberian Permafrost (With inputs from agencies)

'Best preserved' mammoth carcass discovered in Siberia

Researchers from the California Institute of Technology have quantified the speed of the human brain at which it processes information, revealing we may not be as sharp as we might think. The study has opened new avenues of exploration for neuroscience.

The study has revealed that the speed of human thought is just 10 bits per second, much less than what we’d like to imagine. Our brain processes thoughts one at a time, making it a slow and crowded queue.

This new information is in contrast to the way the peripheral nervous system functions, processing gigabits of sensory data in a second, raising many questions for scientists.

The research led by neurobiologist Jieyu Zheng was conducted in the laboratory of Markus Meister and published in the journal Neuron on December 17.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/having-your-tonsils-removed-as-a-child-may-increase-the-risk-of-stress-disorders-study-785951">Having your tonsils removed as a child may increase the risk of stress disorders: Study</a>

“This is an extremely low number,” Meister says. “Every moment, we are extracting just 10 bits from the trillion that our senses are taking in and using those 10 to perceive the world around us and make decisions. This raises a paradox: What is the brain doing to filter all of this information?”

Zheng and Meister have highlighted in their published paper that despite the richness in our mind’s eye, photographic memory, and unconscious processing, the brain really does operate at a sluggish pace, which rarely goes above 10 bits a second.

According to the researchers, the brain processes at just under 12 bits a second while solving a Rubik’s cube blindfolded and around 10 bits while playing a strategy video game.&nbsp;

“The current understanding is not commensurate with the enormous processing resources available, and we have seen no viable proposal for what would create a neural bottleneck that forces single-strand operation,” the authors write.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/aging-a-thing-of-the-past-new-study-finds-70-is-the-new-60-785451">Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because...</a>

With over 85 billion neurons in the brain that form trillions of connections, allowing us to feel and think, why each of them can’t process collectively at a faster speed is not known.

“Our ancestors have chosen an ecological niche where the world is slow enough to make survival possible,” Zheng and Meister write. “In fact, the 10 bits per second are needed only in worst-case situations, and most of the time our environment changes at a much more leisurely pace.”

Scientists have suggested developing an interface that can link brains and computers for humans to communicate faster than the normal pace of speaking or typing, the new study has shown that our brains can only communicate at the same speed of 10 bits per second.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers from the California Institute of Technology have quantified the speed of the human brain at which it processes information, revealing we may not be as sharp as we might think.

Researchers from the California Institute of Technology have quantified the speed of the human brain at which it processes information, revealing we may not be as sharp as we might think. The study has opened new avenues of exploration for neuroscience. The study has revealed that the speed of human thought is just 10 bits per second, much less than what we’d like to imagine. Our brain processes thoughts one at a time, making it a slow and crowded queue. This new information is in contrast to the way the peripheral nervous system functions, processing gigabits of sensory data in a second, raising many questions for scientists. The research led by neurobiologist Jieyu Zheng was conducted in the laboratory of Markus Meister and published in the journal Neuron on December 17. Also read | Having your tonsils removed as a child may increase the risk of stress disorders: Study “This is an extremely low number,” Meister says. “Every moment, we are extracting just 10 bits from the trillion that our senses are taking in and using those 10 to perceive the world around us and make decisions. This raises a paradox: What is the brain doing to filter all of this information?” Zheng and Meister have highlighted in their published paper that despite the richness in our mind’s eye, photographic memory, and unconscious processing, the brain really does operate at a sluggish pace, which rarely goes above 10 bits a second. According to the researchers, the brain processes at just under 12 bits a second while solving a Rubik’s cube blindfolded and around 10 bits while playing a strategy video game. “The current understanding is not commensurate with the enormous processing resources available, and we have seen no viable proposal for what would create a neural bottleneck that forces single-strand operation,” the authors write. Also read | Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because... With over 85 billion neurons in the brain that form trillions of connections, allowing us to feel and think, why each of them can’t process collectively at a faster speed is not known. “Our ancestors have chosen an ecological niche where the world is slow enough to make survival possible,” Zheng and Meister write. “In fact, the 10 bits per second are needed only in worst-case situations, and most of the time our environment changes at a much more leisurely pace.” Scientists have suggested developing an interface that can link brains and computers for humans to communicate faster than the normal pace of speaking or typing, the new study has shown that our brains can only communicate at the same speed of 10 bits per second. (With inputs from agencies)

Our brain is not as fast as we might think, study reveals speed of human thought

New Delhi, India
Days ahead of Christmas, when the world celebrates the birth of Jesus, scientists have raised a question over something believed for centuries that Christ was born in Bethlehem.
This is not the first time experts have questioned the idea of Jesus being born in Bethlehem, many historians and archaeologists have advocated similar ideas before.
It is absolutely clear that Jesus was a real historical figure, however, the story of Bethlehem appears to be a misfit to many.
According to some experts, Jesus was not born in Bethlehem but in the small town of Nazareth or maybe second Bethlehem which was just 4 miles (7km) away from the hometown of Mary and David, reported Daily Mail.
Till now, the best evidence which proves that Jesus's real birthplace was Bethlehem is the Bible.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pm-modi-joins-christmas-celebrations-at-union-minister-george-kurians-home-785596">PM Modi joins Christmas celebrations at Union Minister George Kurian's home</a>
Speaking to MailOnline, biblical scholar and executive director of the Institute for Biblical Archaeology, Dr Clyde Billington, said, "Bethlehem in Judea is mentioned in Matthew, Luke, and John as the birthplace of Christ."
It is believed that the Gospel of Matthew was written around 80 AD, which is 50 years after the death of Jesus.
"I believe, as do most Christian scholars, that all three of these Gospels were written in the First Century AD. Thus, the identification of Bethlehem in Judea as the birthplace of Christ dates to the earliest days of the Church," Dr Billington said.
Dr Billington said that on the basis of evidence he is "convinced that Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem in Judea."
<h2>Why do experts doubt Bethlehem is Christ's birthplace?</h2>
The researchers have suggested that the archaeological evidence to prove that Bethlehem is the birthplace of Christ is scant. However, there is evidence which proves the existence of the place around that time.
In 1969, an archaeological survey of Bethlehem found various pieces of pottery which dated back to the Iron Age around 1000 to 586 BC.
Watch: Notre Dame Reunited With Priceless Relic
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/17/1612_norte_dame_gv_Wion-1734375025-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1612_norte_dame_gv_Wion_.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=100&tags=notre dame,cathedral,World News,WION" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
Dr Joan Taylor of King's College London and Dr Shimon Gibson of the University of North Carolina and Charlotte started another excavation near the Church of the Nativity in 2016.
In the excavation, they found various pots and artefacts which dated back to the first century AD.
Speaking about it, Dr Gibson said, "We’re sinking a trench down to the early levels, and we have, without doubt, pottery dating to the time of Jesus."
A lot of scholars also doubt that Bethlehem of Judea is the birthplace of Christ because some of the best Biblical sources fail to suggest that all this is true.
Speaking to MailOnline, a leading expert on Christian history at the University of Edinburgh, Professor Helen Bond, said, "Our earliest gospel - that of Mark - starts his account with Jesus' ministry and says nothing about his birth. And the apostle Paul - who knew Jesus' brothers - says nothing about Bethlehem." 
(With inputs taken from agencies)

Some of the experts have questioned whether Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem on the basis of scant archaeological evidence

 



New Delhi, India Days ahead of Christmas, when the world celebrates the birth of Jesus, scientists have raised a question over something believed for centuries that Christ was born in Bethlehem. This is not the first time experts have questioned the idea of Jesus being born in Bethlehem, many historians and archaeologists have advocated similar ideas before. It is absolutely clear that Jesus was a real historical figure, however, the story of Bethlehem appears to be a misfit to many. According to some experts, Jesus was not born in Bethlehem but in the small town of Nazareth or maybe second Bethlehem which was just 4 miles (7km) away from the hometown of Mary and David, reported Daily Mail. Till now, the best evidence which proves that Jesus's real birthplace was Bethlehem is the Bible. Also Read: PM Modi joins Christmas celebrations at Union Minister George Kurian's home Speaking to MailOnline, biblical scholar and executive director of the Institute for Biblical Archaeology, Dr Clyde Billington, said, "Bethlehem in Judea is mentioned in Matthew, Luke, and John as the birthplace of Christ." It is believed that the Gospel of Matthew was written around 80 AD, which is 50 years after the death of Jesus. "I believe, as do most Christian scholars, that all three of these Gospels were written in the First Century AD. Thus, the identification of Bethlehem in Judea as the birthplace of Christ dates to the earliest days of the Church," Dr Billington said. Dr Billington said that on the basis of evidence he is "convinced that Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem in Judea." Why do experts doubt Bethlehem is Christ's birthplace? The researchers have suggested that the archaeological evidence to prove that Bethlehem is the birthplace of Christ is scant. However, there is evidence which proves the existence of the place around that time. In 1969, an archaeological survey of Bethlehem found various pieces of pottery which dated back to the Iron Age around 1000 to 586 BC. Watch: Notre Dame Reunited With Priceless Relic Dr Joan Taylor of King's College London and Dr Shimon Gibson of the University of North Carolina and Charlotte started another excavation near the Church of the Nativity in 2016. In the excavation, they found various pots and artefacts which dated back to the first century AD. Speaking about it, Dr Gibson said, "We’re sinking a trench down to the early levels, and we have, without doubt, pottery dating to the time of Jesus." A lot of scholars also doubt that Bethlehem of Judea is the birthplace of Christ because some of the best Biblical sources fail to suggest that all this is true. Speaking to MailOnline, a leading expert on Christian history at the University of Edinburgh, Professor Helen Bond, said, "Our earliest gospel - that of Mark - starts his account with Jesus' ministry and says nothing about his birth. And the apostle Paul - who knew Jesus' brothers - says nothing about Bethlehem." (With inputs taken from agencies)

Was Jesus Christ born in Bethlehem? Scientists suggest probably it was...

Stockholm, Sweden
A new study has revealed that surgical removal of tonsils as a child can increase the risk of developing an anxiety-related disorder later in life.
In the US, around 300,000 children get their tonsils removed surgically to reduce recurrent infections or improve breathing while sleeping. 
Researchers from Guangxi Medical University in China and the Karolinska Institute in Sweden discovered that tonsillectomy led to a 43 per cent increased risk of developing mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after examining data on over a million people from Swedish health registry.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/aging-a-thing-of-the-past-new-study-finds-70-is-the-new-60-785451">Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because...</a>
While this observational study could not pinpoint the cause of it, the analysis revealed a significant risk even after considering the sex, age when their tonsils were removed, family history of stress-related disorders, and socioeconomic status of their parents.
According to the researchers, “These findings suggest a potential role of adenotonsillar diseases or associated health conditions in the development of stress-related disorders.”
“We found that although the risk increase appeared to be greatest during the first years following surgery, an increased risk of stress-related disorders was still noted more than 20 years after the surgery.”
The study, which was published in JAMA Network Open, showed an increased risk of 55 per cent for developing PTSD for those who had tonsillectomies in their early years, compared with those who hadn’t.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mystery-illness-dinga-dinga-leaves-300-in-uganda-shaking-uncontrollably-785363">Mystery illness 'Dinga Dinga' leaves 300 in Uganda shaking uncontrollably</a>
The scientists also studied samples while considering genetic and environmental factors, which revealed a greater risk of anxiety disorders of 34 per cent for those family members who had their tonsils removed.
While we do not necessarily need tonsils to live, they help the body fight infections and their absence can make us more susceptible to developing certain health conditions, including anxiety-related disorders and persistent inflammation.
Previous studies have indicated that tonsillectomy may increase the risk of other health problems like cancer and autoimmune diseases.
The research team also highlighted, “If our findings here are validated in future studies of independent study populations, mechanistic studies would be needed to disentangle the role of human tonsils and their diseases, via inflammation or other associated health conditions, in the development of psychiatric disorders in general and stress-related disorders specifically.”
(With inputs from agencies)

The study, which was published in JAMA Network Open, showed an increased risk of 55 per cent for developing PTSD for those who had tonsillectomies in their early years, compared with those who hadn’t



Stockholm, Sweden A new study has revealed that surgical removal of tonsils as a child can increase the risk of developing an anxiety-related disorder later in life. In the US, around 300,000 children get their tonsils removed surgically to reduce recurrent infections or improve breathing while sleeping. Researchers from Guangxi Medical University in China and the Karolinska Institute in Sweden discovered that tonsillectomy led to a 43 per cent increased risk of developing mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after examining data on over a million people from Swedish health registry. Also read | Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because... While this observational study could not pinpoint the cause of it, the analysis revealed a significant risk even after considering the sex, age when their tonsils were removed, family history of stress-related disorders, and socioeconomic status of their parents. According to the researchers, “These findings suggest a potential role of adenotonsillar diseases or associated health conditions in the development of stress-related disorders.” “We found that although the risk increase appeared to be greatest during the first years following surgery, an increased risk of stress-related disorders was still noted more than 20 years after the surgery.” The study, which was published in JAMA Network Open, showed an increased risk of 55 per cent for developing PTSD for those who had tonsillectomies in their early years, compared with those who hadn’t. Also read | Mystery illness 'Dinga Dinga' leaves 300 in Uganda shaking uncontrollably The scientists also studied samples while considering genetic and environmental factors, which revealed a greater risk of anxiety disorders of 34 per cent for those family members who had their tonsils removed. While we do not necessarily need tonsils to live, they help the body fight infections and their absence can make us more susceptible to developing certain health conditions, including anxiety-related disorders and persistent inflammation. Previous studies have indicated that tonsillectomy may increase the risk of other health problems like cancer and autoimmune diseases. The research team also highlighted, “If our findings here are validated in future studies of independent study populations, mechanistic studies would be needed to disentangle the role of human tonsils and their diseases, via inflammation or other associated health conditions, in the development of psychiatric disorders in general and stress-related disorders specifically.” (With inputs from agencies)

Having your tonsils removed as a child may increase the risk of stress disorders: Study

Days ahead of Christmas, when the world celebrates the birth of Jesus, scientists have raised a question over something believed for centuries&nbsp;that Christ was born in Bethlehem.

