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Washington, United States
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams and fellow crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS) are getting into the Christmas spirit. A photograph shared by NASA on X showed Williams alongside astronaut Don Pettit wearing Santa hats.
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Another day, another sleigh ⛄️❄️<a href="https://twitter.com/NASA_Astronauts?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASA_Astronauts</a> Don Pettit and Suni Williams pose for a fun holiday season portrait while speaking on a ham radio inside the <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a>'s Columbus laboratory module. <a href="https://t.co/C1PtjkUk7P">pic.twitter.com/C1PtjkUk7P</a>
— NASA's Johnson Space Center (@NASA_Johnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA_Johnson/status/1868761679737373006?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The astronauts aboard the ISS are preparing to celebrate the holiday, despite being away from home, after a SpaceX Dragon capsule delivered essential supplies to them along with holiday gifts for the crew members.
“Another day, another sleigh. NASA Astronauts Don Pettit and Suni Williams pose for a fun holiday season portrait while speaking on a ham radio inside the ISS's Columbus laboratory module,” the caption with the image on X read.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sunita-williams-demonstrates-students-how-astronauts-drink-liquid-in-space-in-a-virtual-event-782486">Sunita Williams demonstrates students how astronauts drink liquid in space</a>
According to reports, the crew on the space station is planning to observe Christmas by recreating the holiday customs in space. Their celebration will include special festive meals prepared with ingredients sent from Earth and connecting with their family and friends via video calls.
Earlier this month, the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft departed from the space station after a successful cargo delivery for the crew, which consisted of about 2,720 kg of supplies, equipment, and scientific experiments. The capsule was launched aboard a Falcon 9 rocket on November 4 from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre and arrived at the ISS a day later.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-astronaut-sunita-williams-is-growing-lettuce-on-iss-heres-why-781706">NASA astronaut Sunita Williams is growing lettuce on ISS. Here’s why</a>
<h2>Rumours about Williams’ declining health</h2>
In November, Williams celebrated Thanksgiving in space amid rumours surrounding her health during the unplanned extended stay. 
“We have a bunch of food that we’ve packed away that is Thanksgiving-ish like some smoked turkey, some cranberry, apple cobbler, green beans and mushrooms and mashed potatoes,” the astronaut told NBC News during an interview, dismissing the rumours.
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who were supposed to spend eight days on ISS, have been stuck in space since June after their aircraft faced some technical issues. The duo are expected to return to Earth in February next year.
(With inputs from agencies)

According to reports, the crew on the space station is planning to observe Christmas by recreating the holiday customs in space. Their celebration will include special festive meals prepared with ingredients sent from Earth and connecting with their family and friends via video calls



Washington, United States NASA astronaut Sunita Williams and fellow crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS) are getting into the Christmas spirit. A photograph shared by NASA on X showed Williams alongside astronaut Don Pettit wearing Santa hats. Another day, another sleigh ⛄️❄️@NASA_Astronauts Don Pettit and Suni Williams pose for a fun holiday season portrait while speaking on a ham radio inside the @Space_Station's Columbus laboratory module. pic.twitter.com/C1PtjkUk7P — NASA's Johnson Space Center (@NASA_Johnson) December 16, 2024 × The astronauts aboard the ISS are preparing to celebrate the holiday, despite being away from home, after a SpaceX Dragon capsule delivered essential supplies to them along with holiday gifts for the crew members. “Another day, another sleigh. NASA Astronauts Don Pettit and Suni Williams pose for a fun holiday season portrait while speaking on a ham radio inside the ISS's Columbus laboratory module,” the caption with the image on X read. Also read | Sunita Williams demonstrates students how astronauts drink liquid in space According to reports, the crew on the space station is planning to observe Christmas by recreating the holiday customs in space. Their celebration will include special festive meals prepared with ingredients sent from Earth and connecting with their family and friends via video calls. Earlier this month, the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft departed from the space station after a successful cargo delivery for the crew, which consisted of about 2,720 kg of supplies, equipment, and scientific experiments. The capsule was launched aboard a Falcon 9 rocket on November 4 from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre and arrived at the ISS a day later. Also read | NASA astronaut Sunita Williams is growing lettuce on ISS. Here’s why Rumours about Williams’ declining health In November, Williams celebrated Thanksgiving in space amid rumours surrounding her health during the unplanned extended stay. “We have a bunch of food that we’ve packed away that is Thanksgiving-ish like some smoked turkey, some cranberry, apple cobbler, green beans and mushrooms and mashed potatoes,” the astronaut told NBC News during an interview, dismissing the rumours. Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who were supposed to spend eight days on ISS, have been stuck in space since June after their aircraft faced some technical issues. The duo are expected to return to Earth in February next year. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Another day, another sleigh’: Sunita Williams and fellow ISS crew prepare to celebrate Christmas in space

New Delhi, India
Scientists believed that Saturn did not always have rings and they had been created more than 100 to 400 million years ago. 
Now in a new study, researchers from the French National Centre for Scientific Research and the Institute of Science Tokyo have found that the rings of Saturn may not have been ancient but as old as the Solar System.
"Data from the Cassini spacecraft suggested the rings might be young because they appear so clean, and many people simply accepted that conclusion. However, our theoretical work now shows that a clean appearance does not necessarily mean the rings are young," said planetary scientist Ryuki Hyodo of the Institute of Science Tokyo, while speaking to ScienceAlert.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-warns-asteroids-2024-xy5-and-2024-xb6-race-toward-earth-but-are-they-really-a-threat-784185">NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat?</a>
"So, I think this is an important insight for guiding future planetary exploration missions; you better not be fooled by its first glance," he added. 
<h2>Saturn and its rings</h2>
In the Solar System, other giant planets also have rings, but they are not as majestic as that of Saturn.
The ethereal rings are present around Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune, however, they are not visible till seen from the right wavelengths.
However, in the case of Saturn, its extensive rings define the planet. There is a high possibility that the rings could be a common phenomenon outside the Solar System because there are a large number of gas giant exoplanets present in the universe. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/jeff-bezos-will-spend-100000000000-on-a-new-space-station-that-will-also-host-tourists-781639">Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists</a>
If the rings of Saturn are relatively short-lived, they will last only a few hundred million years before they collapse. 
However, if the rings of Saturn exist for a longer duration, they will not have any implications on the Solar System. 
Scientists had assumed that the age of Saturn's rings is less on the basis of the absence of dust because of high-speed meteoroids' constant bombardment which slammed the ice and converted them to rings. 
(With inputs from agencies)

The age of Saturn's rings was assumed on the basis of the absence of dust which happened because of constant bombardment of high-speed meteoroids which slammed the ice and converted them to rings



New Delhi, India Scientists believed that Saturn did not always have rings and they had been created more than 100 to 400 million years ago. Now in a new study, researchers from the French National Centre for Scientific Research and the Institute of Science Tokyo have found that the rings of Saturn may not have been ancient but as old as the Solar System. "Data from the Cassini spacecraft suggested the rings might be young because they appear so clean, and many people simply accepted that conclusion. However, our theoretical work now shows that a clean appearance does not necessarily mean the rings are young," said planetary scientist Ryuki Hyodo of the Institute of Science Tokyo, while speaking to ScienceAlert. Also Read: NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat? "So, I think this is an important insight for guiding future planetary exploration missions; you better not be fooled by its first glance," he added. Saturn and its rings In the Solar System, other giant planets also have rings, but they are not as majestic as that of Saturn. The ethereal rings are present around Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune, however, they are not visible till seen from the right wavelengths. However, in the case of Saturn, its extensive rings define the planet. There is a high possibility that the rings could be a common phenomenon outside the Solar System because there are a large number of gas giant exoplanets present in the universe. Also Read: Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists If the rings of Saturn are relatively short-lived, they will last only a few hundred million years before they collapse. However, if the rings of Saturn exist for a longer duration, they will not have any implications on the Solar System. Scientists had assumed that the age of Saturn's rings is less on the basis of the absence of dust because of high-speed meteoroids' constant bombardment which slammed the ice and converted them to rings. (With inputs from agencies)

Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study

New Delhi, India
In the entire Solar System, the most volcanic celestial body is Jupiter's moon Io. Extensive lava flows on this moon and is spread across its surface. There are nearly 400 volcanoes on it. 
However, in a new study, scientists have found that this geographical situation on the moon is not because of a global and moonwide ocean of magma that flows beneath the surface. 
An international team of researchers used images snapped by NASA's Juno spacecraft and also looked into the moon's historical data and gravitational measurements about tidal deformations of Io to determine that the volcanoes of the moon are powered by scattered magma chambers that are present in the solid mantle. 
The new findings have countered the earlier theories, which had said that the volcanoes of Io are powered by the mostly solid mantle of the moon. 
According to scientists, magma oceans are present in different worlds, especially during their earlier formation. This also includes our own Moon.
"Since Morabito's discovery, planetary scientists have wondered how the volcanoes were fed from the lava underneath the surface," said space physicist Scott Bolton, who is from the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-warns-asteroids-2024-xy5-and-2024-xb6-race-toward-earth-but-are-they-really-a-threat-784185">NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat?</a>
"Was there a shallow ocean of white-hot magma fuelling the volcanoes, or was their source more localised? We knew data from Juno's two very close flybys could give us some insights on how this tortured moon actually worked," he added. 
<h2>All about volcanic eruptions on Io</h2>
Jupiter's moon Io circles the planet every 42.5 hours and gets pulled and pushed by the massive gravitational forces present in the planet's elliptical orbit, which reshapes the moon constantly. 
This phenomenon is called tidal flexing and leads to the production of a huge amount of internal heat. 
In the new study, the deformations mentioned by the scientists are not enough to support the idea of the presence of a global magma ocean. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/jeff-bezos-will-spend-100000000000-on-a-new-space-station-that-will-also-host-tourists-781639">Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists</a>
"This constant flexing creates immense energy, which literally melts portions of Io's interior," Bolton said.
"If Io has a global magma ocean, we knew the signature of its tidal deformation would be much larger than a more rigid, mostly solid interior," he added.
The lava flows and eruptions on Jupiter's moon cover hundreds of kilometres of area. 
Speaking about the findings, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory's (JPL) astronautical engineer Ryan Park said, "It has implications for our understanding of other moons, such as Enceladus and Europa, and even exoplanets and super-Earths." 
(With inputs from agencies)

Jupiter's moon Io has extensive lava flowing across its surface and around 400 volcanoes on it 



New Delhi, India In the entire Solar System, the most volcanic celestial body is Jupiter's moon Io. Extensive lava flows on this moon and is spread across its surface. There are nearly 400 volcanoes on it. However, in a new study, scientists have found that this geographical situation on the moon is not because of a global and moonwide ocean of magma that flows beneath the surface. An international team of researchers used images snapped by NASA's Juno spacecraft and also looked into the moon's historical data and gravitational measurements about tidal deformations of Io to determine that the volcanoes of the moon are powered by scattered magma chambers that are present in the solid mantle. The new findings have countered the earlier theories, which had said that the volcanoes of Io are powered by the mostly solid mantle of the moon. According to scientists, magma oceans are present in different worlds, especially during their earlier formation. This also includes our own Moon. "Since Morabito's discovery, planetary scientists have wondered how the volcanoes were fed from the lava underneath the surface," said space physicist Scott Bolton, who is from the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. Also Read: NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat? "Was there a shallow ocean of white-hot magma fuelling the volcanoes, or was their source more localised? We knew data from Juno's two very close flybys could give us some insights on how this tortured moon actually worked," he added. All about volcanic eruptions on Io Jupiter's moon Io circles the planet every 42.5 hours and gets pulled and pushed by the massive gravitational forces present in the planet's elliptical orbit, which reshapes the moon constantly. This phenomenon is called tidal flexing and leads to the production of a huge amount of internal heat. In the new study, the deformations mentioned by the scientists are not enough to support the idea of the presence of a global magma ocean. Also Read: Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists "This constant flexing creates immense energy, which literally melts portions of Io's interior," Bolton said. "If Io has a global magma ocean, we knew the signature of its tidal deformation would be much larger than a more rigid, mostly solid interior," he added. The lava flows and eruptions on Jupiter's moon cover hundreds of kilometres of area. Speaking about the findings, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory's (JPL) astronautical engineer Ryan Park said, "It has implications for our understanding of other moons, such as Enceladus and Europa, and even exoplanets and super-Earths." (With inputs from agencies)

Jupiter's most volcanic moon Io doesn't have an ocean of magma beneath it: Study

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams and fellow crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS) are getting into the Christmas spirit. A photograph shared by NASA on X showed Williams alongside astronaut Don Pettit wearing Santa hats.

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Another day, another sleigh ⛄️❄️<a href="https://twitter.com/NASA_Astronauts?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASA_Astronauts</a> Don Pettit and Suni Williams pose for a fun holiday season portrait while speaking on a ham radio inside the <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a>'s Columbus laboratory module. <a href="https://t.co/C1PtjkUk7P">pic.twitter.com/C1PtjkUk7P</a>
— NASA's Johnson Space Center (@NASA_Johnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA_Johnson/status/1868761679737373006?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The astronauts aboard the ISS are preparing to celebrate the holiday, despite being away from home, after a SpaceX Dragon capsule delivered essential supplies to them along with holiday gifts for the crew members.

“Another day, another sleigh. NASA Astronauts Don Pettit and Suni Williams pose for a fun holiday season portrait while speaking on a ham radio inside the ISS's Columbus laboratory module,” the caption with the image on X read.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sunita-williams-demonstrates-students-how-astronauts-drink-liquid-in-space-in-a-virtual-event-782486">Sunita Williams demonstrates students how astronauts drink liquid in space</a>

According to reports, the crew on the space station is planning to observe Christmas by recreating the holiday customs in space. Their celebration will include special festive meals prepared with ingredients sent from Earth and connecting with their family and friends via video calls.

Earlier this month, the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft departed from the space station after a successful cargo delivery for the crew, which consisted of about 2,720 kg of supplies, equipment, and scientific experiments. The capsule was launched aboard a Falcon 9 rocket on November 4 from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre and arrived at the ISS a day later.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-astronaut-sunita-williams-is-growing-lettuce-on-iss-heres-why-781706">NASA astronaut Sunita Williams is growing lettuce on ISS. Here’s why</a>

<h2>Rumours about Williams’ declining health</h2>

In November, Williams celebrated Thanksgiving in space amid&nbsp;rumours surrounding her health during the unplanned extended stay.&nbsp;

“We have a bunch of food that we’ve packed away that is Thanksgiving-ish like some smoked turkey, some cranberry, apple cobbler, green beans and mushrooms and mashed potatoes,” the astronaut told NBC News during an interview, dismissing the rumours.

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who were supposed to spend eight days on ISS, have been stuck in space since June after their aircraft faced some technical issues. The duo are expected to return to Earth in February next year.

