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NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, who has been stuck on the International Space Station (ISS) since June, is now leading an innovative agricultural experiment. Williams is tasked to grow “Outredgeous” romaine lettuce in microgravity.&nbsp;

The experiment Plant Habitat-07 will explore how the plant grows under varying levels of water and how it affects its growth and nutritional value in space. This comes amid rising concern over&nbsp;ISS&nbsp;commander Williams’ health due to the extended stay in space.

The groundbreaking study will pave the way for future long-term space missions and agriculture. If it is successful, it may prove beneficial for increasing food production and space agriculture.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-taps-musk-ally-jared-isaacman-to-lead-nasa-781612">Trump taps Musk ally Jared Isaacman to lead NASA</a>

It will help minimise the need for expensive space missions to deliver supplies to astronauts and help develop a self-sustaining system to support life during space exploration. It will also improve the mental health of astronauts by allowing them to grow and consume fresh food.

The experiment also aims to develop sustainable solutions for farming in regions that have scarce water on Earth and analyse their growth, nutritional content, and overall health of the plant.

Williams has also contributed to several other health studies while onboard the ISS, including a vascular health study with fellow astronaut Tyler Hague.

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>

<h2>Sunita Williams stuck on ISS</h2>

Sunita Williams began her mission on June 5 along with astronaut Butch Wilmore on Boeing's Starliner spacecraft. While the space mission was originally planned for eight days, the spacecraft faced technical difficulties, making it unfit to carry them back to Earth and leaving them stranded on the space station.

Williams and Wilmore are now expected to return around February next year aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. Currently, Williams is serving as the commander of ISS for the second time.

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, who has been stuck on the International Space Station (ISS) since June, is now leading an innovative agricultural experiment. Williams is tasked to grow “Outredgeous” romaine lettuce in microgravity.

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, who has been stuck on the International Space Station (ISS) since June, is now leading an innovative agricultural experiment. Williams is tasked to grow “Outredgeous” romaine lettuce in microgravity. The experiment Plant Habitat-07 will explore how the plant grows under varying levels of water and how it affects its growth and nutritional value in space. This comes amid rising concern over ISS commander Williams’ health due to the extended stay in space. The groundbreaking study will pave the way for future long-term space missions and agriculture. If it is successful, it may prove beneficial for increasing food production and space agriculture. Also read | Trump taps Musk ally Jared Isaacman to lead NASA It will help minimise the need for expensive space missions to deliver supplies to astronauts and help develop a self-sustaining system to support life during space exploration. It will also improve the mental health of astronauts by allowing them to grow and consume fresh food. The experiment also aims to develop sustainable solutions for farming in regions that have scarce water on Earth and analyse their growth, nutritional content, and overall health of the plant. Williams has also contributed to several other health studies while onboard the ISS, including a vascular health study with fellow astronaut Tyler Hague. Also read | Asteroid that hit US had a surprising effect on Earth, study finds Sunita Williams stuck on ISS Sunita Williams began her mission on June 5 along with astronaut Butch Wilmore on Boeing's Starliner spacecraft. While the space mission was originally planned for eight days, the spacecraft faced technical difficulties, making it unfit to carry them back to Earth and leaving them stranded on the space station. Williams and Wilmore are now expected to return around February next year aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. Currently, Williams is serving as the commander of ISS for the second time. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams is growing lettuce on ISS. Here’s why

The end of the International Space Station is near. It will end operations in 2031, crashing down onto Earth with help from SpaceX. It will be replaced by a new one made by Jeff Bezos's company Blue Origin. Elon Musk's space company has been awarded a $843 million NASA contract to help deorbit the ISS safely once it is decommissioned.

Bezos' space station will be the first-ever commercially owned and operated station in low-Earth orbit. Blue Origin was chosen by NASA to put the space station in orbit, giving it $130 million to develop Orbital Reef. The station would be an 8,200 cubic foot place where future astronomers would go and carry out experiments.

It is scheduled to launch in 2027 and is expected to become fully operational by 2030, a year before the ISS is removed from service. The entire project will cost $100 billion in total.

Blue Origin is building the space station in collaboration with Sierra Space, Amazon, Boeing, and others. Bezos' space station would be different from the current one in a few ways. The new space den would also be available for commercial space activities and may host space tourists in the future.

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Sierra Space and Amazon have clearly defined roles. The former will provide Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE) modules, node modules, and a runway-landing Dream Chaser spaceplane for crew and cargo transportation, while Amazon will handle logistics and supply chain management. A Boeing Starliner crew spacecraft will help out with transporting personnel.

<h2>Space tourism aboard the new station</h2>

Initially, it would only have enough space for 10 people which would be expanded over the years. More modules will be added to support operations, such as science modules where microgravity research and development could be carried out.

Since it would also be used for space tourism, it is being designed in such a way that people can make full use of it and get everything they desire when in space. To let people get a good view of Earth and the dark expanse of the universe, the station would have large windows. It would be luxurious and comfortable to give people a good time.&nbsp;

Blue Origin describes the space station as, "Think spacious modules with large windows to view Earth... while experiencing the thrill of weightlessness in complete comfort."

"Distinct quarters will be designed for personal and business use, and large hatches create a safe and inspiring environment."

The end of the International Space Station is near. It will end operations in 2031, crashing down onto Earth with help from SpaceX. It will be replaced by a new one made by Jeff Bezos's company Blue Origin.

The end of the International Space Station is near. It will end operations in 2031, crashing down onto Earth with help from SpaceX. It will be replaced by a new one made by Jeff Bezos's company Blue Origin. Elon Musk's space company has been awarded a $843 million NASA contract to help deorbit the ISS safely once it is decommissioned. Bezos' space station will be the first-ever commercially owned and operated station in low-Earth orbit. Blue Origin was chosen by NASA to put the space station in orbit, giving it $130 million to develop Orbital Reef. The station would be an 8,200 cubic foot place where future astronomers would go and carry out experiments. It is scheduled to launch in 2027 and is expected to become fully operational by 2030, a year before the ISS is removed from service. The entire project will cost $100 billion in total. Blue Origin is building the space station in collaboration with Sierra Space, Amazon, Boeing, and others. Bezos' space station would be different from the current one in a few ways. The new space den would also be available for commercial space activities and may host space tourists in the future. Also Read: World's first diamond battery can power devices for thousands of years Sierra Space and Amazon have clearly defined roles. The former will provide Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE) modules, node modules, and a runway-landing Dream Chaser spaceplane for crew and cargo transportation, while Amazon will handle logistics and supply chain management. A Boeing Starliner crew spacecraft will help out with transporting personnel. Space tourism aboard the new station Initially, it would only have enough space for 10 people which would be expanded over the years. More modules will be added to support operations, such as science modules where microgravity research and development could be carried out. Since it would also be used for space tourism, it is being designed in such a way that people can make full use of it and get everything they desire when in space. To let people get a good view of Earth and the dark expanse of the universe, the station would have large windows. It would be luxurious and comfortable to give people a good time. Blue Origin describes the space station as, "Think spacious modules with large windows to view Earth... while experiencing the thrill of weightlessness in complete comfort." "Distinct quarters will be designed for personal and business use, and large hatches create a safe and inspiring environment."

Jeff Bezos will spend $100,000,000,000 on a new space station that will also host tourists

A 'lost' species of human has been discovered by scientists who have been surprised by its abnormally large skull and have estimated that it lived along with homo sapiens.

This ancient species, known as 'Juluren' which means 'big head people', is likely to have lived in China around 300,000 and 50,000 years ago.

As per the scientists, these species had a larger brain in comparison to any other known hominin species, which includes modern-day humans.

As per the experts, "Homo julurensis" likely hunted wild horses in small groups and created simple stone tools which were used for cutting and processing animal hides for clothes.

<h2>Homo julurensis, a relative of Neanderthals?</h2>

As per the experts, this species of 'large-brained hominin' was most probably a relative of the Neanderthals as well as the Denisovans.

According to paleoanthropologist Professor Xiujie Wu, who is from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and anthropologist Dr Christopher Bae, who is from the University of Hawai'i, key characteristics mentioned in the fossil record have been missed by the scientists.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/archaeologists-discover-a-4000-year-old-coffin-inside-another-coffin-of-egyptian-priestess-774193">Archaeologists discover a 4000-year-old coffin inside another coffin of Egyptian priestess</a>

In a research paper, scientists claimed that there was a mosaic of features in some fossils which failed to fit any known human species.

Earlier, when any fossil did not match with either homo sapiens or homo erectus, they were grouped as Denisovan. Denisovan was a kind of early hominin which was related to the Neanderthal.

Dr Bae, however, suggested that some of these fossils need to be categorised as their own separate species known as homo julurensis.

The 21 hominin fossils were analysed by the researchers after it was found in China in the 1970s&nbsp;and skull fragments of two individuals were discovered at different Chinese sites in 2005.&nbsp;

With the use of new techniques for organising fossil evidence, a set of characteristics was identified by Dr Bae and Professor Wu which did not match the known species.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/archaeologists-find-first-jesus-is-god-inscription-in-israeli-prison-call-it-greatest-discovery-777420">Archaeologists find first 'Jesus is God' inscription in Israeli prison, call it 'greatest discovery'</a>

The most distinctive characteristic found by the scientists was the abnormally large skull on the basis from which the Juluren got their name.

The researchers pieced together the remains of the skull and estimated that it will have a volume of 1700 ml, which is larger than the skull of homo sapiens.&nbsp;

In China, the most complete&nbsp;skull was found near Nihewan Basin&nbsp;which was filled by a large lake 300,000 years ago.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A 'lost' species of human has been discovered by scientists who have been surprised by its abnormally large skull and have estimated that it lived along with homo sapiens.

A 'lost' species of human has been discovered by scientists who have been surprised by its abnormally large skull and have estimated that it lived along with homo sapiens. This ancient species, known as 'Juluren' which means 'big head people', is likely to have lived in China around 300,000 and 50,000 years ago. As per the scientists, these species had a larger brain in comparison to any other known hominin species, which includes modern-day humans. As per the experts, "Homo julurensis" likely hunted wild horses in small groups and created simple stone tools which were used for cutting and processing animal hides for clothes. Homo julurensis, a relative of Neanderthals? As per the experts, this species of 'large-brained hominin' was most probably a relative of the Neanderthals as well as the Denisovans. According to paleoanthropologist Professor Xiujie Wu, who is from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and anthropologist Dr Christopher Bae, who is from the University of Hawai'i, key characteristics mentioned in the fossil record have been missed by the scientists. Also Read: Archaeologists discover a 4000-year-old coffin inside another coffin of Egyptian priestess In a research paper, scientists claimed that there was a mosaic of features in some fossils which failed to fit any known human species. Earlier, when any fossil did not match with either homo sapiens or homo erectus, they were grouped as Denisovan. Denisovan was a kind of early hominin which was related to the Neanderthal. Dr Bae, however, suggested that some of these fossils need to be categorised as their own separate species known as homo julurensis. The 21 hominin fossils were analysed by the researchers after it was found in China in the 1970s and skull fragments of two individuals were discovered at different Chinese sites in 2005. With the use of new techniques for organising fossil evidence, a set of characteristics was identified by Dr Bae and Professor Wu which did not match the known species. Also Read: Archaeologists find first 'Jesus is God' inscription in Israeli prison, call it 'greatest discovery' The most distinctive characteristic found by the scientists was the abnormally large skull on the basis from which the Juluren got their name. The researchers pieced together the remains of the skull and estimated that it will have a volume of 1700 ml, which is larger than the skull of homo sapiens. In China, the most complete skull was found near Nihewan Basin which was filled by a large lake 300,000 years ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists discover abnormally large skull of 'lost' human species in Asia

A strange "werewolf syndrome" has been emerging in infants in Spain because their parents have consumed a popular hair-loss drug, as per a new report. Since last year, nearly one dozen such cases have emerged.&nbsp;

As per a report published in El Economista, 11 cases of hypertrichosis, which is popularly known as "werewolf syndrome", have been detected in the babies at the Navarra Pharmacovigilance Centre.&nbsp;

In the cases, the doctors found that each of their caregivers had used five&nbsp;per cent of topical minoxidil.

<h2>Symptoms of 'werewolf syndrome'</h2>

In the infants suffering from "werewolf syndrome", tufty hair growth was seen on their back, face and legs and in some extreme cases they even resembled a “Wookie” from “Star Wars.”

According to the investigators, the five per cent minoxidil which was used by the parents of the infant was either orally or topically absorbed by the babies.

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Minoxidil is among the active ingredients found in various famous over-the-counter hair-loss treatments which include Rogaine, Hims, Keeps, Equate and other generic products.

Since the Middle Ages, less than 100 such “werewolf syndrome” cases were documented in the medical records.

<h2>Cases of 'werewolf syndrome'</h2>

In 2023, the attention of medical researchers was drawn to a case of "werewolf syndrome" after hair was developed on the entire body of a breastfeeding baby in just two months, according to a report by&nbsp;El Economista.

The health officials interviewed the family and discovered that the baby's father had reportedly used&nbsp;topically applied five&nbsp;per cent minoxidil.&nbsp;

It was further reported that when the treatment for androgenic alopecia was stopped by the father, the symptoms of the child completely regressed.&nbsp;

In all cases which were reported in Spain, the unwanted hair of the babies receded when the topical application of minoxidil solutions was stopped by the caregivers.

Watch:&nbsp;China's Potato Crops Face A Double Threat: Heat And Disease

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinas-potato-crops-face-a-double-threat-heat-and-disease-780450/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In another case, a two-year-old girl was found battling the rare hirsute condition in Malaysia last year, as the monarchs dubbed her the “child from heaven.”

The girl had a congenital strain of hypertrichosis, which was not similar to the cases where environmental exposure to minoxidil led to such problems.

Health experts have warned minoxidil can be detrimental to the health of infants and can lead to the production of hypertrichosis, as per the European Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee.

