There have been a lot of conspiracy theories about the mythical Loch Ness monster. These conspiracy theories have time and again inspired researchers to go on a mission and find if actually, any such monsters exist.

According to the Scottish folklore which dates back to the 19th century, the creature inhabits Loch Ness which is a large freshwater in the Scottish Highlands.

With an aim to find if this folklore had any truth, a team of experts set out on a mission to Loch Ness and discovered that actually there might be “mini-monsters” and not bigger creatures lurking in the loch.

<h2>How scientists found&nbsp;'mini-monsters'&nbsp;in Loch Ness?</h2>

The new study was carried out by experts from the University of Aberdeen who dropped a holographic camera into the loch, something which was never done before.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/are-deep-seas-on-earth-hiding-alien-life-amid-dark-oxygen-study-hints-so-753986">Are deep seas on Earth hiding alien life amid 'dark oxygen'? Study hints so</a>

The device used is called a weeHoloCam which has the potential to capture digital holographic images in which microscopic organisms can be seen and the images can be later produced using artificial intelligence.

<h2>What are new ‘mini-monsters’ found in Scotland's waters?</h2>

The "mini-monsters" are magnified plankton particles, which can help understand the make-up of the loch.

Speaking about the discovery, Dr Thangavel Thevar from the University of Aberdeen’s School of Engineering said, “This was a unique opportunity for us to deploy the weeHoloCam in fresh water, as it has previously only been used in the ocean."&nbsp;

“We were curious as to what the water quality would be like, especially at lower depths, as we know that too much peat could obstruct the recording path of the instrument. But we lowered the camera to around 200 metres [656 feet] and were able to see lots of interesting particles which, by working with biologists, should be able to give us more information about the biodiversity of Loch Ness," he added.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Stranded Pink Dolphin rescued in Bolivia

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“Mini-monsters” are not what the conspiracy theorists were finding and hence the hunt for&nbsp;the Loch Ness monster&nbsp;is still on.

NASA was also recently asked to give attention to the Scottish Highlands and help the experts in finding the mythical monster.

The Loch Ness Monster has been sighted more than 1,156 times, as per the official sightings registered.

(With inputs from agencies)

There have been a lot of conspiracy theories about the mythical Loch Ness monster. These conspiracy theories have time and again inspired researchers to go on a mission and find if actually, any such monsters exist.

There have been a lot of conspiracy theories about the mythical Loch Ness monster. These conspiracy theories have time and again inspired researchers to go on a mission and find if actually, any such monsters exist. According to the Scottish folklore which dates back to the 19th century, the creature inhabits Loch Ness which is a large freshwater in the Scottish Highlands. With an aim to find if this folklore had any truth, a team of experts set out on a mission to Loch Ness and discovered that actually there might be “mini-monsters” and not bigger creatures lurking in the loch. How scientists found 'mini-monsters' in Loch Ness? The new study was carried out by experts from the University of Aberdeen who dropped a holographic camera into the loch, something which was never done before. Also Read: Are deep seas on Earth hiding alien life amid 'dark oxygen'? Study hints so The device used is called a weeHoloCam which has the potential to capture digital holographic images in which microscopic organisms can be seen and the images can be later produced using artificial intelligence. What are new ‘mini-monsters’ found in Scotland's waters? The "mini-monsters" are magnified plankton particles, which can help understand the make-up of the loch. Speaking about the discovery, Dr Thangavel Thevar from the University of Aberdeen’s School of Engineering said, “This was a unique opportunity for us to deploy the weeHoloCam in fresh water, as it has previously only been used in the ocean." “We were curious as to what the water quality would be like, especially at lower depths, as we know that too much peat could obstruct the recording path of the instrument. But we lowered the camera to around 200 metres [656 feet] and were able to see lots of interesting particles which, by working with biologists, should be able to give us more information about the biodiversity of Loch Ness," he added. Watch: Stranded Pink Dolphin rescued in Bolivia “Mini-monsters” are not what the conspiracy theorists were finding and hence the hunt for the Loch Ness monster is still on. NASA was also recently asked to give attention to the Scottish Highlands and help the experts in finding the mythical monster. The Loch Ness Monster has been sighted more than 1,156 times, as per the official sightings registered. (With inputs from agencies)

'Mini-monsters' spotted in Scotland's rivers hint at existence of mythical 'Loch Ness monster'

NASA has issued a sudden alert after a massive house-sized asteroid, which has been named 2024 QL, has been spotted racing towards Earth at a high speed.&nbsp;

The asteroid is expected to make its closest approach to the planet on August 29 and will fly by at a distance of 730,000 miles.&nbsp;

The asteroid, which measures nearly 45 feet in diameter, will make a close flyby which has attracted attention of the space agencies and astronomers because of its speed and close proximity.

Asteroid 2024 QL is not just being observed because of its proximity but its fierce speed has also garnered attention.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-issues-warning-as-huge-asteroid-set-to-come-dangerously-close-on-this-date-750066">NASA issues warning as huge asteroid set to come dangerously close on THIS date</a>

The space rock which is travelling at the remarkable speed of 23,894 miles per hour has been hurtling across the cosmos at a high speed because of which it is being observed by the NASA and global space agencies.&nbsp;

Asteroid 2024 QL will not pose an immediate threat to the Earth but its flyby will be monitored by NASA.&nbsp;

When such asteroids pass from a close distance they provide an opportunity for studying the behaviour of the asteroid more closely and improve preparedness for any cosmic encounters in the future.

This asteroid is being closely tracked by NASA's Near-Earth Object Observations (NEOO) programme and its path is being analysed and valuable data is being gathered to understand such space rocks.

<h2>How is NASA tracking asteroids?</h2>

NASA, along with other space agencies, has established a network of telescopes and advanced computing for identifying near-Earth objects (NEOs).&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;China's plan: Nuclear warheads for asteroid defence

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Even though many of the NEOs don't come very near to Earth, some of them do come at a scary distance and get tagged as potentially hazardous asteroids which need more attention.&nbsp;

Such asteroids are more than 460 feet (140 metres) in size and their orbits bring them within a distance of 7.5 million kilometres from Earth. NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) has been monitoring all the NEOs and looking for any potential impact risks.

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA has issued a sudden alert after a massive house-sized asteroid, which has been named 2024 QL, has been spotted racing towards Earth at a high speed. The asteroid is expected to make its closest approach to the planet on August 29 and will fly by at a distance of 730,000 miles.

NASA has issued a sudden alert after a massive house-sized asteroid, which has been named 2024 QL, has been spotted racing towards Earth at a high speed. The asteroid is expected to make its closest approach to the planet on August 29 and will fly by at a distance of 730,000 miles. The asteroid, which measures nearly 45 feet in diameter, will make a close flyby which has attracted attention of the space agencies and astronomers because of its speed and close proximity. Asteroid 2024 QL is not just being observed because of its proximity but its fierce speed has also garnered attention. Also Read: NASA issues warning as huge asteroid set to come dangerously close on THIS date The space rock which is travelling at the remarkable speed of 23,894 miles per hour has been hurtling across the cosmos at a high speed because of which it is being observed by the NASA and global space agencies. Asteroid 2024 QL will not pose an immediate threat to the Earth but its flyby will be monitored by NASA. When such asteroids pass from a close distance they provide an opportunity for studying the behaviour of the asteroid more closely and improve preparedness for any cosmic encounters in the future. This asteroid is being closely tracked by NASA's Near-Earth Object Observations (NEOO) programme and its path is being analysed and valuable data is being gathered to understand such space rocks. How is NASA tracking asteroids? NASA, along with other space agencies, has established a network of telescopes and advanced computing for identifying near-Earth objects (NEOs). Watch: China's plan: Nuclear warheads for asteroid defence Even though many of the NEOs don't come very near to Earth, some of them do come at a scary distance and get tagged as potentially hazardous asteroids which need more attention. Such asteroids are more than 460 feet (140 metres) in size and their orbits bring them within a distance of 7.5 million kilometres from Earth. NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) has been monitoring all the NEOs and looking for any potential impact risks. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA issues sudden alert as massive house-sized asteroid hurtles towards Earth at scary speed

Five massive asteroids will pass by Earth this week- from August 27 to September 1, warns NASA. The American space agency‘s Jet Propulsion Laboratory actively tracks these Near Earth Objects (NEOs) and has confirmed that five asteroids are set to pass by Earth.

Though NASA has confirmed that these flyby asteroids don’t pose any threats to Earth, they will be close enough for astronomers and scientists to observe them.

Here are the five asteroids that are set to make a flyby to Earth:

<h3>Asteroid 2020 RL</h3>

Asteroid 2020 RL is a 110-foot near-Earth asteroid that approached Earth on August 27. The asteroid posed no risk to Earth; however, its size and distance of 46.8 lakh km at the time of its approach were ideal for scientists and asteroid enthusiasts to study these celestial objects.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/meteorite-falls-in-south-africa-after-50-years-triggers-widespread-sonic-boom-753631">Meteorite fell in South Africa this weekend for the first time in 50 years</a>

<h3>Asteroid 2021 RA10</h3>

Set to make its closest approach to Earth at a range of 26.1 lakh km on August 28, Asteroid 2021 RA10 is one of the asteroids that will fly by Earth. The estimated size of this asteroid is 92 feet, which is almost the same size as an aeroplane. Such asteroids are always under strict surveillance for any potential threat by NASA.

<h3>Asteroid 2012 SX49</h3>

With a diameter of 64 feet and an overall size similar to that of a house, this asteroid is moving towards Earth and will make its closest approach on August 29. Asteroid 2012 SX49 will be at a distance of 42.9 lakh km at its closest. While this too poses no threat, observing it closely helps scientists develop data that will assist them in implementing planetary defence systems.

<h3>Asteroid 2016 RJ20</h3>

Asteroid 2016 RJ20 is, again, an airplane-sized asteroid, which is 64 feet in size. The nearest this asteroid will come to Earth is at a distance of 6,990,000 kilometres. It will fly by Earth on August 30.

Also&nbsp;Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/contact-with-aliens-might-lead-to-a-fight-for-dominance-space-agency-chief-warns-753609">Alien contact might lead to diseases, conflict, ISRO chief warns</a>

<h3>Asteroid 2021 JT</h3>

Among the five asteroids, Asteroid 2021 JT is probably the smallest asteroid approaching Earth. It is just 38 feet in size and will move past Earth on September 1 at a safe distance of about 63.6 lakh kilometres.

Asteroids are nothing but rocky, icy or debris left over the formation of Earth some 4.6 billion years ago and these Near Earth Asteroids (NEAs) are found in the asteroids and are found in a belt between Jupiter and Mars.&nbsp;

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory plays an essential role in tracking these asteroids using the Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), which uses the data from telescopes to calculate the orbits of near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) and analyze their the possibility of risk to our planet.

(With inputs from agencies)

Five massive asteroids will pass by Earth this week- from August 27 to September 1, warns NASA. The American space agency‘s Jet Propulsion Laboratory actively tracks these Near Earth Objects (NEOs) and has confirmed that five asteroids are set to pass by Earth.

Five massive asteroids will pass by Earth this week- from August 27 to September 1, warns NASA. The American space agency‘s Jet Propulsion Laboratory actively tracks these Near Earth Objects (NEOs) and has confirmed that five asteroids are set to pass by Earth. Though NASA has confirmed that these flyby asteroids don’t pose any threats to Earth, they will be close enough for astronomers and scientists to observe them. Here are the five asteroids that are set to make a flyby to Earth: Asteroid 2020 RL Asteroid 2020 RL is a 110-foot near-Earth asteroid that approached Earth on August 27. The asteroid posed no risk to Earth; however, its size and distance of 46.8 lakh km at the time of its approach were ideal for scientists and asteroid enthusiasts to study these celestial objects. Also Read | Meteorite fell in South Africa this weekend for the first time in 50 years Asteroid 2021 RA10 Set to make its closest approach to Earth at a range of 26.1 lakh km on August 28, Asteroid 2021 RA10 is one of the asteroids that will fly by Earth. The estimated size of this asteroid is 92 feet, which is almost the same size as an aeroplane. Such asteroids are always under strict surveillance for any potential threat by NASA. Asteroid 2012 SX49 With a diameter of 64 feet and an overall size similar to that of a house, this asteroid is moving towards Earth and will make its closest approach on August 29. Asteroid 2012 SX49 will be at a distance of 42.9 lakh km at its closest. While this too poses no threat, observing it closely helps scientists develop data that will assist them in implementing planetary defence systems. Asteroid 2016 RJ20 Asteroid 2016 RJ20 is, again, an airplane-sized asteroid, which is 64 feet in size. The nearest this asteroid will come to Earth is at a distance of 6,990,000 kilometres. It will fly by Earth on August 30. Also Read | Alien contact might lead to diseases, conflict, ISRO chief warns Asteroid 2021 JT Among the five asteroids, Asteroid 2021 JT is probably the smallest asteroid approaching Earth. It is just 38 feet in size and will move past Earth on September 1 at a safe distance of about 63.6 lakh kilometres. Asteroids are nothing but rocky, icy or debris left over the formation of Earth some 4.6 billion years ago and these Near Earth Asteroids (NEAs) are found in the asteroids and are found in a belt between Jupiter and Mars. NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory plays an essential role in tracking these asteroids using the Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), which uses the data from telescopes to calculate the orbits of near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) and analyze their the possibility of risk to our planet. (With inputs from agencies)

Wait, what? NASA confirms five asteroids are approaching Earth in the next 7 days

A shocking new study has made startling revelations about the rise in global temperatures. A team of scientists analysed Pacific Ocean sediments and found that the world can witness up to 14 degrees rise in temperatures, far more than what the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has predicted.&nbsp;

Doubling atmospheric Carbon Dioxide can push levels beyond current expectations of 2.3 to 4.5 degrees Celsius (4.1 to 8.1 degrees Fahrenheit).