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams and fellow crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS) are getting into the Christmas spirit. A photograph shared by NASA on X showed Williams alongside astronaut Don Pettit wearing Santa hats.

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams and fellow crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS) are getting into the Christmas spirit. A photograph shared by NASA on X showed Williams alongside astronaut Don Pettit wearing Santa hats. Another day, another sleigh ⛄️❄️@NASA_Astronauts Don Pettit and Suni Williams pose for a fun holiday season portrait while speaking on a ham radio inside the @Space_Station's Columbus laboratory module. pic.twitter.com/C1PtjkUk7P — NASA's Johnson Space Center (@NASA_Johnson) December 16, 2024 × The astronauts aboard the ISS are preparing to celebrate the holiday, despite being away from home, after a SpaceX Dragon capsule delivered essential supplies to them along with holiday gifts for the crew members. “Another day, another sleigh. NASA Astronauts Don Pettit and Suni Williams pose for a fun holiday season portrait while speaking on a ham radio inside the ISS's Columbus laboratory module,” the caption with the image on X read. Also read | Sunita Williams demonstrates students how astronauts drink liquid in space According to reports, the crew on the space station is planning to observe Christmas by recreating the holiday customs in space. Their celebration will include special festive meals prepared with ingredients sent from Earth and connecting with their family and friends via video calls. Earlier this month, the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft departed from the space station after a successful cargo delivery for the crew, which consisted of about 2,720 kg of supplies, equipment, and scientific experiments. The capsule was launched aboard a Falcon 9 rocket on November 4 from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre and arrived at the ISS a day later. Also read | NASA astronaut Sunita Williams is growing lettuce on ISS. Here’s why Rumours about Williams’ declining health In November, Williams celebrated Thanksgiving in space amid rumours surrounding her health during the unplanned extended stay. “We have a bunch of food that we’ve packed away that is Thanksgiving-ish like some smoked turkey, some cranberry, apple cobbler, green beans and mushrooms and mashed potatoes,” the astronaut told NBC News during an interview, dismissing the rumours. Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who were supposed to spend eight days on ISS, have been stuck in space since June after their aircraft faced some technical issues. The duo are expected to return to Earth in February next year. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists believed that Saturn did not always have rings and they had been created more than&nbsp;100 to 400 million years ago.&nbsp;

Now in a new study, researchers from the French National Centre for Scientific Research&nbsp;and the Institute of Science Tokyo have found that the rings of Saturn may not have been ancient but as old as the Solar System.

"Data from the Cassini spacecraft suggested the rings might be young because they appear so clean, and many people simply accepted that conclusion. However, our theoretical work now shows that a clean appearance does not necessarily mean the rings are young," said planetary scientist&nbsp;Ryuki&nbsp;Hyodo of the Institute of Science Tokyo, while speaking to ScienceAlert.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-warns-asteroids-2024-xy5-and-2024-xb6-race-toward-earth-but-are-they-really-a-threat-784185">NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat?</a>

"So, I think this is an important insight for guiding future planetary exploration missions; you better not be fooled by its first glance," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Saturn and its rings</h2>

In the Solar System, other giant planets also have rings, but they are not as majestic as that of Saturn.

The ethereal rings are present around Jupiter,&nbsp;Uranus, and Neptune, however, they are not visible till seen from the right wavelengths.

However, in the case of Saturn, its extensive rings define the planet. There is a high possibility that the rings could be a common phenomenon outside the Solar System because there are a large number of gas giant exoplanets present in the universe.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/jeff-bezos-will-spend-100000000000-on-a-new-space-station-that-will-also-host-tourists-781639">Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists</a>

If the rings of Saturn are relatively short-lived, they will last only a few hundred million years&nbsp;before they collapse.&nbsp;

However, if the rings of Saturn exist for a longer duration, they will not have any implications on the Solar System.&nbsp;

Scientists had assumed that the age of Saturn's rings is less on the basis of the absence of dust because of high-speed meteoroids' constant bombardment which slammed the ice and converted them to rings.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists believed that Saturn did not always have rings and they had been created more than 100 to 400 million years ago. Now in a new study, researchers from the French National Centre for Scientific Research and the Institute of Science Tokyo have found that the rings of Saturn may not have been ancient but as old as the Solar System.

Scientists believed that Saturn did not always have rings and they had been created more than 100 to 400 million years ago. Now in a new study, researchers from the French National Centre for Scientific Research and the Institute of Science Tokyo have found that the rings of Saturn may not have been ancient but as old as the Solar System. "Data from the Cassini spacecraft suggested the rings might be young because they appear so clean, and many people simply accepted that conclusion. However, our theoretical work now shows that a clean appearance does not necessarily mean the rings are young," said planetary scientist Ryuki Hyodo of the Institute of Science Tokyo, while speaking to ScienceAlert. Also Read: NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat? "So, I think this is an important insight for guiding future planetary exploration missions; you better not be fooled by its first glance," he added. Saturn and its rings In the Solar System, other giant planets also have rings, but they are not as majestic as that of Saturn. The ethereal rings are present around Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune, however, they are not visible till seen from the right wavelengths. However, in the case of Saturn, its extensive rings define the planet. There is a high possibility that the rings could be a common phenomenon outside the Solar System because there are a large number of gas giant exoplanets present in the universe. Also Read: Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists If the rings of Saturn are relatively short-lived, they will last only a few hundred million years before they collapse. However, if the rings of Saturn exist for a longer duration, they will not have any implications on the Solar System. Scientists had assumed that the age of Saturn's rings is less on the basis of the absence of dust because of high-speed meteoroids' constant bombardment which slammed the ice and converted them to rings. (With inputs from agencies)

In the entire Solar System, the most volcanic celestial body is Jupiter's moon&nbsp;Io. Extensive lava flows on this moon&nbsp;and is spread across its surface. There are nearly 400 volcanoes on it.&nbsp;

However, in a new study, scientists have found that this geographical situation on the moon is not because of a global and moonwide ocean of magma that flows beneath the surface.&nbsp;

An international team of researchers used images snapped by NASA's&nbsp;Juno&nbsp;spacecraft and also looked into the moon's historical data and gravitational measurements about tidal deformations of Io to determine that the volcanoes of the moon are powered by scattered magma chambers that are present in the solid mantle.&nbsp;

The new findings have countered the earlier theories, which had said that the volcanoes of Io are powered by the mostly solid mantle of&nbsp;the moon.&nbsp;

According to scientists, magma oceans are present in different worlds, especially during their earlier formation. This also includes our own Moon.

"Since Morabito's discovery, planetary scientists have wondered how the volcanoes were fed from the lava underneath the surface,"&nbsp;said space physicist Scott Bolton, who is from the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-warns-asteroids-2024-xy5-and-2024-xb6-race-toward-earth-but-are-they-really-a-threat-784185">NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat?</a>

"Was there a shallow ocean of white-hot magma fuelling the volcanoes, or was their source more localised? We knew data from Juno's two very close flybys could give us some insights on how this tortured moon actually worked," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>All about volcanic eruptions on Io</h2>

Jupiter's moon Io circles the planet every 42.5 hours and gets pulled and pushed by the massive gravitational forces present in the planet's elliptical orbit, which reshapes the moon constantly.&nbsp;

This phenomenon is called tidal flexing and leads to the production of a huge amount of internal heat.&nbsp;

In the new study, the deformations mentioned by the scientists are not enough to support the idea of the presence of a global magma ocean.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/jeff-bezos-will-spend-100000000000-on-a-new-space-station-that-will-also-host-tourists-781639">Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists</a>

"This constant flexing creates immense energy, which literally melts portions of Io's interior,"&nbsp;Bolton said.

"If Io has a global magma ocean, we knew the signature of its tidal deformation would be much larger than a more rigid, mostly solid interior," he added.

The lava flows and eruptions on Jupiter's moon cover hundreds of kilometres of area.&nbsp;

Speaking about the findings, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory's (JPL) astronautical engineer Ryan Park said, "It has implications for our understanding of other moons, such as Enceladus and Europa, and even exoplanets and super-Earths."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the entire Solar System, the most volcanic celestial body is Jupiter's moon Io. Extensive lava flows on this moon and is spread across its surface. There are nearly 400 volcanoes on it.

In the entire Solar System, the most volcanic celestial body is Jupiter's moon Io. Extensive lava flows on this moon and is spread across its surface. There are nearly 400 volcanoes on it. However, in a new study, scientists have found that this geographical situation on the moon is not because of a global and moonwide ocean of magma that flows beneath the surface. An international team of researchers used images snapped by NASA's Juno spacecraft and also looked into the moon's historical data and gravitational measurements about tidal deformations of Io to determine that the volcanoes of the moon are powered by scattered magma chambers that are present in the solid mantle. The new findings have countered the earlier theories, which had said that the volcanoes of Io are powered by the mostly solid mantle of the moon. According to scientists, magma oceans are present in different worlds, especially during their earlier formation. This also includes our own Moon. "Since Morabito's discovery, planetary scientists have wondered how the volcanoes were fed from the lava underneath the surface," said space physicist Scott Bolton, who is from the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. Also Read: NASA warns, asteroids 2024 XY5 and 2024 XB6 race toward Earth — but are they really a threat? "Was there a shallow ocean of white-hot magma fuelling the volcanoes, or was their source more localised? We knew data from Juno's two very close flybys could give us some insights on how this tortured moon actually worked," he added. All about volcanic eruptions on Io Jupiter's moon Io circles the planet every 42.5 hours and gets pulled and pushed by the massive gravitational forces present in the planet's elliptical orbit, which reshapes the moon constantly. This phenomenon is called tidal flexing and leads to the production of a huge amount of internal heat. In the new study, the deformations mentioned by the scientists are not enough to support the idea of the presence of a global magma ocean. Also Read: Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists "This constant flexing creates immense energy, which literally melts portions of Io's interior," Bolton said. "If Io has a global magma ocean, we knew the signature of its tidal deformation would be much larger than a more rigid, mostly solid interior," he added. The lava flows and eruptions on Jupiter's moon cover hundreds of kilometres of area. Speaking about the findings, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory's (JPL) astronautical engineer Ryan Park said, "It has implications for our understanding of other moons, such as Enceladus and Europa, and even exoplanets and super-Earths." (With inputs from agencies)

London, England
A new discovery has been made by scientists in an "exceptionally violent" attack which took place around 4,000 years ago in Somerset when around 37 people died. The scientists are now suggesting that these people were not just killed but butchered and likely eaten.
This was the largest incidence of violence identified between human beings in the early Bronze Age in England. The period was considered peaceful.
The bones of the victims were discovered by the cavers in the 1970s. According to experts, the people were thrown inside a shaft, which was 15 metres deep, by the prehistoric attackers.
The massacre of people was instigated by a furious "desire for revenge" and its effects most probably "echoed through generations", said Professor Rick Schulting at Oxford University.
He said that victims are likely to have been eaten as part of a ritual to "dehumanise" them and was aimed at sending a message by "insulting the remains".
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/archaeologists-find-roman-road-beneath-iconic-london-street-after-2000-years-777424">Archaeologists find Roman road beneath iconic London street after 2,000 years</a>
A team of archaeologists analysed around 3,000 fragments of bones that were discovered at a cave system known as Charterhouse Warren in the Mendip Hills, Somerset.
As per experts, there was no evidence of fightback in the newly identified attack, which further concluded that the attackers took victims by surprise.
The cut marks and scrapes on the bones indicate that the victims were systematically dismembered by the attackers with the use of stone tools and then consumed.
"If we saw these marks on animal bones, we'd have no question that they were butchered," Prof. Schulting said.
<h2>What triggered the cannibalism? </h2>
As per scientists, hunger was not the reason behind this cannibalism, as the fragments were lying alongside animal bones, which indicated sufficient food.
This is the first documented case of extensive dismembering of the bodies in this era. Because of this, experts suspected that the violence happened because of a huge breakdown in relationships.
"This was something exceptional. This level of almost erasing the person, literally chopping them into pieces, seems like something you would only do if fuelled by anger, fear and resentment," said Prof. Schulting.
Watch: History on Ice: Pula’s Spectacular Christmas Celebration Blends Tradition, Culture, and Festive Joy
<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/2024/12/14/1412_alpha_9am-1734152109-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1412_alpha_9am.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=59&tags=pula,Croatia,Christmas,celebrations" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
According to one theory, someone did "something horrible that justified this in the eyes of those doing it", he said.
"This is not a homicidal maniac. This is a community of people that came together to do this to another community," he added. He said that a culture of honour may have led to the attack.
"If you felt wronged, it was ultimately your responsibility to do something about it. It's not like you could go to the magistrate and ask for something to be done," Prof. Schulting explained.
He said that scenario appeared like a case where "things cycled out of control and normal checks and balances failed."
Prof. Schulting suggested that it could be one particularly antagonistic person who didn't "let things rest" or "had their own agenda". "If you have those kinds of people on two sides of a conflict, it starts to spiral out of control," he said.
(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists have tried to uncover the reason behind the largest incidence of violence which took place between human beings in England in the early Bronze Age

 



London, England A new discovery has been made by scientists in an "exceptionally violent" attack which took place around 4,000 years ago in Somerset when around 37 people died. The scientists are now suggesting that these people were not just killed but butchered and likely eaten. This was the largest incidence of violence identified between human beings in the early Bronze Age in England. The period was considered peaceful. The bones of the victims were discovered by the cavers in the 1970s. According to experts, the people were thrown inside a shaft, which was 15 metres deep, by the prehistoric attackers. The massacre of people was instigated by a furious "desire for revenge" and its effects most probably "echoed through generations", said Professor Rick Schulting at Oxford University. He said that victims are likely to have been eaten as part of a ritual to "dehumanise" them and was aimed at sending a message by "insulting the remains". Also Read: Archaeologists find Roman road beneath iconic London street after 2,000 years A team of archaeologists analysed around 3,000 fragments of bones that were discovered at a cave system known as Charterhouse Warren in the Mendip Hills, Somerset. As per experts, there was no evidence of fightback in the newly identified attack, which further concluded that the attackers took victims by surprise. The cut marks and scrapes on the bones indicate that the victims were systematically dismembered by the attackers with the use of stone tools and then consumed. "If we saw these marks on animal bones, we'd have no question that they were butchered," Prof. Schulting said. What triggered the cannibalism? As per scientists, hunger was not the reason behind this cannibalism, as the fragments were lying alongside animal bones, which indicated sufficient food. This is the first documented case of extensive dismembering of the bodies in this era. Because of this, experts suspected that the violence happened because of a huge breakdown in relationships. "This was something exceptional. This level of almost erasing the person, literally chopping them into pieces, seems like something you would only do if fuelled by anger, fear and resentment," said Prof. Schulting. Watch: History on Ice: Pula’s Spectacular Christmas Celebration Blends Tradition, Culture, and Festive Joy According to one theory, someone did "something horrible that justified this in the eyes of those doing it", he said. "This is not a homicidal maniac. This is a community of people that came together to do this to another community," he added. He said that a culture of honour may have led to the attack. "If you felt wronged, it was ultimately your responsibility to do something about it. It's not like you could go to the magistrate and ask for something to be done," Prof. Schulting explained. He said that scenario appeared like a case where "things cycled out of control and normal checks and balances failed." Prof. Schulting suggested that it could be one particularly antagonistic person who didn't "let things rest" or "had their own agenda". "If you have those kinds of people on two sides of a conflict, it starts to spiral out of control," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists say victims of the Somerset massacre were 'cannibalised' in Bronze Age