(With inputs from agencies)

A strange "werewolf syndrome" has been emerging in infants in Spain because their parents have consumed a popular hair-loss drug, as per a new report. Since last year, nearly one dozen such cases have emerged.

A strange "werewolf syndrome" has been emerging in infants in Spain because their parents have consumed a popular hair-loss drug, as per a new report. Since last year, nearly one dozen such cases have emerged. As per a report published in El Economista, 11 cases of hypertrichosis, which is popularly known as "werewolf syndrome", have been detected in the babies at the Navarra Pharmacovigilance Centre. In the cases, the doctors found that each of their caregivers had used five per cent of topical minoxidil. Symptoms of 'werewolf syndrome' In the infants suffering from "werewolf syndrome", tufty hair growth was seen on their back, face and legs and in some extreme cases they even resembled a “Wookie” from “Star Wars.” According to the investigators, the five per cent minoxidil which was used by the parents of the infant was either orally or topically absorbed by the babies. Also Read: 'Game changer' way to treat asthma and COPD found after 50 years, doctors hail it Minoxidil is among the active ingredients found in various famous over-the-counter hair-loss treatments which include Rogaine, Hims, Keeps, Equate and other generic products. Since the Middle Ages, less than 100 such “werewolf syndrome” cases were documented in the medical records. Cases of 'werewolf syndrome' In 2023, the attention of medical researchers was drawn to a case of "werewolf syndrome" after hair was developed on the entire body of a breastfeeding baby in just two months, according to a report by El Economista. The health officials interviewed the family and discovered that the baby's father had reportedly used topically applied five per cent minoxidil. It was further reported that when the treatment for androgenic alopecia was stopped by the father, the symptoms of the child completely regressed. In all cases which were reported in Spain, the unwanted hair of the babies receded when the topical application of minoxidil solutions was stopped by the caregivers. Watch: China's Potato Crops Face A Double Threat: Heat And Disease In another case, a two-year-old girl was found battling the rare hirsute condition in Malaysia last year, as the monarchs dubbed her the “child from heaven.” The girl had a congenital strain of hypertrichosis, which was not similar to the cases where environmental exposure to minoxidil led to such problems. Health experts have warned minoxidil can be detrimental to the health of infants and can lead to the production of hypertrichosis, as per the European Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee. (With inputs from agencies)

'Werewolf syndrome' emerges in infants after parents pop in hair-loss drug in Spain

The world is merely a simulation and doesn't exist, a researcher has claimed, pretty much similar to The Matrix series of movies. Physicists have often talked about how the world might not be real and is merely a movie playing on a large screen. Melvin Vopson, an associate professor in physics at the University of Portsmouth, has now said we are living in a simulation, and our every day lives carry hints about it.

Talking to Mail Online, he claimed that our reality is a Matrix-inspired creation that is being directed by a higher being. He says a "master AI" is controlling an "advanced AI world" we all chose to become characters in at birth.

"All these scenarios operate under the control of a master AI, created of course by a future iteration of our civilisation."

He suggests an eerie possibility where none of the humans are awake anymore and are instead "trapped in the simulated reality, controlled by the AI."

He puts forward three theories that might be at play here. Vopson says the first one is the Entertainment Theory, which suggests that the simulation is meant to keep us entertained. The Guinea Pig Theory is just like it sounds - humans are guinea pigs part of a larger experiment meant to solve a real-world problem. The third theory is the Near-Immortality Theory according to which we are living hundreds of lives back-to-back.

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While Vopson has based his three theories on "experimental and theoretical studies of applied and fundamental physics," he clarifies that there is no scientific research to back any of these theories.&nbsp;

<h2>Vopson explains the three simulation theories</h2>

Talking about the first theory, the Entertainment Theory, Vopson says, that humans "created the simulation as a place of entertainment where we can choose to enter (at birth) and experience a whole new life with all the components of it."

The Guinea Pig Theory, he says, is aimed at solving a problem by running a simulation. He says, if we have a complex issue to solve, one that is "environmental, economic, energy crisis, wars", "the best way to solve it would be to run a simulation (or multiple parallel simulations), if that was possible. If one of the simulations throws up a possible solution, it can be implemented in the base reality, he added.

The Near-Immortality Theory says the real world moves at a much faster pace than what we go through in our reality. A minute in the base reality might equal to 100 years in the simulation, and humans this way have over 52 million lives in a simulation.

Elon Musk has also often said that the world might be a mere simulation, triggering a debate among the people over the fascinating topic.&nbsp;

The world is merely a simulation and doesn't exist, a researcher has claimed, pretty much similar to The Matrix series of movies. Physicists have often talked about how the world might not be real and is merely a movie playing on a large screen.

The world is merely a simulation and doesn't exist, a researcher has claimed, pretty much similar to The Matrix series of movies. Physicists have often talked about how the world might not be real and is merely a movie playing on a large screen. Melvin Vopson, an associate professor in physics at the University of Portsmouth, has now said we are living in a simulation, and our every day lives carry hints about it. Talking to Mail Online, he claimed that our reality is a Matrix-inspired creation that is being directed by a higher being. He says a "master AI" is controlling an "advanced AI world" we all chose to become characters in at birth. "All these scenarios operate under the control of a master AI, created of course by a future iteration of our civilisation." He suggests an eerie possibility where none of the humans are awake anymore and are instead "trapped in the simulated reality, controlled by the AI." He puts forward three theories that might be at play here. Vopson says the first one is the Entertainment Theory, which suggests that the simulation is meant to keep us entertained. The Guinea Pig Theory is just like it sounds - humans are guinea pigs part of a larger experiment meant to solve a real-world problem. The third theory is the Near-Immortality Theory according to which we are living hundreds of lives back-to-back. Also Read: 87-year-long happiness experiment has revealed something we all already know While Vopson has based his three theories on "experimental and theoretical studies of applied and fundamental physics," he clarifies that there is no scientific research to back any of these theories. Vopson explains the three simulation theories Talking about the first theory, the Entertainment Theory, Vopson says, that humans "created the simulation as a place of entertainment where we can choose to enter (at birth) and experience a whole new life with all the components of it." The Guinea Pig Theory, he says, is aimed at solving a problem by running a simulation. He says, if we have a complex issue to solve, one that is "environmental, economic, energy crisis, wars", "the best way to solve it would be to run a simulation (or multiple parallel simulations), if that was possible. If one of the simulations throws up a possible solution, it can be implemented in the base reality, he added. The Near-Immortality Theory says the real world moves at a much faster pace than what we go through in our reality. A minute in the base reality might equal to 100 years in the simulation, and humans this way have over 52 million lives in a simulation. Elon Musk has also often said that the world might be a mere simulation, triggering a debate among the people over the fascinating topic.

Are humans trapped in a simulation? Physicist suggests 'master AI' is controlling an 'advanced AI world'

Scientists in New Zealand are carrying out a dissection of a spade-tooth whale, which is one of the rarest whale species in the world, as part of the first such examination of the entire specimen. &nbsp;

Spade-toothed whales are a kind of beaked whale which have been given the name because of the resemblance of their teeth with spade-like “flensing” blades. This was used at one time for stripping whales of their blubber.&nbsp;

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Since the 1800s, seven such whales have been documented and one of them has been found in New Zealand.

<h2>Where was the rare whale found?</h2>

The five-metre-long male whale had washed ashore in Otago, South Island, in July. The discovery of the whale had created excitement in cetacean specialists who had little knowledge of such rare creatures on the basis of the tissue and bones of earlier such specimens, which were found decades before.&nbsp;

On Monday (December 2), international and local scientists gathered along with local Maori and started the examination of the whale at the Invermay Agresearch Centre in Mosgiel.

The atmosphere in the centre has been of “reverence” for the animal, explained Anton van Helden, who is a global expert on the spade-toothed whale and a science adviser at the Department of Conservation.&nbsp;

“We’re working around a dead animal, but it’s telling us about how it [lived], and also that’s unpacking all of the life stories of the people involved around it,” Helden said.

The paper's lead author, Van Helden, said that the appearance of the species has given an opportunity to examine the whale, which is “an incredible moment”.

Watch:&nbsp;COP29: Beached Whale Art Installation Appears On Shore

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cop29-beached-whale-art-installation-appears-on-shore-775828/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“Beaked whales are the most enigmatic group of large mammals on the planet, they are deep divers that are rarely seen at sea. This one is the rarest of the rare, only the seventh specimen known from anywhere in the world, and the first opportunity we have had to undertake a dissection like this,” Helden said.

In 1874, scientists had found the first such spade-toothed whale when the species got its name on the basis of its description, which was two teeth and lower jaw bone in the Chatham Islands, which is off the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island.

Scientists have been working alongside the local Māori from Ōtākou. The local Māori possess the customary rights of the area where the whale appeared.&nbsp;

The study's contributing writer, Tūmai Cassidy, said that Māori consider whales a taonga, which is a sacred treasure of cultural significance.&nbsp;

“Whales are incredibly important animals in our culture … our arrival to Aotearoa [New Zealand] is deeply tied to whales and like other cultures around the world we utilise different parts of their bodies," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists in New Zealand are carrying out a dissection of a spade-tooth whale, which is one of the rarest whale species in the world, as part of the first such examination of the entire specimen.

Scientists in New Zealand are carrying out a dissection of a spade-tooth whale, which is one of the rarest whale species in the world, as part of the first such examination of the entire specimen. Spade-toothed whales are a kind of beaked whale which have been given the name because of the resemblance of their teeth with spade-like “flensing” blades. This was used at one time for stripping whales of their blubber. Also Read: Orcas bring back 80s salmon hat trend in the Pacific, four decades later Since the 1800s, seven such whales have been documented and one of them has been found in New Zealand. Where was the rare whale found? The five-metre-long male whale had washed ashore in Otago, South Island, in July. The discovery of the whale had created excitement in cetacean specialists who had little knowledge of such rare creatures on the basis of the tissue and bones of earlier such specimens, which were found decades before. On Monday (December 2), international and local scientists gathered along with local Maori and started the examination of the whale at the Invermay Agresearch Centre in Mosgiel. The atmosphere in the centre has been of “reverence” for the animal, explained Anton van Helden, who is a global expert on the spade-toothed whale and a science adviser at the Department of Conservation. “We’re working around a dead animal, but it’s telling us about how it [lived], and also that’s unpacking all of the life stories of the people involved around it,” Helden said. The paper's lead author, Van Helden, said that the appearance of the species has given an opportunity to examine the whale, which is “an incredible moment”. Watch: COP29: Beached Whale Art Installation Appears On Shore “Beaked whales are the most enigmatic group of large mammals on the planet, they are deep divers that are rarely seen at sea. This one is the rarest of the rare, only the seventh specimen known from anywhere in the world, and the first opportunity we have had to undertake a dissection like this,” Helden said. In 1874, scientists had found the first such spade-toothed whale when the species got its name on the basis of its description, which was two teeth and lower jaw bone in the Chatham Islands, which is off the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Scientists have been working alongside the local Māori from Ōtākou. The local Māori possess the customary rights of the area where the whale appeared. The study's contributing writer, Tūmai Cassidy, said that Māori consider whales a taonga, which is a sacred treasure of cultural significance. “Whales are incredibly important animals in our culture … our arrival to Aotearoa [New Zealand] is deeply tied to whales and like other cultures around the world we utilise different parts of their bodies," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists dissect rare spade-tooth whale. Here's what they found

Conversations around space travel have never been louder. Humans are vying to go to the Moon, Mars, and even beyond. But is that possible? The problem isn't just the need to advance technology around spacecraft, but also how to prepare the human body for the gruelling journey.&nbsp;

The human body is not meant to survive in the vacuum of space, where radiation and other things can prove dangerous. Sleeping throughout the trip, or hibernating, might be a solution. Scientists now say that the key to travelling through space while asleep might lie in the blood of bats.&nbsp;

The animal is known to live in extremely cold places for prolonged periods.&nbsp;This is largely because of the presence of a type of red blood cell, known as erythrocyte, in its body, researchers from Greifswald University in Germany have revealed.&nbsp;

Erythrocytes are also present in human blood but do not respond similarly to the cold as they do&nbsp;in a bat's blood.

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>

The researchers compared the erythrocytes from two species of bats that are known to hibernate during colder months with those found in humans.

<h2>Bat blood works normally at low temperatures</h2>

They noticed that as the temperatures dropped, the erythrocytes of the bats remained normal and elastic, and seemed to adapt to the cold. However, human erythrocytes became more viscous and less flexible at below-normal body temperature.

While scientists have identified the special characteristic in bat blood, how they plan to implement it in the case of humans to facilitate interstellar travel is still tricky, and it might be years before it becomes a viable solution.

Gerald Kerth, the lead author of the study, said that while it is a positive step, it is still far-fetched. "Putting humans into a state of low temperature during an interstellar flight has advantages. We’re not saying this will happen in the next three years, but it’s an important first step," he said.

If scientists are successful in executing the entire thing someday, it would help make space travel a reality. Astronauts won't need as many resources and oxygen to survive the arduous trips, ultimately leading humans to explore the cosmic world. 
&nbsp;

Conversations around space travel have never been louder. Humans are vying to go to the Moon, Mars, and even beyond. But is that possible? The problem isn't just the need to advance technology around spacecraft, but also how to prepare the human body for the gruelling journey.