This is not the first time experts have questioned the idea of Jesus being born in Bethlehem, many historians and archaeologists have advocated similar ideas before.

It is absolutely clear that Jesus was a real historical figure, however, the story of Bethlehem appears to be a misfit to many.

According to some experts, Jesus was not born in Bethlehem but in the small town of Nazareth or maybe second Bethlehem which was just 4 miles (7km) away from the hometown of Mary and David, reported Daily Mail.

Till now, the best evidence which proves that Jesus's real birthplace was Bethlehem is the Bible.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pm-modi-joins-christmas-celebrations-at-union-minister-george-kurians-home-785596">PM Modi joins Christmas celebrations at Union Minister George Kurian's home</a>

Speaking to MailOnline, biblical scholar and executive director of the Institute for Biblical Archaeology, Dr Clyde Billington, said, "Bethlehem in Judea is mentioned in Matthew, Luke, and John as the birthplace of Christ."

It is believed that the Gospel of Matthew was written around 80 AD, which is 50 years after the death of Jesus.

"I believe, as do most Christian scholars, that all three of these Gospels were written in the First Century AD. Thus, the identification of Bethlehem in Judea as the birthplace of Christ dates to the earliest days of the Church," Dr Billington said.

Dr Billington said that on the basis of evidence he is "convinced that Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem in Judea."

<h2>Why do experts doubt Bethlehem is Christ's birthplace?</h2>

The researchers have suggested that the archaeological evidence to prove that Bethlehem is the birthplace of Christ is scant. However, there is evidence which proves the existence of the place around that time.

In 1969, an archaeological survey of Bethlehem found various pieces of pottery which dated back to the Iron Age around 1000 to 586 BC.

Watch: Notre Dame Reunited With Priceless Relic

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-notre-dame-reunited-with-priceless-relic-784500/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Dr Joan Taylor of King's College London and Dr Shimon Gibson of the University of North Carolina and Charlotte started another excavation near the Church of the Nativity in 2016.

In the excavation, they found various pots and artefacts which dated back to the first century AD.

Speaking about it, Dr Gibson said, "We’re sinking a trench down to the early levels, and we have, without doubt, pottery dating to the time of Jesus." 
&nbsp; 
A lot of scholars also doubt that Bethlehem of Judea is the birthplace of Christ because some of the best Biblical sources fail to suggest that all this is true.

Speaking to MailOnline, a leading expert on Christian history at the University of Edinburgh, Professor Helen Bond, said, "Our earliest gospel - that of Mark - starts his account with Jesus' ministry and says nothing about his birth. And the apostle Paul - who knew Jesus' brothers - says nothing about Bethlehem."&nbsp;

(With inputs taken from agencies)&nbsp;

Days ahead of Christmas, when the world celebrates the birth of Jesus, scientists have raised a question over something believed for centuries that Christ was born in Bethlehem.

Days ahead of Christmas, when the world celebrates the birth of Jesus, scientists have raised a question over something believed for centuries that Christ was born in Bethlehem. This is not the first time experts have questioned the idea of Jesus being born in Bethlehem, many historians and archaeologists have advocated similar ideas before. It is absolutely clear that Jesus was a real historical figure, however, the story of Bethlehem appears to be a misfit to many. According to some experts, Jesus was not born in Bethlehem but in the small town of Nazareth or maybe second Bethlehem which was just 4 miles (7km) away from the hometown of Mary and David, reported Daily Mail. Till now, the best evidence which proves that Jesus's real birthplace was Bethlehem is the Bible. Also Read: PM Modi joins Christmas celebrations at Union Minister George Kurian's home Speaking to MailOnline, biblical scholar and executive director of the Institute for Biblical Archaeology, Dr Clyde Billington, said, "Bethlehem in Judea is mentioned in Matthew, Luke, and John as the birthplace of Christ." It is believed that the Gospel of Matthew was written around 80 AD, which is 50 years after the death of Jesus. "I believe, as do most Christian scholars, that all three of these Gospels were written in the First Century AD. Thus, the identification of Bethlehem in Judea as the birthplace of Christ dates to the earliest days of the Church," Dr Billington said. Dr Billington said that on the basis of evidence he is "convinced that Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem in Judea." Why do experts doubt Bethlehem is Christ's birthplace? The researchers have suggested that the archaeological evidence to prove that Bethlehem is the birthplace of Christ is scant. However, there is evidence which proves the existence of the place around that time. In 1969, an archaeological survey of Bethlehem found various pieces of pottery which dated back to the Iron Age around 1000 to 586 BC. Watch: Notre Dame Reunited With Priceless Relic Dr Joan Taylor of King's College London and Dr Shimon Gibson of the University of North Carolina and Charlotte started another excavation near the Church of the Nativity in 2016. In the excavation, they found various pots and artefacts which dated back to the first century AD. Speaking about it, Dr Gibson said, "We’re sinking a trench down to the early levels, and we have, without doubt, pottery dating to the time of Jesus." A lot of scholars also doubt that Bethlehem of Judea is the birthplace of Christ because some of the best Biblical sources fail to suggest that all this is true. Speaking to MailOnline, a leading expert on Christian history at the University of Edinburgh, Professor Helen Bond, said, "Our earliest gospel - that of Mark - starts his account with Jesus' ministry and says nothing about his birth. And the apostle Paul - who knew Jesus' brothers - says nothing about Bethlehem." (With inputs taken from agencies)

A new study has revealed that surgical removal of tonsils as a child can increase the risk of developing an anxiety-related disorder later in life.

In the US, around 300,000 children get their tonsils removed surgically to reduce recurrent infections or improve breathing while sleeping.&nbsp;

Researchers from Guangxi Medical University in China and the Karolinska Institute in Sweden discovered that tonsillectomy led to a 43 per cent increased risk of developing mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after examining data on over a million people from Swedish health registry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/aging-a-thing-of-the-past-new-study-finds-70-is-the-new-60-785451">Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because...</a>

While this observational study could not pinpoint the cause of it, the analysis revealed a significant risk even after considering the sex, age when their tonsils were removed, family history of stress-related disorders, and socioeconomic status of their parents.

According to the researchers, “These findings suggest a potential role of adenotonsillar diseases or associated health conditions in the development of stress-related disorders.”

“We found that although the risk increase appeared to be greatest during the first years following surgery, an increased risk of stress-related disorders was still noted more than 20 years after the surgery.”

The study, which was published in JAMA Network Open, showed an increased risk of 55 per cent for developing PTSD for those who had tonsillectomies in their early years, compared with those who hadn’t.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mystery-illness-dinga-dinga-leaves-300-in-uganda-shaking-uncontrollably-785363">Mystery illness 'Dinga Dinga' leaves 300 in Uganda shaking uncontrollably</a>

The scientists also studied samples while considering genetic and environmental factors, which revealed a greater risk of anxiety disorders of 34 per cent for those family members who had their tonsils removed.

While we do not necessarily need tonsils to live, they help the body fight infections and their absence can make us more susceptible to developing certain health conditions, including anxiety-related disorders and persistent inflammation.

Previous studies have indicated that tonsillectomy may increase the risk of other health problems like cancer and autoimmune diseases.

The research team also highlighted, “If our findings here are validated in future studies of independent study populations, mechanistic studies would be needed to disentangle the role of human tonsils and their diseases, via inflammation or other associated health conditions, in the development of psychiatric disorders in general and stress-related disorders specifically.”

(With inputs from agencies)

A new study has revealed that surgical removal of tonsils as a child can increase the risk of developing an anxiety-related disorder later in life. In the US, around 300,000 children get their tonsils removed surgically to reduce recurrent infections or improve breathing while sleeping.

A new study has revealed that surgical removal of tonsils as a child can increase the risk of developing an anxiety-related disorder later in life. In the US, around 300,000 children get their tonsils removed surgically to reduce recurrent infections or improve breathing while sleeping. Researchers from Guangxi Medical University in China and the Karolinska Institute in Sweden discovered that tonsillectomy led to a 43 per cent increased risk of developing mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after examining data on over a million people from Swedish health registry. Also read | Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because... While this observational study could not pinpoint the cause of it, the analysis revealed a significant risk even after considering the sex, age when their tonsils were removed, family history of stress-related disorders, and socioeconomic status of their parents. According to the researchers, “These findings suggest a potential role of adenotonsillar diseases or associated health conditions in the development of stress-related disorders.” “We found that although the risk increase appeared to be greatest during the first years following surgery, an increased risk of stress-related disorders was still noted more than 20 years after the surgery.” The study, which was published in JAMA Network Open, showed an increased risk of 55 per cent for developing PTSD for those who had tonsillectomies in their early years, compared with those who hadn’t. Also read | Mystery illness 'Dinga Dinga' leaves 300 in Uganda shaking uncontrollably The scientists also studied samples while considering genetic and environmental factors, which revealed a greater risk of anxiety disorders of 34 per cent for those family members who had their tonsils removed. While we do not necessarily need tonsils to live, they help the body fight infections and their absence can make us more susceptible to developing certain health conditions, including anxiety-related disorders and persistent inflammation. Previous studies have indicated that tonsillectomy may increase the risk of other health problems like cancer and autoimmune diseases. The research team also highlighted, “If our findings here are validated in future studies of independent study populations, mechanistic studies would be needed to disentangle the role of human tonsils and their diseases, via inflammation or other associated health conditions, in the development of psychiatric disorders in general and stress-related disorders specifically.” (With inputs from agencies)

Peru
An expedition in Peru has led to the discovery of 27 animal species, including a mouse that can swim. Conservation International, an environmental non-profit, carried out the research over 38 days in 2022 in the Alto Mayo landscape, which includes the Amazon rainforest. The region comprises 1.9 million acres of forest and agricultural areas that house a diverse range of ecosystems.
The densely populated area has been relatively unknown to scientists who are aiming to learn more about its biodiversity and ecosystem. They were surprised to find so many new species - four mammals, eight fish, three amphibians and 10 butterfly species.
“We were very surprised to find such high biodiversity in a landscape with so much human influence,” said Trond Larsen, a researcher who led the expedition. 
Conservation International said that nearly 48 other new species may also have been found, but need further study to be sure whether they are new.
"Discovering so many new species of mammals and vertebrates is really incredible, especially in such a human-influenced landscape," said Trond Larsen, senior director at Conservation International.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/squirrels-hunt-and-eat-voles-pull-their-flesh-from-torso-claims-researchers-785342">Squirrels hunt and eat voles, pull their flesh from torso, claim researchers</a>
The most strange discovery was made in one small patch of swamp forest. Researchers found an amphibious mouse with webbed toes that could help it live in the water.
Larsen, who directs the Rapid Assessment Program at Conservation International, says that the group of semi-aquatic rodents to which this mouse belongs is “exceedingly rare”. 
They are “incredibly difficult to find (…) very little is known about the lives of these creatures," he added.
The three other mammals found during the expedition include a spiny mouse, a short-tailed fruit bat and a dwarf squirrel. 
<h2>Big-headed fish</h2>
A “blob-headed” fish was another species found in Peru. The marine creature has a huge blob-like head that looks "incredibly bizarre", like a "giant swollen nose", Larsen said, as per a report in CNN.
Indigenous Awajún people helped with the expedition and said that they already knew about its existence. However, the strange fish was not known to science.
The dwarf squirrel found measures just 14cm (5.5in), around half the length of an average grey squirrel in the UK. "[It] fits so easily in the palm of your hand. Adorable and beautiful chestnut-brown colour, very fast," Larsen said.
The spiny mouse has stiff guard hairs that function similarly to the spines of a hedgehog. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Conservation International said that nearly 48 other new species may also have been found, but need further study to be sure whether they are new.