New Delhi, India
The "Cold Moon", which was the twelfth and final full moon of 2024, rose in the evening skies on Sunday (Dec 15).
The moon is also called the “Long Nights Moon” and the “Moon Before Yule” and makes an appearance after every 19 years.
The “Cold Moon” turned full at 9:01 UTC/4:01 a.m. EST on Sunday (Dec 15) and coincided with the peak of the annual Geminids meteor shower, which happened two days earlier.
The full moon of December is called by various names which include the Moon before Yule in Anglo-Saxon and Long Nights Moon in Old English. It is also famously known as "Oak Moon" or "Cold Moon".
In the Northern Hemisphere, the cold moon is the longest night of the year because the full moon remains closest to the winter solstice.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beaver-moon-2024-the-last-supermoon-is-here-along-with-the-seven-sisters-details-775692">Beaver Moon 2024: The last Supermoon is here, along with the 'Seven Sisters'. Details</a>
The moon on this day takes the highest path to the top of the sky because of which its visibility is longer in comparison to other full moons.
The term cold moon was coined by the Mohawk tribe, who had named it because of its frigid conditions. It was called the "long night moon" by Mohicans as per Old Farmer's Almanac.
The Cold Moon also coincided with a rare major lunar standstill which extended its visibility.
Watch: Rare 'Second Moon' Spotted In Earth's Orbit Captivates Astronomers
<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/2024/11/23/2311_moon_4pm_pkwo-1732360812-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2311_moon_4pm_pkwo_.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=68&tags=moon,comet,mini moon,second moon,asteroid" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
During a lunar standstill, the moon rises and sets at the horizon's northernmost and southernmost positions respectively.
This phenomenon takes place after every 18.6 years. 
<h2>When will 'Cold Moon' appear in 2025?</h2>
The 'Cold Moon' will appear next year on December 5 at 4:44 pm IST. It should be noted that the Cold Moon's appearance time differs as per the time zone.
<h2>Here's how the Cold Moon appeared this year across the world</h2>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The full "Cold Moon" sitting on top of the Beer Can Building AKA <a href="https://twitter.com/RivergateTower?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RivergateTower</a> in Tampa this evening. Shot from almost 9 miles away. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/moon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#moon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fullmoon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fullmoon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coldmoon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coldmoon</a> <a href="https://t.co/2zZLkBDInG">pic.twitter.com/2zZLkBDInG</a>
— Matthew Paulson (@MattPaulson28) <a href="https://twitter.com/MattPaulson28/status/1868442103820541974?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The 2024 Full Cold Moon rising at Stonehenge ??? Photo credit Nick Bull <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coldmoon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coldmoon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fullmoon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fullmoon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/winter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#winter</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/december?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#december</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/stonehenge?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#stonehenge</a> <a href="https://t.co/hPqrGgutn7">pic.twitter.com/hPqrGgutn7</a>
— Stonehenge U.K (@ST0NEHENGE) <a href="https://twitter.com/ST0NEHENGE/status/1868231369081651639?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Rising Cold moon 2024 <a href="https://t.co/a7n34OMEqo">pic.twitter.com/a7n34OMEqo</a>
— Matilda (@mansebanjaran) <a href="https://twitter.com/mansebanjaran/status/1868306317380923800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

This year's Cold Moon, which occurs after every 19 years, coincided with the Geminid meteor shower

 



New Delhi, India The "Cold Moon", which was the twelfth and final full moon of 2024, rose in the evening skies on Sunday (Dec 15). The moon is also called the “Long Nights Moon” and the “Moon Before Yule” and makes an appearance after every 19 years. The “Cold Moon” turned full at 9:01 UTC/4:01 a.m. EST on Sunday (Dec 15) and coincided with the peak of the annual Geminids meteor shower, which happened two days earlier. The full moon of December is called by various names which include the Moon before Yule in Anglo-Saxon and Long Nights Moon in Old English. It is also famously known as "Oak Moon" or "Cold Moon". In the Northern Hemisphere, the cold moon is the longest night of the year because the full moon remains closest to the winter solstice. Also Read: Beaver Moon 2024: The last Supermoon is here, along with the 'Seven Sisters'. Details The moon on this day takes the highest path to the top of the sky because of which its visibility is longer in comparison to other full moons. The term cold moon was coined by the Mohawk tribe, who had named it because of its frigid conditions. It was called the "long night moon" by Mohicans as per Old Farmer's Almanac. The Cold Moon also coincided with a rare major lunar standstill which extended its visibility. Watch: Rare 'Second Moon' Spotted In Earth's Orbit Captivates Astronomers During a lunar standstill, the moon rises and sets at the horizon's northernmost and southernmost positions respectively. This phenomenon takes place after every 18.6 years. When will 'Cold Moon' appear in 2025? The 'Cold Moon' will appear next year on December 5 at 4:44 pm IST. It should be noted that the Cold Moon's appearance time differs as per the time zone. Here's how the Cold Moon appeared this year across the world The full "Cold Moon" sitting on top of the Beer Can Building AKA @RivergateTower in Tampa this evening. Shot from almost 9 miles away. #moon #fullmoon #coldmoon pic.twitter.com/2zZLkBDInG — Matthew Paulson (@MattPaulson28) December 15, 2024 × The 2024 Full Cold Moon rising at Stonehenge ??? Photo credit Nick Bull #coldmoon #fullmoon #winter #december #stonehenge pic.twitter.com/hPqrGgutn7 — Stonehenge U.K (@ST0NEHENGE) December 15, 2024 × Rising Cold moon 2024 pic.twitter.com/a7n34OMEqo — Matilda (@mansebanjaran) December 15, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Skygazers get a rare cosmic treat as 'Cold Moon' shines in sky after 19 years

A new discovery has been made by scientists in an "exceptionally violent" attack which took place around 4,000 years ago in Somerset when around 37 people died. The scientists are now suggesting that these people were not just killed but butchered and likely eaten.

This was the largest incidence of violence identified between human beings in the early Bronze Age in England. The period was considered peaceful.

The bones of the victims were discovered by the cavers in the 1970s. According to experts, the people were thrown inside a shaft, which was 15 metres deep, by the prehistoric attackers.

The massacre of people was instigated by a furious "desire for revenge" and its effects most probably "echoed through generations", said Professor Rick Schulting at Oxford University.

He said that victims are likely to have been eaten as part of a ritual to "dehumanise" them and was aimed at sending a message by "insulting the remains".

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/archaeologists-find-roman-road-beneath-iconic-london-street-after-2000-years-777424">Archaeologists find Roman road beneath iconic London street after 2,000 years</a>

A team of archaeologists analysed around 3,000 fragments of bones that were discovered at a cave system known as Charterhouse Warren in the Mendip Hills, Somerset.

As per experts, there was no evidence of fightback in the newly identified attack, which further concluded that the attackers took victims by surprise.

The cut marks and scrapes on the bones indicate that the victims were systematically dismembered by the attackers with the use of stone tools and then consumed.

"If we saw these marks on animal bones, we'd have no question that they were butchered," Prof. Schulting said.

<h2>What triggered the cannibalism?&nbsp;</h2>

As per scientists, hunger was not the reason behind this cannibalism, as the fragments were lying alongside animal bones, which indicated sufficient food.

This is the first documented case of extensive dismembering of the bodies in this era. Because of this, experts suspected that the violence happened because of a huge breakdown in relationships.

"This was something exceptional. This level of almost erasing the person, literally chopping them into pieces, seems like something you would only do if fuelled by anger, fear and resentment," said Prof. Schulting.

Watch:&nbsp;History on Ice: Pula’s Spectacular Christmas Celebration Blends Tradition, Culture, and Festive Joy

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/history-on-ice-pulas-spectacular-christmas-celebration-blends-tradition-culture-and-festive-joy-783908/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to one theory, someone did "something horrible that justified this in the eyes of those doing it", he said.

"This is not a homicidal maniac. This is a community of people that came together to do this to another community," he added. He said that a culture of honour may have led to the attack.

"If you felt wronged, it was ultimately your responsibility to do something about it. It's not like you could go to the magistrate and ask for something to be done," Prof. Schulting explained.

He said that scenario appeared like a case where "things cycled out of control and normal checks and balances failed."

Prof. Schulting suggested that it could be one particularly antagonistic person who didn't "let things rest" or "had their own agenda". "If you have those kinds of people on two sides of a conflict, it starts to spiral out of control," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A new discovery has been made by scientists in an "exceptionally violent" attack which took place around 4,000 years ago in Somerset when around 37 people died. The scientists are now suggesting that these people were not just killed but butchered and likely eaten.

A new discovery has been made by scientists in an "exceptionally violent" attack which took place around 4,000 years ago in Somerset when around 37 people died. The scientists are now suggesting that these people were not just killed but butchered and likely eaten. This was the largest incidence of violence identified between human beings in the early Bronze Age in England. The period was considered peaceful. The bones of the victims were discovered by the cavers in the 1970s. According to experts, the people were thrown inside a shaft, which was 15 metres deep, by the prehistoric attackers. The massacre of people was instigated by a furious "desire for revenge" and its effects most probably "echoed through generations", said Professor Rick Schulting at Oxford University. He said that victims are likely to have been eaten as part of a ritual to "dehumanise" them and was aimed at sending a message by "insulting the remains". Also Read: Archaeologists find Roman road beneath iconic London street after 2,000 years A team of archaeologists analysed around 3,000 fragments of bones that were discovered at a cave system known as Charterhouse Warren in the Mendip Hills, Somerset. As per experts, there was no evidence of fightback in the newly identified attack, which further concluded that the attackers took victims by surprise. The cut marks and scrapes on the bones indicate that the victims were systematically dismembered by the attackers with the use of stone tools and then consumed. "If we saw these marks on animal bones, we'd have no question that they were butchered," Prof. Schulting said. What triggered the cannibalism? As per scientists, hunger was not the reason behind this cannibalism, as the fragments were lying alongside animal bones, which indicated sufficient food. This is the first documented case of extensive dismembering of the bodies in this era. Because of this, experts suspected that the violence happened because of a huge breakdown in relationships. "This was something exceptional. This level of almost erasing the person, literally chopping them into pieces, seems like something you would only do if fuelled by anger, fear and resentment," said Prof. Schulting. Watch: History on Ice: Pula’s Spectacular Christmas Celebration Blends Tradition, Culture, and Festive Joy According to one theory, someone did "something horrible that justified this in the eyes of those doing it", he said. "This is not a homicidal maniac. This is a community of people that came together to do this to another community," he added. He said that a culture of honour may have led to the attack. "If you felt wronged, it was ultimately your responsibility to do something about it. It's not like you could go to the magistrate and ask for something to be done," Prof. Schulting explained. He said that scenario appeared like a case where "things cycled out of control and normal checks and balances failed." Prof. Schulting suggested that it could be one particularly antagonistic person who didn't "let things rest" or "had their own agenda". "If you have those kinds of people on two sides of a conflict, it starts to spiral out of control," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

The "Cold Moon", which was the 12th and final&nbsp;full moon of 2024, rose in the evening skies on Sunday (Dec 15) in rare celestial occurance.

The moon is also called the “Long Nights Moon” and the “Moon Before Yule” and makes an appearance after every 19 years.

The “Cold Moon” turned full at 9:01 UTC/4:01 a.m. EST on Sunday (Dec 15) and coincided with the peak of the annual Geminids meteor shower, which happened two days earlier.

The full moon of December is called by various names which include the Moon before Yule in Anglo-Saxon and Long Nights Moon in Old English. It is also famously known as "Oak Moon" or "Cold Moon".

In the Northern Hemisphere, the cold moon is the longest night of the year because the full moon remains closest to the winter solstice.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beaver-moon-2024-the-last-supermoon-is-here-along-with-the-seven-sisters-details-775692">Beaver Moon 2024: The last Supermoon is here, along with the 'Seven Sisters'. Details</a>

The moon on this day takes the highest path to the top of the sky because of which its visibility is longer in comparison to other full moons.

The term cold moon was coined by the Mohawk tribe, who had named it because of its frigid conditions. It was called the "long night moon" by Mohicans as per Old Farmer's Almanac.

The Cold Moon also coincided with a rare major lunar standstill which extended its visibility.

Watch:&nbsp;Rare 'Second Moon' Spotted In Earth's Orbit Captivates Astronomers

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rare-second-moon-spotted-in-earths-orbit-captivates-astronomers-778642/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

During a lunar standstill, the moon rises and sets at the horizon's northernmost and southernmost positions respectively.

This phenomenon takes place after every 18.6 years.&nbsp;

<h2>When will 'Cold Moon' appear in 2025?</h2>

The 'Cold Moon' will appear next year on December 5 at 4:44 pm IST. It should be noted that the Cold Moon's appearance time differs as per the time zone.

<h2>Here's how the Cold Moon appeared this year across the world</h2>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The full "Cold Moon" sitting on top of the Beer Can Building AKA <a href="https://twitter.com/RivergateTower?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RivergateTower</a> in Tampa this evening. Shot from almost 9 miles away. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/moon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#moon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fullmoon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fullmoon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coldmoon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coldmoon</a> <a href="https://t.co/2zZLkBDInG">pic.twitter.com/2zZLkBDInG</a>
— Matthew Paulson (@MattPaulson28) <a href="https://twitter.com/MattPaulson28/status/1868442103820541974?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The 2024 Full Cold Moon rising at Stonehenge 🤩🥶🌕 Photo credit Nick Bull <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coldmoon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coldmoon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fullmoon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fullmoon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/winter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#winter</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/december?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#december</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/stonehenge?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#stonehenge</a> <a href="https://t.co/hPqrGgutn7">pic.twitter.com/hPqrGgutn7</a>
— Stonehenge U.K (@ST0NEHENGE) <a href="https://twitter.com/ST0NEHENGE/status/1868231369081651639?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Rising Cold moon 2024 <a href="https://t.co/a7n34OMEqo">pic.twitter.com/a7n34OMEqo</a>
— Matilda (@mansebanjaran) <a href="https://twitter.com/mansebanjaran/status/1868306317380923800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

The "Cold Moon", which was the 12th and final full moon of 2024, rose in the evening skies on Sunday (Dec 15) in rare celestial occurance. The moon is also called the “Long Nights Moon” and the “Moon Before Yule” and makes an appearance after every 19 years.