Conversations around space travel have never been louder. Humans are vying to go to the Moon, Mars, and even beyond. But is that possible? The problem isn't just the need to advance technology around spacecraft, but also how to prepare the human body for the gruelling journey. The human body is not meant to survive in the vacuum of space, where radiation and other things can prove dangerous. Sleeping throughout the trip, or hibernating, might be a solution. Scientists now say that the key to travelling through space while asleep might lie in the blood of bats. The animal is known to live in extremely cold places for prolonged periods. This is largely because of the presence of a type of red blood cell, known as erythrocyte, in its body, researchers from Greifswald University in Germany have revealed. Erythrocytes are also present in human blood but do not respond similarly to the cold as they do in a bat's blood. Also Read: Are humans trapped in a simulation? Physicist suggests 'master AI' is controlling an 'advanced AI world' The researchers compared the erythrocytes from two species of bats that are known to hibernate during colder months with those found in humans. Bat blood works normally at low temperatures They noticed that as the temperatures dropped, the erythrocytes of the bats remained normal and elastic, and seemed to adapt to the cold. However, human erythrocytes became more viscous and less flexible at below-normal body temperature. While scientists have identified the special characteristic in bat blood, how they plan to implement it in the case of humans to facilitate interstellar travel is still tricky, and it might be years before it becomes a viable solution. Gerald Kerth, the lead author of the study, said that while it is a positive step, it is still far-fetched. "Putting humans into a state of low temperature during an interstellar flight has advantages. We’re not saying this will happen in the next three years, but it’s an important first step," he said. If scientists are successful in executing the entire thing someday, it would help make space travel a reality. Astronauts won't need as many resources and oxygen to survive the arduous trips, ultimately leading humans to explore the cosmic world.

Blood of THIS flying mammal might help humans travel through interstellar space

Astronauts at the International Space Station (ISS) regularly share pictures of Earth and the amazing things happening in space around them. Now you too can take a picture of yourself in space without actually going there. A new satellite that will launch soon let you click a selfie with Earth in the background.

Mark Rober, the man behind the satellite, wants to take people to space with their pictures. Talking about his project in a YouTube video, he said that the satellite will be "one small step for mankind, one giant leap for your selfie game".

The innovative satellite has a Google Pixel phone on board with a radiation-resistant case protecting it. Another camera faces it, which will snap a photo of your selfie with Earth photobombing it after you upload it to the phone.&nbsp;

The satellite also has a GPS tracker on it with solar panels powering the phone.

Rober has worked for NASA as an engineer in the past, and his main accolades include seven years working on the Mars Curiosity rover. His "custom-built" satellite is named SAT GUS and will launch into space next month.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/solar-storm-2687-years-ago-was-so-massive-that-it-is-embedded-in-trees-780439">Solar storm 2,687 years ago was so massive that it is embedded in trees</a>

Explaining the process, Rober says in the video, "What makes SAT GUS so special is that she's got a phone right here and a camera right here, and her sole purpose is to take your selfie in space with the Earth photobombing you."

<h2>Two of you in the same photo</h2>

It gets even better. Rober said you can also have yourself twice in the picture - two of you in the same photo. He said, "If you tell me the city you live in, when you upload your picture, the satellite will not only take a selfie over your city, but we'll tell you precisely when that will happen."

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&nbsp;

So when this happens, you can come out in the yard and wave, and the camera will capture you again in the selfie.

The amazing invention has stumped people, who can't wait to get a selfie with Earth in the background. A user commented on his video, "This is something that would have been considered totally science fiction back when I was a kid! And now accessible to all!"

Astronauts at the International Space Station (ISS) regularly share pictures of Earth and the amazing things happening in space around them. Now you too can take a picture of yourself in space without actually going there.

Astronauts at the International Space Station (ISS) regularly share pictures of Earth and the amazing things happening in space around them. Now you too can take a picture of yourself in space without actually going there. A new satellite that will launch soon let you click a selfie with Earth in the background. Mark Rober, the man behind the satellite, wants to take people to space with their pictures. Talking about his project in a YouTube video, he said that the satellite will be "one small step for mankind, one giant leap for your selfie game". The innovative satellite has a Google Pixel phone on board with a radiation-resistant case protecting it. Another camera faces it, which will snap a photo of your selfie with Earth photobombing it after you upload it to the phone. The satellite also has a GPS tracker on it with solar panels powering the phone. Rober has worked for NASA as an engineer in the past, and his main accolades include seven years working on the Mars Curiosity rover. His "custom-built" satellite is named SAT GUS and will launch into space next month. Also Read: Solar storm 2,687 years ago was so massive that it is embedded in trees Explaining the process, Rober says in the video, "What makes SAT GUS so special is that she's got a phone right here and a camera right here, and her sole purpose is to take your selfie in space with the Earth photobombing you." Two of you in the same photo It gets even better. Rober said you can also have yourself twice in the picture - two of you in the same photo. He said, "If you tell me the city you live in, when you upload your picture, the satellite will not only take a selfie over your city, but we'll tell you precisely when that will happen." × So when this happens, you can come out in the yard and wave, and the camera will capture you again in the selfie. The amazing invention has stumped people, who can't wait to get a selfie with Earth in the background. A user commented on his video, "This is something that would have been considered totally science fiction back when I was a kid! And now accessible to all!"

Coming soon! Click a space selfie with Earth photobombing you

Unidentified Flying Objects, or UFOs, have intrigued humans for decades. Now and then someone spots something strange in the sky and believes it to be extra-terrestrial. However, there is a kind of UFO that has only recently been&nbsp;seen in space. These are "UFO galaxies" that are a mystery to humans.

UFO galaxies are big, red and really dusty and can only be seen in infrared light, with NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) first to spot them in deep space.&nbsp;

This is why they were only discovered recently. They appear similar in size and shape to other galaxies but have never been caught on other telescopes, such as the Hubble. Scientists wanted to figure out more about these galaxies and why they were so red and dusty.

Known as Ultra-red Flattened Objects (UFOs), a team of researchers led by the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) set out on a mission to dive deep into these mystery galaxies, EarthSky reported. It published their peer-reviewed findings in The Astrophysical Journal on October 3, 2024.

Justus Gibson in the Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences at CU Boulder, and the lead author, said, "JWST allows us to see this type of galaxy that we never would have been able to see before. It tells us that maybe we didn’t understand the universe as well as we thought."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/smallest-asteroid-ever-spotted-hit-earth-over-canada-in-a-stunning-green-fireball-780169">Smallest asteroid ever spotted hit Earth over Canada in a stunning green fireball</a>

Co-author Erica Nelson added, "They’re so visually striking. They’re enormous red disks that pop up in these images, and they were totally unexpected. They make you say: ‘What? How?’"

<h2>Why are UFO galaxies red?</h2>

The researchers say that the reason these galaxies have never been seen before is because they emit very little visible light. Webb is an infrared telescope, so it was able to pick them up since these galaxies give out infrared radiation. This is why in the photos they appear bright red.

The authors say that some of these UFO galaxies are much closer to us than others that Webb has previously discovered. They say that for the longest time, astronomers believed they knew what the closer galaxies were like. But discovering these UFO galaxies has surprised them all.

While they know what makes these galaxies red, scientists are still trying to understand why they are so dusty. Nelson says UFO galaxies contain 50 times more dust than the Milky Way.&nbsp;

"Why on Earth do these galaxies have so much more dust than all the other galaxies? Got me," he said.

This is not the first time that red galaxies have been seen. Earlier this month, astronomers found red monster galaxies that formed within the first billion years after the Big Bang. They are shocked to see how massive they are. To get so big so early seems impossible, which has led experts to question – Are these galaxies linked to the UFO galaxies?

Unidentified Flying Objects, or UFOs, have intrigued humans for decades. Now and then someone spots something strange in the sky and believes it to be extra-terrestrial.

Unidentified Flying Objects, or UFOs, have intrigued humans for decades. Now and then someone spots something strange in the sky and believes it to be extra-terrestrial. However, there is a kind of UFO that has only recently been seen in space. These are "UFO galaxies" that are a mystery to humans. UFO galaxies are big, red and really dusty and can only be seen in infrared light, with NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) first to spot them in deep space. This is why they were only discovered recently. They appear similar in size and shape to other galaxies but have never been caught on other telescopes, such as the Hubble. Scientists wanted to figure out more about these galaxies and why they were so red and dusty. Known as Ultra-red Flattened Objects (UFOs), a team of researchers led by the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) set out on a mission to dive deep into these mystery galaxies, EarthSky reported. It published their peer-reviewed findings in The Astrophysical Journal on October 3, 2024. Justus Gibson in the Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences at CU Boulder, and the lead author, said, "JWST allows us to see this type of galaxy that we never would have been able to see before. It tells us that maybe we didn’t understand the universe as well as we thought." Also Read: Smallest asteroid ever spotted hit Earth over Canada in a stunning green fireball Co-author Erica Nelson added, "They’re so visually striking. They’re enormous red disks that pop up in these images, and they were totally unexpected. They make you say: ‘What? How?’" Why are UFO galaxies red? The researchers say that the reason these galaxies have never been seen before is because they emit very little visible light. Webb is an infrared telescope, so it was able to pick them up since these galaxies give out infrared radiation. This is why in the photos they appear bright red. The authors say that some of these UFO galaxies are much closer to us than others that Webb has previously discovered. They say that for the longest time, astronomers believed they knew what the closer galaxies were like. But discovering these UFO galaxies has surprised them all. While they know what makes these galaxies red, scientists are still trying to understand why they are so dusty. Nelson says UFO galaxies contain 50 times more dust than the Milky Way. "Why on Earth do these galaxies have so much more dust than all the other galaxies? Got me," he said. This is not the first time that red galaxies have been seen. Earlier this month, astronomers found red monster galaxies that formed within the first billion years after the Big Bang. They are shocked to see how massive they are. To get so big so early seems impossible, which has led experts to question – Are these galaxies linked to the UFO galaxies?

Mysterious Red and dusty 'UFOs' discovered in space are not exactly spaceships

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe is set to complete its seventh and final Venus gravity assist manoeuvre that will send it back towards the Sun. The probe will pass within 375 km of Venus’ surface in doing so. At this time, the probe will fly around Venus, using the gravitational force exerted by the planet on the spacecraft to push it towards the sun.&nbsp;

After reaching its desired destination, the spacecraft will be 6.12 million km away from the solar surface on Dec 20, 2024. This will be the closest that any man-made object has ever got to the surface of the sun.

The probe will fly through plumes of plasma spewing out of the Sun at a record 692,000km/hr. This is the ultimate objective the Parker probe hopes to achieve.

The Parker Solar Probe has been to the sun in the past few years, gathering valuable data. In 2021, it peered into the solar environment following the release of solar flares. It flew through a coronal mass ejection and captured the extreme environment on video.&nbsp;

It did the same in September 2022 again, giving researchers an opportunity to understand how the Sun’s plasma interacts with the interplanetary dust around it.

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However, the gravity assist will not only launch it towards a trip to the Sun but also let it peer into Venus once again. It will be a chance to learn about the ring of dust around the planet and the mysterious radio signals from its atmosphere.

<h2>Parker probe to look at Venus again</h2>

The Wide-Field Imager for Parker Solar Probe, or WISPR, has proved to be a crucial instrument in learning more about our twin planet. Normally, it looks outwards and at the fine details in the solar wind.

But on July 11, 2020, during Parker’s third Venus flyby, WISPR gazed into the planet’s thick cloud cover and sent back surprising images. It was able to cut through the clouds and look deep into the Venusian surface below.&nbsp;

The probe captured infrared emissions from the planet’s surface which literally glows because of the extreme heat. Venus sizzles at a temperature of approximately 465 degrees C.

"The WISPR cameras can see through the clouds to the surface of Venus, which glows in the near-infrared because it’s so hot," said Noam Izenberg, a space scientist at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, in a NASA release.

Now with the last flyby, scientists are hoping to answer a few more questions about Venus.&nbsp;

“Because it flies over a number of similar and different landforms than the previous Venus flybys, the Nov. 6 flyby will give us more context to evaluate whether WISPR can help us distinguish physical or even chemical properties of Venus’ surface,” said Noam.

The Parker probe's closest approach to the sun will occur on Dec 24. But scientists won't know whether or not it was a success since it will be out of touch with mission control. The results will be revealed only on December 27 when it notifies mission control through a beacon.

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe is set to complete its seventh and final Venus gravity assist manoeuvre that will send it back towards the Sun. The probe will pass within 375 km of Venus’ surface in doing so.

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe is set to complete its seventh and final Venus gravity assist manoeuvre that will send it back towards the Sun. The probe will pass within 375 km of Venus’ surface in doing so. At this time, the probe will fly around Venus, using the gravitational force exerted by the planet on the spacecraft to push it towards the sun. After reaching its desired destination, the spacecraft will be 6.12 million km away from the solar surface on Dec 20, 2024. This will be the closest that any man-made object has ever got to the surface of the sun. The probe will fly through plumes of plasma spewing out of the Sun at a record 692,000km/hr. This is the ultimate objective the Parker probe hopes to achieve. The Parker Solar Probe has been to the sun in the past few years, gathering valuable data. In 2021, it peered into the solar environment following the release of solar flares. It flew through a coronal mass ejection and captured the extreme environment on video. It did the same in September 2022 again, giving researchers an opportunity to understand how the Sun’s plasma interacts with the interplanetary dust around it. Also Read: Blasts similar to detonating atomic bombs rattling fast-spinning stellar corpse However, the gravity assist will not only launch it towards a trip to the Sun but also let it peer into Venus once again. It will be a chance to learn about the ring of dust around the planet and the mysterious radio signals from its atmosphere. Parker probe to look at Venus again The Wide-Field Imager for Parker Solar Probe, or WISPR, has proved to be a crucial instrument in learning more about our twin planet. Normally, it looks outwards and at the fine details in the solar wind. But on July 11, 2020, during Parker’s third Venus flyby, WISPR gazed into the planet’s thick cloud cover and sent back surprising images. It was able to cut through the clouds and look deep into the Venusian surface below. The probe captured infrared emissions from the planet’s surface which literally glows because of the extreme heat. Venus sizzles at a temperature of approximately 465 degrees C. "The WISPR cameras can see through the clouds to the surface of Venus, which glows in the near-infrared because it’s so hot," said Noam Izenberg, a space scientist at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, in a NASA release. Now with the last flyby, scientists are hoping to answer a few more questions about Venus. “Because it flies over a number of similar and different landforms than the previous Venus flybys, the Nov. 6 flyby will give us more context to evaluate whether WISPR can help us distinguish physical or even chemical properties of Venus’ surface,” said Noam. The Parker probe's closest approach to the sun will occur on Dec 24. But scientists won't know whether or not it was a success since it will be out of touch with mission control. The results will be revealed only on December 27 when it notifies mission control through a beacon.