Researchers from NIOZ and the Universities of Utrecht and Bristol studied the Pacific sediments near California and found that Earth’s average temperature can rise by 7 to 14 degrees Celsius (13 to 25.2 degrees Fahrenheit).

“The temperature rise we found is much larger than the 2.3 to 4.5 degrees Celsius (4.1 to 8.1 degrees Fahrenheit) that the UN climate panel, IPCC, has been estimating so far,” said the study's first author, Caitlyn Witkowski.

A method developed 20 years ago at NIOZ, called the TEX86 method, was used to determine the past seawater temperature and to find hints of ancient atmospheric CO2 levels.&nbsp;

A 45-year-old drill core extracted from the bottom of the Pacific Ocean was used for the study. Professor Jaap Sinninghe Damsté, senior scientist at NIOZ and professor of organic geochemistry at Utrecht University, said, "The ocean floor at that spot has had oxygen-free conditions for many millions of years", which made it an attractive candidate.

<h2>The climate study</h2>

To derive past atmospheric CO2 content, researchers used the chemical composition of chlorophyll and cholesterol - the two substances commonly found in algae.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/world-will-lose-50-heritage-sites-till-2050-because-of-climate-change-predict-experts-753153">World will lose 50 heritage sites till 2050 because of climate change, predict experts</a>

They found clues that indicate a dramatic drop in CO2 concentration 15 million years ago. It came down from 650 parts per million to 280 just before the industrial revolution.&nbsp;

When the scientists placed the derived temperature and atmospheric CO2 levels of the past 15 million years together, they found that the average temperature at that time was way beyond what we have today. It was on average 18 degrees Celsius (64.4 degrees Fahrenheit): four degrees Celsius (7.2 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than current temperatures.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Worryingly, the IPCC predicts temperatures to reach this high in the year 2100 only if the Earth faces the most extreme scenario.

“So, this research gives us a glimpse of what the future could hold if we take too few measures to reduce CO2 emissions," Damsté said.&nbsp;

“The clear warning from this research is: CO2 concentration is likely to have a stronger impact on temperature than we are currently taking into account!”

A shocking new study has made startling revelations about the rise in global temperatures. A team of scientists analysed Pacific Ocean sediments and found that the world can witness up to 14 degrees rise in temperatures, far more than what the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has predicted.

A shocking new study has made startling revelations about the rise in global temperatures. A team of scientists analysed Pacific Ocean sediments and found that the world can witness up to 14 degrees rise in temperatures, far more than what the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has predicted. Doubling atmospheric Carbon Dioxide can push levels beyond current expectations of 2.3 to 4.5 degrees Celsius (4.1 to 8.1 degrees Fahrenheit). Researchers from NIOZ and the Universities of Utrecht and Bristol studied the Pacific sediments near California and found that Earth’s average temperature can rise by 7 to 14 degrees Celsius (13 to 25.2 degrees Fahrenheit). “The temperature rise we found is much larger than the 2.3 to 4.5 degrees Celsius (4.1 to 8.1 degrees Fahrenheit) that the UN climate panel, IPCC, has been estimating so far,” said the study's first author, Caitlyn Witkowski. A method developed 20 years ago at NIOZ, called the TEX86 method, was used to determine the past seawater temperature and to find hints of ancient atmospheric CO2 levels. A 45-year-old drill core extracted from the bottom of the Pacific Ocean was used for the study. Professor Jaap Sinninghe Damsté, senior scientist at NIOZ and professor of organic geochemistry at Utrecht University, said, "The ocean floor at that spot has had oxygen-free conditions for many millions of years", which made it an attractive candidate. The climate study To derive past atmospheric CO2 content, researchers used the chemical composition of chlorophyll and cholesterol - the two substances commonly found in algae. Also Read: World will lose 50 heritage sites till 2050 because of climate change, predict experts They found clues that indicate a dramatic drop in CO2 concentration 15 million years ago. It came down from 650 parts per million to 280 just before the industrial revolution. When the scientists placed the derived temperature and atmospheric CO2 levels of the past 15 million years together, they found that the average temperature at that time was way beyond what we have today. It was on average 18 degrees Celsius (64.4 degrees Fahrenheit): four degrees Celsius (7.2 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than current temperatures. × Worryingly, the IPCC predicts temperatures to reach this high in the year 2100 only if the Earth faces the most extreme scenario. “So, this research gives us a glimpse of what the future could hold if we take too few measures to reduce CO2 emissions," Damsté said. “The clear warning from this research is: CO2 concentration is likely to have a stronger impact on temperature than we are currently taking into account!”

Earth can get hotter by 25 degrees, shocking new climate study predicts

The universe is filled with billions of celestial bodies, galaxies, exoplanets, stars and more. But Earth seems to be the only place in this vast world harbouring life. At least that's what years of research have shown. Humans have been trying to make contact with other alien civilisations but have not succeeded yet. So are we alone in the universe?

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief S Somanath doesn't seem to think so. Speaking to Ranveer Allahabadia on his podcast, Somanath said that considering the technological advancements human beings have made in the past years, it seems only apt that there are several alien civilisations spread out in the universe that are at different stages of technological advancements.&nbsp;

He stated that different technological and evolutionary stages mean that these alien civilisations are likely interacting with the universe in ways human beings cannot perceive.&nbsp;

"Imagine there is a civilisation out there just 200 years behind you, and another civilisation 1,000 years ahead of you," Somanath said.&nbsp;

"Alien systems which are 1,000 years more progressive than us will always have been here," he said, stating that they are "much more evolved" than us and are beyond our current understanding or detection capabilities.

As human beings work to advance their technology and reach a better understanding of the universe over time, other civilisations that have been around for many more years likely already know much more and are living a life we cannot understand.

Human beings, he says, are relatively younger in the cosmos and so such civilisations may reside in the universe that are far ahead of us. So while we are still trying to find them, they are likely around us and exist in ways we don't know yet.&nbsp;

Somanath added that "origins of life and much evolved [forms]... are everywhere in the universe."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-search-seti-institute-launches-probe-for-low-frequencies-across-galaxies-in-first-study-of-its-kind-753587">Alien search: SETI Institute launches probe for low frequencies across galaxies in first study of its kind</a>

<h2>Should humans contact alien civilisations?</h2>

"I would be happy to never be in contact with aliens," Somanath warns. Sounding a cautionary note, the ISRO chief says coming in contact with alien civilisations might come with several risks. He says that they might have entirely different genomic and protein structures from us and might prove to be a danger to life on Earth.&nbsp;

He also warned that interaction between different life forms might also lead to conflict and a fight for dominance.&nbsp;

The universe is filled with billions of celestial bodies, galaxies, exoplanets, stars and more. But Earth seems to be the only place in this vast world harbouring life.

The universe is filled with billions of celestial bodies, galaxies, exoplanets, stars and more. But Earth seems to be the only place in this vast world harbouring life. At least that's what years of research have shown. Humans have been trying to make contact with other alien civilisations but have not succeeded yet. So are we alone in the universe? Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief S Somanath doesn't seem to think so. Speaking to Ranveer Allahabadia on his podcast, Somanath said that considering the technological advancements human beings have made in the past years, it seems only apt that there are several alien civilisations spread out in the universe that are at different stages of technological advancements. He stated that different technological and evolutionary stages mean that these alien civilisations are likely interacting with the universe in ways human beings cannot perceive. "Imagine there is a civilisation out there just 200 years behind you, and another civilisation 1,000 years ahead of you," Somanath said. "Alien systems which are 1,000 years more progressive than us will always have been here," he said, stating that they are "much more evolved" than us and are beyond our current understanding or detection capabilities. As human beings work to advance their technology and reach a better understanding of the universe over time, other civilisations that have been around for many more years likely already know much more and are living a life we cannot understand. Human beings, he says, are relatively younger in the cosmos and so such civilisations may reside in the universe that are far ahead of us. So while we are still trying to find them, they are likely around us and exist in ways we don't know yet. Somanath added that "origins of life and much evolved [forms]... are everywhere in the universe." Also read: Alien search: SETI Institute launches probe for low frequencies across galaxies in first study of its kind Should humans contact alien civilisations? "I would be happy to never be in contact with aliens," Somanath warns. Sounding a cautionary note, the ISRO chief says coming in contact with alien civilisations might come with several risks. He says that they might have entirely different genomic and protein structures from us and might prove to be a danger to life on Earth. He also warned that interaction between different life forms might also lead to conflict and a fight for dominance.

Alien contact might lead to diseases, conflict, ISRO chief warns

Did an asteroid or a meteorite fall in South Africa? Residents in Eastern Cape, South Africa, reported seeing a streak of bright light in the sky over St Francis Bay on Sunday (August 25) morning. Internet and media reports speculated that a piece of space debris, possibly from a satellite, had entered the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists have now confirmed that what people saw was a meteorite.&nbsp;

Scientists from Wits University and NMMU had been monitoring the event and reports of something being spotted in the sky over St Francis Bay. The meteorite entered the atmosphere at a relatively low trajectory and broke apart while burning up. Some parts of it also fell into the ocean, according to the captain of a whale-watching boat.

Professor Roger Gibson from the Wits School of Geosciences says that "the incident is consistent with a rocky asteroid about the size of a car entering Earth's atmosphere at very high speed."

"Friction with the atmosphere created a spectacular fireball and caused it to break up in flight," he added.&nbsp;

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Stunning Meteor, breaking up and streaking footage 
St Francis Bay Eastern Cape 
Credit to whoever took the footage <a href="https://t.co/SICYWKddka">pic.twitter.com/SICYWKddka</a>
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&nbsp;

<h2>Meteorite fall in South Africa&nbsp;rare&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

The meteorite fall caused a sonic boom that was heard as far away as Plettenberg Bay, over 200 km from Gqberha, the most populous city in the Eastern Cape province. Ground tremors from the sonic boom were also reported.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/milky-way-cluster-with-monster-stars-million-times-brighter-than-sun-stuns-astronomers-753603">Milky Way cluster with monster stars million times brighter than sun stuns astronomers</a>

Pieces of the cosmic body fell over a vast area as Gibson says someone found fragments of a meteorite over 100 km away from Cape St Francis. "This may indicate an exceptional fall area," he added.&nbsp;

Notably, the last time a meteorite fell in South Africa was in Lichtenburg in 1973. The county has recorded only 51 meteorites till now, and only 22 meteorite falls.&nbsp;

Gibson and others at the Wits University keep a close watch on asteroids as "they pose a potential threat."

"Meteorites are rare and hold deep scientific value as they give us a glimpse of the make-up and birth of our solar system," Gibson said.&nbsp;

Gibson and his team are trying to learn more about the meteorite fall witnessed on Sunday. They are asking anyone who saw, heard or found something related to the meteorite fall to come forward and contact them.

Did an asteroid or a meteorite fall in South Africa? Residents in Eastern Cape, South Africa, reported seeing a streak of bright light in the sky over St Francis Bay on Sunday (August 25) morning.