The "Cold Moon", which was the 12th and final full moon of 2024, rose in the evening skies on Sunday (Dec 15) in rare celestial occurance. The moon is also called the “Long Nights Moon” and the “Moon Before Yule” and makes an appearance after every 19 years. The “Cold Moon” turned full at 9:01 UTC/4:01 a.m. EST on Sunday (Dec 15) and coincided with the peak of the annual Geminids meteor shower, which happened two days earlier. The full moon of December is called by various names which include the Moon before Yule in Anglo-Saxon and Long Nights Moon in Old English. It is also famously known as "Oak Moon" or "Cold Moon". In the Northern Hemisphere, the cold moon is the longest night of the year because the full moon remains closest to the winter solstice. Also Read: Beaver Moon 2024: The last Supermoon is here, along with the 'Seven Sisters'. Details The moon on this day takes the highest path to the top of the sky because of which its visibility is longer in comparison to other full moons. The term cold moon was coined by the Mohawk tribe, who had named it because of its frigid conditions. It was called the "long night moon" by Mohicans as per Old Farmer's Almanac. The Cold Moon also coincided with a rare major lunar standstill which extended its visibility. Watch: Rare 'Second Moon' Spotted In Earth's Orbit Captivates Astronomers During a lunar standstill, the moon rises and sets at the horizon's northernmost and southernmost positions respectively. This phenomenon takes place after every 18.6 years. When will 'Cold Moon' appear in 2025? The 'Cold Moon' will appear next year on December 5 at 4:44 pm IST. It should be noted that the Cold Moon's appearance time differs as per the time zone. Here's how the Cold Moon appeared this year across the world The full "Cold Moon" sitting on top of the Beer Can Building AKA @RivergateTower in Tampa this evening. Shot from almost 9 miles away. #moon #fullmoon #coldmoon pic.twitter.com/2zZLkBDInG — Matthew Paulson (@MattPaulson28) December 15, 2024 × The 2024 Full Cold Moon rising at Stonehenge 🤩🥶🌕 Photo credit Nick Bull #coldmoon #fullmoon #winter #december #stonehenge pic.twitter.com/hPqrGgutn7 — Stonehenge U.K (@ST0NEHENGE) December 15, 2024 × Rising Cold moon 2024 pic.twitter.com/a7n34OMEqo — Matilda (@mansebanjaran) December 15, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Skygazers get a rare cosmic treat as 'Cold Moon' shines after 19 years

New Delhi, India
Scientists have warned that a devastating solar superflare is overdue on Earth, which can be more powerful than billions of atomic bombs when it hits the planet.
The most accurate study done so far has explained that these superflares can wipe out satellites and power grids.
As per the researchers, these disastrous events happen to occur once every 100 years and not once every 1,000 to 10,000 as was believed earlier.
The study has hinted that Earth is likely to be hit by a solar flare which will release at least one octillion joules of energy.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-firm-space-ones-kairos-rocket-launch-delayed-for-third-time-amid-weather-woes-784071">Japanese firm Space One's Kairos rocket launch delayed for third time amid weather woes</a>
This can be 100 times stronger than the 1859 Carrington Event in which the telegraph network collapsed and the sheets of paper lying in offices were also ignited.
If Earth is hit by such a powerful event, it can be more devastating because of the world's increased dependence on satellite communication networks.
The superflare would impact in such a way that the power grids would be overloaded, satellites would be knocked out of orbit, global communication networks would be silenced and aircraft would be grounded around the world.
The Max Planck Institute's co-author Dr Natalie Krivova said, "The new data are a stark reminder that even the most extreme solar events are part of the sun's natural repertoire."
<h2>Scientists predict how often superflares occur</h2>
Since modern observation records of the radiation of the sun have been available since the space age began, it has been difficult to predict how often these superflares occur.
An international team of researchers, headed by the Max Planck Institute (MPI), are trying to find answers in the stars.
Watch: Solar Power Producers Signed Up For An OPEC-style Agreement 
<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/2024/12/13/1312_wion_OPEC_930AM-1734070815-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1312_wion_OPEC_930AM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=244&tags=market,trade,solar power,oil,WION" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
Director of the MPI and co-author of the study Dr Sami Solanki said, "We cannot observe the sun over thousands of years. Instead, however, we can monitor the behaviour of thousands of stars very similar to the sun over short periods of time."
The data was recorded by scientists from 56,450 Earth-like stars which were observed by NASA's Kepler telescope between 2009 and 2014.
In the observation, the researchers saw 2,889 superflares on 2,527 observed stars and concluded that a superflare occurs roughly once every century.
MPS first author Dr Valeriy Vasilyev said, "We were very surprised that sun-like stars are prone to such frequent superflares." 
(With inputs from agencies)

The researchers have estimated that the eruption of solar flares occurs once every 100 years 



New Delhi, India Scientists have warned that a devastating solar superflare is overdue on Earth, which can be more powerful than billions of atomic bombs when it hits the planet. The most accurate study done so far has explained that these superflares can wipe out satellites and power grids. As per the researchers, these disastrous events happen to occur once every 100 years and not once every 1,000 to 10,000 as was believed earlier. The study has hinted that Earth is likely to be hit by a solar flare which will release at least one octillion joules of energy. Also Read: Japanese firm Space One's Kairos rocket launch delayed for third time amid weather woes This can be 100 times stronger than the 1859 Carrington Event in which the telegraph network collapsed and the sheets of paper lying in offices were also ignited. If Earth is hit by such a powerful event, it can be more devastating because of the world's increased dependence on satellite communication networks. The superflare would impact in such a way that the power grids would be overloaded, satellites would be knocked out of orbit, global communication networks would be silenced and aircraft would be grounded around the world. The Max Planck Institute's co-author Dr Natalie Krivova said, "The new data are a stark reminder that even the most extreme solar events are part of the sun's natural repertoire." Scientists predict how often superflares occur Since modern observation records of the radiation of the sun have been available since the space age began, it has been difficult to predict how often these superflares occur. An international team of researchers, headed by the Max Planck Institute (MPI), are trying to find answers in the stars. Watch: Solar Power Producers Signed Up For An OPEC-style Agreement Director of the MPI and co-author of the study Dr Sami Solanki said, "We cannot observe the sun over thousands of years. Instead, however, we can monitor the behaviour of thousands of stars very similar to the sun over short periods of time." The data was recorded by scientists from 56,450 Earth-like stars which were observed by NASA's Kepler telescope between 2009 and 2014. In the observation, the researchers saw 2,889 superflares on 2,527 observed stars and concluded that a superflare occurs roughly once every century. MPS first author Dr Valeriy Vasilyev said, "We were very surprised that sun-like stars are prone to such frequent superflares." (With inputs from agencies)

Earth to be hit by devastating solar flare which will be equal to billions of atomic bombs, warn scientists

Cambridge, England
The biggest iceberg in the world, A23a, has started to drift in the Southern Ocean after breaking free. The iceberg weighs almost a trillion tonnes and is double the size of Greater London. 
For more than 30 years, the iceberg has remained grounded on the seafloor and recently was seen spinning on the spot. 
According to the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) experts, A23a has broken free from its position which was in the north of the South Orkney Islands. 
The iceberg has embarked on a new journey and is floating in the Southern Ocean. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-desertification-talks-begin-in-saudi-arabia-amid-climate-change-warnings-780733">UN desertification talks begin in Saudi Arabia amid climate change warnings</a>
"It's exciting to see A23a on the move again after periods of being stuck," said Dr Andrew Meijers, who is an oceanographer with the BAS.
"We are interested to see if it will take the same route the other large icebergs that have calved off Antarctica have taken. And more importantly what impact this will have on the local ecosystem," he added.
<h2>Giant iceberg's journey so far</h2>
Originally, the iceberg had calved from the Filchner Ice Shelf in Antarctica in 1986.
The iceberg remained grounded in the Weddell Sea and started its slow journey north in 2020.
The iceberg got trapped in a Taylor Column in February this year. Taylor Column is a phenomenon in which the object in place gets trapped in rotating water above a seamount.
Because of this A23a kept spinning on the spot and its expected rapid drift north was delayed.
The images which were captured by satellites overhead have now confirmed that the iceberg has been freed and is moving.
Now, BAS experts are expecting that it will continue its journey towards the Southern Ocean after the Antarctic Circumpolar Current.
Watch: Climate Change Affects Butterfly Population
<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/2024/12/11/1112_wion_MONARCH_1230PM-1733907314-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1112_wion_MONARCH_1230PM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=130&tags=climate change,butterfly,World News,WION" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
The iceberg is likely to be driven towards the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia. 
The region's warmer conditions can lead to the breaking up of A23a into smaller icebergs that will eventually melt. The iceberg is also being studied by researchers on board RRS Sir David Attenborough. 
Biogeochemist on board the vessel Laura Taylor hoped that the impact of the iceberg on ecosystems would be studied by scientists.
"We know that these giant icebergs can provide nutrients to the waters they pass through, creating thriving ecosystems in otherwise less productive areas," Taylor said.
"What we don’t know is what difference particular icebergs, their scale, and their origins can make to that process. We took samples of ocean surface waters behind, immediately adjacent to, and ahead of the iceberg’s route. They should help us determine what life could form around A23a and how it impacts carbon in the ocean and its balance with the atmosphere," she added.
(With inputs from agencies)

A23a, which is the biggest iceberg in the world, had gotten trapped in a Taylor Column in February



Cambridge, England The biggest iceberg in the world, A23a, has started to drift in the Southern Ocean after breaking free. The iceberg weighs almost a trillion tonnes and is double the size of Greater London. For more than 30 years, the iceberg has remained grounded on the seafloor and recently was seen spinning on the spot. According to the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) experts, A23a has broken free from its position which was in the north of the South Orkney Islands. The iceberg has embarked on a new journey and is floating in the Southern Ocean. Also Read: UN desertification talks begin in Saudi Arabia amid climate change warnings "It's exciting to see A23a on the move again after periods of being stuck," said Dr Andrew Meijers, who is an oceanographer with the BAS. "We are interested to see if it will take the same route the other large icebergs that have calved off Antarctica have taken. And more importantly what impact this will have on the local ecosystem," he added. Giant iceberg's journey so far Originally, the iceberg had calved from the Filchner Ice Shelf in Antarctica in 1986. The iceberg remained grounded in the Weddell Sea and started its slow journey north in 2020. The iceberg got trapped in a Taylor Column in February this year. Taylor Column is a phenomenon in which the object in place gets trapped in rotating water above a seamount. Because of this A23a kept spinning on the spot and its expected rapid drift north was delayed. The images which were captured by satellites overhead have now confirmed that the iceberg has been freed and is moving. Now, BAS experts are expecting that it will continue its journey towards the Southern Ocean after the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. Watch: Climate Change Affects Butterfly Population The iceberg is likely to be driven towards the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia. The region's warmer conditions can lead to the breaking up of A23a into smaller icebergs that will eventually melt. The iceberg is also being studied by researchers on board RRS Sir David Attenborough. Biogeochemist on board the vessel Laura Taylor hoped that the impact of the iceberg on ecosystems would be studied by scientists. "We know that these giant icebergs can provide nutrients to the waters they pass through, creating thriving ecosystems in otherwise less productive areas," Taylor said. "What we don’t know is what difference particular icebergs, their scale, and their origins can make to that process. We took samples of ocean surface waters behind, immediately adjacent to, and ahead of the iceberg’s route. They should help us determine what life could form around A23a and how it impacts carbon in the ocean and its balance with the atmosphere," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

World's biggest trillion-tonne iceberg breaks free, drifts in Southern Ocean

Scientists have warned that a devastating solar superflare is overdue on Earth, which can be more powerful than billions of atomic bombs when it hits the planet.

The most accurate study done so far has explained that these superflares can wipe out satellites and power grids.

As per the researchers, these disastrous events happen to occur once every 100 years and not once every 1,000 to 10,000 as was believed earlier.

The study has hinted that Earth is likely to be hit by a solar flare which will release at least one octillion joules of energy.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-firm-space-ones-kairos-rocket-launch-delayed-for-third-time-amid-weather-woes-784071">Japanese firm Space One's Kairos rocket launch delayed for third time amid weather woes</a>

This can be 100 times stronger than the 1859 Carrington Event in which the telegraph network collapsed and the sheets of paper lying in offices were also ignited.

If Earth is hit by such a powerful event, it can be more devastating because of the world's increased dependence on satellite communication networks.

The superflare would impact in such a way that the power grids would be overloaded, satellites would be knocked out of orbit, global communication networks would be silenced and aircraft would be grounded around the world.

The Max Planck Institute's co-author Dr Natalie Krivova said, "The new data are a stark reminder that even the most extreme solar events are part of the sun's natural repertoire."

<h2>Scientists predict how often superflares occur</h2>

Since modern observation records of the radiation of the sun have been available since the space age began, it has been difficult to predict how often these superflares occur.

An international team of researchers, headed by the Max Planck Institute (MPI), are trying to find answers in the stars.

Watch:&nbsp;Solar Power Producers Signed Up For An OPEC-style Agreement&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/solar-power-producers-signed-up-for-an-opec-style-agreement-world-business-watch-wion-783649/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Director of the MPI and co-author of the study Dr Sami Solanki said, "We cannot observe the sun over thousands of years. Instead, however, we can monitor the behaviour of thousands of stars very similar to the sun over short periods of time."

The data was recorded by scientists from 56,450 Earth-like stars which were observed by NASA's Kepler telescope between 2009 and 2014.

In the observation, the researchers saw 2,889 superflares on 2,527 observed stars and concluded that a superflare occurs roughly once every century.

MPS first author Dr Valeriy Vasilyev said, "We were very surprised that sun-like stars are prone to such frequent superflares."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists have warned that a devastating solar superflare is overdue on Earth, which can be more powerful than billions of atomic bombs when it hits the planet.