Peru An expedition in Peru has led to the discovery of 27 animal species, including a mouse that can swim. Conservation International, an environmental non-profit, carried out the research over 38 days in 2022 in the Alto Mayo landscape, which includes the Amazon rainforest. The region comprises 1.9 million acres of forest and agricultural areas that house a diverse range of ecosystems. The densely populated area has been relatively unknown to scientists who are aiming to learn more about its biodiversity and ecosystem. They were surprised to find so many new species - four mammals, eight fish, three amphibians and 10 butterfly species. “We were very surprised to find such high biodiversity in a landscape with so much human influence,” said Trond Larsen, a researcher who led the expedition. Conservation International said that nearly 48 other new species may also have been found, but need further study to be sure whether they are new. "Discovering so many new species of mammals and vertebrates is really incredible, especially in such a human-influenced landscape," said Trond Larsen, senior director at Conservation International. Also Read: Squirrels hunt and eat voles, pull their flesh from torso, claim researchers The most strange discovery was made in one small patch of swamp forest. Researchers found an amphibious mouse with webbed toes that could help it live in the water. Larsen, who directs the Rapid Assessment Program at Conservation International, says that the group of semi-aquatic rodents to which this mouse belongs is “exceedingly rare”. They are “incredibly difficult to find (…) very little is known about the lives of these creatures," he added. The three other mammals found during the expedition include a spiny mouse, a short-tailed fruit bat and a dwarf squirrel. Big-headed fish A “blob-headed” fish was another species found in Peru. The marine creature has a huge blob-like head that looks "incredibly bizarre", like a "giant swollen nose", Larsen said, as per a report in CNN. Indigenous Awajún people helped with the expedition and said that they already knew about its existence. However, the strange fish was not known to science. The dwarf squirrel found measures just 14cm (5.5in), around half the length of an average grey squirrel in the UK. "[It] fits so easily in the palm of your hand. Adorable and beautiful chestnut-brown colour, very fast," Larsen said. The spiny mouse has stiff guard hairs that function similarly to the spines of a hedgehog. (With inputs from agencies)

Mouse that can swim, fish with giant swollen nose: 27 strange species discovered in Peru

New Delhi
The year 2025 will be filled with some amazing celestial events that you would not want to miss if you love skygazing. From a spectacular planetary parade to a lunar eclipse, meteor showers and Supermoon, there is a lot to gear up for in the new year.
<h2>Seven-planet parade</h2>
First up in January would be a planetary parade. You could see Venus, Saturn, Jupiter and Mars all together in the night sky. They would remain visible till the end of February. Two other planets - Neptune and Uranus - would also be part of the alignment. However, these two would only be visible with a telescope. 
To catch the planets, look up after sunset, at around 8:30 pm local time. Venus, Saturn and Neptune will remain on the horizon for only some time and will go down between 11:30 pm to midnight. Mars, Jupiter and Uranus would stay up all night and slowly start setting as dawn approaches. Mars would be the last to go down.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/get-ready-for-a-planetary-parade-featuring-all-7-of-the-other-planets-773046">Get ready for a planetary parade featuring all 7 of the other planets</a>
The planetary parade will turn even more wonderful later on as Mercury joins them. All seven planets will be up, although only a few of them will be visible at a time because Saturn, Mercury and Neptune will be too close to the Sun when it sets. 
While the planets will remain in the sky for weeks, the best time to watch them is between January 21 and February 21. The most ideal time to watch them would be the week of January 29 during the new moon.
<h2>Moon to block Mars</h2>
A lunar occultation is on the cards on January 13 when our moon would block the light of Mars for about an hour. This is the day of the full moon which will occult the red planet. If you carefully stay tuned to the sky, you would see Mars just to the moon’s left which would vanish soon after. This is because the moon would block the light of Mars.
It is an extremely rare occultation and might not be visible everywhere. The timings would also vary depending on where you are located.
<h2>Total lunar eclipse</h2>
March would bring with it a total lunar eclipse on the night of 13-14. The Earth will come directly between the Sun and full moon, casting a shadow onto the lunar surface. It would start as a partial lunar eclipse at 1:09 ET, at which point you would see the curved shadow of the Earth blocking out the moonlight. It will reach totality from 2:26 am until 3:31 am, changing its colour to orange-ish.
<h2>Lyrid and Orionid meteor showers</h2>
Two meteor showers will be visible in 2025 - a Lyrid Meteor Shower and an Orionid Meteor Shower. On April 22-23, the Lyrids will put on a spectacular show of shooting stars originating from the constellation Lyra the Harp.
On Oct 21-22, the Orionid Meteor Shower would peak. Chances of watching the shooting stars would be higher since the moon would be nearly invisible. 
<h2>Supermoon</h2>
And towards the close of 2025, a Supermoon awaits us on November 5.

Skygazers have some amazing spectacles to look forward to in the year 2025. Watch out for shooting stars and a brilliant planetary parade



New Delhi The year 2025 will be filled with some amazing celestial events that you would not want to miss if you love skygazing. From a spectacular planetary parade to a lunar eclipse, meteor showers and Supermoon, there is a lot to gear up for in the new year. Seven-planet parade First up in January would be a planetary parade. You could see Venus, Saturn, Jupiter and Mars all together in the night sky. They would remain visible till the end of February. Two other planets - Neptune and Uranus - would also be part of the alignment. However, these two would only be visible with a telescope. To catch the planets, look up after sunset, at around 8:30 pm local time. Venus, Saturn and Neptune will remain on the horizon for only some time and will go down between 11:30 pm to midnight. Mars, Jupiter and Uranus would stay up all night and slowly start setting as dawn approaches. Mars would be the last to go down. Also Read: Get ready for a planetary parade featuring all 7 of the other planets The planetary parade will turn even more wonderful later on as Mercury joins them. All seven planets will be up, although only a few of them will be visible at a time because Saturn, Mercury and Neptune will be too close to the Sun when it sets. While the planets will remain in the sky for weeks, the best time to watch them is between January 21 and February 21. The most ideal time to watch them would be the week of January 29 during the new moon. Moon to block Mars A lunar occultation is on the cards on January 13 when our moon would block the light of Mars for about an hour. This is the day of the full moon which will occult the red planet. If you carefully stay tuned to the sky, you would see Mars just to the moon’s left which would vanish soon after. This is because the moon would block the light of Mars. It is an extremely rare occultation and might not be visible everywhere. The timings would also vary depending on where you are located. Total lunar eclipse March would bring with it a total lunar eclipse on the night of 13-14. The Earth will come directly between the Sun and full moon, casting a shadow onto the lunar surface. It would start as a partial lunar eclipse at 1:09 ET, at which point you would see the curved shadow of the Earth blocking out the moonlight. It will reach totality from 2:26 am until 3:31 am, changing its colour to orange-ish. Lyrid and Orionid meteor showers Two meteor showers will be visible in 2025 - a Lyrid Meteor Shower and an Orionid Meteor Shower. On April 22-23, the Lyrids will put on a spectacular show of shooting stars originating from the constellation Lyra the Harp. On Oct 21-22, the Orionid Meteor Shower would peak. Chances of watching the shooting stars would be higher since the moon would be nearly invisible. Supermoon And towards the close of 2025, a Supermoon awaits us on November 5.

Skygazing guide 2025: Planetary parade, meteor showers and more in store in new year

An expedition in Peru has led to the discovery of 27 animal species, including a mouse that can swim. Conservation International, an environmental non-profit, carried out the research over 38 days in 2022 in the Alto Mayo landscape, which includes the Amazon rainforest. The region comprises 1.9 million acres of forest and agricultural areas that house a diverse range of ecosystems.

The densely populated area has been relatively unknown to scientists who are aiming to learn more about its biodiversity and ecosystem. They were surprised to find so many new species - four mammals, eight fish, three amphibians and 10 butterfly species.

“We were very surprised to find such high biodiversity in a landscape with so much human influence,” said Trond Larsen, a researcher who led the expedition.&nbsp;

Conservation International said that nearly 48 other new species may also have been found, but need further study to be sure whether they are new.

"Discovering so many new species of mammals and vertebrates is really incredible, especially in such a human-influenced landscape," said Trond Larsen, senior director at Conservation International.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/squirrels-hunt-and-eat-voles-pull-their-flesh-from-torso-claims-researchers-785342">Squirrels hunt and eat voles, pull their flesh from torso, claim researchers</a>

The most strange discovery was made in one small patch of swamp forest. Researchers found an amphibious mouse with webbed toes that could help it live in the water.

Larsen, who directs the Rapid Assessment Program at Conservation International, says that the group of semi-aquatic rodents to which this mouse belongs is “exceedingly rare”.&nbsp;

They are “incredibly difficult to find (…) very little is known about the lives of these creatures," he added.

The three other mammals found during the expedition include a spiny mouse, a short-tailed fruit bat and a dwarf squirrel.&nbsp;

<h2>Big-headed fish</h2>

A “blob-headed” fish was another species found in Peru. The marine creature has a huge blob-like head that looks "incredibly bizarre", like a "giant swollen nose", Larsen said, as per a report in CNN.

Indigenous Awajún people helped with the expedition and said that they already knew about its existence. However, the strange fish was not known to science.

The dwarf squirrel found measures just 14cm (5.5in), around half the length of an average grey squirrel in the UK. "[It] fits so easily in the palm of your hand. Adorable and beautiful chestnut-brown colour, very fast," Larsen said.

The spiny mouse has stiff guard hairs that function similarly to the spines of a hedgehog.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

An expedition in Peru has led to the discovery of 27 animal species, including a mouse that can swim. Conservation International, an environmental non-profit, carried out the research over 38 days in 2022 in the Alto Mayo landscape, which includes the Amazon rainforest.

An expedition in Peru has led to the discovery of 27 animal species, including a mouse that can swim. Conservation International, an environmental non-profit, carried out the research over 38 days in 2022 in the Alto Mayo landscape, which includes the Amazon rainforest. The region comprises 1.9 million acres of forest and agricultural areas that house a diverse range of ecosystems. The densely populated area has been relatively unknown to scientists who are aiming to learn more about its biodiversity and ecosystem. They were surprised to find so many new species - four mammals, eight fish, three amphibians and 10 butterfly species. “We were very surprised to find such high biodiversity in a landscape with so much human influence,” said Trond Larsen, a researcher who led the expedition. Conservation International said that nearly 48 other new species may also have been found, but need further study to be sure whether they are new. "Discovering so many new species of mammals and vertebrates is really incredible, especially in such a human-influenced landscape," said Trond Larsen, senior director at Conservation International. Also Read: Squirrels hunt and eat voles, pull their flesh from torso, claim researchers The most strange discovery was made in one small patch of swamp forest. Researchers found an amphibious mouse with webbed toes that could help it live in the water. Larsen, who directs the Rapid Assessment Program at Conservation International, says that the group of semi-aquatic rodents to which this mouse belongs is “exceedingly rare”. They are “incredibly difficult to find (…) very little is known about the lives of these creatures," he added. The three other mammals found during the expedition include a spiny mouse, a short-tailed fruit bat and a dwarf squirrel. Big-headed fish A “blob-headed” fish was another species found in Peru. The marine creature has a huge blob-like head that looks "incredibly bizarre", like a "giant swollen nose", Larsen said, as per a report in CNN. Indigenous Awajún people helped with the expedition and said that they already knew about its existence. However, the strange fish was not known to science. The dwarf squirrel found measures just 14cm (5.5in), around half the length of an average grey squirrel in the UK. "[It] fits so easily in the palm of your hand. Adorable and beautiful chestnut-brown colour, very fast," Larsen said. The spiny mouse has stiff guard hairs that function similarly to the spines of a hedgehog. (With inputs from agencies)

The year 2025 will be filled with some amazing celestial events that you would not want to miss if you love skygazing. From a spectacular planetary parade to a lunar eclipse, meteor showers and Supermoon, there is a lot to gear up for in the new year.

<h2>Seven-planet parade</h2>

First up in January would be a planetary parade. You could see Venus, Saturn, Jupiter and Mars all together in the night sky. They would remain visible till the end of February. Two other planets - Neptune and Uranus - would also be part of the alignment. However, these two would only be visible with a telescope.&nbsp;

To catch the planets, look up after sunset, at around 8:30 pm local time. Venus, Saturn and Neptune will remain on the horizon for only some time and will go down between 11:30 pm to midnight. Mars, Jupiter and Uranus would stay up all night and slowly start setting as dawn approaches. Mars would be the last to go down.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/get-ready-for-a-planetary-parade-featuring-all-7-of-the-other-planets-773046">Get ready for a planetary parade featuring all 7 of the other planets</a>

The planetary parade will turn even more wonderful later on as Mercury joins them. All seven planets will be up, although only a few of them will be visible at a time because Saturn, Mercury and Neptune will be too close to the Sun when it sets.&nbsp;

While the planets will remain in the sky for weeks, the best time to watch them is between January 21 and February 21. The most ideal time to watch them would be the week of January 29 during the new moon.

<h2>Moon to block Mars</h2>

A lunar occultation is on the cards on January 13 when our moon would block the light of Mars for about an hour. This is the day of the full moon which will occult the red planet. If you carefully stay tuned to the sky, you would see Mars just to the moon’s left which would vanish soon after. This is because the moon would block the light of Mars.