Did an asteroid or a meteorite fall in South Africa? Residents in Eastern Cape, South Africa, reported seeing a streak of bright light in the sky over St Francis Bay on Sunday (August 25) morning. Internet and media reports speculated that a piece of space debris, possibly from a satellite, had entered the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists have now confirmed that what people saw was a meteorite. Scientists from Wits University and NMMU had been monitoring the event and reports of something being spotted in the sky over St Francis Bay. The meteorite entered the atmosphere at a relatively low trajectory and broke apart while burning up. Some parts of it also fell into the ocean, according to the captain of a whale-watching boat. Professor Roger Gibson from the Wits School of Geosciences says that "the incident is consistent with a rocky asteroid about the size of a car entering Earth's atmosphere at very high speed." "Friction with the atmosphere created a spectacular fireball and caused it to break up in flight," he added. Stunning Meteor, breaking up and streaking footage St Francis Bay Eastern Cape Credit to whoever took the footage pic.twitter.com/SICYWKddka — FineStructureConstant (@Tokamak137) August 25, 2024 × Meteorite fall in South Africa rare The meteorite fall caused a sonic boom that was heard as far away as Plettenberg Bay, over 200 km from Gqberha, the most populous city in the Eastern Cape province. Ground tremors from the sonic boom were also reported. Also Read: Milky Way cluster with monster stars million times brighter than sun stuns astronomers Pieces of the cosmic body fell over a vast area as Gibson says someone found fragments of a meteorite over 100 km away from Cape St Francis. "This may indicate an exceptional fall area," he added. Notably, the last time a meteorite fell in South Africa was in Lichtenburg in 1973. The county has recorded only 51 meteorites till now, and only 22 meteorite falls. Gibson and others at the Wits University keep a close watch on asteroids as "they pose a potential threat." "Meteorites are rare and hold deep scientific value as they give us a glimpse of the make-up and birth of our solar system," Gibson said. Gibson and his team are trying to learn more about the meteorite fall witnessed on Sunday. They are asking anyone who saw, heard or found something related to the meteorite fall to come forward and contact them.

Meteorite fell in South Africa this weekend for the first time in 50 years

A mysterious ancient palatial complex was excavated by archaeologists in southern Mexico which was dedicated to Maya's terrifying death god.

The monstrous deity was known as Ah Puch, or Cizin and his name was translated as “stench”, “flatulence” and “The Stinking One”. He ruled above the hellish realm and was also known as the god of farts.&nbsp;

The archaeologists made the discovery during a train station's construction, which was taking place near the ancient Maya&nbsp;site of Calakmul.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/archaeologists-discover-ruins-of-4000-year-old-temple-738555">Archaeologists discover ruins of 4,000-year-old ceremonial temple</a>

Calakmul existed in the Maya lowlands and was the largest and most powerful pre-Columbian city.&nbsp;

As per the Mexican National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), the complex of the temple was most probably linked with a smaller settlement known as Balamkú, which was most likely heavily influenced by Calakmul.

<h2>What&nbsp;all is hidden in this demonish god's temple?&nbsp;</h2>

The INAH, speaking about the discovery in a statement, said that the complex appeared to date back to the Early Classic Period, which lasted between around 250 and 600 CE.&nbsp;

At the site, the most notable structures were a small temple, which researchers said was most probably built in honour of Old Stinky.

In the excavations, a circular feature at the centre of the temple was revealed and inside this temple, there were numerous human remains, which included fragments of skull and teeth.

The archaeologists, along with the grisly leftovers, also discovered a 25-centimetre high (9.8 inches) limestone statue of the death god Ah Puch.

Watch:&nbsp;Greece: Athens Acropolis closes due to heatwave

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/greece-athens-acropolis-closes-due-to-heatwave-731204/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It is believed that the god of death and destruction reigned over a level inside the&nbsp;Maya underworld, which was called Xibalbá, which roughly translates into “the place of terror”.&nbsp;

As per the legend, the dreadful deity had the task of burning the souls of those dead, which he started from the mouth and anus.&nbsp;

The INAH explained that the statue of Ah Puch has a deformed skull and a “large phallus”.&nbsp;

The statue also sports a skull mask, nose adornment and breastplate, which are generally present in the depiction of the&nbsp;death god.

(With inputs from agencies)

A mysterious ancient palatial complex was excavated by archaeologists in southern Mexico which was dedicated to Maya's terrifying death god. The monstrous deity was known as Ah Puch, or Cizin and his name was translated as “stench”, “flatulence” and “The Stinking One”.

A mysterious ancient palatial complex was excavated by archaeologists in southern Mexico which was dedicated to Maya's terrifying death god. The monstrous deity was known as Ah Puch, or Cizin and his name was translated as “stench”, “flatulence” and “The Stinking One”. He ruled above the hellish realm and was also known as the god of farts. The archaeologists made the discovery during a train station's construction, which was taking place near the ancient Maya site of Calakmul. Also Read: Archaeologists discover ruins of 4,000-year-old ceremonial temple Calakmul existed in the Maya lowlands and was the largest and most powerful pre-Columbian city. As per the Mexican National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), the complex of the temple was most probably linked with a smaller settlement known as Balamkú, which was most likely heavily influenced by Calakmul. What all is hidden in this demonish god's temple? The INAH, speaking about the discovery in a statement, said that the complex appeared to date back to the Early Classic Period, which lasted between around 250 and 600 CE. At the site, the most notable structures were a small temple, which researchers said was most probably built in honour of Old Stinky. In the excavations, a circular feature at the centre of the temple was revealed and inside this temple, there were numerous human remains, which included fragments of skull and teeth. The archaeologists, along with the grisly leftovers, also discovered a 25-centimetre high (9.8 inches) limestone statue of the death god Ah Puch. Watch: Greece: Athens Acropolis closes due to heatwave It is believed that the god of death and destruction reigned over a level inside the Maya underworld, which was called Xibalbá, which roughly translates into “the place of terror”. As per the legend, the dreadful deity had the task of burning the souls of those dead, which he started from the mouth and anus. The INAH explained that the statue of Ah Puch has a deformed skull and a “large phallus”. The statue also sports a skull mask, nose adornment and breastplate, which are generally present in the depiction of the death god. (With inputs from agencies)

THIS ancient temple is of Maya's monstrous god of farts 'The Stinking One'. It has grisly leftovers like...

People in the Stone Age likely had knowledge of geometry, astronomy, physics, geology and more and used it to build megalithic monuments, a new study has found. Archaeologists studied a megalithic burial mound in Spain built 6,000 years ago. It is made using stones that weigh thousands of tonnes more than the ones used to make Stonehenge. This they say was made possible by the use of "advanced engineering".

The Dolmen de Menga burial mound is the oldest and one of the largest megalithic monuments in Europe. It was built around 3800 to 3600 BC. Some of the stones used in the Menga mound weigh 150 tonnes. It comprises stone walls, a stone ceiling and stone pillars.

Scientists have tried to figure out for years how a primitive Stone Age culture built such a monument using extremely heavy stones. It has been standing for 6,000 years now, so something extraordinary might have gone into its making.

The study, published in the journal Science Advances, suggests advanced knowledge in the fields of geology, physics, geometry, and astronomy went into creating the megalith.

<h2>Science behind carving,&nbsp;carrying and placing heavy stones</h2>

Each stone weighed over 100 tonnes and was carved from a hill site about 850 metres away. They were placed on sledges and dragged over a wooden trackway. Each stone was wedged tightly with the help of counterweights and ramps.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-can-get-hotter-by-25-degrees-shocking-new-climate-study-predicts-753877">Earth can get warmer by 25 degrees, shocking climate study predicts</a>

The stones were placed at a slight inward angle using levers. This was done to reduce the size of the roof needed and also made the monument look more trapezoidal, archaeologists say. The pillar stones were also placed in a similar manner. The structure was then topped with massive capstones that acted as the roof.

“Our results show that Menga is a unique example of creative genius and early science among Neolithic societies. It was designed as a completely original engineering project,” the researchers said.&nbsp;

The entire structure required extreme precision. The Menga has pillars that support the gigantic capstones. A high degree of precision can be seen in the interlocking of the upright stones, which proves that the neolithic people knew a lot more than we think.&nbsp;

People in the Stone Age likely had knowledge of geometry, astronomy, physics, geology and more and used it to build megalithic monuments, a new study has found. Archaeologists studied a megalithic burial mound in Spain built 6,000 years ago.

People in the Stone Age likely had knowledge of geometry, astronomy, physics, geology and more and used it to build megalithic monuments, a new study has found. Archaeologists studied a megalithic burial mound in Spain built 6,000 years ago. It is made using stones that weigh thousands of tonnes more than the ones used to make Stonehenge. This they say was made possible by the use of "advanced engineering". The Dolmen de Menga burial mound is the oldest and one of the largest megalithic monuments in Europe. It was built around 3800 to 3600 BC. Some of the stones used in the Menga mound weigh 150 tonnes. It comprises stone walls, a stone ceiling and stone pillars. Scientists have tried to figure out for years how a primitive Stone Age culture built such a monument using extremely heavy stones. It has been standing for 6,000 years now, so something extraordinary might have gone into its making. The study, published in the journal Science Advances, suggests advanced knowledge in the fields of geology, physics, geometry, and astronomy went into creating the megalith. Science behind carving, carrying and placing heavy stones Each stone weighed over 100 tonnes and was carved from a hill site about 850 metres away. They were placed on sledges and dragged over a wooden trackway. Each stone was wedged tightly with the help of counterweights and ramps. Also Read: Earth can get warmer by 25 degrees, shocking climate study predicts The stones were placed at a slight inward angle using levers. This was done to reduce the size of the roof needed and also made the monument look more trapezoidal, archaeologists say. The pillar stones were also placed in a similar manner. The structure was then topped with massive capstones that acted as the roof. “Our results show that Menga is a unique example of creative genius and early science among Neolithic societies. It was designed as a completely original engineering project,” the researchers said. The entire structure required extreme precision. The Menga has pillars that support the gigantic capstones. A high degree of precision can be seen in the interlocking of the upright stones, which proves that the neolithic people knew a lot more than we think.

Stone Age man applied geology, physics, geometry to build Spanish burial mound

A satellite named Salsa is set to re-enter Earth's atmosphere on September 8. It has been carefully brought down by the operators from 81,250 miles (130,000 km) to return to Earth and burn up over a region of the South Pacific.&nbsp;

Guided re-entries ensure that no debris remains in orbit, nor does it fall over unexpected and populated areas. This is the second satellite to be brought down using a planned and manoeuvred "guided re-entry" after&nbsp;Aeolus.

Salsa has been in orbit since 2000 and is part of a four-piece group called Cluster. The other three satellites are named - &nbsp;Rumba, Tango and Samba. The identical satellites were entrusted with the work of monitoring Earth's magnetic field for two years. However, the satellites are still going strong and sending back data.&nbsp;

By bringing the satellite safely back to Earth, the European Space Agency (ESA) plans to understand more about creating satellites that do not add to space debris.&nbsp;

"By studying how Salsa burns up, which parts might survive, for how long and in what state, we will learn much about how to build 'zero-debris' satellites," said Tim Flohrer, head of ESA's Space Debris Office, in a statement.

Aeolus was manoeuvred from its old orbit at an altitude of 200 miles (320 km) down to 75 miles (120 km). From here, Earth's atmosphere dragged it down and it ended in a fireball over the Atlantic.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chinese-rocket-blows-up-in-space-casting-a-huge-cloud-of-debris-around-earth-748750">Chinese rocket blows up in space casting a huge cloud of debris around Earth</a>

Salsa has a more eccentric orbit, and in January a manoeuvre was conducted that will bring it to its nearest point of just 50 miles (80 km) soon. From here, it will fall into the Pacific.

ESA will then bring back Rumba in 2025, followed by Tango and Samba in 2026. It hopes to observe each of them burning up at a different angle.

<h2>The problem of space debris</h2>

Space debris has emerged as a major problem in the past few years. Earlier, satellites were left to drift away after their purpose was fulfilled. However, space agencies are now working to ensure they do not add to the space debris. If Cluster had retired in 2002 as intended, the four satellites would have been left up in space.

Allowing a satellite to fall to Earth itself assuming it burns up upon re-entry also poses a danger to people as the satellite is still likely to spread debris. A guided re-entry lets operators get it to fall exactly in the place they have in mind. However, ESA says that it is highly unlikely that a defunct satellite will inflict damage. But ESA is still eager to work on guide re-entries.&nbsp;

A satellite named Salsa is set to re-enter Earth's atmosphere on September 8. It has been carefully brought down by the operators from 81,250 miles (130,000 km) to return to Earth and burn up over a region of the South Pacific.