History awaits solar probe as it is flung towards Sun by Venus one last time

A huge solar storm hit Earth 2,687 years ago, evidence of which has been found hiding in tree rings. It was nothing like the storms reported today and is so rare that only six such solar events have been recorded in the past 14,500 years. The last storm of such magnitude happened between 664 and 663 BCE.

The unprecedented colossal solar storms are known as Miyake Events. Trees reveal a lot about the past, and their rings also harbour stories of massive solar storms that might have hit Earth when there was no technology to record them.

A research team from the University of Arizona led by Irina Panyushkina and Timothy Jull has been working to study these rings to reveal evidence about solar storms centuries ago.

The study is published in the journal Communications Earth &amp; Environment.

Panyushkina warns that if a Miyake Event were to happen today, it would have devastating effects. "If they happened today, they would have cataclysmic effects on communication technology," Panyushkina said in a statement.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-wasnt-as-riotous-and-violent-right-after-its-birth-as-we-once-thought-780406">Earth wasn't as riotous and violent right after its birth as we once thought</a>

The extreme type of solar activity was first identified in 2012 by Japanese physicist Fusa Miyake and named after him. He published his research about massive solar storms and described the distinctive signature of these events. He noted sharp increases in radioactive carbon isotopes, specifically carbon-14, found in tree growth rings, according to the statement.

When cosmic radiation interacts with nitrogen, it leads to the formation of carbon-14 in the atmosphere. Later, this carbon-14 reacts with oxygen to form carbon dioxide which then enters the trees via photosynthesis and gets embedded into the wood.

<h2>Tree-ring data compared with ice cores</h2>

"After a few months, carbon-14 will have travelled from the stratosphere to the lower atmosphere, where it is taken up by trees and becomes part of the wood as they grow," Panyushkina said in the statement.

The team collected wood samples from dead trees that were found buried in riverbanks along with timbers excavated during archaeological digs. They dissected individual tree rings and then burnt cellulose from the wood to determine the radiocarbon content.

Ice cores retrieved from glaciers and ice sheets also act as time capsules. Every time a radiocarbon spike was detected, the tree-ring data was compared to spikes in different isotopes such found in these ice cores. Beryllium-10 also occurs naturally when solar particles bombard the atmosphere.&nbsp;

"If ice cores from both the North Pole and the South Pole show a spike in the isotope beryllium-10 for a particular year corresponding to increased radiocarbon in tree rings, we know there was a solar storm," Panyushkina said in the statement.

A huge solar storm hit Earth 2,687 years ago, evidence of which has been found hiding in tree rings. It was nothing like the storms reported today and is so rare that only six such solar events have been recorded in the past 14,500 years.

A huge solar storm hit Earth 2,687 years ago, evidence of which has been found hiding in tree rings. It was nothing like the storms reported today and is so rare that only six such solar events have been recorded in the past 14,500 years. The last storm of such magnitude happened between 664 and 663 BCE. The unprecedented colossal solar storms are known as Miyake Events. Trees reveal a lot about the past, and their rings also harbour stories of massive solar storms that might have hit Earth when there was no technology to record them. A research team from the University of Arizona led by Irina Panyushkina and Timothy Jull has been working to study these rings to reveal evidence about solar storms centuries ago. The study is published in the journal Communications Earth & Environment. Panyushkina warns that if a Miyake Event were to happen today, it would have devastating effects. "If they happened today, they would have cataclysmic effects on communication technology," Panyushkina said in a statement. Also Read: Earth wasn't as riotous and violent right after its birth as we once thought The extreme type of solar activity was first identified in 2012 by Japanese physicist Fusa Miyake and named after him. He published his research about massive solar storms and described the distinctive signature of these events. He noted sharp increases in radioactive carbon isotopes, specifically carbon-14, found in tree growth rings, according to the statement. When cosmic radiation interacts with nitrogen, it leads to the formation of carbon-14 in the atmosphere. Later, this carbon-14 reacts with oxygen to form carbon dioxide which then enters the trees via photosynthesis and gets embedded into the wood. Tree-ring data compared with ice cores "After a few months, carbon-14 will have travelled from the stratosphere to the lower atmosphere, where it is taken up by trees and becomes part of the wood as they grow," Panyushkina said in the statement. The team collected wood samples from dead trees that were found buried in riverbanks along with timbers excavated during archaeological digs. They dissected individual tree rings and then burnt cellulose from the wood to determine the radiocarbon content. Ice cores retrieved from glaciers and ice sheets also act as time capsules. Every time a radiocarbon spike was detected, the tree-ring data was compared to spikes in different isotopes such found in these ice cores. Beryllium-10 also occurs naturally when solar particles bombard the atmosphere. "If ice cores from both the North Pole and the South Pole show a spike in the isotope beryllium-10 for a particular year corresponding to increased radiocarbon in tree rings, we know there was a solar storm," Panyushkina said in the statement.

Solar storm 2,687 years ago was so massive that it is embedded in trees

Tanzanian opposition party Chadema on Wednesday said three of its members were killed in incidents linked to local elections and accused the authorities of rigging the vote.

Chadema chairman Freeman Mbowe said on X that one of its candidates, Modestus Timbisimilwa, was shot dead by police in the commercial capital Dar es Salaam as he attempted to stop "fake and invalid ballots" being delivered to a polling station.

Chadema said another candidate, George Juma Mohamed, was also shot dead at his home in Mkese in central Tanzania the night before.

Police said the death occurred when a group of prison officers was called in to deal with a clash between supporters of Chadema and the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party and fired "warning shots".

Another Chadema official, Steven Chalamila, was killed in a machete attack at his home in Tunduma near the border with Zambia, also late on Tuesday, according to the party.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-155-killed-in-tanzania-as-heavy-rains-lash-east-africa-714943">Also read:&nbsp;At least 155 killed in Tanzania as heavy rains lash East Africa</a>

"The nation has once again witnessed blatant and shameful misconduct from all levels of the government authorities, colluding to secure disgraceful victories for the CCM and its candidates, even at the cost of Tanzanian lives," said Mbowe on X.

He said there were numerous reports of beatings and arrests of its candidates and supporters across the country as they sought to prevent the use of fake and invalid ballots.

An AFP journalist in the western city of Kigoma saw voters clashing over alleged fake ballots, leading to arrests.

"We believe these acts are being carried out with the directives and full blessings of (President Samia Suluhu Hassan) and her government," said Mbowe.

Watch |&nbsp;China, Tanzania hold joint military drill in backdrop of anti-terror operations

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Tanzania is electing more than 80,000 local leaders, who wield considerable power in the East African nation.

It is a key test for the parties and the country's democratic institutions ahead of a presidential election next October.

"We are electing local leaders who are also important campaigners during the general election," Chadema's director of communication and foreign affairs John Mrema told AFP on Tuesday.

Hassan's CCM has been a dominant force for decades.

It has been accused of increased repression in the run-up to the vote, with Chadema saying many of its candidates were unfairly disqualified.&nbsp;

Hassan took office after the sudden death of her authoritarian predecessor John Magufuli in 2021.

She was initially feted for easing restrictions that Magufuli had imposed on the opposition and the media in the country of around 67 million people.

But rights groups and Western governments have criticised what they see as renewed repression ahead of the elections, with opposition politicians facing frequent arrests, as well as abductions and murder.

Chadema boycotted the last local elections polls in 2019 citing violence and intimidation, allowing a clean sweep for the CCM.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Tanzanian opposition party Chadema on Wednesday said three of its members were killed in incidents linked to local elections and accused the authorities of rigging the vote.

Tanzanian opposition party Chadema on Wednesday said three of its members were killed in incidents linked to local elections and accused the authorities of rigging the vote. Chadema chairman Freeman Mbowe said on X that one of its candidates, Modestus Timbisimilwa, was shot dead by police in the commercial capital Dar es Salaam as he attempted to stop "fake and invalid ballots" being delivered to a polling station. Chadema said another candidate, George Juma Mohamed, was also shot dead at his home in Mkese in central Tanzania the night before. Police said the death occurred when a group of prison officers was called in to deal with a clash between supporters of Chadema and the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party and fired "warning shots". Another Chadema official, Steven Chalamila, was killed in a machete attack at his home in Tunduma near the border with Zambia, also late on Tuesday, according to the party. Also read: At least 155 killed in Tanzania as heavy rains lash East Africa "The nation has once again witnessed blatant and shameful misconduct from all levels of the government authorities, colluding to secure disgraceful victories for the CCM and its candidates, even at the cost of Tanzanian lives," said Mbowe on X. He said there were numerous reports of beatings and arrests of its candidates and supporters across the country as they sought to prevent the use of fake and invalid ballots. An AFP journalist in the western city of Kigoma saw voters clashing over alleged fake ballots, leading to arrests. "We believe these acts are being carried out with the directives and full blessings of (President Samia Suluhu Hassan) and her government," said Mbowe. Watch | China, Tanzania hold joint military drill in backdrop of anti-terror operations × Tanzania is electing more than 80,000 local leaders, who wield considerable power in the East African nation. It is a key test for the parties and the country's democratic institutions ahead of a presidential election next October. "We are electing local leaders who are also important campaigners during the general election," Chadema's director of communication and foreign affairs John Mrema told AFP on Tuesday. Hassan's CCM has been a dominant force for decades. It has been accused of increased repression in the run-up to the vote, with Chadema saying many of its candidates were unfairly disqualified. Hassan took office after the sudden death of her authoritarian predecessor John Magufuli in 2021. She was initially feted for easing restrictions that Magufuli had imposed on the opposition and the media in the country of around 67 million people. But rights groups and Western governments have criticised what they see as renewed repression ahead of the elections, with opposition politicians facing frequent arrests, as well as abductions and murder. Chadema boycotted the last local elections polls in 2019 citing violence and intimidation, allowing a clean sweep for the CCM. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Earth wasn't as riotous and violent right after its birth as we once thought

Nearly 1.5 million years ago, two species of humans lived alongside each other, may be aware of the existence of the other and even interact. A study has revealed that the two species of ancient humans crossed paths on a lakeshore in what is now modern-day Kenya. That ancient lakeshore is part of the Koobi Fora fossil site.

The revelation was made by fossilised footprints in the sand in the area that have preserved the unexpected and extraordinary moment. Scientists say they likely lived as friendly neighbours instead of squabbling over their differences.&nbsp;

The study was published in the journal Science on Thursday (Nov 28).

"Their presence on the same surface, made closely together in time, places the two species at the lake margin, using the same habitat," geologist and anthropologist Craig Feibel of Rutgers University in the United States said.

The footprints were so closely made that they indicated that the two species passed each other in this area within hours to a couple of days.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-blame-ancient-humans-for-extinction-of-woolly-rhinoceros-10000-years-ago-729200">Scientists blame ancient humans for extinction of woolly rhinoceros 10,000 years ago</a>

Kevin Hatala, first author of the study and an associate professor of biology at Chatham University in Pittsburgh, said, “We see them in the very same lake margin environment, passing within this area within hours to a couple of days of one another."

"They probably would have been aware of each other’s existence. They saw each other and they might have interacted,” added Hatala.

<h2>Footprints in Kenya</h2>

The footprints at Koobi Fora were first spotted in 2007. They are the oldest known example of hominins walking upright like modern-day humans. In the same region, the skeletal remains of several ancient human relatives have also been found.&nbsp;

More footprints have been found since then, with the most recent ones in 2021. Scientists noted deep and perfectly preserved prints gouged out of what was once soft, squishy mud. They were covered with sediment over time, but Hatala's team excavated them in 2022.&nbsp;

“There’s one long trackway with 12 (hominin) footprints in it. It was made at a decent walking pace … especially since they were walking through mud. There’s not a clear destination at the end,” Hatala said.

<h2>They lived peacefully</h2>

The researchers discovered that based on the imprints, two distinct walking styles existed at the time. They were made by two different species of hominin and both inhabited the site. The prints appear in the same sediment layer, which led them to conclude that they were made at the same time.

Researchers say that the two species coexisted with each other because they had different diets and lifestyles. They did not have to compete with each other, and so lived peacefully.

They are confident that the footprints were made within hours to a few days of one another since there is no cracking on the surface of the footprints. That would have happened if they were exposed to air.

Nearly 1.5 million years ago, two species of humans lived alongside each other, may be aware of the existence of the other and even interact. A study has revealed that the two species of ancient humans crossed paths on a lakeshore in what is now modern-day Kenya.

Nearly 1.5 million years ago, two species of humans lived alongside each other, may be aware of the existence of the other and even interact. A study has revealed that the two species of ancient humans crossed paths on a lakeshore in what is now modern-day Kenya. That ancient lakeshore is part of the Koobi Fora fossil site. The revelation was made by fossilised footprints in the sand in the area that have preserved the unexpected and extraordinary moment. Scientists say they likely lived as friendly neighbours instead of squabbling over their differences. The study was published in the journal Science on Thursday (Nov 28). "Their presence on the same surface, made closely together in time, places the two species at the lake margin, using the same habitat," geologist and anthropologist Craig Feibel of Rutgers University in the United States said. The footprints were so closely made that they indicated that the two species passed each other in this area within hours to a couple of days. Also Read: Scientists blame ancient humans for extinction of woolly rhinoceros 10,000 years ago Kevin Hatala, first author of the study and an associate professor of biology at Chatham University in Pittsburgh, said, “We see them in the very same lake margin environment, passing within this area within hours to a couple of days of one another." "They probably would have been aware of each other’s existence. They saw each other and they might have interacted,” added Hatala. Footprints in Kenya The footprints at Koobi Fora were first spotted in 2007. They are the oldest known example of hominins walking upright like modern-day humans. In the same region, the skeletal remains of several ancient human relatives have also been found. More footprints have been found since then, with the most recent ones in 2021. Scientists noted deep and perfectly preserved prints gouged out of what was once soft, squishy mud. They were covered with sediment over time, but Hatala's team excavated them in 2022. “There’s one long trackway with 12 (hominin) footprints in it. It was made at a decent walking pace … especially since they were walking through mud. There’s not a clear destination at the end,” Hatala said. They lived peacefully The researchers discovered that based on the imprints, two distinct walking styles existed at the time. They were made by two different species of hominin and both inhabited the site. The prints appear in the same sediment layer, which led them to conclude that they were made at the same time. Researchers say that the two species coexisted with each other because they had different diets and lifestyles. They did not have to compete with each other, and so lived peacefully. They are confident that the footprints were made within hours to a few days of one another since there is no cracking on the surface of the footprints. That would have happened if they were exposed to air.