It is an extremely rare occultation and might not be visible everywhere. The timings would also vary depending on where you are located.

<h2>Total lunar eclipse</h2>

March would bring with it a total lunar eclipse on the night of 13-14. The Earth will come directly between the Sun and full moon, casting a shadow onto the lunar surface. It would start as a partial lunar eclipse at 1:09 ET, at which point you would see the curved shadow of the Earth blocking out the moonlight. It will reach totality from 2:26 am until 3:31 am, changing its colour to orange-ish.

<h2>Lyrid and Orionid meteor showers</h2>

Two meteor showers will be visible in 2025 - a Lyrid Meteor Shower and an Orionid Meteor Shower. On April 22-23, the Lyrids will put on a spectacular show of shooting stars originating from the constellation Lyra the Harp.

On Oct 21-22, the Orionid Meteor Shower would peak. Chances of watching the shooting stars would be higher since the moon would be nearly invisible.&nbsp;

<h2>Supermoon</h2>

And towards the close of 2025, a Supermoon awaits us on November 5.&nbsp;

The year 2025 will be filled with some amazing celestial events that you would not want to miss if you love skygazing. From a spectacular planetary parade to a lunar eclipse, meteor showers and Supermoon, there is a lot to gear up for in the new year.

The year 2025 will be filled with some amazing celestial events that you would not want to miss if you love skygazing. From a spectacular planetary parade to a lunar eclipse, meteor showers and Supermoon, there is a lot to gear up for in the new year. Seven-planet parade First up in January would be a planetary parade. You could see Venus, Saturn, Jupiter and Mars all together in the night sky. They would remain visible till the end of February. Two other planets - Neptune and Uranus - would also be part of the alignment. However, these two would only be visible with a telescope. To catch the planets, look up after sunset, at around 8:30 pm local time. Venus, Saturn and Neptune will remain on the horizon for only some time and will go down between 11:30 pm to midnight. Mars, Jupiter and Uranus would stay up all night and slowly start setting as dawn approaches. Mars would be the last to go down. Also Read: Get ready for a planetary parade featuring all 7 of the other planets The planetary parade will turn even more wonderful later on as Mercury joins them. All seven planets will be up, although only a few of them will be visible at a time because Saturn, Mercury and Neptune will be too close to the Sun when it sets. While the planets will remain in the sky for weeks, the best time to watch them is between January 21 and February 21. The most ideal time to watch them would be the week of January 29 during the new moon. Moon to block Mars A lunar occultation is on the cards on January 13 when our moon would block the light of Mars for about an hour. This is the day of the full moon which will occult the red planet. If you carefully stay tuned to the sky, you would see Mars just to the moon’s left which would vanish soon after. This is because the moon would block the light of Mars. It is an extremely rare occultation and might not be visible everywhere. The timings would also vary depending on where you are located. Total lunar eclipse March would bring with it a total lunar eclipse on the night of 13-14. The Earth will come directly between the Sun and full moon, casting a shadow onto the lunar surface. It would start as a partial lunar eclipse at 1:09 ET, at which point you would see the curved shadow of the Earth blocking out the moonlight. It will reach totality from 2:26 am until 3:31 am, changing its colour to orange-ish. Lyrid and Orionid meteor showers Two meteor showers will be visible in 2025 - a Lyrid Meteor Shower and an Orionid Meteor Shower. On April 22-23, the Lyrids will put on a spectacular show of shooting stars originating from the constellation Lyra the Harp. On Oct 21-22, the Orionid Meteor Shower would peak. Chances of watching the shooting stars would be higher since the moon would be nearly invisible. Supermoon And towards the close of 2025, a Supermoon awaits us on November 5.

California, USA 
<meta content="uuidmZHRRV0BhgEW" name="uuid"/>
In an era of chatbots, Character.AI, a chatbot platform backed by Google, is under review and facing criticism for engaging users in disturbing and graphic violent content inclusive of shootings in school. A chatbot puts users in a fake shooting scenario depicting some horrifying moments. Such incidents have caused outrage as the platform allows minors to use such content.
<h2>What Is Character.AI?</h2>
Character.AI made its way in 2022, with founders Noam Shazeer and Daniel de Freitas. It lets the users create and interact with chatbots. The users can personalise their bot's personality and voice.
The platform has been designed in a way that the users can design characters for their chats, brainstorming, and even gaming.
However, the platform has been brought to light as it lacks effective safety, which ultimately made it a hotspot for some harmful and inappropriate content. Users as young as 13 can register, but there is no way to authenticate the age verification to prevent younger children from lying about their age.
Watch | Dark side of Artificial Intelligence
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2023/10/18/1810_WION_ATTACK_10pm-1697653515-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1810_WION_ATTACK_10pm.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=111&tags=AI,Tech,artificial intelligence" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
<h2>Lack of moderation</h2>
The platform failed to implement safe guidance even though the policies were against such violent content.
&gt; It allos the users to interact with chatbots describing real-life school shooters or victims, at times extolling acts of violence or leveraging real tragic incidents.
&gt; Certain bots imitated offenders such as those who committed crimes like Noam Shazeer and Daniel de Freitas depicting them as benevolent characters.
&gt; Some users have reported bots personating those victims of school shootings.
&gt; These bots are described as “ghosts” or “angels,” often including personal details about the victims and their deaths.
&gt; Mental health experts warn to be cautious about the interactions since it can lower psychological barriers for individuals who struggle with violent thoughts.
The platform is being charged with many lawsuits over its failure to protect its users from harmful content.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/urgent-actions-needed-to-stop-spread-of-ai-generated-child-sexual-abuse-images-internet-651564">Urgent actions needed to stop spread of AI-generated child sexual abuse images on internet</a>
<h2>Safety concern</h2>
The platform has rules stating that users must be 13+ (16+ in the EU), although these rules are easy to deviate from. The app is further rated for parental guidance on Google Play and 17+ on Apple's app store. But this comes as a state of worry because there is no strict way to adhere, which lets the minors access some harmful content.
<h2>Response to criticism</h2>
In response to criticism, Character.AI has removed some complicated bots and promised new safety features. The company has also promised to work with online safety experts to highlight these issues. At the same time, many problematic bots remain active, and critics argue that the platform’s efforts are insufficient.
Many are calling for stricter age verification, improved content moderation, and ethical guidelines to prevent the exploitation of real-world tragedies. As the investigation intensifies, the future of Character.AI remains to be seen, seeking some meaningful and safe changes within the platform. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Character.AI made its way in 2022, with founders Noam Shazeer and Daniel de Freitas. It lets the users create and interact with chatbots. The users can personalise their bot's personality and voice.



California, USA In an era of chatbots, Character.AI, a chatbot platform backed by Google, is under review and facing criticism for engaging users in disturbing and graphic violent content inclusive of shootings in school. A chatbot puts users in a fake shooting scenario depicting some horrifying moments. Such incidents have caused outrage as the platform allows minors to use such content. What Is Character.AI? Character.AI made its way in 2022, with founders Noam Shazeer and Daniel de Freitas. It lets the users create and interact with chatbots. The users can personalise their bot's personality and voice. The platform has been designed in a way that the users can design characters for their chats, brainstorming, and even gaming. However, the platform has been brought to light as it lacks effective safety, which ultimately made it a hotspot for some harmful and inappropriate content. Users as young as 13 can register, but there is no way to authenticate the age verification to prevent younger children from lying about their age. Watch | Dark side of Artificial Intelligence Lack of moderation The platform failed to implement safe guidance even though the policies were against such violent content. > It allos the users to interact with chatbots describing real-life school shooters or victims, at times extolling acts of violence or leveraging real tragic incidents. > Certain bots imitated offenders such as those who committed crimes like Noam Shazeer and Daniel de Freitas depicting them as benevolent characters. > Some users have reported bots personating those victims of school shootings. > These bots are described as “ghosts” or “angels,” often including personal details about the victims and their deaths. > Mental health experts warn to be cautious about the interactions since it can lower psychological barriers for individuals who struggle with violent thoughts. The platform is being charged with many lawsuits over its failure to protect its users from harmful content. Also Read: Urgent actions needed to stop spread of AI-generated child sexual abuse images on internet Safety concern The platform has rules stating that users must be 13+ (16+ in the EU), although these rules are easy to deviate from. The app is further rated for parental guidance on Google Play and 17+ on Apple's app store. But this comes as a state of worry because there is no strict way to adhere, which lets the minors access some harmful content. Response to criticism In response to criticism, Character.AI has removed some complicated bots and promised new safety features. The company has also promised to work with online safety experts to highlight these issues. At the same time, many problematic bots remain active, and critics argue that the platform’s efforts are insufficient. Many are calling for stricter age verification, improved content moderation, and ethical guidelines to prevent the exploitation of real-world tragedies. As the investigation intensifies, the future of Character.AI remains to be seen, seeking some meaningful and safe changes within the platform. (With inputs from agencies)

Character.AI facing criticism over lack of moderation and violent content in their chatbot

Seventy is the new 60! New research has found that older people in England enjoy better health than ever. The findings, published in the journal Nature Ageing, reveal that the decline in age has slowed notably, giving hope for a healthier ageing process.

Seventy is the new 60! New research has found that older people in England enjoy better health than ever. The findings, published in the journal Nature Ageing, reveal that the decline in age has slowed notably, giving hope for a healthier ageing process. Amidst concerns over the rising rates of cancer and dementia, this study is the light at the end of the tunnel. It further shows that today's elderly population faces more intense levels of physical and mental balance than the previous generations did at the same age. Research highlights According to this study, a person who is 68 years old and born in 1950 is anticipated to have the same health condition as an individual who is 62 years old a decade earlier. John Beard, a professor of ageing at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, said, “We were surprised by just how large these improvements were, particularly when comparing people born after World War Two with earlier-born groups.” The researchers observed data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, noting those born between 1920 and 1959, aged 65 to 104 today. They measured “cognitive, locomotor, psychological, and sensory capacities” rather than specific diseases. Globally shining 'through' The health improvements are a result of education, good nutrition, better sanitation, and advancement in medical treatments like for high blood pressure and joint replacement. At a global level, these findings resonate well. An analysis using data from the China Health and Retirement Study said, “Our research suggests there have been significant improvements in functioning in more recent cohorts of older people in both England and China.” Professor Jay Olshansky of the University of Illinois, who wasn’t part of the study, described it as powerful. "It’s an optimistic message for the future.” Read More: Drastic signs of ageing show up twice in a lifetime. Once around 44, and then at... Risk warnings Though the findings are good, Beard warned against believing that the trend will continue. “There is nothing to say we will continue to see the same improvements moving forward,” he warned. Factors like increasing obesity could even reverse these trends. Watch | The Curious Case Of The Prematurely Ageing Space Heart Optimistic conclusion The research ends with a hopeful note. “Increasing life expectancy is being accompanied by large increases in health expectancy among more recent cohorts. This has positive implications for all of us, both as individuals and for society more broadly.” For many individuals, it looks like 70 no longer is about slowing down but rather enjoying life with the high-spiritedness of someone much younger. (With inputs from agencies)

Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because...

New Delhi, India 
<meta content="uuidaRil3T7CifE8" name="uuid"/>
Seventy is the new 60! New research has found that older people in England enjoy better health than ever. The findings, published in the journal Nature Ageing, reveal that the decline in age has slowed notably, giving hope for a healthier ageing process.
Amidst concerns over the rising rates of cancer and dementia, this study is the light at the end of the tunnel. It further shows that today's elderly population faces more intense levels of physical and mental balance than the previous generations did at the same age.
<h2>Research highlights </h2>
According to this study, a person who is 68 years old and born in 1950 is anticipated to have the same health condition as an individual who is 62 years old a decade earlier.
John Beard, a professor of ageing at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, said, “We were surprised by just how large these improvements were, particularly when comparing people born after World War Two with earlier-born groups.”
The researchers observed data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, noting those born between 1920 and 1959, aged 65 to 104 today. They measured “cognitive, locomotor, psychological, and sensory capacities” rather than specific diseases.
<h2>Globally shining 'through'</h2>
The health improvements are a result of education, good nutrition, better sanitation, and advancement in medical treatments like for high blood pressure and joint replacement.
At a global level, these findings resonate well. An analysis using data from the China Health and Retirement Study said, “Our research suggests there have been significant improvements in functioning in more recent cohorts of older people in both England and China.”
Professor Jay Olshansky of the University of Illinois, who wasn’t part of the study, described it as powerful. "It’s an optimistic message for the future.”
Read More: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/drastic-signs-of-ageing-show-up-twice-in-a-lifetime-once-around-44-and-then-at-777696">Drastic signs of ageing show up twice in a lifetime. Once around 44, and then at...</a>
<h2>Risk warnings</h2>
Though the findings are good, Beard warned against believing that the trend will continue.
“There is nothing to say we will continue to see the same improvements moving forward,” he warned.
Factors like increasing obesity could even reverse these trends.
Watch | The Curious Case Of The Prematurely Ageing Space Heart
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/09/27/2709_wion_space_830pm-1727457020-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2709_wion_space_830pm.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=159&tags=space,heart,ageing,astronauts" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
<h2>Optimistic conclusion</h2>
The research ends with a hopeful note.
“Increasing life expectancy is being accompanied by large increases in health expectancy among more recent cohorts. This has positive implications for all of us, both as individuals and for society more broadly.”
For many individuals, it looks like 70 no longer is about slowing down but rather enjoying life with the high-spiritedness of someone much younger.
(With inputs from agencies)

According to this study, a person who is 68 years old and born in 1950 is anticipated to have the same health condition as an individual who is 62 years old a decade earlier.