Scientists have warned that a devastating solar superflare is overdue on Earth, which can be more powerful than billions of atomic bombs when it hits the planet. The most accurate study done so far has explained that these superflares can wipe out satellites and power grids. As per the researchers, these disastrous events happen to occur once every 100 years and not once every 1,000 to 10,000 as was believed earlier. The study has hinted that Earth is likely to be hit by a solar flare which will release at least one octillion joules of energy. Also Read: Japanese firm Space One's Kairos rocket launch delayed for third time amid weather woes This can be 100 times stronger than the 1859 Carrington Event in which the telegraph network collapsed and the sheets of paper lying in offices were also ignited. If Earth is hit by such a powerful event, it can be more devastating because of the world's increased dependence on satellite communication networks. The superflare would impact in such a way that the power grids would be overloaded, satellites would be knocked out of orbit, global communication networks would be silenced and aircraft would be grounded around the world. The Max Planck Institute's co-author Dr Natalie Krivova said, "The new data are a stark reminder that even the most extreme solar events are part of the sun's natural repertoire." Scientists predict how often superflares occur Since modern observation records of the radiation of the sun have been available since the space age began, it has been difficult to predict how often these superflares occur. An international team of researchers, headed by the Max Planck Institute (MPI), are trying to find answers in the stars. Watch: Solar Power Producers Signed Up For An OPEC-style Agreement Director of the MPI and co-author of the study Dr Sami Solanki said, "We cannot observe the sun over thousands of years. Instead, however, we can monitor the behaviour of thousands of stars very similar to the sun over short periods of time." The data was recorded by scientists from 56,450 Earth-like stars which were observed by NASA's Kepler telescope between 2009 and 2014. In the observation, the researchers saw 2,889 superflares on 2,527 observed stars and concluded that a superflare occurs roughly once every century. MPS first author Dr Valeriy Vasilyev said, "We were very surprised that sun-like stars are prone to such frequent superflares." (With inputs from agencies)

The biggest iceberg in the world, A23a, has started to drift in the Southern Ocean after breaking free. The iceberg weighs almost a trillion tonnes and is double the size of Greater&nbsp;London.&nbsp;

For more than 30 years, the iceberg has remained grounded on the seafloor and recently was seen spinning on the spot.&nbsp;

According to the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) experts, A23a has broken free from its position which was in the north of the South Orkney Islands.&nbsp;

The iceberg has embarked on a new journey and is floating in the Southern Ocean.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-desertification-talks-begin-in-saudi-arabia-amid-climate-change-warnings-780733">UN desertification talks begin in Saudi Arabia amid climate change warnings</a>

"It's exciting to see A23a on the move again after periods of being stuck," said Dr Andrew Meijers, who is an oceanographer with the BAS.

"We are interested to see if it will take the same route the other large icebergs that have calved off Antarctica have taken.&nbsp;And more importantly what impact this will have on the local ecosystem," he added.

<h2>Giant iceberg's journey so far</h2>

Originally, the iceberg had calved from the Filchner Ice Shelf in Antarctica in 1986.

The iceberg remained grounded in the Weddell Sea and started its slow journey north in 2020.

The iceberg got trapped in a Taylor Column in February this year. Taylor Column is a phenomenon in which the object in place gets trapped in rotating water above a seamount.

Because of this A23a kept spinning on the spot and its expected rapid drift north was delayed.

The images which were captured by satellites overhead have now confirmed that the iceberg has been freed and is moving.

Now, BAS experts are expecting that it will continue its journey towards the Southern Ocean after the Antarctic Circumpolar Current.

Watch:&nbsp;Climate Change Affects Butterfly Population

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/climate-change-affects-butterfly-population-783184/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The iceberg is likely to be driven towards the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia.&nbsp;

The region's warmer conditions can lead to the breaking up of A23a into smaller icebergs that will eventually melt.&nbsp;The iceberg is also being studied by researchers on board RRS Sir David Attenborough.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Biogeochemist on board the vessel Laura Taylor hoped that the impact of the iceberg on ecosystems would be studied by scientists.

"We know that these giant icebergs can provide nutrients to the waters they pass through, creating thriving ecosystems in otherwise less productive areas," Taylor said.

"What we don’t know is what difference particular icebergs, their scale, and their origins can make to that process. We took samples of ocean surface waters behind, immediately adjacent to, and ahead of the iceberg’s route.&nbsp;They should help us determine what life could form around A23a and how it impacts carbon in the ocean and its balance with the atmosphere," she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The biggest iceberg in the world, A23a, has started to drift in the Southern Ocean after breaking free. The iceberg weighs almost a trillion tonnes and is double the size of Greater London.

The biggest iceberg in the world, A23a, has started to drift in the Southern Ocean after breaking free. The iceberg weighs almost a trillion tonnes and is double the size of Greater London. For more than 30 years, the iceberg has remained grounded on the seafloor and recently was seen spinning on the spot. According to the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) experts, A23a has broken free from its position which was in the north of the South Orkney Islands. The iceberg has embarked on a new journey and is floating in the Southern Ocean. Also Read: UN desertification talks begin in Saudi Arabia amid climate change warnings "It's exciting to see A23a on the move again after periods of being stuck," said Dr Andrew Meijers, who is an oceanographer with the BAS. "We are interested to see if it will take the same route the other large icebergs that have calved off Antarctica have taken. And more importantly what impact this will have on the local ecosystem," he added. Giant iceberg's journey so far Originally, the iceberg had calved from the Filchner Ice Shelf in Antarctica in 1986. The iceberg remained grounded in the Weddell Sea and started its slow journey north in 2020. The iceberg got trapped in a Taylor Column in February this year. Taylor Column is a phenomenon in which the object in place gets trapped in rotating water above a seamount. Because of this A23a kept spinning on the spot and its expected rapid drift north was delayed. The images which were captured by satellites overhead have now confirmed that the iceberg has been freed and is moving. Now, BAS experts are expecting that it will continue its journey towards the Southern Ocean after the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. Watch: Climate Change Affects Butterfly Population The iceberg is likely to be driven towards the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia. The region's warmer conditions can lead to the breaking up of A23a into smaller icebergs that will eventually melt. The iceberg is also being studied by researchers on board RRS Sir David Attenborough. Biogeochemist on board the vessel Laura Taylor hoped that the impact of the iceberg on ecosystems would be studied by scientists. "We know that these giant icebergs can provide nutrients to the waters they pass through, creating thriving ecosystems in otherwise less productive areas," Taylor said. "What we don’t know is what difference particular icebergs, their scale, and their origins can make to that process. We took samples of ocean surface waters behind, immediately adjacent to, and ahead of the iceberg’s route. They should help us determine what life could form around A23a and how it impacts carbon in the ocean and its balance with the atmosphere," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

The Greenland shark, one of the most mysterious creatures of the deep, has long intrigued scientists with its astounding lifespan. Inhabiting the cold, dark waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, this species is unique in its ability to survive the freezing temperatures year-round. Some sharks of this species may have been swimming in these waters since the colonial era, but researchers are only now beginning to unravel the secrets of their longevity.

<h2>The longest-living vertebrate</h2>

In 2016, research confirmed that the Greenland shark holds the title of the longest-living vertebrate. Estimates suggest these sharks can live up to 400 years, with some individuals possibly reaching lifespans anywhere from 272 to over 500 years. While scientists had long suspected the shark’s remarkable longevity due to its slow metabolism, they had no way to pinpoint the exact mechanisms—until now.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hundreds-of-deadly-viruses-go-missing-from-australian-lab-in-major-biosecurity-breach-783199">Hundreds of vials of deadly virus go missing from Australian lab in ‘major biosecurity breach'</a>

<h2>A groundbreaking discovery in shark genomics</h2>

An international team of scientists has mapped the genome of the Greenland shark for the first time, sequencing about 92 per cent of its DNA. This major accomplishment sheds light on the shark’s biological makeup and provides clues to its extraordinary lifespan.

According to Dr. Steve Hoffman, senior author of the new research and computational biologist at the Leibniz Institute on Aging, the genome could reveal critical mutations that contribute to the shark’s longevity.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/omega-6-fatty-acids-decreasing-ability-to-fight-against-cancer-cells-warns-study-783456">Omega-6 fatty acid decreasing ability to fight against cancer cells, warns study</a>

<h2>Understanding longevity and human lifespan</h2>

The Greenland shark's exceptional lifespan is not only a scientific marvel but could also offer insights into human longevity. Given the rarity of animals living longer than humans relative to their size and weight, studying these sharks’ ageing mechanisms could open the door to extending human lifespans. The discovery could potentially lead to breakthroughs in ageing research and improve understanding of the biological processes that influence human health and longevity.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Greenland shark, one of the most mysterious creatures of the deep, has long intrigued scientists with its astounding lifespan. Inhabiting the cold, dark waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, this species is unique in its ability to survive the freezing temperatures year-round.

The Greenland shark, one of the most mysterious creatures of the deep, has long intrigued scientists with its astounding lifespan. Inhabiting the cold, dark waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, this species is unique in its ability to survive the freezing temperatures year-round. Some sharks of this species may have been swimming in these waters since the colonial era, but researchers are only now beginning to unravel the secrets of their longevity. The longest-living vertebrate In 2016, research confirmed that the Greenland shark holds the title of the longest-living vertebrate. Estimates suggest these sharks can live up to 400 years, with some individuals possibly reaching lifespans anywhere from 272 to over 500 years. While scientists had long suspected the shark’s remarkable longevity due to its slow metabolism, they had no way to pinpoint the exact mechanisms—until now. Also read | Hundreds of vials of deadly virus go missing from Australian lab in ‘major biosecurity breach' A groundbreaking discovery in shark genomics An international team of scientists has mapped the genome of the Greenland shark for the first time, sequencing about 92 per cent of its DNA. This major accomplishment sheds light on the shark’s biological makeup and provides clues to its extraordinary lifespan. According to Dr. Steve Hoffman, senior author of the new research and computational biologist at the Leibniz Institute on Aging, the genome could reveal critical mutations that contribute to the shark’s longevity. Also read | Omega-6 fatty acid decreasing ability to fight against cancer cells, warns study Understanding longevity and human lifespan The Greenland shark's exceptional lifespan is not only a scientific marvel but could also offer insights into human longevity. Given the rarity of animals living longer than humans relative to their size and weight, studying these sharks’ ageing mechanisms could open the door to extending human lifespans. The discovery could potentially lead to breakthroughs in ageing research and improve understanding of the biological processes that influence human health and longevity. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists say Greenland shark's genome holds clues to extending human lifespan

As per a new study, the food you are consuming may have been badly affecting the ability of the body to fight cancer cells present in the colon. The overconsumption of a certain kind of omega-6 fatty acids, which is most probably becoming a part of the diet because of ultra-processed foods, is most likely hindering tumour-fighting and anti-inflammatory properties of essential fatty acid omega-3.

As per a new study, the food you are consuming may have been badly affecting the ability of the body to fight cancer cells present in the colon. The overconsumption of a certain kind of omega-6 fatty acids, which is most probably becoming a part of the diet because of ultra-processed foods, is most likely hindering tumour-fighting and anti-inflammatory properties of essential fatty acid omega-3. “There are mutations every day in the GI (gastrointestinal) tract, and normally they’re quashed right away by the immune system with the help of molecules or mediators from omega-3s,” said Dr Timothy Yeatman, who is the study's senior co-author which was published on Tuesday (Dec 10). Also Read: Killer dumplings? Woman dies after eating momo, 15 others suffer food poisoning The study has been published in Gut, the journal of the British Society of Gastroenterology . “But if you have a body subjected to years of a chronic inflammatory milieu created by an imbalance of omega-6s, the type commonly found in ultra-processed and junk foods, I believe it’s easier for a mutation to take hold and harder for the body to fight it,” said Yeatman, who is a professor at the Tampa General Hospital Cancer Institute. Omega-6 fatty acids dominate the Western diet? As per experts, a Western diet is filled with omega-6 fatty acids because of seed oils used to prepare it and 70 per cent of the food supply in the United States is dominated by ultra-processed foods. Watch: UK Government's Restriction On Junk Food Advertisements Before 9 PM Linoleic acid, which is an omega-6 fatty acid that is available in sunflower, corn, peanut, soybean and safflower oils, is the most common omega-6 present in the food supply of the US. “It’s a leap to say that omega-6s from ultra-processed foods are the cause. Americans have few omega-3s because they dislike fatty fish such as mackerel, herring and sardines, which are great sources,” said Dr. Bill Harris, who is a professor at the University of South Dakota, while speaking to CNN. “Don’t blame the omega-6s, it’s not their fault — it’s the lack of omega-3 fatty acids that’s the problem,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Omega-6 fatty acid decreasing ability to fight against cancer cells, warns study

The Queensland government on Monday (Dec 9) announced that hundreds of vials containing deadly live virus samples have been lost by a laboratory.

Australia’s&nbsp;public health&nbsp;department, Queensland Health, has been instructed by the government to launch an investigation into what has been called a "major historical breach of biosecurity protocols," as per the media statement.

According to the report, 323 vials of various infectious viruses, which included Hendra virus, Lyssavirus and Hantavirus, went missing from Public Health Virology Laboratory in Queensland in August 2023.

Hendra is a kind of zoonotic (animal-to-human) virus which is only found in Australia.&nbsp;

Hantavirus belongs to a family of viruses which can cause serious illness and death, as per the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. While&nbsp;Lyssavirus is a group of viruses that causes rabies.

The lab in which the samples went missing provides "diagnostic services, surveillance and research for viruses and mosquito and&nbsp;tick-borne pathogens&nbsp;of medical importance," stated the release.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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>

As per the statement, the officials were not aware if the infectious samples&nbsp;stolen or destroyed and said there is "no evidence of risk to the community."

<h2>Government launches investigation into missing case of viruses&nbsp;</h2>

To&nbsp;look for the missing vials of viruses, the government has launched a "Part 9 investigation."

"With such a serious breach of biosecurity protocols and infectious virus samples potentially missing, Queensland Health must investigate what occurred and how to prevent it from happening again," said Minister Timothy Nicholls in the release.

"The Part 9 investigation will ensure nothing has been overlooked in responding to this incident and examine the current policies and procedures in operation today at the laboratory. This investigation will also consider regulatory compliance and staff conduct," he added.

Nicholls said that "proactive measures" have been taken by Queensland Health which included conducting audits to ensure the correct storage of materials and retraining staff on required regulations.

Watch:&nbsp;HIV In Decline: AIDS Cases On Decline Around The World: UN

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Director of AI and Life Sciences at Northeastern University in Boston and PhD Sam Scarpino said that the situation has arisen because of a "critical biosecurity lapse."&nbsp;

"The pathogens reported missing are all high-consequence and could pose a threat to the public," he said while speaking to Fox News Digital.&nbsp;

As per Scarpino, the three pathogens can lead to very high fatality rates in humans.&nbsp;

"Some hantaviruses have case fatality rates of up to 15%, or over 100 times more lethal&nbsp;than COVID-19, while others are more similar to COVID-19 in terms of severity," he stated.&nbsp;

All three pathogens can also put animals and livestock under high risk, he said. "Given the limited ability for any of these pathogens to transmit from person to person, the risk of an epidemic is very low," said Scarpino.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in a media statement, Chief Health Officer Dr. John Gerrard said, "It’s important to note that virus samples would degrade very rapidly outside a low-temperature freezer and become non-infectious. It’s very unlikely that samples were discarded in general waste, as this would be completely outside routine laboratory practice."