Footprints in sand made 1.5 million years ago reveal something shockingly unexpected

Thanksgiving would be even more exciting for millions as many parts of the US and Canada are likely to witness northern lights. The night skies on Thursday and Friday (Nov 28 and 29) are likely to light up in vibrant hues as minor to moderate geomagnetic storms are likely to hit the Earth on the holiday.&nbsp;

According to NOAA, a coronal mass ejection (CME) launch was observed from the sun on Monday (Nov 25), which is likely to strike Earth on Thursday or Friday. CME is a large cloud of plasma and magnetic fields thrown from the corona of the Sun.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/toxic-smell-raises-alarm-for-astronauts-aboard-sunita-williams-led-iss-779344">Sunita Williams-led team encounters toxic smell at ISS, here's how the astronauts responded</a>

The eruption may result in vibrant hues&nbsp;across the night sky. The duration and intensity of the auroras will depend on how strong the solar storm is. NOAA has predicted the storm to be of&nbsp;G1 or G2 strength, the lowest levels. Besides resulting in auroras, a stronger storm can lead to&nbsp;disruptions in the power grid, GPS, satellite, and radio waves.

NOAA has also acknowledged the possibility of&nbsp;CME missing the Earth and no solar storms hitting the planet, which would means&nbsp;auroras could not be visible this week. The researchers can only become sure&nbsp;once the CME nears the Earth.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/were-aliens-enjoying-hot-springs-on-mars-45-billion-years-ago-heres-what-ancient-evidence-hints-at-778896">Were aliens enjoying hot springs on Mars 4.5 billion years ago? Here's what ancient evidence hints at</a>

<h2>Where and how to watch the Northern Lights?</h2>

The auroras are likely to be seen in the US states that share the border with Canada from Maine to Washington, while it is also possible they may be seen even further south.

To see the Northern Lights, it is best to get away from the artificial light pollution. They are visible to the naked eye and do not require any equipment like binoculars or telescopes, although they may appear sharper through a smartphone camera.

Watch |&nbsp;Did Life Exist In Hot Water On Mars Billions Of Years Ago?

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The auroras and CMEs are more frequent when the sun’s 11-year activity cycle, called solar maximum, is at its peak. NASA and NOAA have said that October 15 marked the beginning of the current solar cycle’s solar maximum. This means that solar activity is likely to remain higher for at least a year, increasing the chances of witnessing auroras through 2025.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thanksgiving would be even more exciting for millions as many parts of the US and Canada are likely to witness northern lights. The night skies on Thursday and Friday (Nov 28 and 29) are likely to light up in vibrant hues as minor to moderate geomagnetic storms are likely to hit the Earth on the holiday.

Thanksgiving would be even more exciting for millions as many parts of the US and Canada are likely to witness northern lights. The night skies on Thursday and Friday (Nov 28 and 29) are likely to light up in vibrant hues as minor to moderate geomagnetic storms are likely to hit the Earth on the holiday. According to NOAA, a coronal mass ejection (CME) launch was observed from the sun on Monday (Nov 25), which is likely to strike Earth on Thursday or Friday. CME is a large cloud of plasma and magnetic fields thrown from the corona of the Sun. Also read | Sunita Williams-led team encounters toxic smell at ISS, here's how the astronauts responded The eruption may result in vibrant hues across the night sky. The duration and intensity of the auroras will depend on how strong the solar storm is. NOAA has predicted the storm to be of G1 or G2 strength, the lowest levels. Besides resulting in auroras, a stronger storm can lead to disruptions in the power grid, GPS, satellite, and radio waves. NOAA has also acknowledged the possibility of CME missing the Earth and no solar storms hitting the planet, which would means auroras could not be visible this week. The researchers can only become sure once the CME nears the Earth. Also read | Were aliens enjoying hot springs on Mars 4.5 billion years ago? Here's what ancient evidence hints at Where and how to watch the Northern Lights? The auroras are likely to be seen in the US states that share the border with Canada from Maine to Washington, while it is also possible they may be seen even further south. To see the Northern Lights, it is best to get away from the artificial light pollution. They are visible to the naked eye and do not require any equipment like binoculars or telescopes, although they may appear sharper through a smartphone camera. Watch | Did Life Exist In Hot Water On Mars Billions Of Years Ago? × The auroras and CMEs are more frequent when the sun’s 11-year activity cycle, called solar maximum, is at its peak. NASA and NOAA have said that October 15 marked the beginning of the current solar cycle’s solar maximum. This means that solar activity is likely to remain higher for at least a year, increasing the chances of witnessing auroras through 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

Parts of the US to likely witness auroras on Thanksgiving night

The examination of a sample brought from asteroid Ryugu in outer space turned exciting for scientists when they found it had life forms on it. However, soon the excitement died down when they found that the microbes on the sample had actually originated on Earth.

The sample was brought to Earth in 2020 after being gathered in 2019 during Japan’s Hayabusa2 mission.

Scientists treated the Ryugu samples with great care and kept them under strict contamination controls, limiting their chance of contamination.

However, researchers at Imperial College London still ended up finding signs of terrestrial life in the samples.

"We found&nbsp;micro-organisms&nbsp;in a sample returned from an asteroid. They appeared on the rock and spread with time before finally dying off," said team leader Matthew Genge of Imperial College London while speaking to Space.com. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/was-mini-moon-asteroid-once-part-of-our-moon-nasa-will-try-to-find-out-when-it-returns-779866">Was 'mini-moon' asteroid once part of our Moon? NASA will try to find out when it returns</a>

"The change in the number of micro-organisms confirmed these were living microbes. However, it also suggested they only recently colonised the specimen just before our analyses and were terrestrial in origin," he added.

"Without studying their&nbsp;DNA, it is impossible to identify their exact type. "However, they were most likely bacteria such as Bacillus since these are very common filamentous micro-organisms, particularly in soil and rocks," explained the researcher.

"It was very surprising to find terrestrial microbes within the rock. We usually polish meteorite specimens, and microbes rarely appear on them. However, it only needs one microbial spore to cause colonisation," said Genge.

<h2>What does contamination of asteroid sample mean?</h2>

In a study titled&nbsp;'Rapid colonisation of a space-returned Ryugu sample by terrestrial microorganisms', the researchers said that no sign of contamination was shown in the material, however, filaments of organic matter which looked like terrestrial microbes were found on the surface of the sample in a week after it was exposed to the atmosphere of Earth.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/16th-asteroid-to-be-discovered-by-man-can-make-everyone-on-earth-a-billionaire-778337">16th asteroid to be discovered by man can make everyone on Earth a billionaire</a>

"It shows that microorganisms can readily metabolise and survive upon extraterrestrial materials. On Earth, there is abundant home-grown organic material available, but on planets such as Mars, extra-martian organic materials may support an ecosystem," said Genge said.&nbsp;

"Our findings suggest that space missions could be contaminating space environments. It also shows that terrestrial microorganisms are adept at rapid colonisation," he added.

"The fact that terrestrial microbes are the Earth's best colonisers means we can never completely discount terrestrial contamination. Most of the time, contamination is not a problem as long as you know its source. The problem comes when scientists attempt to claim that the 'pristine' nature of a specimen is evidence that features are extraterrestrial," the researcher further stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

The examination of a sample brought from asteroid Ryugu in outer space turned exciting for scientists when they found it had life forms on it. However, soon the excitement died down when they found that the microbes on the sample had actually originated on Earth.

The examination of a sample brought from asteroid Ryugu in outer space turned exciting for scientists when they found it had life forms on it. However, soon the excitement died down when they found that the microbes on the sample had actually originated on Earth. The sample was brought to Earth in 2020 after being gathered in 2019 during Japan’s Hayabusa2 mission. Scientists treated the Ryugu samples with great care and kept them under strict contamination controls, limiting their chance of contamination. However, researchers at Imperial College London still ended up finding signs of terrestrial life in the samples. "We found micro-organisms in a sample returned from an asteroid. They appeared on the rock and spread with time before finally dying off," said team leader Matthew Genge of Imperial College London while speaking to Space.com. Also Read: Was 'mini-moon' asteroid once part of our Moon? NASA will try to find out when it returns "The change in the number of micro-organisms confirmed these were living microbes. However, it also suggested they only recently colonised the specimen just before our analyses and were terrestrial in origin," he added. "Without studying their DNA, it is impossible to identify their exact type. "However, they were most likely bacteria such as Bacillus since these are very common filamentous micro-organisms, particularly in soil and rocks," explained the researcher. "It was very surprising to find terrestrial microbes within the rock. We usually polish meteorite specimens, and microbes rarely appear on them. However, it only needs one microbial spore to cause colonisation," said Genge. What does contamination of asteroid sample mean? In a study titled 'Rapid colonisation of a space-returned Ryugu sample by terrestrial microorganisms', the researchers said that no sign of contamination was shown in the material, however, filaments of organic matter which looked like terrestrial microbes were found on the surface of the sample in a week after it was exposed to the atmosphere of Earth. Also Read: 16th asteroid to be discovered by man can make everyone on Earth a billionaire "It shows that microorganisms can readily metabolise and survive upon extraterrestrial materials. On Earth, there is abundant home-grown organic material available, but on planets such as Mars, extra-martian organic materials may support an ecosystem," said Genge said. "Our findings suggest that space missions could be contaminating space environments. It also shows that terrestrial microorganisms are adept at rapid colonisation," he added. "The fact that terrestrial microbes are the Earth's best colonisers means we can never completely discount terrestrial contamination. Most of the time, contamination is not a problem as long as you know its source. The problem comes when scientists attempt to claim that the 'pristine' nature of a specimen is evidence that features are extraterrestrial," the researcher further stated. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists discover life on samples of asteroid Ryugu. Here's what it means

Astronomers are gearing up to study an asteroid that will revisit Earth in 2025. It is about 33 feet wide and will come quite close to the planet. However, it will not pose any threat to us but is of special interest to scientists watching out for asteroids. In fact, this is the same asteroid that acted as Earth's mini-moon from Sep 29 to Nov 25 this year.

The near-Earth asteroid has been named 2024 PT5 and was first observed on Aug 7, 2024. Sutherland, the South Africa telescope of the University of Hawaii’s Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS), spotted it.&nbsp;

Asteroids routinely fly by Earth without causing any damage, and most of them aren't looked at keenly by astronomers. However, 2024 PT5 is an exception. The asteroid will pass us by, but after its close approach, it will continue to linger around for a while. It will be at a distance of about nine times that of where the Moon is from Earth.

This is because 2024 PT5 has a similar motion to Earth’s around the Sun, which will keep it near us for a few months. Its prospect of a prolonged stay has fascinated scientists who are planning on studying it when it is at its closest point to our planet in January 2025.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/when-will-earth-get-its-next-mini-moon-a-1981-and-2022-visitor-returns-in-778199">When will Earth get its next mini-moon? A 1981 and 2022 visitor returns in...</a>

This distance will be about five times as far from Earth as the Moon. &nbsp;

The Goldstone Solar System Radar, near Barstow in California, which is a part of NASA’s Deep Space Network, would track the space rock.&nbsp;

Scientists suspect that asteroid 2024 PT5 is actually a part of the Moon. NASA’s Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) thinks that it got detached from the lunar surface because of an asteroid impact years ago.&nbsp;

When the asteroid was discovered, there was a possibility that it was likely a man-made object since they also have a similar motion. However, upon investigation, it was found to be a naturally occurring space body.&nbsp;

<h2>Can it become a mini-moon?</h2>

The asteroid might stay around for some time, but it would never come close enough to get caught in Earth's gravity. It was our mini-moon for about two months this year, but the same is not expected to happen again.

Astronomers are gearing up to study an asteroid that will revisit Earth in 2025. It is about 33 feet wide and will come quite close to the planet. However, it will not pose any threat to us but is of special interest to scientists watching out for asteroids.

Astronomers are gearing up to study an asteroid that will revisit Earth in 2025. It is about 33 feet wide and will come quite close to the planet. However, it will not pose any threat to us but is of special interest to scientists watching out for asteroids. In fact, this is the same asteroid that acted as Earth's mini-moon from Sep 29 to Nov 25 this year. The near-Earth asteroid has been named 2024 PT5 and was first observed on Aug 7, 2024. Sutherland, the South Africa telescope of the University of Hawaii’s Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS), spotted it. Asteroids routinely fly by Earth without causing any damage, and most of them aren't looked at keenly by astronomers. However, 2024 PT5 is an exception. The asteroid will pass us by, but after its close approach, it will continue to linger around for a while. It will be at a distance of about nine times that of where the Moon is from Earth. This is because 2024 PT5 has a similar motion to Earth’s around the Sun, which will keep it near us for a few months. Its prospect of a prolonged stay has fascinated scientists who are planning on studying it when it is at its closest point to our planet in January 2025. Also Read: When will Earth get its next mini-moon? A 1981 and 2022 visitor returns in... This distance will be about five times as far from Earth as the Moon. The Goldstone Solar System Radar, near Barstow in California, which is a part of NASA’s Deep Space Network, would track the space rock. Scientists suspect that asteroid 2024 PT5 is actually a part of the Moon. NASA’s Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) thinks that it got detached from the lunar surface because of an asteroid impact years ago. When the asteroid was discovered, there was a possibility that it was likely a man-made object since they also have a similar motion. However, upon investigation, it was found to be a naturally occurring space body. Can it become a mini-moon? The asteroid might stay around for some time, but it would never come close enough to get caught in Earth's gravity. It was our mini-moon for about two months this year, but the same is not expected to happen again.