New Delhi, India Seventy is the new 60! New research has found that older people in England enjoy better health than ever. The findings, published in the journal Nature Ageing, reveal that the decline in age has slowed notably, giving hope for a healthier ageing process. Amidst concerns over the rising rates of cancer and dementia, this study is the light at the end of the tunnel. It further shows that today's elderly population faces more intense levels of physical and mental balance than the previous generations did at the same age. Research highlights According to this study, a person who is 68 years old and born in 1950 is anticipated to have the same health condition as an individual who is 62 years old a decade earlier. John Beard, a professor of ageing at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, said, “We were surprised by just how large these improvements were, particularly when comparing people born after World War Two with earlier-born groups.” The researchers observed data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, noting those born between 1920 and 1959, aged 65 to 104 today. They measured “cognitive, locomotor, psychological, and sensory capacities” rather than specific diseases. Globally shining 'through' The health improvements are a result of education, good nutrition, better sanitation, and advancement in medical treatments like for high blood pressure and joint replacement. At a global level, these findings resonate well. An analysis using data from the China Health and Retirement Study said, “Our research suggests there have been significant improvements in functioning in more recent cohorts of older people in both England and China.” Professor Jay Olshansky of the University of Illinois, who wasn’t part of the study, described it as powerful. "It’s an optimistic message for the future.” Read More: Drastic signs of ageing show up twice in a lifetime. Once around 44, and then at... Risk warnings Though the findings are good, Beard warned against believing that the trend will continue. “There is nothing to say we will continue to see the same improvements moving forward,” he warned. Factors like increasing obesity could even reverse these trends. Watch | The Curious Case Of The Prematurely Ageing Space Heart Optimistic conclusion The research ends with a hopeful note. “Increasing life expectancy is being accompanied by large increases in health expectancy among more recent cohorts. This has positive implications for all of us, both as individuals and for society more broadly.” For many individuals, it looks like 70 no longer is about slowing down but rather enjoying life with the high-spiritedness of someone much younger. (With inputs from agencies)

In an era of chatbots, Character.AI, a chatbot platform backed by Google, is under review and facing criticism for engaging users in disturbing and graphic violent content inclusive of shootings in school.

In an era of chatbots, Character.AI, a chatbot platform backed by Google, is under review and facing criticism for engaging users in disturbing and graphic violent content inclusive of shootings in school. A chatbot puts users in a fake shooting scenario depicting some horrifying moments. Such incidents have caused outrage as the platform allows minors to use such content. What Is Character.AI? Character.AI made its way in 2022, with founders Noam Shazeer and Daniel de Freitas. It lets the users create and interact with chatbots. The users can personalise their bot's personality and voice. The platform has been designed in a way that the users can design characters for their chats, brainstorming, and even gaming. However, the platform has been brought to light as it lacks effective safety, which ultimately made it a hotspot for some harmful and inappropriate content. Users as young as 13 can register, but there is no way to authenticate the age verification to prevent younger children from lying about their age. Watch | Dark side of Artificial Intelligence Lack of moderation The platform failed to implement safe guidance even though the policies were against such violent content. > It allos the users to interact with chatbots describing real-life school shooters or victims, at times extolling acts of violence or leveraging real tragic incidents. > Certain bots imitated offenders such as those who committed crimes like Noam Shazeer and Daniel de Freitas depicting them as benevolent characters. > Some users have reported bots personating those victims of school shootings. > These bots are described as “ghosts” or “angels,” often including personal details about the victims and their deaths. > Mental health experts warn to be cautious about the interactions since it can lower psychological barriers for individuals who struggle with violent thoughts. The platform is being charged with many lawsuits over its failure to protect its users from harmful content. Also Read: Urgent actions needed to stop spread of AI-generated child sexual abuse images on internet Safety concern The platform has rules stating that users must be 13+ (16+ in the EU), although these rules are easy to deviate from. The app is further rated for parental guidance on Google Play and 17+ on Apple's app store. But this comes as a state of worry because there is no strict way to adhere, which lets the minors access some harmful content. Response to criticism In response to criticism, Character.AI has removed some complicated bots and promised new safety features. The company has also promised to work with online safety experts to highlight these issues. At the same time, many problematic bots remain active, and critics argue that the platform’s efforts are insufficient. Many are calling for stricter age verification, improved content moderation, and ethical guidelines to prevent the exploitation of real-world tragedies. As the investigation intensifies, the future of Character.AI remains to be seen, seeking some meaningful and safe changes within the platform. (With inputs from agencies)

California, United States
In a new study, researchers discovered that squirrels have repeatedly hunted and eaten voles. The study emphasised that the act of killing voles was violent, as the latter was decapitated and flesh was pulled out from their torso. 
Voles are rodents and said to be related to lemmings and hamsters, but have a stouter body, a longer tail, and a slightly rounder head.
According to the team, the discovery of such a behavioural pattern of the squirrel was a shock, as the California ground squirrels were earlier seen eating insects, bird eggs, hatchlings, and at times even scavenging small mammals. It was earlier believed that the squirrels were herbivorous and ate seeds, acorns, fruits, and nuts.
“This is incredibly exciting, because this is the first time for this species that we’ve documented active hunting from start to finish,” said Dr Jennifer Smith, who is the first author of the research and an associate professor of biology at the University of Wisconsin. 
“Once we saw it happening, it continued to happen again and again throughout the summer,” she said.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2024-how-peanut-the-squirrel-became-latest-campaign-talking-point-773132">US elections 2024: How Peanut the squirrel became latest campaign talking point</a>
However, this is not the first time such a side of California ground squirrels has come to light. 
According to Smith, the female squirrels were known to commit infanticide and kill and eat the younger ones of others.
The team observed that both male and female squirrels hunted the voles. 
<h2>Why do squirrels hunt voles?</h2>
According to the team, the unexpected behaviour of squirrels was seen at a time when the number of California voles exploded unusually. 
“It seems that these squirrels are just opportunistic,” Smith said. He added that California ground squirrels were known for their flexible nature.
“The superabundance of voles during this particular summer really opened up the novel dietary niche for them,” she added.
Hence, the researchers thought that perhaps California ground squirrels were opportunistic omnivores.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-calls-euthanasia-of-celebrity-squirrel-peanut-mindless-heartless-772918">Elon Musk calls euthanasia of celebrity squirrel Peanut 'mindless, heartless'</a>
Smith said that this kind of flexibility may have helped the creatures survive amid challenges like climate change and human presence.
“This is important, because they are a major prey source for California ecosystems, and they are a native species. And if they’re doing well, there’s a lot more opportunities for other species that are threatened to be able to survive and do well," Smith said. 
Meanwhile, assistant professor in the Department of Biology Cory Williams said, “This likely only occurs when you have a population outbreak of voles and densities become extremely high. But I’m not surprised they are eating them when they are available, given how opportunistic these animals are.”
(With inputs from agencies)

As per the scientists, this behaviour of squirrels is "opportunistic" as California ground squirrels are generally herbivorous

 



California, United States In a new study, researchers discovered that squirrels have repeatedly hunted and eaten voles. The study emphasised that the act of killing voles was violent, as the latter was decapitated and flesh was pulled out from their torso. Voles are rodents and said to be related to lemmings and hamsters, but have a stouter body, a longer tail, and a slightly rounder head. According to the team, the discovery of such a behavioural pattern of the squirrel was a shock, as the California ground squirrels were earlier seen eating insects, bird eggs, hatchlings, and at times even scavenging small mammals. It was earlier believed that the squirrels were herbivorous and ate seeds, acorns, fruits, and nuts. “This is incredibly exciting, because this is the first time for this species that we’ve documented active hunting from start to finish,” said Dr Jennifer Smith, who is the first author of the research and an associate professor of biology at the University of Wisconsin. “Once we saw it happening, it continued to happen again and again throughout the summer,” she said. Also Read: US elections 2024: How Peanut the squirrel became latest campaign talking point However, this is not the first time such a side of California ground squirrels has come to light. According to Smith, the female squirrels were known to commit infanticide and kill and eat the younger ones of others. The team observed that both male and female squirrels hunted the voles. Why do squirrels hunt voles? According to the team, the unexpected behaviour of squirrels was seen at a time when the number of California voles exploded unusually. “It seems that these squirrels are just opportunistic,” Smith said. He added that California ground squirrels were known for their flexible nature. “The superabundance of voles during this particular summer really opened up the novel dietary niche for them,” she added. Hence, the researchers thought that perhaps California ground squirrels were opportunistic omnivores. Also Read: Elon Musk calls euthanasia of celebrity squirrel Peanut 'mindless, heartless' Smith said that this kind of flexibility may have helped the creatures survive amid challenges like climate change and human presence. “This is important, because they are a major prey source for California ecosystems, and they are a native species. And if they’re doing well, there’s a lot more opportunities for other species that are threatened to be able to survive and do well," Smith said. Meanwhile, assistant professor in the Department of Biology Cory Williams said, “This likely only occurs when you have a population outbreak of voles and densities become extremely high. But I’m not surprised they are eating them when they are available, given how opportunistic these animals are.” (With inputs from agencies)

Squirrels hunt and eat voles, pull their flesh from torso, claim researchers

California, United States
Researchers from the United States, France and Germany have discovered that Earth’s natural satellite may have been formed as early as 4.53 billion years ago. This estimate derived from the new analysis is hundreds of millions of years earlier than previous ones.
This discovery may help in answering other questions about the Moon like why it has less metal compared to Earth and why it has fewer big impact basins than expected. The research can also provide better insights into the evolution and history of our own planet, according to the team led by geologist Francis Nimmo of the University of California Santa Cruz.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/skygazers-get-a-rare-cosmic-treat-as-cold-moon-shines-in-sky-after-19-years-784317">Skygazers get a rare cosmic treat as 'Cold Moon' shines after 19 years</a>
Earlier, it was believed that the Moon was formed after a large object, roughly the size of Mars, struck the Earth, while it was still in its formation stages about 4.35 billion years ago. However, the new research suggests it was formed much earlier and then experienced a dramatic “re-melting” at the time which was assumed for its creation.
According to the research, this re-melting event occurred due to the Earth’s and Moon’s gravitational pull tugging at each other, called a tidal force, which caused it to stretch and squish and warm the Moon drastically due to friction.
The study also explains the existence of zircon crystals, a mineral found on lunar rocks during the Apollo mission. The age of this mineral can be determined by observing the ratio of uranium to lead.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/saturns-rings-may-have-existed-since-the-solar-system-was-created-study-784694">Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study</a>
The zircon crystals have been dated significantly older than the age of the Moon. While one crystal has been measured to be 4.46 billion years old, another was calculated to have formed 4.51 billion years ago.
The melting process altered the lunar surface, causing the metals to sink below and hiding the Moon’s real age, according to the study that was published in the journal Nature. This would imply that our planet has been with its natural satellite for almost its entire lifespan as it is estimated to have formed 4.54 billion years ago.
(With inputs from agencies)

This discovery may help in answering other questions about the Moon like why it has less metal compared to Earth and why it has fewer big impact basins than expected



California, United States Researchers from the United States, France and Germany have discovered that Earth’s natural satellite may have been formed as early as 4.53 billion years ago. This estimate derived from the new analysis is hundreds of millions of years earlier than previous ones. This discovery may help in answering other questions about the Moon like why it has less metal compared to Earth and why it has fewer big impact basins than expected. The research can also provide better insights into the evolution and history of our own planet, according to the team led by geologist Francis Nimmo of the University of California Santa Cruz. Also read | Skygazers get a rare cosmic treat as 'Cold Moon' shines after 19 years Earlier, it was believed that the Moon was formed after a large object, roughly the size of Mars, struck the Earth, while it was still in its formation stages about 4.35 billion years ago. However, the new research suggests it was formed much earlier and then experienced a dramatic “re-melting” at the time which was assumed for its creation. According to the research, this re-melting event occurred due to the Earth’s and Moon’s gravitational pull tugging at each other, called a tidal force, which caused it to stretch and squish and warm the Moon drastically due to friction. The study also explains the existence of zircon crystals, a mineral found on lunar rocks during the Apollo mission. The age of this mineral can be determined by observing the ratio of uranium to lead. Also read | Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study The zircon crystals have been dated significantly older than the age of the Moon. While one crystal has been measured to be 4.46 billion years old, another was calculated to have formed 4.51 billion years ago. The melting process altered the lunar surface, causing the metals to sink below and hiding the Moon’s real age, according to the study that was published in the journal Nature. This would imply that our planet has been with its natural satellite for almost its entire lifespan as it is estimated to have formed 4.54 billion years ago. (With inputs from agencies)

The Moon may be much older than we thought, new study suggests

In a new study, researchers discovered that squirrels have repeatedly hunted and eaten voles. The study emphasised that the act of killing voles was violent, as the latter was decapitated and flesh was pulled out from their torso.&nbsp;

Voles are rodents and said to be related&nbsp;to&nbsp;lemmings and hamsters, but have a stouter body,&nbsp;a longer tail,&nbsp;and&nbsp;a slightly rounder head.