A satellite named Salsa is set to re-enter Earth's atmosphere on September 8. It has been carefully brought down by the operators from 81,250 miles (130,000 km) to return to Earth and burn up over a region of the South Pacific. Guided re-entries ensure that no debris remains in orbit, nor does it fall over unexpected and populated areas. This is the second satellite to be brought down using a planned and manoeuvred "guided re-entry" after Aeolus. Salsa has been in orbit since 2000 and is part of a four-piece group called Cluster. The other three satellites are named - Rumba, Tango and Samba. The identical satellites were entrusted with the work of monitoring Earth's magnetic field for two years. However, the satellites are still going strong and sending back data. By bringing the satellite safely back to Earth, the European Space Agency (ESA) plans to understand more about creating satellites that do not add to space debris. "By studying how Salsa burns up, which parts might survive, for how long and in what state, we will learn much about how to build 'zero-debris' satellites," said Tim Flohrer, head of ESA's Space Debris Office, in a statement. Aeolus was manoeuvred from its old orbit at an altitude of 200 miles (320 km) down to 75 miles (120 km). From here, Earth's atmosphere dragged it down and it ended in a fireball over the Atlantic. Also Read: Chinese rocket blows up in space casting a huge cloud of debris around Earth Salsa has a more eccentric orbit, and in January a manoeuvre was conducted that will bring it to its nearest point of just 50 miles (80 km) soon. From here, it will fall into the Pacific. ESA will then bring back Rumba in 2025, followed by Tango and Samba in 2026. It hopes to observe each of them burning up at a different angle. The problem of space debris Space debris has emerged as a major problem in the past few years. Earlier, satellites were left to drift away after their purpose was fulfilled. However, space agencies are now working to ensure they do not add to the space debris. If Cluster had retired in 2002 as intended, the four satellites would have been left up in space. Allowing a satellite to fall to Earth itself assuming it burns up upon re-entry also poses a danger to people as the satellite is still likely to spread debris. A guided re-entry lets operators get it to fall exactly in the place they have in mind. However, ESA says that it is highly unlikely that a defunct satellite will inflict damage. But ESA is still eager to work on guide re-entries.

Salsa satellite set for fiery re-entry on Sep 8. Rumba, Tango and Samba lined up next

Astronomers have made a record-breaking, shining discovery with the help of the European Southern Observatory’s (ESO) Very Large Telescope (VLT) by spotting the brightest quasar ever found, which is now being called the most luminous cosmic object in space.

Astronomers have made a record-breaking, shining discovery with the help of the European Southern Observatory’s (ESO) Very Large Telescope (VLT) by spotting the brightest quasar ever found, which is now being called the most luminous cosmic object in space. Quasars are the shining cores of distant galaxies that get their powers from the supermassive black holes. The reason why this quasar is shining brightest is because its black hole is growing mass and has emerged as the fastest-growing black hole to have been found to date. The matter is collected from the surroundings by such black holes through a process that is so energetic that it releases vast amounts of light. Also Read: Earth's mantle is hosting strange 'black holes' with mysterious waves. Here's what they are The light released is so high in amount that some of the quasars turn out to be the brightest objects in our sky. Generally, the most luminous quasars are just indications of the fastest-growing supermassive black holes lurking in space. “We have discovered the fastest-growing black hole known to date. It has a mass of 17 billion Suns, and eats just over a Sun per day. This makes it the most luminous object in the known Universe,” said Christian Wolf, who is the lead author of the study published in Nature Astronomy and an astronomer at the Australian National University (ANU). How the supermassive black hole is making quasar shine The quasar, which is known as J0529-4351, is so distant from Earth that its light travelled over 12 billion years to reach our planet. The matter which is getting pulled into its black hole, like a disc, has been emitting too much energy, because of which the quasar is more than 500 trillion times more luminous in comparison to the Sun. “All this light comes from a hot accretion disc that measures seven light-years in diameter — this must be the largest accretion disc in the Universe," said ANU PhD student and co-author Samuel Lai. Watch: Black hole 'moons' may signal advanced alien life This quasar was hiding in plain sight till it was found. “It is a surprise that it has remained unknown until today, when we already know about a million less impressive quasars. It has literally been staring us in the face until now,” said co-author Christopher Onken, an astronomer at ANU. He said that this cosmic object appeared in images from the ESO Schmidt Southern Sky Survey, which date back to 1980, but was not recognised as a quasar till decades later. (With inputs from agencies)

This galaxy's core is 500 trillion times more luminous than Sun. It's not getting powered by a star but...

The Earth started rotating at a dramatically slow speed twice in the last hundreds of millions of years and one of those times was when the biggest mass extinction took place, as per the latest study.

The other time it slowed was when rapid expansion of life took place on the planet, which was called the Cambrian explosion, said the Chinese scientists-led team.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earths-mantle-is-hosting-strange-black-holes-with-mysterious-waves-heres-what-they-are-753231">Earth's mantle is hosting strange 'black holes' with mysterious waves. Here's what they are</a>

Even though the world appears to rotate at a constant speed, the exact timing can change and does not remain precisely 24 hours.&nbsp;

<h2>Why did the Earth's rotation slow down?</h2>

The changes in gravity happen because of variations in the distance between the Earth and the moon and are known to cause ocean tides, however, the friction between the surface of the Earth and the tides also leads to a slight deceleration in its rotation.&nbsp;

At the same time, the momentum is transferred by the Earth to the moon, because of which it gradually moves outward.

As per the study, the rotation of the Earth has decelerated because of this phenomenon in the past.

After analysing for two years, the team, headed by Ma Chao from the Institute of Sedimentary Geology at Chengdu University of Technology, concluded that there was an increase of 20,000 km&nbsp;between Earth and the moon between 700 million and 200 million years ago, because of which the length of the day increased by around 2.2 hours.

“Specifically, there are two intervals with pronounced Earth rotation deceleration: between 650 and 500 million years ago (Mya), and between 350 and 280 Mya, separated by a period of stalled deceleration from 500 to 350 Mya,” wrote the team&nbsp;in a paper which was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Watch:&nbsp;Earth slows down by 1.33 milliseconds

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/earth-slows-down-by-133-milliseconds-741345/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The first shift took place during the Cambrian explosion, when complex life forms diversified rapidly. The second deceleration happened around 250 million years ago and coincided with the “Great Dying”, which is also called the Permian-Triassic extinction event during which 90 per cent of life on Earth was wiped out.

According to the research, the volcanic activity along with changes in the climate, sea levels and salt levels led to the extinction.&nbsp;

Ma said that changes in sea conditions were linked to the shift in the rotation of the Earth. “The two major ‘fast-slow’ deceleration periods may have provided the necessary conditions for the early evolution of marine ecosystems," he said while speaking to Science and Technology Daily.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Earth started rotating at a dramatically slow speed twice in the last hundreds of millions of years and one of those times was when the biggest mass extinction took place, as per the latest study.

The Earth started rotating at a dramatically slow speed twice in the last hundreds of millions of years and one of those times was when the biggest mass extinction took place, as per the latest study. The other time it slowed was when rapid expansion of life took place on the planet, which was called the Cambrian explosion, said the Chinese scientists-led team. Also Read: Earth's mantle is hosting strange 'black holes' with mysterious waves. Here's what they are Even though the world appears to rotate at a constant speed, the exact timing can change and does not remain precisely 24 hours. Why did the Earth's rotation slow down? The changes in gravity happen because of variations in the distance between the Earth and the moon and are known to cause ocean tides, however, the friction between the surface of the Earth and the tides also leads to a slight deceleration in its rotation. At the same time, the momentum is transferred by the Earth to the moon, because of which it gradually moves outward. As per the study, the rotation of the Earth has decelerated because of this phenomenon in the past. After analysing for two years, the team, headed by Ma Chao from the Institute of Sedimentary Geology at Chengdu University of Technology, concluded that there was an increase of 20,000 km between Earth and the moon between 700 million and 200 million years ago, because of which the length of the day increased by around 2.2 hours. “Specifically, there are two intervals with pronounced Earth rotation deceleration: between 650 and 500 million years ago (Mya), and between 350 and 280 Mya, separated by a period of stalled deceleration from 500 to 350 Mya,” wrote the team in a paper which was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Watch: Earth slows down by 1.33 milliseconds The first shift took place during the Cambrian explosion, when complex life forms diversified rapidly. The second deceleration happened around 250 million years ago and coincided with the “Great Dying”, which is also called the Permian-Triassic extinction event during which 90 per cent of life on Earth was wiped out. According to the research, the volcanic activity along with changes in the climate, sea levels and salt levels led to the extinction. Ma said that changes in sea conditions were linked to the shift in the rotation of the Earth. “The two major ‘fast-slow’ deceleration periods may have provided the necessary conditions for the early evolution of marine ecosystems," he said while speaking to Science and Technology Daily. (With inputs from agencies)

Earth rotated 'dramatically slowly' when life exploded and vanished on planet: Study

The deep seafloor - 12,000 feet below the surface of the Pacific Ocean - is covered by ancient rocks known as the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ).

Although these rocks appear devoid of life, they may actually be hiding different kinds of tiny sea creatures and microbes, some of which may have adapted to survive in the dark.

The deep-sea rocks, which are called as polymetallic nodules, turn into a habitat for various marine organisms and also generate oxygen across the ocean floor.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/save-our-seas-un-issues-sos-over-fast-rising-pacific-ocean-753577">'Save Our Seas': UN issues SOS over fast-rising Pacific Ocean</a>

A team of scientists, which includes experts from&nbsp;Boston University, made this discovery which challenged the idea that sunlight is required for the production of oxygen and generally occurs near the surface of the ocean where photosynthesis of the phytoplankton occurs.

When the oxygen was detected at such depth amid darkness, initially the researchers felt that it was an error.

“This was really weird, because no one had ever seen it before,” said Jeffrey Marlow, who is the co-author of the study and an assistant professor of biology at Boston University’s College of Arts &amp; Sciences.

<h2>Scientists decode the production of dark oxygen</h2>

Marlow, who has an understanding of microbes present in extreme environments like deep-sea hydrothermal vents and hardened lava, initially believed that microbial activity is responsible for the production of oxygen.

For investigating the dark oxygen, deep-sea chambers which can land on the seafloors and encapsulate sediment, polymetallic nodules, living organisms and seawater were used by the researchers.&nbsp;

For 48 hours, the oxygen levels in these chambers were measured by the team. Generally, if oxygen is consumed by the organisms, the levels will drop on the basis of the amount of activity carried out in the chamber. However, it was noted that in this case there was a rise in the oxygen levels.

Watch:&nbsp;Mumbai: Rising sea level poses risk of floods, storms

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mumbai-rising-sea-level-poses-risk-of-floods-storms-747646/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“We did a lot of troubleshooting and found that the oxygen levels increased many more times following that initial measurement,” said Marlow, adding, “So we’re now convinced it’s a real signal.”

The research was conducted by Marlow and his colleagues aboard a vessel which was dedicated to exploring the ecology of the CCZ.&nbsp;

The team, which was headed by Andrew Sweetman from the&nbsp;Scottish Association for Marine Science, after conducting different experiments, reached the conclusion that microbial activity was not driving the production of the oxygen primarily even though a lot of microbes were present on and inside the rocks.

(With inputs from agencies)

The deep seafloor - 12,000 feet below the surface of the Pacific Ocean - is covered by ancient rocks known as the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ). Although these rocks appear devoid of life, they may actually be hiding different kinds of tiny sea creatures and microbes, some of which may have adapted to survive in the dark.

The deep seafloor - 12,000 feet below the surface of the Pacific Ocean - is covered by ancient rocks known as the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ). Although these rocks appear devoid of life, they may actually be hiding different kinds of tiny sea creatures and microbes, some of which may have adapted to survive in the dark. The deep-sea rocks, which are called as polymetallic nodules, turn into a habitat for various marine organisms and also generate oxygen across the ocean floor. Also Read: 'Save Our Seas': UN issues SOS over fast-rising Pacific Ocean A team of scientists, which includes experts from Boston University, made this discovery which challenged the idea that sunlight is required for the production of oxygen and generally occurs near the surface of the ocean where photosynthesis of the phytoplankton occurs. When the oxygen was detected at such depth amid darkness, initially the researchers felt that it was an error. “This was really weird, because no one had ever seen it before,” said Jeffrey Marlow, who is the co-author of the study and an assistant professor of biology at Boston University’s College of Arts & Sciences. Scientists decode the production of dark oxygen Marlow, who has an understanding of microbes present in extreme environments like deep-sea hydrothermal vents and hardened lava, initially believed that microbial activity is responsible for the production of oxygen. For investigating the dark oxygen, deep-sea chambers which can land on the seafloors and encapsulate sediment, polymetallic nodules, living organisms and seawater were used by the researchers. For 48 hours, the oxygen levels in these chambers were measured by the team. Generally, if oxygen is consumed by the organisms, the levels will drop on the basis of the amount of activity carried out in the chamber. However, it was noted that in this case there was a rise in the oxygen levels. Watch: Mumbai: Rising sea level poses risk of floods, storms “We did a lot of troubleshooting and found that the oxygen levels increased many more times following that initial measurement,” said Marlow, adding, “So we’re now convinced it’s a real signal.” The research was conducted by Marlow and his colleagues aboard a vessel which was dedicated to exploring the ecology of the CCZ. The team, which was headed by Andrew Sweetman from the Scottish Association for Marine Science, after conducting different experiments, reached the conclusion that microbial activity was not driving the production of the oxygen primarily even though a lot of microbes were present on and inside the rocks. (With inputs from agencies)

Are deep seas on Earth hiding alien life amid 'dark oxygen'? Study hints so

NASA has found six rogue planets roaming in space, bound to no star, indifferent to the laws of the universe. James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) made the discovery, including one object that is one of the lightest such bodies ever found. It even has a dusty disk around it, indicating it might host its own moons and planets.