Was 'mini-moon' asteroid once part of our Moon? NASA will try to find out when it returns

A “toxic” smell detected on the International Space Station (ISS) by Russian cosmonauts led to emergency measures by the astronauts aboard led by Commander Sunita Williams. The incident was reported while opening the Progress MS-29 cargo spacecraft.

The strange odour was detected shortly after the docking of the spacecraft at the Poisk Module of the ISS. When the hatch was opened, cosmonauts noticed an unusual smell and small droplets, raising alarm for the astronauts onboard. The crew resorted to prompt actions: immediately closing the hatch and isolating the affected area.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/next-stop-for-curiosity-rover-spiderwebs-on-martian-mountain-779320">Next stop for Curiosity rover? 'Spiderwebs' on Martian mountain</a>

Air-scrubbing systems were activated by NASA and Roscosmos to purify the atmosphere inside the space station. While the US segment deployed the Trace Contaminant Control Subassembly (TCCS), additional purification technologies were used by the Russian segment.

The atmosphere inside the ISS returned to normal by November 24. The NASA flight controllers confirmed, “There are no safety concerns for the crew, and all operations are proceeding as planned.”

While the issue was resolved, it is unclear whether the toxic smell came from the Progress spacecraft or the vestibule that connects it to the ISS. The investigation is going on, exploring both possibilities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-inside-the-moons-inner-core-heres-what-scientists-revealed-778745">What is inside the moon’s inner core? Here’s what scientists revealed</a>

The Progress MS-29 spacecraft was carrying supplies, including food and fuel, to the ISS. Launched on November 21 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, it is scheduled to return to Earth after six months with the waste materials.

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have been stranded on the space station since June this year due to the technical difficulties they faced with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. Their rescue mission is expected to be scheduled in February 2025 via a SpaceX Dragon ship.

(With inputs from agencies)

A “toxic” smell detected on the International Space Station (ISS) by Russian cosmonauts led to emergency measures by the astronauts aboard led by Commander Sunita Williams.

A “toxic” smell detected on the International Space Station (ISS) by Russian cosmonauts led to emergency measures by the astronauts aboard led by Commander Sunita Williams. The incident was reported while opening the Progress MS-29 cargo spacecraft. The strange odour was detected shortly after the docking of the spacecraft at the Poisk Module of the ISS. When the hatch was opened, cosmonauts noticed an unusual smell and small droplets, raising alarm for the astronauts onboard. The crew resorted to prompt actions: immediately closing the hatch and isolating the affected area. Also read | Next stop for Curiosity rover? 'Spiderwebs' on Martian mountain Air-scrubbing systems were activated by NASA and Roscosmos to purify the atmosphere inside the space station. While the US segment deployed the Trace Contaminant Control Subassembly (TCCS), additional purification technologies were used by the Russian segment. The atmosphere inside the ISS returned to normal by November 24. The NASA flight controllers confirmed, “There are no safety concerns for the crew, and all operations are proceeding as planned.” While the issue was resolved, it is unclear whether the toxic smell came from the Progress spacecraft or the vestibule that connects it to the ISS. The investigation is going on, exploring both possibilities. Also read | What is inside the moon’s inner core? Here’s what scientists revealed The Progress MS-29 spacecraft was carrying supplies, including food and fuel, to the ISS. Launched on November 21 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, it is scheduled to return to Earth after six months with the waste materials. NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have been stranded on the space station since June this year due to the technical difficulties they faced with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. Their rescue mission is expected to be scheduled in February 2025 via a SpaceX Dragon ship. (With inputs from agencies)

Sunita Williams-led team encounters toxic smell at ISS, here's how the astronauts responded

Curiosity rover is moving on to its next mission - exploring the giant spiderwebs on Mount Sharp. These honeycomb-like formations extend for miles on this Martian mountain. NASA said that the rover will soon begin travelling to this region.&nbsp;

The geological patterns that look like spiderwebs are believed to have formed when the last remaining surface water in this area on Mars dried up. &nbsp;The web-like formations are called boxwork and are intersecting ridges that stretch for miles. It spans across 10 to 20 km.

For the past year, Curiosity has been studying the Gediz Vallis channel on Mount Sharp in Gale Crater. An ancient river or debris flow supposedly created the channel years ago, as per scientists. This is the region where the rover cut open stones and found pure sulfur crystals inside them. It also took a 360-degree panoramic image of the Gediz Vallis as it moved on to its next journey.

Right now the rover is traveling along the western edge of Gediz Vallis. It is making its way towards the web formations and scientists are intrigued by the discoveries waiting to be made.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-just-recreated-spiders-seen-on-mars-in-a-lab-on-earth-758451">NASA just recreated 'spiders' seen on Mars in a lab on Earth</a>

<h2>How were spiderwebs on Mars formed?</h2>

The red planet today is dusty with no sign of water. However, billions of years ago, rivers are believed to have flown on Mars' surface. Scientists have even found evidence that there was a time when water covered Mars.&nbsp;

As the water dried up, it left behind ridges and channels. These spiderwebs are also a result of the same, scientists say. The surface rock on the planet fractured and the remaining water seeped inside. It took in with it minerals which later hardened and cemented themselves in the fractures. But the rocks around them were softer and gradually eroded away. As they vanished, the fractures were all that were left behind which hardened over time to appear like intersecting ridges.

On Earth, you can see such patterns only in caves and on cliff faces. However, they are spread across the surface of Mars.

&nbsp;

Curiosity rover is moving on to its next mission - exploring the giant spiderwebs on Mount Sharp. These honeycomb-like formations extend for miles on this Martian mountain.

Curiosity rover is moving on to its next mission - exploring the giant spiderwebs on Mount Sharp. These honeycomb-like formations extend for miles on this Martian mountain. NASA said that the rover will soon begin travelling to this region. The geological patterns that look like spiderwebs are believed to have formed when the last remaining surface water in this area on Mars dried up. The web-like formations are called boxwork and are intersecting ridges that stretch for miles. It spans across 10 to 20 km. For the past year, Curiosity has been studying the Gediz Vallis channel on Mount Sharp in Gale Crater. An ancient river or debris flow supposedly created the channel years ago, as per scientists. This is the region where the rover cut open stones and found pure sulfur crystals inside them. It also took a 360-degree panoramic image of the Gediz Vallis as it moved on to its next journey. Right now the rover is traveling along the western edge of Gediz Vallis. It is making its way towards the web formations and scientists are intrigued by the discoveries waiting to be made. Also Read: NASA just recreated 'spiders' seen on Mars in a lab on Earth How were spiderwebs on Mars formed? The red planet today is dusty with no sign of water. However, billions of years ago, rivers are believed to have flown on Mars' surface. Scientists have even found evidence that there was a time when water covered Mars. As the water dried up, it left behind ridges and channels. These spiderwebs are also a result of the same, scientists say. The surface rock on the planet fractured and the remaining water seeped inside. It took in with it minerals which later hardened and cemented themselves in the fractures. But the rocks around them were softer and gradually eroded away. As they vanished, the fractures were all that were left behind which hardened over time to appear like intersecting ridges. On Earth, you can see such patterns only in caves and on cliff faces. However, they are spread across the surface of Mars.

Next stop for Curiosity rover? 'Spiderwebs' on Martian mountain

Archaeologists made a stunning discovery of the world's oldest known alphabetic writing etched on the finger-length&nbsp;clay cylinders found in excavation of a tomb in&nbsp;Syria.

The writing was found to be dated to around 2400 BC by researchers at <a href="https://hub.jhu.edu/2024/11/21/ancient-alphabet-discovered-syria/">Johns Hopkins University</a> in the United States.

The findings were presented at the American Society of Overseas Research's annual meeting. “Alphabetic writing changed the way people lived, how they thought, how they communicated,” said archaeologist Glenn Schwartz, who was behind the discovery of the clay cylinder.

<h2>Alphabets revolutionised language, say experts</h2>

According to the experts, this form of writing is likely to have revolutionised language because it was accessible to people who were beyond the social elite and royalty.

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"Alphabets revolutionised writing by making it accessible to people beyond royalty and the social elite. Alphabetic writing changed the way people lived, how they thought, how they communicated," said Schwartz in a press release.&nbsp;

"And this new discovery shows that people were experimenting with new communication technologies much earlier and in a different location than we had imagined before now," he added.&nbsp;

Speaking about the lightly baked clay cylinders, on which alphabetic writing was etched, Dr Schwartz said, “And this new discovery shows that people were experimenting with new communication technologies much earlier and in a different location than we had imagined before now."

Based on small perforations that were on the clay cylinders, scientists said that it most probably tethered to another object.

Watch:&nbsp;RWA Illegally Occupies Lodhi Era Tomb 'Gumti Of Shaikh Ali', SC Expresses Displeasure

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rwa-illegally-occupies-lodhi-era-tomb-gumti-of-shaikh-ali-sc-expresses-displeasure-776544/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“Maybe they detail the contents of a vessel, or maybe where the vessel came from, or who it belonged to,” explained Dr Schwartz.

“Without a means to translate the writing, we can only speculate," he added. The researchers used carbon dating techniques to confirm that the tombs, the artefacts, and the writing all dated back to 2400 BC.

“Previously, scholars thought the&nbsp;alphabet&nbsp;was invented in or around Egypt sometime after 1900 BCE,” said Dr Schwartz.&nbsp;

“But our artefacts are older and from a different area on the map, suggesting the alphabet may have an entirely different origin story than we thought," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Archaeologists made a stunning discovery of the world's oldest known alphabetic writing etched on the finger-length clay cylinders found in excavation of a tomb in Syria.

Archaeologists made a stunning discovery of the world's oldest known alphabetic writing etched on the finger-length clay cylinders found in excavation of a tomb in Syria. The writing was found to be dated to around 2400 BC by researchers at Johns Hopkins University in the United States. The findings were presented at the American Society of Overseas Research's annual meeting. “Alphabetic writing changed the way people lived, how they thought, how they communicated,” said archaeologist Glenn Schwartz, who was behind the discovery of the clay cylinder. Alphabets revolutionised language, say experts According to the experts, this form of writing is likely to have revolutionised language because it was accessible to people who were beyond the social elite and royalty. Also Read: Archaeologists find 1,600-year-old amulet with depiction of King Solomon killing devil in Turkey "Alphabets revolutionised writing by making it accessible to people beyond royalty and the social elite. Alphabetic writing changed the way people lived, how they thought, how they communicated," said Schwartz in a press release. "And this new discovery shows that people were experimenting with new communication technologies much earlier and in a different location than we had imagined before now," he added. Speaking about the lightly baked clay cylinders, on which alphabetic writing was etched, Dr Schwartz said, “And this new discovery shows that people were experimenting with new communication technologies much earlier and in a different location than we had imagined before now." Based on small perforations that were on the clay cylinders, scientists said that it most probably tethered to another object. Watch: RWA Illegally Occupies Lodhi Era Tomb 'Gumti Of Shaikh Ali', SC Expresses Displeasure “Maybe they detail the contents of a vessel, or maybe where the vessel came from, or who it belonged to,” explained Dr Schwartz. “Without a means to translate the writing, we can only speculate," he added. The researchers used carbon dating techniques to confirm that the tombs, the artefacts, and the writing all dated back to 2400 BC. “Previously, scholars thought the alphabet was invented in or around Egypt sometime after 1900 BCE,” said Dr Schwartz. “But our artefacts are older and from a different area on the map, suggesting the alphabet may have an entirely different origin story than we thought," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

World's oldest alphabet, dating back to 4,000 years, found on clay cylinders in Syria

The debate of whether the moon’s inner core is solid or molten has finally been settled by a team of scientists at the French National Centre for Scientific Research. According to the article published in the journal Nature in May last year, the inner heart of the moon is a solid ball and has an iron-like density.

"Our results," the team led by astronomer Arthur Briaud wrote, "question the evolution of the Moon magnetic field thanks to its demonstration of the existence of the inner core and support a global mantle overturn scenario that brings substantial insights on the timeline of the lunar bombardment in the first billion years of the Solar System."

Seismic information can be used to investigate the interior composition of celestial objects in the solar system. Scientists created a detailed chart of the moon's interior by understanding how acoustic waves created by quakes pass through and reflect from the material inside.

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Although the Apollo mission has provided seismic data from the moon, its low resolution makes it hard to make accurate deductions. While it is known that the outer core comprises a fluid, however, what lies beneath it remained a debate for a long time as the models of both a solid and liquid core work well with the data from Apollo.

Briaud and his team members collected data from various space missions and laser-ranging experiments on the moon to determine lunar characteristics and compared the data to various types of cores to find out which was the closest match.

The lunar models suggested that denser material remains towards the centre, while less dense material rises above. This also explains the elements found near the volcanic regions on the moon.

It was found that the moon’s core has a fluid outer layer and a solid inner core, which is similar to Earth's. The model revealed that the outer core radius is about 362 kilometres (225 miles), and the inner core radius of around 258 kilometres (160 miles), making up 15 per cent of the entire radius of the moon.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/artemis-astronauts-will-shift-from-orion-to-starship-in-space-to-reach-moons-surface-778617">Artemis astronauts will shift from Orion to Starship in space to reach Moon's surface</a>

The team was also able to determine the density of the moon to be about 7,822 kilograms per cubic meter, which is similar to the density of iron.

Interestingly, in 2011 a team led by NASA Marshall planetary scientist Renee Weber came to similar results from their investigation, which Briaud says are confirmed by his team’s findings that the lunar core is similar to Earth’s core.

Understanding the lunar core’s composition will help in understanding how and why the moon’s magnetic field began declining about 3.2 billion years ago, which used to be powerful in its initial stages, as this usually happens due to motion and convection inside the core.