According to the team, the discovery of such a behavioural pattern of the squirrel was a shock, as the California ground squirrels were earlier seen eating insects, bird eggs, hatchlings, and at times even scavenging small mammals. It was earlier believed that the squirrels were herbivorous and ate seeds, acorns, fruits, and nuts.

“This is incredibly exciting, because this is the first time for this species that we’ve documented active hunting from start to finish,” said Dr Jennifer Smith, who is the first author of the research and an associate professor of biology at the University of Wisconsin.&nbsp;

“Once we saw it happening, it continued to happen again and again throughout the summer,” she said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2024-how-peanut-the-squirrel-became-latest-campaign-talking-point-773132">US elections 2024: How Peanut the squirrel became latest campaign talking point</a>

However, this is not the first time such a side of California ground squirrels has come to light.&nbsp;

According to Smith, the female squirrels were known to commit infanticide and kill and eat the younger ones of others.

The team observed that both male and female squirrels hunted the voles.&nbsp;

<h2>Why do squirrels hunt voles?</h2>

According to the team, the unexpected behaviour of squirrels was seen at a time when the number of California voles exploded unusually.&nbsp;

“It seems that these squirrels are just opportunistic,” Smith said. He added that California ground squirrels were known for their flexible nature.

“The superabundance of voles during this particular summer really opened up the novel dietary niche for them,” she added.

Hence, the researchers thought that perhaps California ground squirrels were opportunistic omnivores.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-calls-euthanasia-of-celebrity-squirrel-peanut-mindless-heartless-772918">Elon Musk calls euthanasia of celebrity squirrel Peanut 'mindless, heartless'</a>

Smith said that this kind of flexibility may have helped the creatures survive amid challenges like climate change and human presence.

“This is important, because they are a major prey source for California ecosystems, and they are a native species. And if they’re doing well, there’s a lot more opportunities for other species that are threatened to be able to survive and do well," Smith said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, assistant professor in the Department of Biology Cory Williams said, “This likely only occurs when you have a population outbreak of voles and densities become extremely high. But I’m not surprised they are eating them when they are available, given how opportunistic these animals are.”

(With inputs from agencies)

In a new study, researchers discovered that squirrels have repeatedly hunted and eaten voles. The study emphasised that the act of killing voles was violent, as the latter was decapitated and flesh was pulled out from their torso.

In a new study, researchers discovered that squirrels have repeatedly hunted and eaten voles. The study emphasised that the act of killing voles was violent, as the latter was decapitated and flesh was pulled out from their torso. Voles are rodents and said to be related to lemmings and hamsters, but have a stouter body, a longer tail, and a slightly rounder head. According to the team, the discovery of such a behavioural pattern of the squirrel was a shock, as the California ground squirrels were earlier seen eating insects, bird eggs, hatchlings, and at times even scavenging small mammals. It was earlier believed that the squirrels were herbivorous and ate seeds, acorns, fruits, and nuts. “This is incredibly exciting, because this is the first time for this species that we’ve documented active hunting from start to finish,” said Dr Jennifer Smith, who is the first author of the research and an associate professor of biology at the University of Wisconsin. “Once we saw it happening, it continued to happen again and again throughout the summer,” she said. Also Read: US elections 2024: How Peanut the squirrel became latest campaign talking point However, this is not the first time such a side of California ground squirrels has come to light. According to Smith, the female squirrels were known to commit infanticide and kill and eat the younger ones of others. The team observed that both male and female squirrels hunted the voles. Why do squirrels hunt voles? According to the team, the unexpected behaviour of squirrels was seen at a time when the number of California voles exploded unusually. “It seems that these squirrels are just opportunistic,” Smith said. He added that California ground squirrels were known for their flexible nature. “The superabundance of voles during this particular summer really opened up the novel dietary niche for them,” she added. Hence, the researchers thought that perhaps California ground squirrels were opportunistic omnivores. Also Read: Elon Musk calls euthanasia of celebrity squirrel Peanut 'mindless, heartless' Smith said that this kind of flexibility may have helped the creatures survive amid challenges like climate change and human presence. “This is important, because they are a major prey source for California ecosystems, and they are a native species. And if they’re doing well, there’s a lot more opportunities for other species that are threatened to be able to survive and do well," Smith said. Meanwhile, assistant professor in the Department of Biology Cory Williams said, “This likely only occurs when you have a population outbreak of voles and densities become extremely high. But I’m not surprised they are eating them when they are available, given how opportunistic these animals are.” (With inputs from agencies)

Researchers from the United States, France and Germany have discovered that Earth’s natural satellite may have been formed as early as 4.53 billion years ago. This estimate derived from the new analysis is hundreds of millions of years earlier than previous ones.

This discovery may help in answering other questions about the Moon like why it has less metal compared to Earth and why it has fewer big impact basins than expected. The research can also provide better insights into the evolution and history of our own planet, according to the team led by geologist Francis Nimmo of the University of California Santa Cruz.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/skygazers-get-a-rare-cosmic-treat-as-cold-moon-shines-in-sky-after-19-years-784317">Skygazers get a rare cosmic treat as 'Cold Moon' shines after 19 years</a>

Earlier, it was believed that the Moon was formed after a large object, roughly the size of Mars, struck the Earth, while it was still in its formation stages about 4.35 billion years ago. However, the new research suggests it was formed much earlier and then experienced a dramatic “re-melting” at the time which was assumed for its creation.

According to the research, this re-melting event occurred due to the Earth’s and Moon’s gravitational pull tugging at each other, called a tidal force, which caused it to stretch and squish and warm the Moon drastically due to friction.

The study also explains the existence of zircon crystals, a mineral found on lunar rocks during the Apollo mission. The age of this mineral can be determined by observing the ratio&nbsp;of uranium to lead.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/saturns-rings-may-have-existed-since-the-solar-system-was-created-study-784694">Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study</a>

The zircon crystals have been dated significantly older than the age of the Moon. While one crystal has been measured to be 4.46 billion years old, another was calculated to have formed 4.51 billion years ago.

The melting process altered the lunar surface, causing the metals to sink below and hiding the Moon’s real age, according to the study that was published in the journal Nature. This would imply that our planet has been with its natural satellite for almost its entire lifespan as it is estimated to have formed 4.54 billion years ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers from the United States, France and Germany have discovered that Earth’s natural satellite may have been formed as early as 4.53 billion years ago. This estimate derived from the new analysis is hundreds of millions of years earlier than previous ones.

Researchers from the United States, France and Germany have discovered that Earth’s natural satellite may have been formed as early as 4.53 billion years ago. This estimate derived from the new analysis is hundreds of millions of years earlier than previous ones. This discovery may help in answering other questions about the Moon like why it has less metal compared to Earth and why it has fewer big impact basins than expected. The research can also provide better insights into the evolution and history of our own planet, according to the team led by geologist Francis Nimmo of the University of California Santa Cruz. Also read | Skygazers get a rare cosmic treat as 'Cold Moon' shines after 19 years Earlier, it was believed that the Moon was formed after a large object, roughly the size of Mars, struck the Earth, while it was still in its formation stages about 4.35 billion years ago. However, the new research suggests it was formed much earlier and then experienced a dramatic “re-melting” at the time which was assumed for its creation. According to the research, this re-melting event occurred due to the Earth’s and Moon’s gravitational pull tugging at each other, called a tidal force, which caused it to stretch and squish and warm the Moon drastically due to friction. The study also explains the existence of zircon crystals, a mineral found on lunar rocks during the Apollo mission. The age of this mineral can be determined by observing the ratio of uranium to lead. Also read | Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study The zircon crystals have been dated significantly older than the age of the Moon. While one crystal has been measured to be 4.46 billion years old, another was calculated to have formed 4.51 billion years ago. The melting process altered the lunar surface, causing the metals to sink below and hiding the Moon’s real age, according to the study that was published in the journal Nature. This would imply that our planet has been with its natural satellite for almost its entire lifespan as it is estimated to have formed 4.54 billion years ago. (With inputs from agencies)

In a surprising incident, a New York state resident found a complete mastodon jaw while gardening in his backyard when he noticed two large teeth protruding from the ground. The discovery was in late September this year.

The mastodon jaw, along with some other bone parts were found in Scotchtown, a hamlet about 70 miles (112 kilometres) away from New York City, according to the New York State Museum.

There have been several discoveries of mastodon remains in the region Including a 13,000-year-old skeleton that was found in Hyde Park, New York in 2000. Mastodons, extinct elephant relatives, roamed the northeast region of the United States during the Pleistocene epoch.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-say-victims-of-the-somerset-massacre-were-cannibalised-in-bronze-age-784368">Scientists say victims of the Somerset massacre were 'cannibalised' in Bronze Age</a>

The owner of the house first thought that it was baseballs that he spotted, according to Robert Feranec, the state museum’s director of research and collections, according to news agency AP. “He picked them up and realized they were teeth.”

The researchers from the museum and the State University of New York’s Orange County campus visited the house and excavated a full, well-preserved jaw of an adult mastodon. A piece of a toe bone and a rib fragment were also found at the site, museum officials said.

“While the jaw is the star of the show, the additional toe and rib fragments offer valuable context and the potential for additional research,” said Cory Harris, chair of SUNY Orange’s behavioural sciences department. “We are also hoping to further explore the immediate area to see if there are any additional bones that were preserved.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/worlds-biggest-trillion-tonne-iceberg-breaks-free-drifts-in-southern-ocean-784114">World's biggest trillion-tonne iceberg breaks free, drifts in Southern Ocean</a>

While mammoths were known to eat grasses, mastodons were believed to consume twigs, leaves, and other parts of trees and shrubs using their large teeth to crush them.

According to the museum officials, this was the first complete mastodon jaw unearthed in New York over the last 11 years. Over 150 fossils of the extinct species have been found in the state, a third of them being discovered in Orange County, similar to the recent one.

The newly found jaw of the animal provides “a unique opportunity to study the ecology of this magnificent species, which will enhance our understanding of the Ice Age ecosystems from this region,” said Feranec.

Researchers are hoping to carbon-date and analyse the fossil to determine how old was the mastodon. They will also be working to discover the animal’s diet and habitat. The fossil remains are expected to be put on public display sometime next year, according to the museum.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a surprising incident, a New York state resident found a complete mastodon jaw while gardening in his backyard when he noticed two large teeth protruding from the ground.

In a surprising incident, a New York state resident found a complete mastodon jaw while gardening in his backyard when he noticed two large teeth protruding from the ground. The discovery was in late September this year. The mastodon jaw, along with some other bone parts were found in Scotchtown, a hamlet about 70 miles (112 kilometres) away from New York City, according to the New York State Museum. There have been several discoveries of mastodon remains in the region Including a 13,000-year-old skeleton that was found in Hyde Park, New York in 2000. Mastodons, extinct elephant relatives, roamed the northeast region of the United States during the Pleistocene epoch. Also read | Scientists say victims of the Somerset massacre were 'cannibalised' in Bronze Age The owner of the house first thought that it was baseballs that he spotted, according to Robert Feranec, the state museum’s director of research and collections, according to news agency AP. “He picked them up and realized they were teeth.” The researchers from the museum and the State University of New York’s Orange County campus visited the house and excavated a full, well-preserved jaw of an adult mastodon. A piece of a toe bone and a rib fragment were also found at the site, museum officials said. “While the jaw is the star of the show, the additional toe and rib fragments offer valuable context and the potential for additional research,” said Cory Harris, chair of SUNY Orange’s behavioural sciences department. “We are also hoping to further explore the immediate area to see if there are any additional bones that were preserved.” Also read | World's biggest trillion-tonne iceberg breaks free, drifts in Southern Ocean While mammoths were known to eat grasses, mastodons were believed to consume twigs, leaves, and other parts of trees and shrubs using their large teeth to crush them. According to the museum officials, this was the first complete mastodon jaw unearthed in New York over the last 11 years. Over 150 fossils of the extinct species have been found in the state, a third of them being discovered in Orange County, similar to the recent one. The newly found jaw of the animal provides “a unique opportunity to study the ecology of this magnificent species, which will enhance our understanding of the Ice Age ecosystems from this region,” said Feranec. Researchers are hoping to carbon-date and analyse the fossil to determine how old was the mastodon. They will also be working to discover the animal’s diet and habitat. The fossil remains are expected to be put on public display sometime next year, according to the museum. (With inputs from agencies)