Looking at these rogue planets, astronomers believe that similar cosmic processes might be responsible for star formation and also for making objects that are only slightly larger than Jupiter.

The researchers say that the rogue planets hint at the likelihood that a cosmic body resembling a young Jupiter might have become a star instead under certain conditions.

Lead author Adam Langeveld, an astrophysicist at Johns Hopkins University, said, “If you have an object that looks like a young Jupiter, is it possible that it could have become a star under the right conditions? This is important context for understanding both star and planet formation.”

JWST located the rogue planets in the young nebula NGC 1333. This star-forming cluster is located about a thousand light-years away in the Perseus constellation.&nbsp;

These gas giants have masses ranging from 5 to 10 times that of Jupiter. Most of them were likely formed in a similar fashion as stars and brown dwarfs, that is collapsing clouds of gas and dust. However, a body fails to turn into a star when hydrogen fusion doesn't happen, and it then slowly fades away.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/meteorite-falls-in-south-africa-after-50-years-triggers-widespread-sonic-boom-753631">Meteorite fell in South Africa this weekend for the first time in 50 years</a>

“We used Webb’s unprecedented sensitivity at infrared wavelengths to search for the faintest members of a young star cluster, seeking to address a fundamental question in astronomy: How light an object can form like a star?” said Johns Hopkins Provost Ray Jayawardhana.

“It turns out the smallest free-floating objects that form like&nbsp;stars overlap in mass with giant exoplanets circling nearby stars," the astrophysicist and senior author of the study added.

The discovery of a rogue planet with a disk around it indicates the presence of "mini planets" or moons. Study co-author Aleks Scholz, an astrophysicist at Scotland's University of St. Andrews, said that this means some of these tiny objects with masses close to "giant planets may themselves be able to form their own planets."

<h2>What are rogue planets?</h2>

Rogue planets are "free-floating planets" that are not bound by the gravitational pull of any star. Hence, these bodies do not orbit a star. The planets in our solar system are gravitationally bound to the sun. But rogue planets move through interstellar space as they wish. Their size can vary depending on various factors and they can be anywhere between the size of Earth or larger than Jupiter.

Some rogue planets form inside a solar system but are thrown out because of gravitational pulls being exerted by other planets or stars.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

NASA has found six rogue planets roaming in space, bound to no star, indifferent to the laws of the universe. James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) made the discovery, including one object that is one of the lightest such bodies ever found.

NASA has found six rogue planets roaming in space, bound to no star, indifferent to the laws of the universe. James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) made the discovery, including one object that is one of the lightest such bodies ever found. It even has a dusty disk around it, indicating it might host its own moons and planets. Looking at these rogue planets, astronomers believe that similar cosmic processes might be responsible for star formation and also for making objects that are only slightly larger than Jupiter. The researchers say that the rogue planets hint at the likelihood that a cosmic body resembling a young Jupiter might have become a star instead under certain conditions. Lead author Adam Langeveld, an astrophysicist at Johns Hopkins University, said, “If you have an object that looks like a young Jupiter, is it possible that it could have become a star under the right conditions? This is important context for understanding both star and planet formation.” JWST located the rogue planets in the young nebula NGC 1333. This star-forming cluster is located about a thousand light-years away in the Perseus constellation. These gas giants have masses ranging from 5 to 10 times that of Jupiter. Most of them were likely formed in a similar fashion as stars and brown dwarfs, that is collapsing clouds of gas and dust. However, a body fails to turn into a star when hydrogen fusion doesn't happen, and it then slowly fades away. Also Read: Meteorite fell in South Africa this weekend for the first time in 50 years “We used Webb’s unprecedented sensitivity at infrared wavelengths to search for the faintest members of a young star cluster, seeking to address a fundamental question in astronomy: How light an object can form like a star?” said Johns Hopkins Provost Ray Jayawardhana. “It turns out the smallest free-floating objects that form like stars overlap in mass with giant exoplanets circling nearby stars," the astrophysicist and senior author of the study added. The discovery of a rogue planet with a disk around it indicates the presence of "mini planets" or moons. Study co-author Aleks Scholz, an astrophysicist at Scotland's University of St. Andrews, said that this means some of these tiny objects with masses close to "giant planets may themselves be able to form their own planets." What are rogue planets? Rogue planets are "free-floating planets" that are not bound by the gravitational pull of any star. Hence, these bodies do not orbit a star. The planets in our solar system are gravitationally bound to the sun. But rogue planets move through interstellar space as they wish. Their size can vary depending on various factors and they can be anywhere between the size of Earth or larger than Jupiter. Some rogue planets form inside a solar system but are thrown out because of gravitational pulls being exerted by other planets or stars.

Rogue planet with its own 'mini planets' and 'moons' found floating through space

Gen Z are considered technical wizards considering they have grown with technology. While they might have mastered using smartphones and tablets, there is one area where they are falling behind - typing on keyboards.&nbsp;

Experts suggest that Gen Z is likely losing the&nbsp;ability to type on a keyboard. With most gadgets using on-screen typing or touchscreen typing, touch typing might soon become a forgotten skill.&nbsp;

According to a Wall Street Journal report, there has been a fall in the number of schools offering 'keyboarding' classes. There are not many takers for typing courses as well, and the number has seen a drastic reduction in the last 25 years.&nbsp;

The Daily Mail reported that in the United Kingdom, typing skills are described as 'desirable', yet the national curriculum does not include typing. The data on how many students are taught touch typing in the country is also not available.

Reports suggest that students prefer using their devices to write and upload assignments instead of using a computer. Instructure, a Utah-based company, which makes platforms for students to upload work, says that in May, 39 per cent of assignments uploaded were written on an online device.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/amazons-alexa-with-increased-rizz-will-now-define-gen-z-slangs-for-older-people-742648">Amazon's Alexa with increased 'rizz' will now define Gen Z slangs for older people</a>

Typing speed improves with how much you type, and since students are not using computers to do their work, they are not getting much practice typing on a physical keyboard. Hence, they are likely to fall behind in terms of proficiency in typing.&nbsp;

<h2>10-19-year-olds type faster on screen</h2>

In fact, touchscreen typing speeds are now fast catching up with computer typing speeds. Alto University and the University of Cambridge studied 37,000 typers in 2019 and found that the mean typing speed on a smartphone was 38 words per minute (wpm) compared to about 52 on a standard QWERTY keyboard.

The so-called "typing gap" is much less for those aged 10-19. They have been found to type 10 wpm faster on a phone than those in their 40s. This is because the study found that they spend six hours per day on their mobile devices on average.

However, experts say that this is not proof of Gen Z losing the ability to touch type. In fact, some teachers said that a keyboard spelling competition led them to increase their typing speed.&nbsp;

Gen Z are considered technical wizards considering they have grown with technology. While they might have mastered using smartphones and tablets, there is one area where they are falling behind - typing on keyboards.

Gen Z are considered technical wizards considering they have grown with technology. While they might have mastered using smartphones and tablets, there is one area where they are falling behind - typing on keyboards. Experts suggest that Gen Z is likely losing the ability to type on a keyboard. With most gadgets using on-screen typing or touchscreen typing, touch typing might soon become a forgotten skill. According to a Wall Street Journal report, there has been a fall in the number of schools offering 'keyboarding' classes. There are not many takers for typing courses as well, and the number has seen a drastic reduction in the last 25 years. The Daily Mail reported that in the United Kingdom, typing skills are described as 'desirable', yet the national curriculum does not include typing. The data on how many students are taught touch typing in the country is also not available. Reports suggest that students prefer using their devices to write and upload assignments instead of using a computer. Instructure, a Utah-based company, which makes platforms for students to upload work, says that in May, 39 per cent of assignments uploaded were written on an online device. Also Read: Amazon's Alexa with increased 'rizz' will now define Gen Z slangs for older people Typing speed improves with how much you type, and since students are not using computers to do their work, they are not getting much practice typing on a physical keyboard. Hence, they are likely to fall behind in terms of proficiency in typing. 10-19-year-olds type faster on screen In fact, touchscreen typing speeds are now fast catching up with computer typing speeds. Alto University and the University of Cambridge studied 37,000 typers in 2019 and found that the mean typing speed on a smartphone was 38 words per minute (wpm) compared to about 52 on a standard QWERTY keyboard. The so-called "typing gap" is much less for those aged 10-19. They have been found to type 10 wpm faster on a phone than those in their 40s. This is because the study found that they spend six hours per day on their mobile devices on average. However, experts say that this is not proof of Gen Z losing the ability to touch type. In fact, some teachers said that a keyboard spelling competition led them to increase their typing speed.

Gen Z might be losing the skill to use computer keyboards, experts fear

Alien probe: Are we alone? Is there any alien life or 'super civilisations' outside Earth? The premier institute in the US searching for alien life and intelligence has launched a new project that will look for low frequencies in intergalactic space, in the first probe of its kind.

SETI Institute - full form the Berkeley SETI Research Center and the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research - is going for an intergalactic search for 'technosignatures,' or signs of alien technology, at low radio frequencies - those at or under 100 MHz.

SETI stands for Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence.

WATCH: Black hole 'moons' may signal advanced alien life

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The low frequency probe will cover 2,800 galaxies in one search, "of which 1,300 we know the distance to," said a release from the institute.

The study will use the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA), a low-frequency radio telescope located at the CSIRO Murchison Radio-astronomy Observatory in Western Australia.

"Usually, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence has focused on signals within our galaxy. This new approach goes further, looking at distant galaxies, looks at distant galaxies, making it one of the most detailed searches for super civilisations—those more advanced than ours," said the SETI release.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-life-may-be-hiding-in-purple-hue-of-universe-scientists-712945">Also read: Alien life may be hiding in purple hue of universe: Scientists</a>

"This work represents a significant step forward in our efforts to detect signals from advanced extraterrestrial civilisations. The large field of view and low-frequency range of the MWA makes it an ideal tool for this kind of research," said Dr Chenoa Tremblay of the SETI Institute, who is leading the study.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-to-install-nuclear-powered-ufo-detectors-in-space-to-lure-aliens-to-earth-claims-expert-723913">Also read: Scientists to install nuclear-powered UFO detectors in space to lure aliens to Earth, claims expert</a>

"The MWA continues to open up new ways of exploring the Universe for intelligent civilizations and technosignatures, while using the same data to study the astrophysics of stars and galaxies. This work is new and novel, but also paves the way for future observations with even more powerful telescopes,” said Prof Steven Tingay of Curtin University who is also the Director of the MWA leading the study.

This research highlights the importance of working together internationally and using advanced technology to expand our understanding of the Universe.

The SETI Institute, founded in 1984, describes itself as an institution leading humanity’s quest to understand the origins and prevalence of life and intelligence in the universe and to share that knowledge with the world.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Alien probe: Are we alone? Is there any alien life or 'super civilisations' outside Earth? The premier institute in the US searching for alien life and intelligence has launched a new project that will look for low frequencies in intergalactic space, in the first probe of its kind.

Alien probe: Are we alone? Is there any alien life or 'super civilisations' outside Earth? The premier institute in the US searching for alien life and intelligence has launched a new project that will look for low frequencies in intergalactic space, in the first probe of its kind. SETI Institute - full form the Berkeley SETI Research Center and the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research - is going for an intergalactic search for 'technosignatures,' or signs of alien technology, at low radio frequencies - those at or under 100 MHz. SETI stands for Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence. WATCH: Black hole 'moons' may signal advanced alien life × The low frequency probe will cover 2,800 galaxies in one search, "of which 1,300 we know the distance to," said a release from the institute. The study will use the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA), a low-frequency radio telescope located at the CSIRO Murchison Radio-astronomy Observatory in Western Australia. "Usually, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence has focused on signals within our galaxy. This new approach goes further, looking at distant galaxies, looks at distant galaxies, making it one of the most detailed searches for super civilisations—those more advanced than ours," said the SETI release. Also read: Alien life may be hiding in purple hue of universe: Scientists "This work represents a significant step forward in our efforts to detect signals from advanced extraterrestrial civilisations. The large field of view and low-frequency range of the MWA makes it an ideal tool for this kind of research," said Dr Chenoa Tremblay of the SETI Institute, who is leading the study. Also read: Scientists to install nuclear-powered UFO detectors in space to lure aliens to Earth, claims expert "The MWA continues to open up new ways of exploring the Universe for intelligent civilizations and technosignatures, while using the same data to study the astrophysics of stars and galaxies. This work is new and novel, but also paves the way for future observations with even more powerful telescopes,” said Prof Steven Tingay of Curtin University who is also the Director of the MWA leading the study. This research highlights the importance of working together internationally and using advanced technology to expand our understanding of the Universe. The SETI Institute, founded in 1984, describes itself as an institution leading humanity’s quest to understand the origins and prevalence of life and intelligence in the universe and to share that knowledge with the world. (With inputs from agencies)

Alien search: SETI Institute launches probe for low frequencies across galaxies in first study of its kind

It's a general notion that some children are born brilliant and excel at studies, while others 'with less intelligence' lag behind in academic performance. A large new study seeks to bust this myth, having found that motivation, self-regulation, grit and perseverance help children become better at studies.