(With inputs from agencies)

The debate of whether the moon’s inner core is solid or molten has finally been settled by a team of scientists at the French National Centre for Scientific Research.

The debate of whether the moon’s inner core is solid or molten has finally been settled by a team of scientists at the French National Centre for Scientific Research. According to the article published in the journal Nature in May last year, the inner heart of the moon is a solid ball and has an iron-like density. "Our results," the team led by astronomer Arthur Briaud wrote, "question the evolution of the Moon magnetic field thanks to its demonstration of the existence of the inner core and support a global mantle overturn scenario that brings substantial insights on the timeline of the lunar bombardment in the first billion years of the Solar System." Seismic information can be used to investigate the interior composition of celestial objects in the solar system. Scientists created a detailed chart of the moon's interior by understanding how acoustic waves created by quakes pass through and reflect from the material inside. Also read | Universe just recorded its most powerful sonic booms in Stephan’s Quintet Although the Apollo mission has provided seismic data from the moon, its low resolution makes it hard to make accurate deductions. While it is known that the outer core comprises a fluid, however, what lies beneath it remained a debate for a long time as the models of both a solid and liquid core work well with the data from Apollo. Briaud and his team members collected data from various space missions and laser-ranging experiments on the moon to determine lunar characteristics and compared the data to various types of cores to find out which was the closest match. The lunar models suggested that denser material remains towards the centre, while less dense material rises above. This also explains the elements found near the volcanic regions on the moon. It was found that the moon’s core has a fluid outer layer and a solid inner core, which is similar to Earth's. The model revealed that the outer core radius is about 362 kilometres (225 miles), and the inner core radius of around 258 kilometres (160 miles), making up 15 per cent of the entire radius of the moon. Also read | Artemis astronauts will shift from Orion to Starship in space to reach Moon's surface The team was also able to determine the density of the moon to be about 7,822 kilograms per cubic meter, which is similar to the density of iron. Interestingly, in 2011 a team led by NASA Marshall planetary scientist Renee Weber came to similar results from their investigation, which Briaud says are confirmed by his team’s findings that the lunar core is similar to Earth’s core. Understanding the lunar core’s composition will help in understanding how and why the moon’s magnetic field began declining about 3.2 billion years ago, which used to be powerful in its initial stages, as this usually happens due to motion and convection inside the core. (With inputs from agencies)

What is inside the moon’s inner core? Here’s what scientists revealed

A mysterious black rock has been found by scientists on Mars which suggested that the Red Planet had hot springs billions of years ago.

In new research, scientists have found new evidence which has hinted at the existence of water on the planet more than four billion years ago, which has hinted at the planet being habitable.

A sample of the meteorite was examined by academics from Curtin University in Australia, and while looking at a grain of the black crystal rock called zicron, the experts were able to find evidence that hinted at the planet being hospitable long ago.

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Scientists discovered that the sample dated back to 4.45 billion years ago when it has been estimated that planet Earth was formed.&nbsp;

<h2>Fingerprints on water of grain?</h2>

During the study of the rock, scientists found 'fingerprints' on the water of the grain, which hinted at the existence of hot water on the Red Planet.&nbsp;

It is believed to have existed like hydrothermal springs, which are heated by magma that flows under the crust of the planet.

As per the experts, hot springs play an important role in life&nbsp;which evolves on Earth. The evidence of the existence of such springs suggests that the Red Planet may have possessed the ability to support ancient life.

Speaking to The Sun, the study's co-author, Dr Aaron Cavosie, said that nano-scale geochemistry was used for finding the evidence of hot water on the planet.

"Hydrothermal systems were essential for the development of life on Earth, and our findings suggest Mars also had water, a key ingredient for habitable environments, during the earliest history of crust formation," said Dr Cavosie while speaking to the publication.

Watch:&nbsp;Did Life Exist In Hot Water On Mars Billions Of Years Ago?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/did-life-exist-in-hot-water-on-mars-billions-of-years-ago-778813/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Through nano-scale imaging and spectroscopy, the team identified element patterns in this unique zircon, including iron, aluminium, yttrium and sodium," he added.

"These elements were added as the zircon formed 4.45 billion years ago, suggesting water was present during early Martian magmatic activity. This new study takes us a step further in understanding early Mars, by way of identifying tell-tale signs of water-rich fluids from when the grain formed, providing geochemical markers of water in the oldest known Martian crust," Dr Cavosie further stated.&nbsp;

This discovery comes after the Mars Rover of NASA found the first "possible" signs of the existence of life on the planet.

(With inputs from agencies)

A mysterious black rock has been found by scientists on Mars which suggested that the Red Planet had hot springs billions of years ago. In new research, scientists have found new evidence which has hinted at the existence of water on the planet more than four billion years ago, which has hinted at the planet being habitable.

A mysterious black rock has been found by scientists on Mars which suggested that the Red Planet had hot springs billions of years ago. In new research, scientists have found new evidence which has hinted at the existence of water on the planet more than four billion years ago, which has hinted at the planet being habitable. A sample of the meteorite was examined by academics from Curtin University in Australia, and while looking at a grain of the black crystal rock called zicron, the experts were able to find evidence that hinted at the planet being hospitable long ago. Also read: Did NASA accidentally kill living creatures on Mars? Here's what a scientist claimed Scientists discovered that the sample dated back to 4.45 billion years ago when it has been estimated that planet Earth was formed. Fingerprints on water of grain? During the study of the rock, scientists found 'fingerprints' on the water of the grain, which hinted at the existence of hot water on the Red Planet. It is believed to have existed like hydrothermal springs, which are heated by magma that flows under the crust of the planet. As per the experts, hot springs play an important role in life which evolves on Earth. The evidence of the existence of such springs suggests that the Red Planet may have possessed the ability to support ancient life. Speaking to The Sun, the study's co-author, Dr Aaron Cavosie, said that nano-scale geochemistry was used for finding the evidence of hot water on the planet. "Hydrothermal systems were essential for the development of life on Earth, and our findings suggest Mars also had water, a key ingredient for habitable environments, during the earliest history of crust formation," said Dr Cavosie while speaking to the publication. Watch: Did Life Exist In Hot Water On Mars Billions Of Years Ago? "Through nano-scale imaging and spectroscopy, the team identified element patterns in this unique zircon, including iron, aluminium, yttrium and sodium," he added. "These elements were added as the zircon formed 4.45 billion years ago, suggesting water was present during early Martian magmatic activity. This new study takes us a step further in understanding early Mars, by way of identifying tell-tale signs of water-rich fluids from when the grain formed, providing geochemical markers of water in the oldest known Martian crust," Dr Cavosie further stated. This discovery comes after the Mars Rover of NASA found the first "possible" signs of the existence of life on the planet. (With inputs from agencies)

Were aliens enjoying hot springs on Mars 4.5 billion years ago? Here's what ancient evidence hints at

Haunted houses are not for everyone. A looming fear of someone jumping off from somewhere to scare you is a thrill unlike any other. While it has mostly been a fun way to pass the time, science says that haunted houses are good for your health.&nbsp;

According to research reported by IFLScience, visiting places you know will scare you can help prepare your body to face stress and danger. This can be like watching a horror movie, a sudden scare activates the adrenergic system, triggering the hormones needed for the body’s "fight-or-flight" response.

Being in such a place not only increases your heartbeat and makes you more alert, but also modulates inflammatory markers in the body. Inflammation is linked to several health issues. When the adrenergic system is activated, the immune system activation is temporarily reduced, which might lead to a decrease in low-grade inflammation.&nbsp;

The study monitored people with low-grade inflammation who visited a haunted house and noted the changes during and after exposure. At this particular house, killer clowns chased people, with chainsaw-wielding figures and decomposing zombies scaring visitors.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/lonely-dolphin-caught-speaking-to-himself-by-scientists-heres-how-777703">'Lonely' dolphin caught speaking to himself by scientists</a>

There were 113 volunteers at the haunted house in Vejle, Denmark. It is an annual attraction during the Halloween season and 4,000-5,000 people pay to feel the chill.&nbsp;

<h2>Being scared reduces inflammation</h2>

Researchers monitored their heart rates and took their blood samples at three different times: before entering the house, immediately after exiting the house, and three days after the event.

They checked the samples for inflammatory markers and immune cells. Exposure to fear was found to reduce inflammation in the participants three days after the event. Of those who had elevated CRP levels previously, 82 per cent showed a decrease in hs-CRP levels after three days. This meant a reduction in inflammation.

Study authors say that this indicates that exposure to recreational fear can possibly reduce inflammation.

However, the study had some limitations, such as alcohol and smoking were not factored in. There was no baseline inflammation data for the participants, and the demographic was limited.

Haunted houses are not for everyone. A looming fear of someone jumping off from somewhere to scare you is a thrill unlike any other. While it has mostly been a fun way to pass the time, science says that haunted houses are good for your health.

Haunted houses are not for everyone. A looming fear of someone jumping off from somewhere to scare you is a thrill unlike any other. While it has mostly been a fun way to pass the time, science says that haunted houses are good for your health. According to research reported by IFLScience, visiting places you know will scare you can help prepare your body to face stress and danger. This can be like watching a horror movie, a sudden scare activates the adrenergic system, triggering the hormones needed for the body’s "fight-or-flight" response. Being in such a place not only increases your heartbeat and makes you more alert, but also modulates inflammatory markers in the body. Inflammation is linked to several health issues. When the adrenergic system is activated, the immune system activation is temporarily reduced, which might lead to a decrease in low-grade inflammation. The study monitored people with low-grade inflammation who visited a haunted house and noted the changes during and after exposure. At this particular house, killer clowns chased people, with chainsaw-wielding figures and decomposing zombies scaring visitors. Also Read: 'Lonely' dolphin caught speaking to himself by scientists There were 113 volunteers at the haunted house in Vejle, Denmark. It is an annual attraction during the Halloween season and 4,000-5,000 people pay to feel the chill. Being scared reduces inflammation Researchers monitored their heart rates and took their blood samples at three different times: before entering the house, immediately after exiting the house, and three days after the event. They checked the samples for inflammatory markers and immune cells. Exposure to fear was found to reduce inflammation in the participants three days after the event. Of those who had elevated CRP levels previously, 82 per cent showed a decrease in hs-CRP levels after three days. This meant a reduction in inflammation. Study authors say that this indicates that exposure to recreational fear can possibly reduce inflammation. However, the study had some limitations, such as alcohol and smoking were not factored in. There was no baseline inflammation data for the participants, and the demographic was limited.

Getting terrorised by zombies, ghouls and goblins is good for your health

Earth now officially has two moons after its gravity caught an asteroid. Our planet captured asteroid 2024 PT5 on Sunday, September 29, which has now become our mini-moon. However, do you know that this is not the first time Earth has had a mini-moon?

The asteroid was discovered on August 7 by the Asteroid Terrestrial-Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS). Carlos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos, researchers at Spain’s Universidad Complutense de Madrid, were the first to spot it and published their findings in Research Notes of the AAS.&nbsp;

These space rocks regularly travel around the sun like other asteroids. But when they come near Earth, sometimes the planet's gravity pulls them in. It is definitely a rare event, however, not the first.&nbsp;

<h2>Other mini-moons</h2>

The two astronomers say in their paper that our planet has had a mini-moon previously as well. The first such recorded event happened in 1981. A cosmic body, called 2022 NX1, was temporarily captured by Earth's gravity. The mini-moon returned in 2022. Both times, it stayed only for a short period of time. It will return to Earth in 2051.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-will-soon-have-two-moons-just-not-in-the-way-you-think-758421">Earth will soon have two moons, just not in the way you think</a>

Another short-lived mini-moon, as per the authors, was 1991 VG. It was captured for a short time in 1992 February during a flyby. Both of the above never completed a full revolution of Earth.

However, in 2006 we had a mini-moon that stayed with us for a full year. Asteroid 2006 RH120 remained gravitationally bound to Earth until July 2007 after getting caught in July 2006.&nbsp;

Another asteroid that stayed with us for many years was 2020 CD3. It remained in orbit for years and escaped early in May 2020.

<h2>Asteroid 2024 PT5</h2>

Our latest mini-moon is similar to the 2022 NX1. It will not complete a full orbit of Earth and will remain with us only for a few days before flying away on November 25. 2024 PT5 lives in the Arjuna asteroid belt. Space rocks living in this region follow orbits similar to Earth’s, which is about 93 million miles from the sun.

Some of the objects from the Arjuna asteroid belt can approach Earth at an extremely close range of around 2.8 million miles.&nbsp;

It is not possible to see the mini-moon since it is too small and dim. Amateur telescopes and binoculars are not going to be enough to see it. Our Moon is about 2,159 miles in diameter, while the new entrant is believed to be just 37 feet wide.

Earth now officially has two moons after its gravity caught an asteroid. Our planet captured asteroid 2024 PT5 on Sunday, September 29, which has now become our mini-moon.

Earth now officially has two moons after its gravity caught an asteroid. Our planet captured asteroid 2024 PT5 on Sunday, September 29, which has now become our mini-moon. However, do you know that this is not the first time Earth has had a mini-moon? The asteroid was discovered on August 7 by the Asteroid Terrestrial-Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS). Carlos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos, researchers at Spain’s Universidad Complutense de Madrid, were the first to spot it and published their findings in Research Notes of the AAS. These space rocks regularly travel around the sun like other asteroids. But when they come near Earth, sometimes the planet's gravity pulls them in. It is definitely a rare event, however, not the first. Other mini-moons The two astronomers say in their paper that our planet has had a mini-moon previously as well. The first such recorded event happened in 1981. A cosmic body, called 2022 NX1, was temporarily captured by Earth's gravity. The mini-moon returned in 2022. Both times, it stayed only for a short period of time. It will return to Earth in 2051. Also Read: Earth will soon have two moons, just not in the way you think Another short-lived mini-moon, as per the authors, was 1991 VG. It was captured for a short time in 1992 February during a flyby. Both of the above never completed a full revolution of Earth. However, in 2006 we had a mini-moon that stayed with us for a full year. Asteroid 2006 RH120 remained gravitationally bound to Earth until July 2007 after getting caught in July 2006. Another asteroid that stayed with us for many years was 2020 CD3. It remained in orbit for years and escaped early in May 2020. Asteroid 2024 PT5 Our latest mini-moon is similar to the 2022 NX1. It will not complete a full orbit of Earth and will remain with us only for a few days before flying away on November 25. 2024 PT5 lives in the Arjuna asteroid belt. Space rocks living in this region follow orbits similar to Earth’s, which is about 93 million miles from the sun. Some of the objects from the Arjuna asteroid belt can approach Earth at an extremely close range of around 2.8 million miles. It is not possible to see the mini-moon since it is too small and dim. Amateur telescopes and binoculars are not going to be enough to see it. Our Moon is about 2,159 miles in diameter, while the new entrant is believed to be just 37 feet wide.