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Queensland government on Monday (Dec 9) announced that hundreds of vials containing deadly live virus samples have been lost by a laboratory. Australia’s public health department, Queensland Health, has been instructed by the government to launch an investigation into what has been called a "major historical breach of biosecurity protocols," as per the media statement.

The Queensland government on Monday (Dec 9) announced that hundreds of vials containing deadly live virus samples have been lost by a laboratory. Australia’s public health department, Queensland Health, has been instructed by the government to launch an investigation into what has been called a "major historical breach of biosecurity protocols," as per the media statement. According to the report, 323 vials of various infectious viruses, which included Hendra virus, Lyssavirus and Hantavirus, went missing from Public Health Virology Laboratory in Queensland in August 2023. Hendra is a kind of zoonotic (animal-to-human) virus which is only found in Australia. Hantavirus belongs to a family of viruses which can cause serious illness and death, as per the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. While Lyssavirus is a group of viruses that causes rabies. The lab in which the samples went missing provides "diagnostic services, surveillance and research for viruses and mosquito and tick-borne pathogens of medical importance," stated the release. Also Read: Wuhan lab leak likely behind Covid pandemic, finds US investigation As per the statement, the officials were not aware if the infectious samples stolen or destroyed and said there is "no evidence of risk to the community." Government launches investigation into missing case of viruses To look for the missing vials of viruses, the government has launched a "Part 9 investigation." "With such a serious breach of biosecurity protocols and infectious virus samples potentially missing, Queensland Health must investigate what occurred and how to prevent it from happening again," said Minister Timothy Nicholls in the release. "The Part 9 investigation will ensure nothing has been overlooked in responding to this incident and examine the current policies and procedures in operation today at the laboratory. This investigation will also consider regulatory compliance and staff conduct," he added. Nicholls said that "proactive measures" have been taken by Queensland Health which included conducting audits to ensure the correct storage of materials and retraining staff on required regulations. Watch: HIV In Decline: AIDS Cases On Decline Around The World: UN Director of AI and Life Sciences at Northeastern University in Boston and PhD Sam Scarpino said that the situation has arisen because of a "critical biosecurity lapse." "The pathogens reported missing are all high-consequence and could pose a threat to the public," he said while speaking to Fox News Digital. As per Scarpino, the three pathogens can lead to very high fatality rates in humans. "Some hantaviruses have case fatality rates of up to 15%, or over 100 times more lethal than COVID-19, while others are more similar to COVID-19 in terms of severity," he stated. All three pathogens can also put animals and livestock under high risk, he said. "Given the limited ability for any of these pathogens to transmit from person to person, the risk of an epidemic is very low," said Scarpino. Meanwhile, in a media statement, Chief Health Officer Dr. John Gerrard said, "It’s important to note that virus samples would degrade very rapidly outside a low-temperature freezer and become non-infectious. It’s very unlikely that samples were discarded in general waste, as this would be completely outside routine laboratory practice." (With inputs from agencies)

Hundreds of vials of deadly virus go missing from Australian lab in ‘major biosecurity breach'

Scientists have been left astonished by a humpback whale which made the longest and most unusual migration ever recorded in the world.&nbsp;

The whale was seen in 2017 in the Pacific Ocean off Colombia and then again appeared several years later in 2022 near Zanzibar in the Indian Ocean, which is at a distance of around 13,000 km.

As per experts, this epic journey may have been taken by the whale because of the depletion of food stocks due to climate change.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-largest-coral-is-16-feet-high-300-years-old-but-has-only-just-been-found-776136">World's largest coral is 16 feet high, 300 years old, but has only just been found</a>

Tanzania Cetaceans Programme researcher&nbsp;Ekaterina Kalashnikova said that the feat was "truly impressive and unusual even for this highly migratory species".

Dr Kalashnikova said that there was a high chance that this was the longest travel of a humpback whale ever recorded.&nbsp;

<h2>Why did the humpback whale migrate?</h2>

Throughout the world, humpback whales live in all oceans. Every year they travel long distances and make one of the longest migrations ever done by any other mammal.

They move from tropical breeding grounds to feeding grounds in cooler waters. However, the journey of this whale was more spectacular because it involved two distant breeding grounds.

As per a theory, the abundance of the tiny shrimplike krill is being altered by climate change and since the humpback whales feed on them, they are now forced to travel more in search of food.

Watch:&nbsp;Cape Town Grapples With Whale Tragedies

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There is also a possibility that the whales may have been exploring new breeding grounds because population&nbsp;rebound due to global conservation efforts.

"While actual reasons are unknown, amongst the drivers, there might be global changes in the climate, extreme environmental events (that are more frequent nowadays), and evolutionary mechanisms of the species," Dr Kalashnikova said.&nbsp;

The male whale was among the humpbacks whose photographs were taken on the Pacific coast of Colombia in 2013 and was again seen in the same region in 2017.

While in 2022 it was sighted&nbsp;in Zanzibar in the Indian Ocean. The sightings were at 13,046 km great-circle distance.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Scientists have been left astonished by a humpback whale which made the longest and most unusual migration ever recorded in the world. The whale was seen in 2017 in the Pacific Ocean off Colombia and then again appeared several years later in 2022 near Zanzibar in the Indian Ocean, which is at a distance of around 13,000 km.

Scientists have been left astonished by a humpback whale which made the longest and most unusual migration ever recorded in the world. The whale was seen in 2017 in the Pacific Ocean off Colombia and then again appeared several years later in 2022 near Zanzibar in the Indian Ocean, which is at a distance of around 13,000 km. As per experts, this epic journey may have been taken by the whale because of the depletion of food stocks due to climate change. Also Read: World's largest coral is 16 feet high, 300 years old, but has only just been found Tanzania Cetaceans Programme researcher Ekaterina Kalashnikova said that the feat was "truly impressive and unusual even for this highly migratory species". Dr Kalashnikova said that there was a high chance that this was the longest travel of a humpback whale ever recorded. Why did the humpback whale migrate? Throughout the world, humpback whales live in all oceans. Every year they travel long distances and make one of the longest migrations ever done by any other mammal. They move from tropical breeding grounds to feeding grounds in cooler waters. However, the journey of this whale was more spectacular because it involved two distant breeding grounds. As per a theory, the abundance of the tiny shrimplike krill is being altered by climate change and since the humpback whales feed on them, they are now forced to travel more in search of food. Watch: Cape Town Grapples With Whale Tragedies There is also a possibility that the whales may have been exploring new breeding grounds because population rebound due to global conservation efforts. "While actual reasons are unknown, amongst the drivers, there might be global changes in the climate, extreme environmental events (that are more frequent nowadays), and evolutionary mechanisms of the species," Dr Kalashnikova said. The male whale was among the humpbacks whose photographs were taken on the Pacific coast of Colombia in 2013 and was again seen in the same region in 2017. While in 2022 it was sighted in Zanzibar in the Indian Ocean. The sightings were at 13,046 km great-circle distance. (With inputs from agencies)

Humpback whale makes world's longest and most unusual migration

In new research, scientists have suggested that those who start their day with exercise or brisk walking also improve their memory and cognitive performance.&nbsp;

In a study, conducted by University College London, the researchers suggested that 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity and at least six hours of sleep at night can lead to improved cognitive performance the next day.

“The takeaway is just [that] physical activity is good for your brain and good sleep helps that,” said Dr Mikaela Bloomberg, who is the first author of the study.

As per the researchers, physical activity has earlier been associated with a reduced risk of dementia and short-term improvements in cognitive function.&nbsp;

However, as stated by Bloomberg, many studies that look at short-term impacts were based on laboratory data and tracked responses on a timescale of minutes to hours.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mysterious-infection-kills-79-in-congo-japan-and-hong-kong-increase-vigilance-782250">Mysterious infection kills 79 in Congo; Japan and Hong Kong increase vigilance</a>

As per these studies, physical activities can also lead to increased blood flow to the brain and cause stimulation of chemicals, which are known as neurotransmitters.

In the new study, researchers have observed the short-term impact of physical activity carried out in real life and not only found how it benefits the brain but also revealed that its impact lasts longer than expected.

<h2>Here's how scientists carried out the study</h2>

In the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, Bloomberg and her colleagues reported how 76 adults, aged between 50 and 83 years old and not suffering from cognitive impairment or dementia, were made to wear an accelerometer for eight days to track their physical activity and sleep as they continued with their normal lives.

Every day, participants were made to go through simple online cognitive tests to probe their processing speed, memory, and attention, among other faculties.

According to the team, the results revealed that every 30-minute increase in physical activity corresponded to a 2 to 5 per cent increase in working and episodic memory scores the next day.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;UK Health Services Strained as NHS Faces Record Flu Surge

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Bloomberg said that the next step is carrying out similar tests in people with cognitive impairments.

“The idea is for people who have mild cognitive impairment, a very minor boost in cognitive performance on a day-to-day basis can make a huge difference,” she added.

The study is focused on how human brains can be protected as we age.&nbsp;

“We all experience cognitive decline as we get older, it’s a normal part of ageing,” said Bloomberg.&nbsp;

“So that’s the age group where we start to think: what are these little things we can do on a day-to-day basis to improve our cognitive function and our independence and social participation?" he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In new research, scientists have suggested that those who start their day with exercise or brisk walking also improve their memory and cognitive performance. In a study, conducted by University College London, the researchers suggested that 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity and at least six hours of sleep at night can lead to improved cognitive performance the next day.

In new research, scientists have suggested that those who start their day with exercise or brisk walking also improve their memory and cognitive performance. In a study, conducted by University College London, the researchers suggested that 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity and at least six hours of sleep at night can lead to improved cognitive performance the next day. “The takeaway is just [that] physical activity is good for your brain and good sleep helps that,” said Dr Mikaela Bloomberg, who is the first author of the study. As per the researchers, physical activity has earlier been associated with a reduced risk of dementia and short-term improvements in cognitive function. However, as stated by Bloomberg, many studies that look at short-term impacts were based on laboratory data and tracked responses on a timescale of minutes to hours. Also Read: Mysterious infection kills 79 in Congo; Japan and Hong Kong increase vigilance As per these studies, physical activities can also lead to increased blood flow to the brain and cause stimulation of chemicals, which are known as neurotransmitters. In the new study, researchers have observed the short-term impact of physical activity carried out in real life and not only found how it benefits the brain but also revealed that its impact lasts longer than expected. Here's how scientists carried out the study In the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, Bloomberg and her colleagues reported how 76 adults, aged between 50 and 83 years old and not suffering from cognitive impairment or dementia, were made to wear an accelerometer for eight days to track their physical activity and sleep as they continued with their normal lives. Every day, participants were made to go through simple online cognitive tests to probe their processing speed, memory, and attention, among other faculties. According to the team, the results revealed that every 30-minute increase in physical activity corresponded to a 2 to 5 per cent increase in working and episodic memory scores the next day. Watch: UK Health Services Strained as NHS Faces Record Flu Surge Bloomberg said that the next step is carrying out similar tests in people with cognitive impairments. “The idea is for people who have mild cognitive impairment, a very minor boost in cognitive performance on a day-to-day basis can make a huge difference,” she added. The study is focused on how human brains can be protected as we age. “We all experience cognitive decline as we get older, it’s a normal part of ageing,” said Bloomberg. “So that’s the age group where we start to think: what are these little things we can do on a day-to-day basis to improve our cognitive function and our independence and social participation?" he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Researchers say 30 minutes of exercise improves memory, enhances cognitive performance

Three-quarters of Earth’s land has become permanently drier in the last three decades, according to a recent research by the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), which was published on Monday, December 9.

According to the report, drylands now make up 40 per cent of the world’s land, excluding Antarctica. Those areas have turned from humid regions to arid ones, where agricultural activities are no longer possible.

Drylands are regions where most of the rainfall water is lost to evaporation, while only a small 10 per cent is left for the vegetation. According to the study, two-thirds of the land on earth will retain less water by midcentury.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asteroid-that-hit-us-had-a-surprising-effect-on-earth-study-finds-781661">Asteroid that hit US had a surprising effect on Earth, study finds</a>

The scientists discovered that the growing aridity between the years 1990 and 2015 in Africa has resulted in a 12 per cent loss in its GDP. In particular, some crops like maize are significantly affected, with yields projected to be halved in Kenya by 2050.

It is predicted that in the next half decade, Africa will see a decline of 16 per cent of its GDP while Asia will witness about 7 per cent.

“Unlike droughts—temporary periods of low rainfall—aridity represents a permanent, unrelenting transformation,” said Ibrahim Thiaw, executive secretary of the UN convention to combat desertification (UNCCD).

“Droughts end. When an area’s climate becomes drier, however, the ability to return to previous conditions is lost. The drier climates now affecting vast lands across the globe will not return to how they were, and this change is redefining life on Earth.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-abnormally-large-skull-of-lost-human-species-in-asia-781439">Scientists discover abnormally large skull of 'lost' human species in Asia</a>

A global conference under the UNCCD in Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh that will conclude on Friday, December 13, is halfway through. Despite being one of the world’s most arid countries and a driving force for desertification across the world, Saudi Arabia has shown reluctance till now, including at the UN framework convention on climate change conference of the parties (Cop) in Azerbaijan the previous month.

According to the report by UNCCD Science-Policy Interface (SPI), the UN body for assessing the science of land degradation and drought, human-caused climate change is the primary driver of this shift as the world fails to tackle the greenhouse gas emissions, intensive agriculture, and other human activities. This leads to warming of the planet and affects the rainfall, plant life, and evaporation, leading to increased aridity.

As of 2020, about 30 per cent of the world’s population, which is 2.3 billion people, lived in dryland areas, according to UN SPI. By 2100, the number is expected to double if the carbon emissions are not controlled.

(With inputs from agencies)

Three-quarters of Earth’s land has become permanently drier in the last three decades, according to a recent research by the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), which was published on Monday, December 9.