These non-cognitive skills that are part of emotional intelligence and also include academic interest and value attributed to learning, are as important as intelligence- a largely genetic attribute- in determining academic success, found the study.

Watch: AI is spying on students 
&nbsp;

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The researchers followed the development of 10,000 children in the UK, including siblings, to reach the conclusions.

Fostering non-cognitive skills alongside cognitive abilities could significantly improve educational outcomes, said the authors of the study published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/autistic-11-year-old-girl-beats-albert-einstein-stephen-hawkings-iq-scores-590778">Also Read: Autistic 11-year-old girl beats IQ scores of Albert Einstein, Stephen Hawking</a> 
&nbsp;

"Our research challenges the long-held assumption that intelligence is the primary driver of academic achievement," said Dr Margherita Malanchini at Queen Mary University of London, who did the study along with Dr Andrea Allegrini at University College London.

<h2>Non-cognitive skills vs genetic factors</h2>

The findings challenge the traditional view of educational achievement as determined largely by intelligence, which is largely a genetic attribute.&nbsp;

Instead, it suggests that a child's "emotional and behavioural makeup, influenced by both genes and environment, plays a crucial role in their educational journey," said the release.&nbsp;

<h2>How the study was done</h2>

The study followed 10,000 children from age seven to 16 in England and Wales, using "a combination of twin studies and DNA-based analyses to examine the interplay between genes, environment, and academic performance," said the release.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/inheritance-of-attraction-study-claims-children-of-attractive-parents-earn-more-687432">Also Read: Inheritance of attraction? 'Hot parents' study claims children of attractive people earn more</a> 
&nbsp;

By analysing DNA of study participants, researchers constructed a "polygenic score" for non-cognitive skills, essentially a genetic snapshot of a child's predisposition towards these skills, it said.&nbsp;

"We discovered that genetic effects associated with non-cognitive skills become increasingly predictive of academic achievement over the school years, in fact their effect nearly doubles between the ages of 7 and 16," Dr Allegrini said.

"By the end of compulsory education, genetic dispositions towards non-cognitive skills were equally as important as those related to cognitive abilities in predicting academic success."&nbsp;

<h2>Children in same families differ in approach to studies</h2>

Children within the family may shape their own learning experiences based on their personality, dispositions and abilities.

"We found that while family-wide processes play a significant role, the increasing influence of non-cognitive genetics on academic achievement remained evident even within families," said Allegrini.&nbsp;

"Our education system has traditionally focused on cognitive development," said Dr Malanchini.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

It's a general notion that some children are born brilliant and excel at studies, while others 'with less intelligence' lag behind in academic performance. A large new study seeks to bust this myth, having found that motivation, self-regulation, grit and perseverance help children become better at studies.

It's a general notion that some children are born brilliant and excel at studies, while others 'with less intelligence' lag behind in academic performance. A large new study seeks to bust this myth, having found that motivation, self-regulation, grit and perseverance help children become better at studies. These non-cognitive skills that are part of emotional intelligence and also include academic interest and value attributed to learning, are as important as intelligence- a largely genetic attribute- in determining academic success, found the study. Watch: AI is spying on students × The researchers followed the development of 10,000 children in the UK, including siblings, to reach the conclusions. Fostering non-cognitive skills alongside cognitive abilities could significantly improve educational outcomes, said the authors of the study published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour. Also Read: Autistic 11-year-old girl beats IQ scores of Albert Einstein, Stephen Hawking "Our research challenges the long-held assumption that intelligence is the primary driver of academic achievement," said Dr Margherita Malanchini at Queen Mary University of London, who did the study along with Dr Andrea Allegrini at University College London. Non-cognitive skills vs genetic factors The findings challenge the traditional view of educational achievement as determined largely by intelligence, which is largely a genetic attribute. Instead, it suggests that a child's "emotional and behavioural makeup, influenced by both genes and environment, plays a crucial role in their educational journey," said the release. How the study was done The study followed 10,000 children from age seven to 16 in England and Wales, using "a combination of twin studies and DNA-based analyses to examine the interplay between genes, environment, and academic performance," said the release. Also Read: Inheritance of attraction? 'Hot parents' study claims children of attractive people earn more By analysing DNA of study participants, researchers constructed a "polygenic score" for non-cognitive skills, essentially a genetic snapshot of a child's predisposition towards these skills, it said. "We discovered that genetic effects associated with non-cognitive skills become increasingly predictive of academic achievement over the school years, in fact their effect nearly doubles between the ages of 7 and 16," Dr Allegrini said. "By the end of compulsory education, genetic dispositions towards non-cognitive skills were equally as important as those related to cognitive abilities in predicting academic success." Children in same families differ in approach to studies Children within the family may shape their own learning experiences based on their personality, dispositions and abilities. "We found that while family-wide processes play a significant role, the increasing influence of non-cognitive genetics on academic achievement remained evident even within families," said Allegrini. "Our education system has traditionally focused on cognitive development," said Dr Malanchini. (With inputs from agencies)

Intelligence alone doesn't make children excel at studies; it takes grit and perseverance too: Study

The country of South Africa is planning to bomb its Marion Island, a remote island around 2,000 kilometres southeast of Cape Town.

The country has been thinking of taking such a drastic action because an unnerving drama is unfolding on the island, which is, the seabirds, especially albatrosses, falling prey to mice.&nbsp;

The country has come up with the world’s most pivotal&nbsp;bird conservation effort, which is the Mouse-Free Marion Project.&nbsp;

As part of the project, helicopters will be deployed to disperse (or bomb) 600 tonnes of rodenticide-laced pellets across the island.&nbsp;

The project has till now not been funded and a quarter of the $29 million, which is needed, has been raised.

The plan is to strike mice in winter 2027, when they are most famished and the summer-breeding birds are gone.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/bird-genes-store-memories-of-dinosaur-extiction-here-is-how-749319">Bird genes 'store' memories of dinosaur extinction: Here is how</a>

The operation will only be successful when every inch of the 25-kilometre-long and 17-kilometre-wide island gets covered.&nbsp;

“We have to get rid of every last mouse. If there was a male and female remaining, they could breed and eventually get back to where we are now," said Anderson.&nbsp;

<h2>What is happening between mice and seabirds on Marion Island?</h2>

Marion Island is a nesting ground for various seabirds, including the&nbsp;albatross. But now they are under threat as hordes of mice are preying on them and eating their eggs, as confirmed by conservationist Mark Anderson in a meeting of BirdLife South Africa.

“These mice, for the first time last year, were found to be feeding on adult Wandering Albatrosses,” said Anderson, who is the CEO of&nbsp;BirdLife South Africa.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Egg prices climb on bird flu impact

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According to the Mouse-Free Marion Project, among the 29 species of seabirds on the island, 19 are facing the threat of local extinction.&nbsp;

“Mice just climb onto them and slowly eat them until they succumb,” Anderson said. “We are losing hundreds of thousands of seabirds every year through the mice," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The country of South Africa is planning to bomb its Marion Island, a remote island around 2,000 kilometres southeast of Cape Town. The country has been thinking of taking such a drastic action because an unnerving drama is unfolding on the island, which is, the seabirds, especially albatrosses, falling prey to mice.

The country of South Africa is planning to bomb its Marion Island, a remote island around 2,000 kilometres southeast of Cape Town. The country has been thinking of taking such a drastic action because an unnerving drama is unfolding on the island, which is, the seabirds, especially albatrosses, falling prey to mice. The country has come up with the world’s most pivotal bird conservation effort, which is the Mouse-Free Marion Project. As part of the project, helicopters will be deployed to disperse (or bomb) 600 tonnes of rodenticide-laced pellets across the island. The project has till now not been funded and a quarter of the $29 million, which is needed, has been raised. The plan is to strike mice in winter 2027, when they are most famished and the summer-breeding birds are gone. Also Read: Bird genes 'store' memories of dinosaur extinction: Here is how The operation will only be successful when every inch of the 25-kilometre-long and 17-kilometre-wide island gets covered. “We have to get rid of every last mouse. If there was a male and female remaining, they could breed and eventually get back to where we are now," said Anderson. What is happening between mice and seabirds on Marion Island? Marion Island is a nesting ground for various seabirds, including the albatross. But now they are under threat as hordes of mice are preying on them and eating their eggs, as confirmed by conservationist Mark Anderson in a meeting of BirdLife South Africa. “These mice, for the first time last year, were found to be feeding on adult Wandering Albatrosses,” said Anderson, who is the CEO of BirdLife South Africa. Watch: Egg prices climb on bird flu impact According to the Mouse-Free Marion Project, among the 29 species of seabirds on the island, 19 are facing the threat of local extinction. “Mice just climb onto them and slowly eat them until they succumb,” Anderson said. “We are losing hundreds of thousands of seabirds every year through the mice," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

South Africa plans to bomb its island soon to eradicate 'killer' mice

An 'astonishing' discovery was made by an international team of researchers as they mapped a network of rivers and estuaries in 3D around the sunken but "beautifully preserved" landscape of a 7,000-year-old underwater city.&nbsp;

The area was scanned after a Stone Age road, which was 13 feet beneath the Adriatic Sea, was found in last year's discovery. The road once connected the ancient city to the mainland.

The city, which is called Soline, was created on an artificial landmass by the ancient Hvar culture. However, the city slowly started sinking off the coast of what today is called Croatia as sea levels increased with the melting glaciers of the last Ice Age around 12,000 BC.

The researchers now hope that this discovery will help them strategise their deep-sea hunts to find ancient submerged sites and artefacts of the Hvar people.&nbsp;

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/archaeologists-discover-ruins-of-4000-year-old-temple-738555">&nbsp;Archaeologists discover ruins of 4,000-year-old ceremonial temple</a>

The new project's lead investigator and geo-archaeologist&nbsp;Dr Simon Fitch said, "It's a more diverse landscape and it's better preserved than we expected."&nbsp;

He said, "The results provided way more detail than we were expecting."

<h2>Scientists carry out first-ever seafloor scanning&nbsp;</h2>

The scientists found the undersea landscape, where the Hvar culture once existed, near Croatia's&nbsp;second-largest&nbsp;Split where Dr Fitch had gone in March 2023 to start the first-ever seafloor scanning with the help of state-of-the-art underwater 3D seismic sensors.

"There are beautifully preserved rivers and estuaries buried beneath what is now the seafloor," explained Dr Fitch.

"The unique environment of the area around Split, which is quite sheltered, has preserved a lot of it," he added.&nbsp;

The company's data was used by Dr Fitch and his team to map an ancient lost island in the North Sea, Doggerland, which once existed between Great Britain and the Netherlands.

Watch:&nbsp;India's first sunken museum opens at Humayun's Tomb site

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"When we went in with our high-resolution sensors, we found more rivers, more water in the landscape and more environments," said Dr Fitch.&nbsp;

"That's amazing, because it suggests it is more likely that people lived there. Our ultimate goal is to find human artefacts," Dr Fitch added and further noted, "and having this new understanding of the landscape makes that more likely."&nbsp;

"Croatia is the gateway to Europe," he said and added, "so if you think about the advance of farming in Europe, it is and always has been a very important landscape."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An 'astonishing' discovery was made by an international team of researchers as they mapped a network of rivers and estuaries in 3D around the sunken but "beautifully preserved" landscape of a 7,000-year-old underwater city.