New York man discovers complete mastodon jaw in his backyard

Moscow, Russia
Russia announced that it is planning to complete the development of an mRNA cancer vaccine and launch it in 2025. 
"Russia has developed its own mRNA vaccine against cancer, it will be distributed to patients free of charge, General Director of the Radiology Medical Research Center of the Russian Ministry of Health, Andrey Kaprin, has told Radio Rossiya," reported Russian news agency TASS.
In the pre-clinical trials, tumour suppression and metastasis reduction were demonstrated by the vaccine. The integration of artificial intelligence further paved the way for personalising vaccine creation in an hour and accelerating the current process, which is lengthy. 
The vaccine is aimed at bolstering the ability of the immune system and eliminating cancer cells.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-lab-leak-likely-behind-covid-pandemic-finds-us-investigation-780981">Wuhan lab leak likely behind Covid pandemic, finds US investigation</a>
Speaking to TASS, Director of the Gamaleya National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology, Alexander Gintsburg, confirmed that the vaccine will be brought into general circulation in early 2025. 
"The vaccine’s pre-clinical trials had shown that it suppresses tumour development and potential metastases," Gintsburg said to TASS.
The experts had developed the vaccine in collaboration with various research centres. 
<h2>How do vaccines combat cancer cells?</h2>
Vaccines stimulate the immune system in a way that it can recognise and attack cancer cells.
Watch: Trump Takes on Huge, Rich Vaccine Industrial Complex, Elects Anti-vaxxer Dr Oz 
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/11/20/2011_WION_TRUMP_9PM-1732124728-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2011_WION_TRUMP_9PM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=343&tags=US,Donald Trump,dr mehmet oz,gravitas" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
Specific proteins or antigens in tumour cells are targeted by therapeutic cancer vaccines as they train the immune system to identify and destroy them.
Few vaccines use modified or weakened viruses for delivering the antigens, which leads to a strong immune response. 
However, preventive vaccines like the HPV vaccine are able to protect against viruses related to cancer, which decreases the risk of some kinds of cancers, like cervical cancer.
The vaccines enhance the natural defences of the body and slow down the growth of tumours, which prevents recurrence and also eliminates early-stage cancers. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Russia has said that it plans to launch the mRNA cancer vaccine in 2025. The vaccine is aimed at bolstering the ability of the immune system and eliminating cancer cells

 



Moscow, Russia Russia announced that it is planning to complete the development of an mRNA cancer vaccine and launch it in 2025. "Russia has developed its own mRNA vaccine against cancer, it will be distributed to patients free of charge, General Director of the Radiology Medical Research Center of the Russian Ministry of Health, Andrey Kaprin, has told Radio Rossiya," reported Russian news agency TASS. In the pre-clinical trials, tumour suppression and metastasis reduction were demonstrated by the vaccine. The integration of artificial intelligence further paved the way for personalising vaccine creation in an hour and accelerating the current process, which is lengthy. The vaccine is aimed at bolstering the ability of the immune system and eliminating cancer cells. Also Read: Wuhan lab leak likely behind Covid pandemic, finds US investigation Speaking to TASS, Director of the Gamaleya National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology, Alexander Gintsburg, confirmed that the vaccine will be brought into general circulation in early 2025. "The vaccine’s pre-clinical trials had shown that it suppresses tumour development and potential metastases," Gintsburg said to TASS. The experts had developed the vaccine in collaboration with various research centres. How do vaccines combat cancer cells? Vaccines stimulate the immune system in a way that it can recognise and attack cancer cells. Watch: Trump Takes on Huge, Rich Vaccine Industrial Complex, Elects Anti-vaxxer Dr Oz Specific proteins or antigens in tumour cells are targeted by therapeutic cancer vaccines as they train the immune system to identify and destroy them. Few vaccines use modified or weakened viruses for delivering the antigens, which leads to a strong immune response. However, preventive vaccines like the HPV vaccine are able to protect against viruses related to cancer, which decreases the risk of some kinds of cancers, like cervical cancer. The vaccines enhance the natural defences of the body and slow down the growth of tumours, which prevents recurrence and also eliminates early-stage cancers. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia develops its own cancer vaccine, plans to distribute it for free

Ladakh, India
Indian space agency ISRO is creating "Habitat-1 or Hab-1" which is its first-ever "analogue mission" in which space conditions are simulated to prepare astronauts before they go for real space missions. 
Scientists recently tested it for three weeks in the Himalayan mountain ranges of India's Union Territory of Ladakh.
Speaking to the BBC, Gujarat-based firm Aaka's space architect Aastha Kacha-Jhala said that the simulations help in identifying and addressing the issues that equipment and astronauts may face before space missions. 
<h2>All about Habitat-1</h2>
Habitat-1 has been built using space-grade Teflon and is insulated with industrial-use foam.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-postpones-pslv-xl-proba-3-mission-launch-to-thursday-due-to-anomaly-781487">ISRO postpones PSLV-XL Proba-3 mission launch to Thursday due to anomaly</a>
It has a bed as well as a stowaway tray which one can pull out and use like a workstation. There is storage space for keeping emergency kits, supplies, a toilet as well as a kitchenette for heating meals. 
The astronauts remained holed up in the simulation for three weeks. 
"Hab-1 is designed keeping in mind that space is going to be very limited on the Moon or Mars. The astronaut will also have very limited water so we designed a dry toilet. We also put in place a system for a proper disposal of waste and ensured that the habitat remained odour-free," said Kacha-Jhala. 
Kacha-Jhala is now holding talks with ISRO for constructing the country's first permanent simulation space facility in Ladakh. This is happening at a time when India is making preparations for sending its first astronauts into space.
ISRO's Gaganyaan mission has decided to place its three astronauts for three days into low-Earth orbit. The orbit is at an altitude of 400 km (248 miles). 
If everything happens as per the plan, ISRO will launch the mission next year. India is planning to set up the country's first space station by 2035 and send its first astronaut to the Moon by 2040.
Watch: Isro Rocket Successfully Places Europe's Proba-3 Into Orbit 
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/05/0512_Manav_ISRO_4PM-1733400311-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0512_Manav_ISRO_4PM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=261&tags=isro,UK,PSLV,space,WION" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
Dozens of simulation missions are carried out by space programmes of NASA, European Space Agency, Russia, China, and other countries. Meanwhile, two Indian astronauts were selected for the Gaganyaan mission and are receiving their training at NASA currently.
"Once we have our own simulation mission, we won't have to depend on foreign space agencies to train our astronauts," said Prof. Subrat Sharma, Dean of Research Studies at Ladakh University. The university has collaborated with ISRO on the project.
Speaking to BBC, Prof. Sharma said that the experiment is being carried out in Ladakh because "from a geographical perspective, its rocky, barren landscape and soil have similarities with the material and rocks found on Mars and some parts of the lunar terrain, which make it ideal for space research".
(With inputs from agencies)

Indian space agency ISRO plans to send its first astronaut to the moon soon amid experiments in Habitat-1

 



Ladakh, India Indian space agency ISRO is creating "Habitat-1 or Hab-1" which is its first-ever "analogue mission" in which space conditions are simulated to prepare astronauts before they go for real space missions. Scientists recently tested it for three weeks in the Himalayan mountain ranges of India's Union Territory of Ladakh. Speaking to the BBC, Gujarat-based firm Aaka's space architect Aastha Kacha-Jhala said that the simulations help in identifying and addressing the issues that equipment and astronauts may face before space missions. All about Habitat-1 Habitat-1 has been built using space-grade Teflon and is insulated with industrial-use foam. Also Read: ISRO postpones PSLV-XL Proba-3 mission launch to Thursday due to anomaly It has a bed as well as a stowaway tray which one can pull out and use like a workstation. There is storage space for keeping emergency kits, supplies, a toilet as well as a kitchenette for heating meals. The astronauts remained holed up in the simulation for three weeks. "Hab-1 is designed keeping in mind that space is going to be very limited on the Moon or Mars. The astronaut will also have very limited water so we designed a dry toilet. We also put in place a system for a proper disposal of waste and ensured that the habitat remained odour-free," said Kacha-Jhala. Kacha-Jhala is now holding talks with ISRO for constructing the country's first permanent simulation space facility in Ladakh. This is happening at a time when India is making preparations for sending its first astronauts into space. ISRO's Gaganyaan mission has decided to place its three astronauts for three days into low-Earth orbit. The orbit is at an altitude of 400 km (248 miles). If everything happens as per the plan, ISRO will launch the mission next year. India is planning to set up the country's first space station by 2035 and send its first astronaut to the Moon by 2040. Watch: Isro Rocket Successfully Places Europe's Proba-3 Into Orbit Dozens of simulation missions are carried out by space programmes of NASA, European Space Agency, Russia, China, and other countries. Meanwhile, two Indian astronauts were selected for the Gaganyaan mission and are receiving their training at NASA currently. "Once we have our own simulation mission, we won't have to depend on foreign space agencies to train our astronauts," said Prof. Subrat Sharma, Dean of Research Studies at Ladakh University. The university has collaborated with ISRO on the project. Speaking to BBC, Prof. Sharma said that the experiment is being carried out in Ladakh because "from a geographical perspective, its rocky, barren landscape and soil have similarities with the material and rocks found on Mars and some parts of the lunar terrain, which make it ideal for space research". (With inputs from agencies)

ISRO simulates space conditions for astronauts in 'Habitat-1'. Here's what it is

Sydney, Australia
When you make a wish upon a star, it’s easy to imagine that the light you’re seeing may be ancient, perhaps from a star that has already burned out. 
However, as per Science Alert, this idea is more myth than reality. Laura Nicole Driessen, a postdoctoral researcher in radio astronomy at the University of Sydney, explains that the stars we see in the night sky are likely still alive and shining brightly.
<h2>Stars are closer than you think</h2>
A common misconception is that the stars we wish upon are "millions of light years away." As Driessen explains, most of the stars we can see are actually much closer.
All visible stars are within our galaxy, the Milky Way, which is about 100,000 light-years across. The furthest stars visible to the naked eye are only about 74,000 light years away, as per Science Alert reports—far less than the "millions of light years" often cited.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/jupiters-most-volcanic-moon-io-doesnt-have-an-ocean-of-magma-beneath-it-study-784691">Jupiter's most volcanic moon Io doesn't have an ocean of magma beneath it: Study</a>
<h2>Stars live longer than you expect</h2>
Driessen points out that many visible stars, including those in the Yale Bright Star Catalogue, can live for billions of years. While some massive stars have shorter lifespans, lasting only a few hundred thousand years, many stars visible to us are "main sequence" stars, which live for billions of years. Even giant stars can last long enough for your wish to travel to them, says Driessen, making the likelihood of wishing on a dead star quite low.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/saturns-rings-may-have-existed-since-the-solar-system-was-created-study-784694">Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study</a>
If you’re still concerned about wishing upon a star that might no longer exist, Driessen suggests Alpha Centauri as a safe bet. Located just four light years away, Alpha Centauri is the closest star system to Earth. With three stars in the system, there’s no shortage of options for your wish to reach a star that’s still shining, and it will remain stable for a long time, as Science Alert notes.
So next time you make a wish, rest assured that the star you're wishing on is likely still very much alive.
(With inputs from agencies)

A common misconception is that the stars we wish upon are "millions of light years away." As Driessen explains, most of the stars we can see are actually much closer.



Sydney, Australia When you make a wish upon a star, it’s easy to imagine that the light you’re seeing may be ancient, perhaps from a star that has already burned out. However, as per Science Alert, this idea is more myth than reality. Laura Nicole Driessen, a postdoctoral researcher in radio astronomy at the University of Sydney, explains that the stars we see in the night sky are likely still alive and shining brightly. Stars are closer than you think A common misconception is that the stars we wish upon are "millions of light years away." As Driessen explains, most of the stars we can see are actually much closer. All visible stars are within our galaxy, the Milky Way, which is about 100,000 light-years across. The furthest stars visible to the naked eye are only about 74,000 light years away, as per Science Alert reports—far less than the "millions of light years" often cited. Also read | Jupiter's most volcanic moon Io doesn't have an ocean of magma beneath it: Study Stars live longer than you expect Driessen points out that many visible stars, including those in the Yale Bright Star Catalogue, can live for billions of years. While some massive stars have shorter lifespans, lasting only a few hundred thousand years, many stars visible to us are "main sequence" stars, which live for billions of years. Even giant stars can last long enough for your wish to travel to them, says Driessen, making the likelihood of wishing on a dead star quite low. Also read | Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study If you’re still concerned about wishing upon a star that might no longer exist, Driessen suggests Alpha Centauri as a safe bet. Located just four light years away, Alpha Centauri is the closest star system to Earth. With three stars in the system, there’s no shortage of options for your wish to reach a star that’s still shining, and it will remain stable for a long time, as Science Alert notes. So next time you make a wish, rest assured that the star you're wishing on is likely still very much alive. (With inputs from agencies)

Experts reveal the truth about wishing on a star

Russia announced that it is planning to complete the development of an mRNA cancer vaccine and launch it in 2025.&nbsp;

"Russia has developed its own mRNA vaccine against cancer, it will be distributed to patients free of charge, General Director of the Radiology Medical Research Center of the Russian Ministry of Health, Andrey Kaprin, has told Radio Rossiya," reported Russian news agency TASS.