Three-quarters of Earth’s land has become permanently drier in the last three decades, according to a recent research by the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), which was published on Monday, December 9. According to the report, drylands now make up 40 per cent of the world’s land, excluding Antarctica. Those areas have turned from humid regions to arid ones, where agricultural activities are no longer possible. Drylands are regions where most of the rainfall water is lost to evaporation, while only a small 10 per cent is left for the vegetation. According to the study, two-thirds of the land on earth will retain less water by midcentury. Also read | Asteroid that hit US had a surprising effect on Earth, study finds The scientists discovered that the growing aridity between the years 1990 and 2015 in Africa has resulted in a 12 per cent loss in its GDP. In particular, some crops like maize are significantly affected, with yields projected to be halved in Kenya by 2050. It is predicted that in the next half decade, Africa will see a decline of 16 per cent of its GDP while Asia will witness about 7 per cent. “Unlike droughts—temporary periods of low rainfall—aridity represents a permanent, unrelenting transformation,” said Ibrahim Thiaw, executive secretary of the UN convention to combat desertification (UNCCD). “Droughts end. When an area’s climate becomes drier, however, the ability to return to previous conditions is lost. The drier climates now affecting vast lands across the globe will not return to how they were, and this change is redefining life on Earth.” Also read | Scientists discover abnormally large skull of 'lost' human species in Asia A global conference under the UNCCD in Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh that will conclude on Friday, December 13, is halfway through. Despite being one of the world’s most arid countries and a driving force for desertification across the world, Saudi Arabia has shown reluctance till now, including at the UN framework convention on climate change conference of the parties (Cop) in Azerbaijan the previous month. According to the report by UNCCD Science-Policy Interface (SPI), the UN body for assessing the science of land degradation and drought, human-caused climate change is the primary driver of this shift as the world fails to tackle the greenhouse gas emissions, intensive agriculture, and other human activities. This leads to warming of the planet and affects the rainfall, plant life, and evaporation, leading to increased aridity. As of 2020, about 30 per cent of the world’s population, which is 2.3 billion people, lived in dryland areas, according to UN SPI. By 2100, the number is expected to double if the carbon emissions are not controlled. (With inputs from agencies)

Three-quarters of the Earth’s land has become permanently drier, says UN report

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams recently engaged with students from the Sunita Williams Elementary School in a virtual session. The interaction was aimed at providing insight into how astronauts live aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and the various challenges they face in space.

During the session with students, Williams demonstrated how people in space drink liquids in a zero-gravity environment.

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A student gets a demonstration from astronaut, Sunita Williams on how to drink liquids in space. Williams and Barry "Butch" Wilmore hit the six-month mark in space after becoming the first to ride Boeing's new Starliner capsule on what was supposed to be a week-long test flight.… <a href="https://t.co/1UQSgvcHsN">pic.twitter.com/1UQSgvcHsN</a>
— Francynancy (@FranMooMoo) <a href="https://twitter.com/FranMooMoo/status/1864858918184456274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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On ISS, fluids behave differently, making it difficult to drink them from normal cups. The astronauts have to adapt to unique ways to consume them in space. Williams described how astronauts use special pouches to drink liquids that are designed to prevent liquids from floating away in microgravity conditions.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-astronaut-sunita-williams-is-growing-lettuce-on-iss-heres-why-781706">NASA astronaut Sunita Williams is growing lettuce on ISS. Here’s why</a>

The virtual event with the students from the school located in her hometown of Needham, Massachusetts, allowed young minds to interact with the astronaut and ask questions, offering them an opportunity to engage with her. The session that merged education and inspiration sparked curiosity among the students. It allowed them to gain knowledge of how things work in space and encouraged them to explore science and space.

<h2>Sunita Williams: An inspiration for many</h2>

Currently, the commander of the ISS, Williams has completed six months aboard the space station along with astronaut Barry "Butch" Wilmore. The two boarded Boeing's Starliner capsule for a week-long test flight but got stuck in space after the spacecraft faced technical issues, making it unfit to return. She is expected to return in February 2025 aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japanese-engineers-build-ai-powered-human-washing-machine-that-cleanses-body-in-15-minutes-782473">Japanese engineers build AI-powered human washing machine that cleans body in 15 minutes</a>

William is engaged in various research projects that may prove to be significant milestones in her career and space exploration for mankind. She is expected to participate in a spacewalk as part of the ISS’s Expedition 72 crew in 2025.

Williams said, “Space is my happy place,” reflecting on her career. Her passion for space and commitment to missions is an inspiration for the budding generation of future scientists.

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams recently engaged with students from the Sunita Williams Elementary School in a virtual session. The interaction was aimed at providing insight into how astronauts live aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and the various challenges they face in space.

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams recently engaged with students from the Sunita Williams Elementary School in a virtual session. The interaction was aimed at providing insight into how astronauts live aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and the various challenges they face in space. During the session with students, Williams demonstrated how people in space drink liquids in a zero-gravity environment. A student gets a demonstration from astronaut, Sunita Williams on how to drink liquids in space. Williams and Barry "Butch" Wilmore hit the six-month mark in space after becoming the first to ride Boeing's new Starliner capsule on what was supposed to be a week-long test flight.… pic.twitter.com/1UQSgvcHsN — Francynancy (@FranMooMoo) December 6, 2024 × On ISS, fluids behave differently, making it difficult to drink them from normal cups. The astronauts have to adapt to unique ways to consume them in space. Williams described how astronauts use special pouches to drink liquids that are designed to prevent liquids from floating away in microgravity conditions. Also read | NASA astronaut Sunita Williams is growing lettuce on ISS. Here’s why The virtual event with the students from the school located in her hometown of Needham, Massachusetts, allowed young minds to interact with the astronaut and ask questions, offering them an opportunity to engage with her. The session that merged education and inspiration sparked curiosity among the students. It allowed them to gain knowledge of how things work in space and encouraged them to explore science and space. Sunita Williams: An inspiration for many Currently, the commander of the ISS, Williams has completed six months aboard the space station along with astronaut Barry "Butch" Wilmore. The two boarded Boeing's Starliner capsule for a week-long test flight but got stuck in space after the spacecraft faced technical issues, making it unfit to return. She is expected to return in February 2025 aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. Also read | Japanese engineers build AI-powered human washing machine that cleans body in 15 minutes William is engaged in various research projects that may prove to be significant milestones in her career and space exploration for mankind. She is expected to participate in a spacewalk as part of the ISS’s Expedition 72 crew in 2025. Williams said, “Space is my happy place,” reflecting on her career. Her passion for space and commitment to missions is an inspiration for the budding generation of future scientists. (With inputs from agencies)

Sunita Williams demonstrates students how astronauts drink liquid in space

For people who love to unwind after a long day by taking a relaxing bath but do not have enough time for it, Japanese engineers have created something that may be perfect for them.&nbsp;

The 'Mirai Ningen Sentakuki' or 'human washing machine of the future' built by an Osaka-based showerhead company, Science Co., can wash and dry your body after analysing it with AI technology.

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🚨AI-POWERED HUMAN WASHING MACHINE: BECAUSE WHO HAS TIME TO SCRUB? 
 
Japan’s "Mirai Ningen Sentakuki" is here to wash your...everything. 
 
A 15-minute AI-powered bath capsule uses jets, microbubbles, and calming videos to cleanse bodies and soothe egos. 
 
Chairman Yasuaki Aoyama… <a href="https://t.co/0GBwOtCV9r">pic.twitter.com/0GBwOtCV9r</a>
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/1863839198609870945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The bizarre device works similarly to a washing machine and only takes 15 minutes to complete a human rinse cycle. The futuristic machine, which resembles the cockpit of a fighter jet or a pod, will be showcased at the Osaka Kansai Expo in Japan, where 1,000 people may get a chance to try it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-passengers-may-experience-5g-connectivity-in-1000kmh-trains-says-study-780633">China: Passengers may experience 5G connectivity in 1,000km/h trains, says study</a>

<h2>How does the device work?</h2>

Once a user enters the plastic pod, it will fill halfway up with warm water. After that, high-speed water jets containing extremely small air bubbles are blasted. The bubbles burst and create a small but powerful pressure wave that removes the dirt from the skin. The same process is used for cleaning electrical parts that can’t be washed using chemicals.

Science Co. says that this human washing machine not only cleans the body but can also ‘wash the mind’. During the wash, the electrodes in the chair gather the biological information of the user and adjust the water temperature accordingly. The AI sensor interprets whether the user is calm or excited and plays specifically selected videos inside the pod to calm the nerves.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/are-we-living-in-a-simulation-physicist-suggests-master-ai-is-controlling-an-advanced-ai-world-781064">Are humans trapped in a simulation? Physicist suggests 'master AI' is controlling an 'advanced AI world'</a>

According to the company, the machine can result in a quick wash, and make the bather feel physically and mentally refreshed.

The device is based on a 50-year-old design, originally designed by Sanyo Electric Co., now Panasonic Holdings Corp. Although showcased at the World Exposition, the 1970s device did not make it to the markets.

Science Co. has not confirmed yet when the machine will be available&nbsp;for purchase and what will be its cost.

(With inputs from agencies)

For people who love to unwind after a long day by taking a relaxing bath but do not have enough time for it, Japanese engineers have created something that may be perfect for them.

For people who love to unwind after a long day by taking a relaxing bath but do not have enough time for it, Japanese engineers have created something that may be perfect for them. The 'Mirai Ningen Sentakuki' or 'human washing machine of the future' built by an Osaka-based showerhead company, Science Co., can wash and dry your body after analysing it with AI technology. 🚨AI-POWERED HUMAN WASHING MACHINE: BECAUSE WHO HAS TIME TO SCRUB? Japan’s "Mirai Ningen Sentakuki" is here to wash your...everything. A 15-minute AI-powered bath capsule uses jets, microbubbles, and calming videos to cleanse bodies and soothe egos. Chairman Yasuaki Aoyama… pic.twitter.com/0GBwOtCV9r — Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) December 3, 2024 × The bizarre device works similarly to a washing machine and only takes 15 minutes to complete a human rinse cycle. The futuristic machine, which resembles the cockpit of a fighter jet or a pod, will be showcased at the Osaka Kansai Expo in Japan, where 1,000 people may get a chance to try it. Also read | China: Passengers may experience 5G connectivity in 1,000km/h trains, says study How does the device work? Once a user enters the plastic pod, it will fill halfway up with warm water. After that, high-speed water jets containing extremely small air bubbles are blasted. The bubbles burst and create a small but powerful pressure wave that removes the dirt from the skin. The same process is used for cleaning electrical parts that can’t be washed using chemicals. Science Co. says that this human washing machine not only cleans the body but can also ‘wash the mind’. During the wash, the electrodes in the chair gather the biological information of the user and adjust the water temperature accordingly. The AI sensor interprets whether the user is calm or excited and plays specifically selected videos inside the pod to calm the nerves. Also read | Are humans trapped in a simulation? Physicist suggests 'master AI' is controlling an 'advanced AI world' According to the company, the machine can result in a quick wash, and make the bather feel physically and mentally refreshed. The device is based on a 50-year-old design, originally designed by Sanyo Electric Co., now Panasonic Holdings Corp. Although showcased at the World Exposition, the 1970s device did not make it to the markets. Science Co. has not confirmed yet when the machine will be available for purchase and what will be its cost. (With inputs from agencies)

Japanese engineers build AI-powered human washing machine that cleans body in 15 minutes

Scientists in Australia have gathered evidence that our universe is constantly vibrating. They used the largest gravitational wave detector to confirm the earlier reports that there is an ongoing rumble which is likely caused by black holes at the centre of galaxies colliding with each other.

The detector looked at several rapidly spinning neutron stars across the galaxy and discovered that the gravitational wave background might be louder than previously thought, The Conversation reported.

The study carried out by Matthew Miles, Swinburne University of Technology and Rowina Nathan, Monash University, was published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.

Gravitational waves are ripples in the fabric of space and time. The collision of incredibly dense and massive objects, such as black holes, creates these waves. To study black holes, scientists look for these gravitational waves which are emitted when the black holes orbit around or near each other.

The biggest black holes emit the slowest and most powerful waves. Scientists didn't know about their existence until last year. The current detector on Earth can notice high-frequency gravitational waves which occur when smaller black holes collide.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asteroid-that-hit-us-had-a-surprising-effect-on-earth-study-finds-781661">Asteroid that hit US had a surprising effect on Earth, study finds</a>

In their latest paper published on Dec 3, scientists say that they found more evidence hinting at the existence of low-frequency gravitational waves. They say their findings suggest that the universe is more active than anticipated.

<h2>Supermassive black holes</h2>

Supermassive black holes, directly observed once for the first time in 2019, are believed to exist at the centre of most galaxies. They are billions of times the mass of our sun, and hard to study.

"When two galaxies merge, the black holes at their centres begin to spiral toward each other. In this process they send out slow, powerful gravitational waves that give us an opportunity to study them," the authors said.

They did so using another cosmic wonder&nbsp;called pulsars. These are like lighthouses in space that spin hundreds of times per second and send out pulses of radiation from far away. They used the MeerKAT radio telescope in South Africa to observe these spinning lighthouses.

The authors said, "If we observe many pulsars over the same period of time, and we’re wrong about when the pulses hit us in a very specific way, then we know a gravitational wave is stretching or squeezing the space between the Earth and the pulsars."

"Instead of seeing just one wave, we expect to see a cosmic ocean full of waves crisscrossing in all directions: the echoing ripples of all the galactic mergers in the history of the universe."

MeerKAT helped them find a pattern associated with a gravitational wave background and led them to something never seen before.&nbsp;"The pattern representing how space and time between Earth and the pulsars changes due to gravitational waves passing between them is more powerful than we expected," they said.

This led them to conclude that there are a lot more supermassive black holes than earlier imagined. They created detailed maps of the gravitational wave background using their data. Scientists also think that these waves might be coming from other sources, such as the early universe, or other cosmic events.

The team is undertaking further studies to learn more about these waves.

Scientists in Australia have gathered evidence that our universe is constantly vibrating. They used the largest gravitational wave detector to confirm the earlier reports that there is an ongoing rumble which is likely caused by black holes at the centre of galaxies colliding with each other.

Scientists in Australia have gathered evidence that our universe is constantly vibrating. They used the largest gravitational wave detector to confirm the earlier reports that there is an ongoing rumble which is likely caused by black holes at the centre of galaxies colliding with each other. The detector looked at several rapidly spinning neutron stars across the galaxy and discovered that the gravitational wave background might be louder than previously thought, The Conversation reported. The study carried out by Matthew Miles, Swinburne University of Technology and Rowina Nathan, Monash University, was published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society. Gravitational waves are ripples in the fabric of space and time. The collision of incredibly dense and massive objects, such as black holes, creates these waves. To study black holes, scientists look for these gravitational waves which are emitted when the black holes orbit around or near each other. The biggest black holes emit the slowest and most powerful waves. Scientists didn't know about their existence until last year. The current detector on Earth can notice high-frequency gravitational waves which occur when smaller black holes collide. Also Read: Asteroid that hit US had a surprising effect on Earth, study finds In their latest paper published on Dec 3, scientists say that they found more evidence hinting at the existence of low-frequency gravitational waves. They say their findings suggest that the universe is more active than anticipated. Supermassive black holes Supermassive black holes, directly observed once for the first time in 2019, are believed to exist at the centre of most galaxies. They are billions of times the mass of our sun, and hard to study. "When two galaxies merge, the black holes at their centres begin to spiral toward each other. In this process they send out slow, powerful gravitational waves that give us an opportunity to study them," the authors said. They did so using another cosmic wonder called pulsars. These are like lighthouses in space that spin hundreds of times per second and send out pulses of radiation from far away. They used the MeerKAT radio telescope in South Africa to observe these spinning lighthouses. The authors said, "If we observe many pulsars over the same period of time, and we’re wrong about when the pulses hit us in a very specific way, then we know a gravitational wave is stretching or squeezing the space between the Earth and the pulsars." "Instead of seeing just one wave, we expect to see a cosmic ocean full of waves crisscrossing in all directions: the echoing ripples of all the galactic mergers in the history of the universe." MeerKAT helped them find a pattern associated with a gravitational wave background and led them to something never seen before. "The pattern representing how space and time between Earth and the pulsars changes due to gravitational waves passing between them is more powerful than we expected," they said. This led them to conclude that there are a lot more supermassive black holes than earlier imagined. They created detailed maps of the gravitational wave background using their data. Scientists also think that these waves might be coming from other sources, such as the early universe, or other cosmic events. The team is undertaking further studies to learn more about these waves.