An 'astonishing' discovery was made by an international team of researchers as they mapped a network of rivers and estuaries in 3D around the sunken but "beautifully preserved" landscape of a 7,000-year-old underwater city. The area was scanned after a Stone Age road, which was 13 feet beneath the Adriatic Sea, was found in last year's discovery. The road once connected the ancient city to the mainland. The city, which is called Soline, was created on an artificial landmass by the ancient Hvar culture. However, the city slowly started sinking off the coast of what today is called Croatia as sea levels increased with the melting glaciers of the last Ice Age around 12,000 BC. The researchers now hope that this discovery will help them strategise their deep-sea hunts to find ancient submerged sites and artefacts of the Hvar people. Also Read: Archaeologists discover ruins of 4,000-year-old ceremonial temple The new project's lead investigator and geo-archaeologist Dr Simon Fitch said, "It's a more diverse landscape and it's better preserved than we expected." He said, "The results provided way more detail than we were expecting." Scientists carry out first-ever seafloor scanning The scientists found the undersea landscape, where the Hvar culture once existed, near Croatia's second-largest Split where Dr Fitch had gone in March 2023 to start the first-ever seafloor scanning with the help of state-of-the-art underwater 3D seismic sensors. "There are beautifully preserved rivers and estuaries buried beneath what is now the seafloor," explained Dr Fitch. "The unique environment of the area around Split, which is quite sheltered, has preserved a lot of it," he added. The company's data was used by Dr Fitch and his team to map an ancient lost island in the North Sea, Doggerland, which once existed between Great Britain and the Netherlands. Watch: India's first sunken museum opens at Humayun's Tomb site "When we went in with our high-resolution sensors, we found more rivers, more water in the landscape and more environments," said Dr Fitch. "That's amazing, because it suggests it is more likely that people lived there. Our ultimate goal is to find human artefacts," Dr Fitch added and further noted, "and having this new understanding of the landscape makes that more likely." "Croatia is the gateway to Europe," he said and added, "so if you think about the advance of farming in Europe, it is and always has been a very important landscape." (With inputs from agencies)

Rivers and estuaries still remain preserved in THIS 7,000-year-old underwater city

The Y chromosomes, which have been the male-determining gene, have been degenerating&nbsp;and are likely to disappear in some million years. But would the vanishment of the Y chromosomes lead to the extinction of men?

Maybe not, because scientists have observed that the two branches of rodents have survived after losing their Y chromosomes.

In a paper published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Science in 2022, it was explained how the spiny rat evolved a new male-determining gene.

So, scientists now believe that the evolution of a new sex gene can stop men from becoming extinct.

<h2>What led to the shrinking male-determining chromosome?&nbsp;</h2>

The Y chromosome started decaying after it was first formed around 180 million years ago when a segment reattached with the same chromosome after breaking off but in the reverse orientation.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-longevity-genes-heres-how-it-can-extend-lifespan-of-humans-752207">Scientists discover longevity genes. Here's how it can extend lifespan of humans</a>

This “reduced the Y chromosome’s ability to recombine with the X chromosome across the majority of its length and subjected its genes to the erosive forces associated with reduced recombination,” read the study, which was published in&nbsp;Nature.

So, by accumulating the bad mutations, Y chromosomes got smaller over time which led it to lose 97 per cent of its ancestral genes.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the X chromosome conserved its gene content and has around 900 genes currently in comparison to the Y chromosome's meagre 55.

<h2>What makes the Y chromosome special?</h2>

In mammals and humans, two X chromosomes are present in females while males have one X and a Y.

The Y chromosome is special, even though it has fewer genes in comparison to its X counterpart, because it contains the SRY gene which can begin the male development in the embryo.

Watch:&nbsp;Black hole 'moons' may signal advanced alien life

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This is done by the chromosome by acting as a switch which starts the development of testes.

"Our sex chromosomes weren't always X and Y," said Melissa Wilson, who is an evolutionary biologist at Arizona State University, in a paper&nbsp;published back in 2014.

"What determined maleness or femaleness was not specifically linked to them," she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Y chromosomes, which have been the male-determining gene, have been degenerating and are likely to disappear in some million years. But would the vanishment of the Y chromosomes lead to the extinction of men?

The Y chromosomes, which have been the male-determining gene, have been degenerating and are likely to disappear in some million years. But would the vanishment of the Y chromosomes lead to the extinction of men? Maybe not, because scientists have observed that the two branches of rodents have survived after losing their Y chromosomes. In a paper published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Science in 2022, it was explained how the spiny rat evolved a new male-determining gene. So, scientists now believe that the evolution of a new sex gene can stop men from becoming extinct. What led to the shrinking male-determining chromosome? The Y chromosome started decaying after it was first formed around 180 million years ago when a segment reattached with the same chromosome after breaking off but in the reverse orientation. Also Read: Scientists discover longevity genes. Here's how it can extend lifespan of humans This “reduced the Y chromosome’s ability to recombine with the X chromosome across the majority of its length and subjected its genes to the erosive forces associated with reduced recombination,” read the study, which was published in Nature. So, by accumulating the bad mutations, Y chromosomes got smaller over time which led it to lose 97 per cent of its ancestral genes. Meanwhile, the X chromosome conserved its gene content and has around 900 genes currently in comparison to the Y chromosome's meagre 55. What makes the Y chromosome special? In mammals and humans, two X chromosomes are present in females while males have one X and a Y. The Y chromosome is special, even though it has fewer genes in comparison to its X counterpart, because it contains the SRY gene which can begin the male development in the embryo. Watch: Black hole 'moons' may signal advanced alien life This is done by the chromosome by acting as a switch which starts the development of testes. "Our sex chromosomes weren't always X and Y," said Melissa Wilson, who is an evolutionary biologist at Arizona State University, in a paper published back in 2014. "What determined maleness or femaleness was not specifically linked to them," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

World is losing Y chromosomes slowly. Will it lead to the extinction of men?

What is love, or rather, 'where' is love? A fascinating new study has located where exactly love happens in our brains. More precisely, it has mapped how different types of love situations fire up different parts of the brain.

Using functional magnetic resonance imaging or fMRI, the researchers from Aalto University mapped the brain activity of participants who were given stories to think about, related to six types of love: for romantic partners, friends, children, strangers, pets and nature.

Watch: Does falling in love mess with your head?

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<h2>How was the 'brain in love' study done?</h2>

The researchers gave specific love-related statements to participants and observed how their brains reacted. After hearing a professional actor’s rendition of each love story, participants were asked to imagine each emotion for 10 seconds,&nbsp;the researchers said in a release.

Could you guess which type of love ignited more parts of the participants' brains?&nbsp; 
 
Love for one’s children generated the most intense brain activity, closely followed by romantic love, according to the study published in the journal Cerebral Cortex.

The statement given to the parents was: "You see your newborn child for the first time. The baby is soft, healthy and hearty — your life’s greatest wonder. You feel love for the little one."

It was presented to 55 parents who said they were in a loving relationship.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-love-in-the-times-of-ai-your-digital-avatar-might-soon-go-out-on-dates-for-you-721735">Also Read: Love in the times of AI: Your digital avatar might soon go out on dates for you</a> 
 
"In parental love, there was activation deep in the brain's reward system in the striatum area while imagining love, and this was not seen for any other kind of love," said Pärttyli Rinne, who coordinated the study.

‘‘The activation pattern of love is generated...in the basal ganglia, the midline of the forehead, the precuneus and the temporoparietal junction at the sides of the back of the head," said Rinne.

Brain activity is influenced not only by the closeness of the object of love but also by whether it is a human being, another species or nature.

Compassionate love for strangers was less rewarding and caused less brain activation than love in close relationships, it noted.

The study also found that love of nature activated the reward system and visual areas of the brain, but not the social brain areas.

The study also found that it is possible to find, based on brain activity, whether a person is a pet owner or not.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-international-dog-day-indian-celebs-love-letters-for-their-furry-friends-753388">Also Read: International Dog Day: Indian celebs' love letters for their furry friends</a>

"When looking at love for pets and the brain activity associated with it, brain areas associated with sociality statistically reveal whether or not the person is a pet owner. When it comes to the pet owners, these areas are more activated than with non-pet owners," said Rinne.

(With inputs from agencies)

What is love, or rather, 'where' is love? A fascinating new study has located where exactly love happens in our brains. More precisely, it has mapped how different types of love situations fire up different parts of the brain.

What is love, or rather, 'where' is love? A fascinating new study has located where exactly love happens in our brains. More precisely, it has mapped how different types of love situations fire up different parts of the brain. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging or fMRI, the researchers from Aalto University mapped the brain activity of participants who were given stories to think about, related to six types of love: for romantic partners, friends, children, strangers, pets and nature. Watch: Does falling in love mess with your head? × How was the 'brain in love' study done? The researchers gave specific love-related statements to participants and observed how their brains reacted. After hearing a professional actor’s rendition of each love story, participants were asked to imagine each emotion for 10 seconds, the researchers said in a release. Could you guess which type of love ignited more parts of the participants' brains? Love for one’s children generated the most intense brain activity, closely followed by romantic love, according to the study published in the journal Cerebral Cortex. The statement given to the parents was: "You see your newborn child for the first time. The baby is soft, healthy and hearty — your life’s greatest wonder. You feel love for the little one." It was presented to 55 parents who said they were in a loving relationship. Also Read: Love in the times of AI: Your digital avatar might soon go out on dates for you "In parental love, there was activation deep in the brain's reward system in the striatum area while imagining love, and this was not seen for any other kind of love," said Pärttyli Rinne, who coordinated the study. ‘‘The activation pattern of love is generated...in the basal ganglia, the midline of the forehead, the precuneus and the temporoparietal junction at the sides of the back of the head," said Rinne. Brain activity is influenced not only by the closeness of the object of love but also by whether it is a human being, another species or nature. Compassionate love for strangers was less rewarding and caused less brain activation than love in close relationships, it noted. The study also found that love of nature activated the reward system and visual areas of the brain, but not the social brain areas. The study also found that it is possible to find, based on brain activity, whether a person is a pet owner or not. Also Read: International Dog Day: Indian celebs' love letters for their furry friends "When looking at love for pets and the brain activity associated with it, brain areas associated with sociality statistically reveal whether or not the person is a pet owner. When it comes to the pet owners, these areas are more activated than with non-pet owners," said Rinne. (With inputs from agencies)

What is love? Now, researchers have mapped exactly which parts of brains fire up in various love situations

Astronomers have discovered an unexplored cluster in the Milky Way with potentially dangerous regions. Known as Barbá 2, it is around 24,000 light-years away from Earth. The Barbá 2 cluster is home to red supergiant stars, some of which are hundreds of times wider than the sun and up to 1,000,000 times brighter than our star.&nbsp;

The cluster was found using the Gaia space telescope.

Ignacio Negueruela, a researcher at the Universidad de Alicante and a part of the team that saw the Barbá 2 cluster, told Space.com, "Clusters rich in red supergiants are very rare and tend to be very far away, but they play a crucial role in understanding key aspects in the evolution of massive stars."

The sheer size of these giant stars means that they burn through their nuclear fuel a lot faster than our sun. Because of this, these monster stars are only expected to stay alive for a few million years. Notably, our sun has been predicted to have around 10 billion years left in its life.&nbsp;

Open star clusters are extremely common in the Milky Way, with over 1,110 already been found. However, what makes Barbá 2 unique is the presence of several supergiants in the same cluster.&nbsp;

<h2>Life and death of stars</h2>

Negueruela says the discovery is important in understanding how a star becomes a red supergiant and how its fate is affected by this process.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronomers-may-have-solved-the-mystery-of-wow-signal-nearly-50-years-later-752972">Astronomers may have solved the mystery of WOW! signal nearly 50 years later</a>

"Finding a cluster like Barbá 2, which can be observed with a mid-sized telescope, is a significant and exciting discovery for astronomers," he said.&nbsp;

Negueruela says that the discovery of this cluster packed with supergiants can help understand why some stars towards the end of their lifetime become neutron stars while others become black holes.

With smaller stars, the gravitational collapse creates a stellar remnant called a white dwarf. Some of the bigger stars become neutron stars because of the crushing down of the massive stellar core that forces together electrons and protons. Other stars following a complete collapse are transformed into a stellar-mass black hole. It has a dense mass at its centre and a boundary around it from which not even light can escape.

"These clusters are valuable to astronomers because they help us understand red supergiants, which are otherwise challenging to study on their own."

The Barbá cluster was discovered around 10 years back by astronomer Rodolfo Barbá. But he died in 2021 and his findings remained unpublished.&nbsp;

Negueruela said that Rodolfo made many stunning discoveries but a lot of them never got published. "After Rodolfo passed away, his close collaborator Jesús Maíz took on the task of ensuring that his work would be published," he said.&nbsp;

Astronomers have discovered an unexplored cluster in the Milky Way with potentially dangerous regions. Known as Barbá 2, it is around 24,000 light-years away from Earth.