Earth has had two moons in the past. One of the mini-moons has visited twice and will return in 27 years

NASA has sent a probe to an asteroid that could make everyone on Earth a billionaire. Asteroid 16 Psyche is 173-mile wide and is estimated to be worth $10,000,000,000,000,000,000, or 10 quintillion. It is reported to be full of precious metals, like gold, iron, and nickel.

The asteroid was discovered 172 years ago by Italian astronomer Annibale de Gasparis. It was the 16th asteroid discovered by humans, and so was assigned the number 16 which reflects in its name.&nbsp;

Experts say that the asteroid harbours so many valuable items that if brought to Earth, it can make each person on the planet richer by $1,246,105,919.&nbsp;

Scientists say that the asteroid stretches 173 miles at its widest point, with 64,000 square miles of total surface area. Nearly 30 to 60 per cent of its form is estimated to be made up of these precious metals. Considering the size of the asteroid, it is home to a huge cache of objects that can transform the world.

To learn more about the asteroid, NASA launched the Psyche spacecraft in October 2023. It needs to travel 3.5 billion kilometres to reach the asteroid, a target set for August 2029.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/huge-sunspot-will-soon-face-earth-and-spew-flares-towards-us-is-that-a-danger-777687">Huge sunspot will soon face Earth and spew flares towards us. Is that a danger?</a>

<h2>Core of a planet that exploded after a collision</h2>

The metallic celestial object is believed to be the remnant core of a planet that likely witnesses a catastrophic collision. Using data from it, NASA aims to understand more about the formation of Earth and other similar rocky or terrestrial planets.

Earlier this year, a study conducted by a team of scientists from the Southwest Research Institute found that Psyche hydrated minerals on its surface. The data collected by the James Webb telescope was used to analyse the space rock and points to the presence of hydroxyl on the surface of Psyche.&nbsp;

The space rock is orbiting the sun between Mars and Jupiter. This will put the spacecraft in direct contact with the red planet in 2026. The Psyche spacecraft will come within the gravitational pull of Mars around May 2026. It will use its pull to dramatically increase its velocity and eventually reach the asteroid.

NASA has sent a probe to an asteroid that could make everyone on Earth a billionaire. Asteroid 16 Psyche is 173-mile wide and is estimated to be worth $10,000,000,000,000,000,000, or 10 quintillion.

NASA has sent a probe to an asteroid that could make everyone on Earth a billionaire. Asteroid 16 Psyche is 173-mile wide and is estimated to be worth $10,000,000,000,000,000,000, or 10 quintillion. It is reported to be full of precious metals, like gold, iron, and nickel. The asteroid was discovered 172 years ago by Italian astronomer Annibale de Gasparis. It was the 16th asteroid discovered by humans, and so was assigned the number 16 which reflects in its name. Experts say that the asteroid harbours so many valuable items that if brought to Earth, it can make each person on the planet richer by $1,246,105,919. Scientists say that the asteroid stretches 173 miles at its widest point, with 64,000 square miles of total surface area. Nearly 30 to 60 per cent of its form is estimated to be made up of these precious metals. Considering the size of the asteroid, it is home to a huge cache of objects that can transform the world. To learn more about the asteroid, NASA launched the Psyche spacecraft in October 2023. It needs to travel 3.5 billion kilometres to reach the asteroid, a target set for August 2029. Also Read: Huge sunspot will soon face Earth and spew flares towards us. Is that a danger? Core of a planet that exploded after a collision The metallic celestial object is believed to be the remnant core of a planet that likely witnesses a catastrophic collision. Using data from it, NASA aims to understand more about the formation of Earth and other similar rocky or terrestrial planets. Earlier this year, a study conducted by a team of scientists from the Southwest Research Institute found that Psyche hydrated minerals on its surface. The data collected by the James Webb telescope was used to analyse the space rock and points to the presence of hydroxyl on the surface of Psyche. The space rock is orbiting the sun between Mars and Jupiter. This will put the spacecraft in direct contact with the red planet in 2026. The Psyche spacecraft will come within the gravitational pull of Mars around May 2026. It will use its pull to dramatically increase its velocity and eventually reach the asteroid.

16th asteroid to be discovered by man can make everyone on Earth a billionaire

Astronomers have captured the first close-up shot of a star outside our galaxy. This star is in the end stages of its life and is gearing up to explode as a supernova. WOH G64 was discovered in the 1970s and has been under constant observation since then. It is among the largest stars on record and is also extremely luminous. It is one of the most massive red supergiants (RSGs) as well.

The star lives in the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC), which is the Milky Way’s largest satellite galaxy. The images were captured by the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope Interferometer. Getting such an up-close look at the star is a major accomplishment for the scientists who have been watching the star.

“For the first time, we have succeeded in taking a zoomed-in image of a dying star in a galaxy outside our own Milky Way,” lead author Keiichi Ohnaka, an astrophysicist from Universidad Andrés Bello in Chile, said.

WOH G64 is a whopping 160,000 light-years away and 2,000 times larger than the Sun.

The images were published in the journal Astronomy and Astrophysics. The study, titled “Imaging the innermost circumstellar environment of the red supergiant WOH G64 in the Large Magellanic Cloud", gives a detailed account of the star.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/when-will-earth-get-its-next-mini-moon-a-1981-and-2022-visitor-returns-in-778199">When will Earth get its next mini-moon? A 1981 and 2022 visitor returns in...</a>

<h2>The star is dying</h2>

The images show a cocoon of dust around the star, which the authors say is evidence that it’s convulsed and shed some of its outer layers.

“We discovered an egg-shaped cocoon closely surrounding the star,” Ohnaka said. “We are excited because this may be related to the drastic ejection of material from the dying star before a supernova explosion.”

The study authors call WOH G64 "the most extreme of its kind", one that is inching towards an explosion.

“This star is one of the most extreme of its kind, and any drastic change may bring it closer to an explosive end," study co-author Jacco van Loon of the Keele Observatory said.

“Significant mass loss in the red supergiant (RSG) phase is of great importance for the evolution of massive stars before they end their life in a supernova (SN) explosion,” the researchers wrote in the paper.

"These massive stars forge heavy elements through nucleosynthesis then spread them out into their surroundings when they explode. These heavy elements make rocky planets possible," they add.

Such stars can also "trigger the birth of new stars", and so, the authors say, "Better images of stars approaching their explosive ends help astronomers understand them better."

Astronomers have captured the first close-up shot of a star outside our galaxy. This star is in the end stages of its life and is gearing up to explode as a supernova.

Astronomers have captured the first close-up shot of a star outside our galaxy. This star is in the end stages of its life and is gearing up to explode as a supernova. WOH G64 was discovered in the 1970s and has been under constant observation since then. It is among the largest stars on record and is also extremely luminous. It is one of the most massive red supergiants (RSGs) as well. The star lives in the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC), which is the Milky Way’s largest satellite galaxy. The images were captured by the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope Interferometer. Getting such an up-close look at the star is a major accomplishment for the scientists who have been watching the star. “For the first time, we have succeeded in taking a zoomed-in image of a dying star in a galaxy outside our own Milky Way,” lead author Keiichi Ohnaka, an astrophysicist from Universidad Andrés Bello in Chile, said. WOH G64 is a whopping 160,000 light-years away and 2,000 times larger than the Sun. The images were published in the journal Astronomy and Astrophysics. The study, titled “Imaging the innermost circumstellar environment of the red supergiant WOH G64 in the Large Magellanic Cloud", gives a detailed account of the star. Also Read: When will Earth get its next mini-moon? A 1981 and 2022 visitor returns in... The star is dying The images show a cocoon of dust around the star, which the authors say is evidence that it’s convulsed and shed some of its outer layers. “We discovered an egg-shaped cocoon closely surrounding the star,” Ohnaka said. “We are excited because this may be related to the drastic ejection of material from the dying star before a supernova explosion.” The study authors call WOH G64 "the most extreme of its kind", one that is inching towards an explosion. “This star is one of the most extreme of its kind, and any drastic change may bring it closer to an explosive end," study co-author Jacco van Loon of the Keele Observatory said. “Significant mass loss in the red supergiant (RSG) phase is of great importance for the evolution of massive stars before they end their life in a supernova (SN) explosion,” the researchers wrote in the paper. "These massive stars forge heavy elements through nucleosynthesis then spread them out into their surroundings when they explode. These heavy elements make rocky planets possible," they add. Such stars can also "trigger the birth of new stars", and so, the authors say, "Better images of stars approaching their explosive ends help astronomers understand them better."

Snapped up and close, a dying star outside the Milky Way

Earth will soon lose its mini-moon that will fly away into space after completing its trip to our planet. Asteroid 2024 PT5 was captured by our planet's gravitational pull on September 29 and it will now zoom away on Nov 25. It originated in the Arjuna asteroid belt and was discovered on August 7 by the Asteroid Terrestrial-Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS). Space rocks that live in this region have orbits similar to Earth’s, which is about 93 million miles from the sun.

So, when will Earth get its next mini-moon? The next such cosmic wonder is nearly 27 years away.&nbsp;

The asteroid was spotted travelling towards Earth by Carlos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos, researchers at Spain’s Universidad Complutense de Madrid. They revealed the finding in a paper published in Research Notes of the AAS.&nbsp;

Besides talking about the asteroid that would become Earth's mini-moon, the scientists also talked about previous occurrences. Our planet has had such moons in the past as well and one of them was the 2022 NX1.&nbsp;

It was the first such recorded event, which happened in 1981. Asteroid 2022 NX1 was captured by Earth's gravity temporarily and soon flew away. It then returned in 2022 and again&nbsp;spent a short time acting like our planet's mini-moon. Both times, it did not complete a full revolution of Earth.

Now the same asteroid will return in 2051 and once again will be caught by the gravitational pull and orbit Earth. However, it is not known for how long it will stay and whether or not it will complete an orbit.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-has-hosted-mini-moons-before-and-one-of-them-will-revisit-in-27-years-764394">Earth has had two moons in the past. One of the mini-moons has visited twice and will return in 27 years</a>

However, since astronomers are constantly keeping an eye on asteroids and monitoring incoming space rocks that might be a threat to us, there are chances that another such asteroid will be discovered in the interim.&nbsp;

<h2>Other mini-moons</h2>

Asteroids regularly fly by Earth and sometimes the planet's gravity pulls them in. It is an extremely rare event.

Besides asteroids 2022 NX1 and 2024 PT, there have been a few other mini-moons as well.&nbsp;

The authors state in their study that in 1992, asteroid 1991 VG was captured for a short time in the month of February. Another time this happened was in 2006, but this one was an even special one since it stayed with Earth for a full year. Asteroid 2006 RH120 was gravitationally bound to Earth till July 2007 after getting caught in July 2006.&nbsp;

Then there was &nbsp;2020 CD3 that remained in orbit for years and escaped early in May 2020.

Earth will soon lose its mini-moon that will fly away into space after completing its trip to our planet. Asteroid 2024 PT5 was captured by our planet's gravitational pull on September 29 and it will now zoom away on Nov 25.

Earth will soon lose its mini-moon that will fly away into space after completing its trip to our planet. Asteroid 2024 PT5 was captured by our planet's gravitational pull on September 29 and it will now zoom away on Nov 25. It originated in the Arjuna asteroid belt and was discovered on August 7 by the Asteroid Terrestrial-Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS). Space rocks that live in this region have orbits similar to Earth’s, which is about 93 million miles from the sun. So, when will Earth get its next mini-moon? The next such cosmic wonder is nearly 27 years away. The asteroid was spotted travelling towards Earth by Carlos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos, researchers at Spain’s Universidad Complutense de Madrid. They revealed the finding in a paper published in Research Notes of the AAS. Besides talking about the asteroid that would become Earth's mini-moon, the scientists also talked about previous occurrences. Our planet has had such moons in the past as well and one of them was the 2022 NX1. It was the first such recorded event, which happened in 1981. Asteroid 2022 NX1 was captured by Earth's gravity temporarily and soon flew away. It then returned in 2022 and again spent a short time acting like our planet's mini-moon. Both times, it did not complete a full revolution of Earth. Now the same asteroid will return in 2051 and once again will be caught by the gravitational pull and orbit Earth. However, it is not known for how long it will stay and whether or not it will complete an orbit. Also Read: Earth has had two moons in the past. One of the mini-moons has visited twice and will return in 27 years However, since astronomers are constantly keeping an eye on asteroids and monitoring incoming space rocks that might be a threat to us, there are chances that another such asteroid will be discovered in the interim. Other mini-moons Asteroids regularly fly by Earth and sometimes the planet's gravity pulls them in. It is an extremely rare event. Besides asteroids 2022 NX1 and 2024 PT, there have been a few other mini-moons as well. The authors state in their study that in 1992, asteroid 1991 VG was captured for a short time in the month of February. Another time this happened was in 2006, but this one was an even special one since it stayed with Earth for a full year. Asteroid 2006 RH120 was gravitationally bound to Earth till July 2007 after getting caught in July 2006. Then there was 2020 CD3 that remained in orbit for years and escaped early in May 2020.

When will Earth get its next mini-moon? A 1981 and 2022 visitor returns in...

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