Scientists say the universe is constantly vibrating. What's causing it?

Scientists have developed a battery that can power devices for thousands of years. Scientists from the University of Bristol and the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) have created&nbsp;the world's first carbon-14 diamond battery. They say that the revolutionary energy source can be used in various environments and&nbsp;become a sustainable solution.

The team says that the battery leverages the radioactive decay of carbon-14, a radioactive isotope commonly used in radiocarbon dating, to generate electricity. The carbon-14 battery sits in a case of diamond which provides it with strength and resilience. This helps the battery safely capture radiation and produce power.

The diamond battery works like a solar panel, except that instead of converting light into electricity, it relies on fast-moving electrons from radioactive decay. Carbon-14 emits short-range radiation which does not leak because of the diamond encasing. The casing absorbs the radiation, after which low levels of electricity is generated by the battery.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/are-we-living-in-a-simulation-physicist-suggests-master-ai-is-controlling-an-advanced-ai-world-781064">Physicist suggests 'master AI' is controlling an 'advanced AI world'</a>

Scientists are excited by this battery and its several applications as it has a lifespan of thousands of years. The team said that carbon-14 has a half-life of 5,700 years. This means that even after thousands of years the battery will retain half of its power.

Stressing the safety of the battery, Sarah Clark, Director of Tritium Fuel Cycle at UKAEA, said, "Diamond batteries offer a safe, sustainable way to provide continuous microwatt levels of power. They are an emerging technology that uses a manufactured diamond to safely encase small amounts of carbon-14."

Besides, they also offer a better way to reduce nuclear waste since the carbon-14 in the batteries is extracted from graphite blocks, a byproduct of nuclear fission reactors.&nbsp;

<h2>Uses of diamond battery</h2>

The researchers say the battery can be used in a number of devices and areas, especially where conventional power sources are not a practical solution. It can prove particularly helpful in healthcare where it can be used to power pacemakers, hearing aids, and ocular devices. Patients won't need to replace batteries as the diamond battery can last for years.

They can also prove to be of great help in space missions. A battery whose power never ends can be fitted into spacecraft and satellites to keep them working for several years without worrying about the power to replace or charge the power source.&nbsp;

Scientists have developed a battery that can power devices for thousands of years. Scientists from the University of Bristol and the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) have created the world's first carbon-14 diamond battery.

Scientists have developed a battery that can power devices for thousands of years. Scientists from the University of Bristol and the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) have created the world's first carbon-14 diamond battery. They say that the revolutionary energy source can be used in various environments and become a sustainable solution. The team says that the battery leverages the radioactive decay of carbon-14, a radioactive isotope commonly used in radiocarbon dating, to generate electricity. The carbon-14 battery sits in a case of diamond which provides it with strength and resilience. This helps the battery safely capture radiation and produce power. The diamond battery works like a solar panel, except that instead of converting light into electricity, it relies on fast-moving electrons from radioactive decay. Carbon-14 emits short-range radiation which does not leak because of the diamond encasing. The casing absorbs the radiation, after which low levels of electricity is generated by the battery. Also Read: Physicist suggests 'master AI' is controlling an 'advanced AI world' Scientists are excited by this battery and its several applications as it has a lifespan of thousands of years. The team said that carbon-14 has a half-life of 5,700 years. This means that even after thousands of years the battery will retain half of its power. Stressing the safety of the battery, Sarah Clark, Director of Tritium Fuel Cycle at UKAEA, said, "Diamond batteries offer a safe, sustainable way to provide continuous microwatt levels of power. They are an emerging technology that uses a manufactured diamond to safely encase small amounts of carbon-14." Besides, they also offer a better way to reduce nuclear waste since the carbon-14 in the batteries is extracted from graphite blocks, a byproduct of nuclear fission reactors. Uses of diamond battery The researchers say the battery can be used in a number of devices and areas, especially where conventional power sources are not a practical solution. It can prove particularly helpful in healthcare where it can be used to power pacemakers, hearing aids, and ocular devices. Patients won't need to replace batteries as the diamond battery can last for years. They can also prove to be of great help in space missions. A battery whose power never ends can be fitted into spacecraft and satellites to keep them working for several years without worrying about the power to replace or charge the power source.

World's first diamond battery can power devices for thousands of years

A unique astronomical event will take place on December 7 when Earth will align itself between Jupiter and the Sun.&nbsp;

Due to this alignment, the gas giant will remain visible all through the night and the skywatchers will get a rare chance to see the biggest planet of our solar system.

As per the experts, Jupiter will be 611 million kilometres or 380 million miles away from Earth at approximately 5:00 am (local time) on December 6.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/space-station-avoids-major-collision-with-space-junk-without-the-manoeuvre-777566">Space station avoids major collision with space junk. 'Without the manoeuvre...'</a>

This closeness between the two planets will guarantee that Jupiter will shine its brightest and give skywatchers the best viewing opportunity to take a look at its atmospheric belts and Galilean moons.

<h2>Here's how you can spot Jupiter</h2>

On December 7, the sky-gazers should try to look east-northeast close to the constellation Taurus. Jupiter is expected to rise at sunset and set at sunrise.&nbsp;

Using a telescope, people can look at the planet's intricate cloud bands and spot its four largest moons which are Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto.

During this celestial alignment, the sunlight will get reflected from Jupiter and take nearly 34 minutes to reach Earth. It will even be visible to the stargazers across India.&nbsp;

As per Forbes, the faster orbit of Earth will momentarily place it between the Sun and Jupiter.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/coming-soon-click-a-space-selfie-with-earth-photobombing-you-781034">Coming soon! Click a space selfie with Earth photobombing you</a>

Eventually, 100 per cent of the disc of Jupiter will be visible. This means Jupiter will be in opposition to the Earth and will become extremely bright.&nbsp;

<h2>Here's what is 'full' Jupiter</h2>

A full Jupiter means the planet's opposition to the Earth because the Sun fully illuminates its sun-facing side.&nbsp;

From Earth, people can see the sun-facing side of Jupiter and much similar to a full moon, 50 per cent of the moon remains always lit by the Sun. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A unique astronomical event will take place on December 7 when Earth will align itself between Jupiter and the Sun. Due to this alignment, the gas giant will remain visible all through the night and the skywatchers will get a rare chance to see the biggest planet of our solar system.

A unique astronomical event will take place on December 7 when Earth will align itself between Jupiter and the Sun. Due to this alignment, the gas giant will remain visible all through the night and the skywatchers will get a rare chance to see the biggest planet of our solar system. As per the experts, Jupiter will be 611 million kilometres or 380 million miles away from Earth at approximately 5:00 am (local time) on December 6. Also Read: Space station avoids major collision with space junk. 'Without the manoeuvre...' This closeness between the two planets will guarantee that Jupiter will shine its brightest and give skywatchers the best viewing opportunity to take a look at its atmospheric belts and Galilean moons. Here's how you can spot Jupiter On December 7, the sky-gazers should try to look east-northeast close to the constellation Taurus. Jupiter is expected to rise at sunset and set at sunrise. Using a telescope, people can look at the planet's intricate cloud bands and spot its four largest moons which are Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto. During this celestial alignment, the sunlight will get reflected from Jupiter and take nearly 34 minutes to reach Earth. It will even be visible to the stargazers across India. As per Forbes, the faster orbit of Earth will momentarily place it between the Sun and Jupiter. Also Read: Coming soon! Click a space selfie with Earth photobombing you Eventually, 100 per cent of the disc of Jupiter will be visible. This means Jupiter will be in opposition to the Earth and will become extremely bright. Here's what is 'full' Jupiter A full Jupiter means the planet's opposition to the Earth because the Sun fully illuminates its sun-facing side. From Earth, people can see the sun-facing side of Jupiter and much similar to a full moon, 50 per cent of the moon remains always lit by the Sun. (With inputs from agencies)

Earth is set to align between Jupiter and Sun in rare astronomical event on Dec 7

Scientists have made it possible for people to see the real face of Santa Claus for the first time in nearly 1,700 years.&nbsp;

Saint Nicholas of Myra was a Christian saint who was known to give gifts to people and was the inspiration behind the Dutch folk figure of Sinterklaas who later became Santa Claus.&nbsp;

However, there was no image of the man who was behind the myth and what the world saw was the representations of 'Old Saint Nick' who dated to centuries after his death in 343 AD.

Now for the first time, the man's actual face has been revealed after it was rebuilt forensically by the experts using his skull.&nbsp;

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/lonely-dolphin-caught-speaking-to-himself-by-scientists-heres-how-777703">&nbsp;'Lonely' dolphin caught speaking to himself by scientists. Here's how</a>

The lead author of the new study Cicero Moraes said it was a "strong and gentle face". He added it was also "curiously compatible" with the "broad face" as was described in the poem "A Visit From St Nicholas" which dates back to 1823 and is widely known as "Twas The Night Before Christmas".&nbsp;

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🚨 SANTA CLAUS UNMASKED 
 
For the first time in nearly 1,700 years, scientists have revealed the reconstructed face of Saint Nicholas of Myra, the inspiration behind Santa Claus. 
 
Using his skull, experts created a "strong and gentle" visage, complete with a "broad face" and a… <a href="https://t.co/d3lALEp0Gl">pic.twitter.com/d3lALEp0Gl</a>
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/1864263010111406536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"The skull has a very robust appearance, generating a strong face, as its dimensions on the horizontal axis are larger than average. This resulted in a 'broad face' curiously compatible with the 1823 poem. This characteristic, combined with a thick beard, is very reminiscent of the figure we have in mind when we think of Santa Claus," Moraes added.&nbsp;

<h2>Here's how scientists recreated the face of Santa Claus</h2>

Co-author of the study and expert on the lives of saints Jos Luis Lira emphasised the importance of the real Nicholas of Myra.&nbsp;

"He was a bishop who lived in the early centuries of Christianity and had the courage to defend and live the teachings of Jesus Christ, even at the risk of his life," he said.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Why People Age Faster During Space Travel? All You Need To Know

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-people-age-faster-during-space-travel-all-you-need-to-know-781607/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"He was described as an old man who punished misbehaving children and rewarded those who behaved well with gifts. The image of Santa Claus as we know it today is based on an illustration by Thomas Nast for Harper's Weekly magazine in early 1863," Lira added.

"This in turn was inspired by the description in the 1823 poem A Visit from St. Nicholas attributed to Clement Clarke Moore," she said.&nbsp;

For creating the face, the data collected in the 1950s by Luigi Martino was used by Moraes and his team with permission from the Centro Studi Nicolaiani.&nbsp;

"We initially reconstructed the skull in 3D using this data. We then traced the profile of the face using statistical projections. We supplemented this with the anatomical deformation technique, in which the tomography of a living person's head is adjusted so that the virtual donor's skull matches that of the saint. The final face is an interpolation of all this information, seeking anatomical and statistical coherence," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists have made it possible for people to see the real face of Santa Claus for the first time in nearly 1,700 years. Saint Nicholas of Myra was a Christian saint who was known to give gifts to people and was the inspiration behind the Dutch folk figure of Sinterklaas who later became Santa Claus.

Scientists have made it possible for people to see the real face of Santa Claus for the first time in nearly 1,700 years. Saint Nicholas of Myra was a Christian saint who was known to give gifts to people and was the inspiration behind the Dutch folk figure of Sinterklaas who later became Santa Claus. However, there was no image of the man who was behind the myth and what the world saw was the representations of 'Old Saint Nick' who dated to centuries after his death in 343 AD. Now for the first time, the man's actual face has been revealed after it was rebuilt forensically by the experts using his skull. Also Read: 'Lonely' dolphin caught speaking to himself by scientists. Here's how The lead author of the new study Cicero Moraes said it was a "strong and gentle face". He added it was also "curiously compatible" with the "broad face" as was described in the poem "A Visit From St Nicholas" which dates back to 1823 and is widely known as "Twas The Night Before Christmas". 🚨 SANTA CLAUS UNMASKED For the first time in nearly 1,700 years, scientists have revealed the reconstructed face of Saint Nicholas of Myra, the inspiration behind Santa Claus. Using his skull, experts created a "strong and gentle" visage, complete with a "broad face" and a… pic.twitter.com/d3lALEp0Gl — Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) December 4, 2024 × "The skull has a very robust appearance, generating a strong face, as its dimensions on the horizontal axis are larger than average. This resulted in a 'broad face' curiously compatible with the 1823 poem. This characteristic, combined with a thick beard, is very reminiscent of the figure we have in mind when we think of Santa Claus," Moraes added. Here's how scientists recreated the face of Santa Claus Co-author of the study and expert on the lives of saints Jos Luis Lira emphasised the importance of the real Nicholas of Myra. "He was a bishop who lived in the early centuries of Christianity and had the courage to defend and live the teachings of Jesus Christ, even at the risk of his life," he said. Watch: Why People Age Faster During Space Travel? All You Need To Know "He was described as an old man who punished misbehaving children and rewarded those who behaved well with gifts. The image of Santa Claus as we know it today is based on an illustration by Thomas Nast for Harper's Weekly magazine in early 1863," Lira added. "This in turn was inspired by the description in the 1823 poem A Visit from St. Nicholas attributed to Clement Clarke Moore," she said. For creating the face, the data collected in the 1950s by Luigi Martino was used by Moraes and his team with permission from the Centro Studi Nicolaiani. "We initially reconstructed the skull in 3D using this data. We then traced the profile of the face using statistical projections. We supplemented this with the anatomical deformation technique, in which the tomography of a living person's head is adjusted so that the virtual donor's skull matches that of the saint. The final face is an interpolation of all this information, seeking anatomical and statistical coherence," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Santa's face finally 'revealed' after 1700 years. Here's how he looked

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