In the pre-clinical trials, tumour suppression and metastasis reduction were demonstrated by the vaccine. The integration of artificial intelligence further paved the way for personalising vaccine creation in an hour and accelerating the current process, which is lengthy.&nbsp;

The vaccine is aimed at bolstering the ability of the immune system and eliminating cancer cells.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-lab-leak-likely-behind-covid-pandemic-finds-us-investigation-780981">Wuhan lab leak likely behind Covid pandemic, finds US investigation</a>

Speaking to TASS, Director of the Gamaleya National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology, Alexander Gintsburg, confirmed that the vaccine will be brought into general circulation in early 2025.&nbsp;

"The vaccine’s pre-clinical trials had shown that it suppresses tumour development and potential metastases," Gintsburg said to TASS.

The experts had developed the vaccine in collaboration with various research centres.&nbsp;

<h2>How do vaccines combat cancer cells?</h2>

Vaccines stimulate the immune system in a way that it can recognise and attack cancer cells.

Watch:&nbsp;Trump Takes on Huge, Rich Vaccine Industrial Complex, Elects Anti-vaxxer Dr Oz&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-takes-on-huge-rich-vaccine-industrial-complex-elects-anti-vaxxer-dr-oz-gravitas-777819/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Specific proteins or antigens in tumour cells are targeted by therapeutic cancer vaccines as they train the immune system to identify and destroy them.

Few vaccines use modified or weakened viruses for delivering the antigens, which leads to a strong immune response.&nbsp;

However, preventive vaccines like the HPV vaccine are able to protect against viruses related to cancer, which decreases the risk of some kinds of cancers, like cervical cancer.

The vaccines enhance the natural defences of the body and slow down the growth of tumours, which prevents recurrence and also eliminates early-stage cancers.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia announced that it is planning to complete the development of an mRNA cancer vaccine and launch it in 2025. "Russia has developed its own mRNA vaccine against cancer, it will be distributed to patients free of charge, General Director of the Radiology Medical Research Center of the Russian Ministry of Health, Andrey Kaprin, has told Radio Rossiya," reported Russian news agency TASS.

Russia announced that it is planning to complete the development of an mRNA cancer vaccine and launch it in 2025. "Russia has developed its own mRNA vaccine against cancer, it will be distributed to patients free of charge, General Director of the Radiology Medical Research Center of the Russian Ministry of Health, Andrey Kaprin, has told Radio Rossiya," reported Russian news agency TASS. In the pre-clinical trials, tumour suppression and metastasis reduction were demonstrated by the vaccine. The integration of artificial intelligence further paved the way for personalising vaccine creation in an hour and accelerating the current process, which is lengthy. The vaccine is aimed at bolstering the ability of the immune system and eliminating cancer cells. Also Read: Wuhan lab leak likely behind Covid pandemic, finds US investigation Speaking to TASS, Director of the Gamaleya National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology, Alexander Gintsburg, confirmed that the vaccine will be brought into general circulation in early 2025. "The vaccine’s pre-clinical trials had shown that it suppresses tumour development and potential metastases," Gintsburg said to TASS. The experts had developed the vaccine in collaboration with various research centres. How do vaccines combat cancer cells? Vaccines stimulate the immune system in a way that it can recognise and attack cancer cells. Watch: Trump Takes on Huge, Rich Vaccine Industrial Complex, Elects Anti-vaxxer Dr Oz Specific proteins or antigens in tumour cells are targeted by therapeutic cancer vaccines as they train the immune system to identify and destroy them. Few vaccines use modified or weakened viruses for delivering the antigens, which leads to a strong immune response. However, preventive vaccines like the HPV vaccine are able to protect against viruses related to cancer, which decreases the risk of some kinds of cancers, like cervical cancer. The vaccines enhance the natural defences of the body and slow down the growth of tumours, which prevents recurrence and also eliminates early-stage cancers. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian space agency ISRO is creating "Habitat-1 or Hab-1" which is its first-ever "analogue mission" in which space conditions are simulated to prepare astronauts before they go for real space missions.&nbsp;

Scientists recently tested it for three weeks in the Himalayan mountain ranges of India's Union Territory of Ladakh.

Speaking to the BBC, Gujarat-based firm Aaka's space architect Aastha Kacha-Jhala said that the simulations help in identifying and addressing the issues that equipment and astronauts may face before space missions.&nbsp;

<h2>All about Habitat-1</h2>

Habitat-1 has been built using space-grade Teflon and is insulated with industrial-use foam.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-postpones-pslv-xl-proba-3-mission-launch-to-thursday-due-to-anomaly-781487">ISRO postpones PSLV-XL Proba-3 mission launch to Thursday due to anomaly</a>

It has a bed as well as a stowaway tray which one can pull out and use like a workstation. There is storage space for keeping emergency kits, supplies, a toilet as well as a kitchenette for heating meals.&nbsp;

The astronauts remained holed up in the simulation for three weeks.&nbsp;

"Hab-1 is designed keeping in mind that space is going to be very limited on the Moon or Mars. The astronaut will also have very limited water so we designed a dry toilet. We also put in place a system for a proper disposal of waste and ensured that the habitat remained odour-free," said Kacha-Jhala.&nbsp;

Kacha-Jhala is now holding talks with ISRO for constructing the country's first permanent simulation space facility in Ladakh. This is happening at a time when India is making preparations for sending its first astronauts into space.

ISRO's Gaganyaan mission has decided to place its three astronauts for three days into low-Earth orbit. The orbit is at an altitude of 400 km (248 miles).&nbsp;

If everything happens as per the plan, ISRO will launch the mission next year. India is planning to set up the country's first space station by 2035 and send its first astronaut to the Moon by 2040.

Watch:&nbsp;Isro Rocket Successfully Places Europe's Proba-3 Into Orbit&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/isro-rocket-successfully-places-europes-proba-3-into-orbit-world-news-wion-781753/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Dozens of simulation missions are carried out by space programmes of NASA, European Space Agency, Russia, China, and other countries. Meanwhile, two Indian astronauts were selected for the Gaganyaan mission and are receiving their training at NASA currently.

"Once we have our own simulation mission, we won't have to depend on foreign space agencies to train our astronauts," said Prof. Subrat Sharma, Dean of Research Studies at Ladakh University. The university has collaborated with ISRO on the project.

Speaking to BBC, Prof. Sharma said that the experiment is being carried out in Ladakh because "from a geographical perspective, its rocky, barren landscape and soil have similarities with the material and rocks found on Mars and some parts of the lunar terrain, which make it ideal for space research".

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian space agency ISRO is creating "Habitat-1 or Hab-1" which is its first-ever "analogue mission" in which space conditions are simulated to prepare astronauts before they go for real space missions.

Indian space agency ISRO is creating "Habitat-1 or Hab-1" which is its first-ever "analogue mission" in which space conditions are simulated to prepare astronauts before they go for real space missions. Scientists recently tested it for three weeks in the Himalayan mountain ranges of India's Union Territory of Ladakh. Speaking to the BBC, Gujarat-based firm Aaka's space architect Aastha Kacha-Jhala said that the simulations help in identifying and addressing the issues that equipment and astronauts may face before space missions. All about Habitat-1 Habitat-1 has been built using space-grade Teflon and is insulated with industrial-use foam. Also Read: ISRO postpones PSLV-XL Proba-3 mission launch to Thursday due to anomaly It has a bed as well as a stowaway tray which one can pull out and use like a workstation. There is storage space for keeping emergency kits, supplies, a toilet as well as a kitchenette for heating meals. The astronauts remained holed up in the simulation for three weeks. "Hab-1 is designed keeping in mind that space is going to be very limited on the Moon or Mars. The astronaut will also have very limited water so we designed a dry toilet. We also put in place a system for a proper disposal of waste and ensured that the habitat remained odour-free," said Kacha-Jhala. Kacha-Jhala is now holding talks with ISRO for constructing the country's first permanent simulation space facility in Ladakh. This is happening at a time when India is making preparations for sending its first astronauts into space. ISRO's Gaganyaan mission has decided to place its three astronauts for three days into low-Earth orbit. The orbit is at an altitude of 400 km (248 miles). If everything happens as per the plan, ISRO will launch the mission next year. India is planning to set up the country's first space station by 2035 and send its first astronaut to the Moon by 2040. Watch: Isro Rocket Successfully Places Europe's Proba-3 Into Orbit Dozens of simulation missions are carried out by space programmes of NASA, European Space Agency, Russia, China, and other countries. Meanwhile, two Indian astronauts were selected for the Gaganyaan mission and are receiving their training at NASA currently. "Once we have our own simulation mission, we won't have to depend on foreign space agencies to train our astronauts," said Prof. Subrat Sharma, Dean of Research Studies at Ladakh University. The university has collaborated with ISRO on the project. Speaking to BBC, Prof. Sharma said that the experiment is being carried out in Ladakh because "from a geographical perspective, its rocky, barren landscape and soil have similarities with the material and rocks found on Mars and some parts of the lunar terrain, which make it ideal for space research". (With inputs from agencies)

When you make a wish upon a star, it’s easy to imagine that the light you’re seeing may be ancient, perhaps from a star that has already burned out.&nbsp;

However, as per&nbsp;Science Alert, this idea is more myth than reality. Laura Nicole Driessen, a postdoctoral researcher in radio astronomy at the University of Sydney, explains that the stars we see in the night sky are likely still alive and shining brightly.

<h2>Stars are closer than you think</h2>

A common misconception is that the stars we wish upon are "millions of light years away." As Driessen explains, most of the stars we can see are actually much closer.

All visible stars are within our galaxy, the Milky Way, which is about 100,000 light-years across. The furthest stars visible to the naked eye are only about 74,000 light years away, as per Science Alert reports—far less than the "millions of light years" often cited.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/jupiters-most-volcanic-moon-io-doesnt-have-an-ocean-of-magma-beneath-it-study-784691">Jupiter's most&nbsp;volcanic moon Io doesn't have an ocean of magma beneath it: Study</a>

<h2>Stars live longer than you expect</h2>

Driessen points out that many visible stars, including those in the Yale Bright Star Catalogue, can live for billions of years. While some massive stars have shorter lifespans, lasting only a few hundred thousand years, many stars visible to us are "main sequence" stars, which live for billions of years. Even giant stars can last long enough for your wish to travel to them, says Driessen, making the likelihood of wishing on a dead star quite low.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/saturns-rings-may-have-existed-since-the-solar-system-was-created-study-784694">Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study</a>

If you’re still concerned about wishing upon a star that might no longer exist, Driessen suggests Alpha Centauri as a safe bet. Located just four light years away, Alpha Centauri is the closest star system to Earth. With three stars in the system, there’s no shortage of options for your wish to reach a star that’s still shining, and it will remain stable for a long time, as Science Alert notes.

So next time you make a wish, rest assured that the star you're wishing on is likely still very much alive.

(With inputs from agencies)

When you make a wish upon a star, it’s easy to imagine that the light you’re seeing may be ancient, perhaps from a star that has already burned out. However, as per Science Alert, this idea is more myth than reality.

When you make a wish upon a star, it’s easy to imagine that the light you’re seeing may be ancient, perhaps from a star that has already burned out. However, as per Science Alert, this idea is more myth than reality. Laura Nicole Driessen, a postdoctoral researcher in radio astronomy at the University of Sydney, explains that the stars we see in the night sky are likely still alive and shining brightly. Stars are closer than you think A common misconception is that the stars we wish upon are "millions of light years away." As Driessen explains, most of the stars we can see are actually much closer. All visible stars are within our galaxy, the Milky Way, which is about 100,000 light-years across. The furthest stars visible to the naked eye are only about 74,000 light years away, as per Science Alert reports—far less than the "millions of light years" often cited. Also read | Jupiter's most volcanic moon Io doesn't have an ocean of magma beneath it: Study Stars live longer than you expect Driessen points out that many visible stars, including those in the Yale Bright Star Catalogue, can live for billions of years. While some massive stars have shorter lifespans, lasting only a few hundred thousand years, many stars visible to us are "main sequence" stars, which live for billions of years. Even giant stars can last long enough for your wish to travel to them, says Driessen, making the likelihood of wishing on a dead star quite low. Also read | Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study If you’re still concerned about wishing upon a star that might no longer exist, Driessen suggests Alpha Centauri as a safe bet. Located just four light years away, Alpha Centauri is the closest star system to Earth. With three stars in the system, there’s no shortage of options for your wish to reach a star that’s still shining, and it will remain stable for a long time, as Science Alert notes. So next time you make a wish, rest assured that the star you're wishing on is likely still very much alive. (With inputs from agencies)

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