Astronomers have discovered an unexplored cluster in the Milky Way with potentially dangerous regions. Known as Barbá 2, it is around 24,000 light-years away from Earth. The Barbá 2 cluster is home to red supergiant stars, some of which are hundreds of times wider than the sun and up to 1,000,000 times brighter than our star. The cluster was found using the Gaia space telescope. Ignacio Negueruela, a researcher at the Universidad de Alicante and a part of the team that saw the Barbá 2 cluster, told Space.com, "Clusters rich in red supergiants are very rare and tend to be very far away, but they play a crucial role in understanding key aspects in the evolution of massive stars." The sheer size of these giant stars means that they burn through their nuclear fuel a lot faster than our sun. Because of this, these monster stars are only expected to stay alive for a few million years. Notably, our sun has been predicted to have around 10 billion years left in its life. Open star clusters are extremely common in the Milky Way, with over 1,110 already been found. However, what makes Barbá 2 unique is the presence of several supergiants in the same cluster. Life and death of stars Negueruela says the discovery is important in understanding how a star becomes a red supergiant and how its fate is affected by this process. Also Read: Astronomers may have solved the mystery of WOW! signal nearly 50 years later "Finding a cluster like Barbá 2, which can be observed with a mid-sized telescope, is a significant and exciting discovery for astronomers," he said. Negueruela says that the discovery of this cluster packed with supergiants can help understand why some stars towards the end of their lifetime become neutron stars while others become black holes. With smaller stars, the gravitational collapse creates a stellar remnant called a white dwarf. Some of the bigger stars become neutron stars because of the crushing down of the massive stellar core that forces together electrons and protons. Other stars following a complete collapse are transformed into a stellar-mass black hole. It has a dense mass at its centre and a boundary around it from which not even light can escape. "These clusters are valuable to astronomers because they help us understand red supergiants, which are otherwise challenging to study on their own." The Barbá cluster was discovered around 10 years back by astronomer Rodolfo Barbá. But he died in 2021 and his findings remained unpublished. Negueruela said that Rodolfo made many stunning discoveries but a lot of them never got published. "After Rodolfo passed away, his close collaborator Jesús Maíz took on the task of ensuring that his work would be published," he said.

Milky Way cluster with monster stars million times brighter than sun stuns astronomers

An international team of scientists made a stunning discovery of 260 matching dinosaur footprints - which are spread across Brazil and Cameroon - and hints at how these predators travelled across the globe.

The footprints of the dinosaur date back to the Early Cretaceous period and give a glimpse of the time when they lived in the vast supercontinent called Gondwana.

Later, the landmass split into South America and Africa which today have remnants of different dinosaur species.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-dinosaur-species-with-bizarre-brow-bone-lived-in-kyrgyzstan-165-million-years-ago-752271">New dinosaur species with bizarre brow bone lived in Kyrgyzstan 165 million years ago</a>

The footprints of the predator not only provide information regarding their size and how these prehistoric creatures moved but also hint about their behaviour and the kind of ecosystems they inhabited.

<h2>What did the scientists discover from the matching footprints of dinosaurs?</h2>

Southern Methodist University's (SMU) seasoned palaeontologist Louis L. Jacobs found these dinosaur footprints spread across continents which hinted that perhaps a big family of the predators lived in the Americas and Africa.&nbsp;

“We determined that in terms of age, these footprints were similar. In their geological and plate tectonic contexts, they were also similar. In terms of their shapes, they are almost identical," Jacobs said.

The footprints of the dinosaur found by the palaeontologist belonged to three-toed theropod dinosaurs as well as the ancestors of modern birds.

Watch:&nbsp;Conservation Awareness in Zimbabwe: Former poacher is spreading awareness on conservation

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The scientists said that some tracks may have been formed from large, long-necked herbivores 'sauropods' and herbivorous dinosaurs 'ornithischians'.&nbsp;

“One of the youngest and narrowest geological connections between Africa and South America was the elbow of northeastern Brazil, nestled against the present-day coast of Cameroon along the Gulf of Guinea,” explained Jacobs.

"The two continents were continuous along that narrow stretch so that animals on either side of that connection could potentially move across it," he added.

During that time, this narrow land bridge played an important role in helping animals migrate between the two continents before they slowly drifted apart.

As the continents drifted apart, magma from the mantle came to the centre stage and the South Atlantic Ocean was created.

“The tracks tell us that these dinosaurs were moving through an environment that was changing drastically,” said Diana P. Vineyard, who is a research associate at SMU and a co-contributor to the study.

“These regions, now so far apart, were once part of the same landscape, filled with rivers, lakes, and thriving ecosystems," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

An international team of scientists made a stunning discovery of 260 matching dinosaur footprints - which are spread across Brazil and Cameroon - and hints at how these predators travelled across the globe.

An international team of scientists made a stunning discovery of 260 matching dinosaur footprints - which are spread across Brazil and Cameroon - and hints at how these predators travelled across the globe. The footprints of the dinosaur date back to the Early Cretaceous period and give a glimpse of the time when they lived in the vast supercontinent called Gondwana. Later, the landmass split into South America and Africa which today have remnants of different dinosaur species. Also Read: New dinosaur species with bizarre brow bone lived in Kyrgyzstan 165 million years ago The footprints of the predator not only provide information regarding their size and how these prehistoric creatures moved but also hint about their behaviour and the kind of ecosystems they inhabited. What did the scientists discover from the matching footprints of dinosaurs? Southern Methodist University's (SMU) seasoned palaeontologist Louis L. Jacobs found these dinosaur footprints spread across continents which hinted that perhaps a big family of the predators lived in the Americas and Africa. “We determined that in terms of age, these footprints were similar. In their geological and plate tectonic contexts, they were also similar. In terms of their shapes, they are almost identical," Jacobs said. The footprints of the dinosaur found by the palaeontologist belonged to three-toed theropod dinosaurs as well as the ancestors of modern birds. Watch: Conservation Awareness in Zimbabwe: Former poacher is spreading awareness on conservation The scientists said that some tracks may have been formed from large, long-necked herbivores 'sauropods' and herbivorous dinosaurs 'ornithischians'. “One of the youngest and narrowest geological connections between Africa and South America was the elbow of northeastern Brazil, nestled against the present-day coast of Cameroon along the Gulf of Guinea,” explained Jacobs. "The two continents were continuous along that narrow stretch so that animals on either side of that connection could potentially move across it," he added. During that time, this narrow land bridge played an important role in helping animals migrate between the two continents before they slowly drifted apart. As the continents drifted apart, magma from the mantle came to the centre stage and the South Atlantic Ocean was created. “The tracks tell us that these dinosaurs were moving through an environment that was changing drastically,” said Diana P. Vineyard, who is a research associate at SMU and a co-contributor to the study. “These regions, now so far apart, were once part of the same landscape, filled with rivers, lakes, and thriving ecosystems," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Dinosaurs were travelling across continents, matching footprints of predators suggest

Japanese space agency, The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) on Monday (Aug 26) announced that it has ended its Moon lander operation. The decision as per reports was taken after the space agency lost communication with the uncrewed spaceship last week.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:84,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1773}">No prospect of restoring communication</h2>

Taking to social media platform X, The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) wrote that there was no response from The Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM). The agency tried to communicate with SLIM last week after three frigid lunar nights or six cold weeks — in Earth time.

"We judged that there was no prospect of restoring communication with SLIM, and at around 22:40 (1340 GMT) on August 23, we sent a command to stop the SLIM activity," said the space agency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:243,&quot;w&quot;:513,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1932}" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/aliens-may-be-exploiting-miniature-black-hole-moons-for-energy-study-753326">Aliens may be exploiting miniature black hole 'moons' for energy: Study</a>

Nearly a year after launching the operation, it said that "SLIM continued to transmit information on its status and the surrounding environment for a much longer period than expected."&nbsp;

"At the time of launch, no one imagined that the operation would continue this long," it added.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:360,&quot;w&quot;:813,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2049}">Moon Sniper</h2>

Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) or the "Moon Sniper" as it has been nicknamed for its landing precision, touched down on the lunar surface eight months ago.&nbsp;

With the touchdown in January, Japan became only the fifth nation to achieve a soft landing on the moon. However, SLIM landed on the lunar surface at a wonky angle, due to which its solar panels were left facing the wrong way.

Once the sun's angle shifted, the SLIM lander came back to life for two days. At that time, it carried out scientific observations of the lunar crater with a high-spec camera.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-astronaut-captures-mesmerising-scene-of-moon-setting-above-the-pacific-753378">NASA astronaut captures mesmerising scene of moon setting above the Pacific</a>

Even though it was not designed to withstand the frigid, two-week-long lunar nights where the temperature plunges to minus 133 degrees, it woke up for a third time in April.

The SLIM mission sought to examine a part of the Moon's mantle — the deep inner layer beneath the satellite's crust. As per estimates, it was accessible through the crater where SLIM landed. The Japanese spacecraft carried out two probes — one with a transmitter and a mini-rover that, as per AFP, moves in a similar manner as a turtle. Moving around the lunar surface, it beamed images back to Earth.

(With inputs from agencies)

Japanese space agency, The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) on Monday (Aug 26) announced that it has ended its Moon lander operation. The decision as per reports was taken after the space agency lost communication with the uncrewed spaceship last week.

Japanese space agency, The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) on Monday (Aug 26) announced that it has ended its Moon lander operation. The decision as per reports was taken after the space agency lost communication with the uncrewed spaceship last week. No prospect of restoring communication Taking to social media platform X, The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) wrote that there was no response from The Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM). The agency tried to communicate with SLIM last week after three frigid lunar nights or six cold weeks — in Earth time. "We judged that there was no prospect of restoring communication with SLIM, and at around 22:40 (1340 GMT) on August 23, we sent a command to stop the SLIM activity," said the space agency. Also read | Aliens may be exploiting miniature black hole 'moons' for energy: Study Nearly a year after launching the operation, it said that "SLIM continued to transmit information on its status and the surrounding environment for a much longer period than expected." "At the time of launch, no one imagined that the operation would continue this long," it added. Moon Sniper Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) or the "Moon Sniper" as it has been nicknamed for its landing precision, touched down on the lunar surface eight months ago. With the touchdown in January, Japan became only the fifth nation to achieve a soft landing on the moon. However, SLIM landed on the lunar surface at a wonky angle, due to which its solar panels were left facing the wrong way. Once the sun's angle shifted, the SLIM lander came back to life for two days. At that time, it carried out scientific observations of the lunar crater with a high-spec camera. Also read | NASA astronaut captures mesmerising scene of moon setting above the Pacific Even though it was not designed to withstand the frigid, two-week-long lunar nights where the temperature plunges to minus 133 degrees, it woke up for a third time in April. The SLIM mission sought to examine a part of the Moon's mantle — the deep inner layer beneath the satellite's crust. As per estimates, it was accessible through the crater where SLIM landed. The Japanese spacecraft carried out two probes — one with a transmitter and a mini-rover that, as per AFP, moves in a similar manner as a turtle. Moving around the lunar surface, it beamed images back to Earth. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan's SLIM takes the final bow, lunar mission shut down after lost communication

The astronaut of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has left the netizens once again mesmerised by capturing the stunning view of the Moon above the Pacific.&nbsp;

The US Space Agency's social media, which is filled with fascinating images and videos of space, has once again garnered people's attention on the social media platform.&nbsp;

NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick, who has been at the International Space Station for the last four months, clicked a mesmerising photo of the moon setting above the Pacific.&nbsp;

"The moon setting over the Pacific. Went to the cupola to shoot Tropical Storm Hone near Hawaii but right after we passed by the storm the moon started to set," said Dominick, in the caption of the image of the Moon.&nbsp;

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The moon setting over the Pacific. 
 
Went to the cupola to shoot Tropical Storm Hone near Hawaii but right after we passed by the storm the moon started to set. 
 
400mm, ISO 500, 1/20000s shutter speed, f2.8, cropped, denoised. <a href="https://t.co/YtboVnRNpF">pic.twitter.com/YtboVnRNpF</a>
— Matthew Dominick (@dominickmatthew) <a href="https://twitter.com/dominickmatthew/status/1827491936996921806?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The image, which has gone viral, captured a beautiful view of the Moon with the blue hues in the foreground in the atmosphere of the Earth.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-is-on-alert-as-a-massive-aeroplane-sized-asteroid-closely-approaches-earth-751985">NASA is on alert as a massive aeroplane-sized asteroid closely approaches Earth</a>

Speaking about the technical specifics of the breathtaking photo, he said, "400mm, ISO 500, 1/20000s shutter speed, f2.8, cropped, denoised."

<h2>How netizens reacted to the viral image of Moon</h2>

After the photo was shared on social media, it garnered more than four lakh views and five thousand likes.

"This is absolutely mind-boggling," wrote a user. "Great shot!" commented another.&nbsp;

"Star Wars vibes," said a person, meanwhile, another added, "This photograph touched my heart."

"And to think it still takes nearly 3 days to arrive to the moon. The vastness of space is so humbling and so beautiful," wrote a user.

"While that moon is beautiful, I was more impressed by those towering clouds near the horizon... How high do they reach!!" wrote a person.

Watch:&nbsp;Nasa selects Musk's SpaceX to rescue astronauts marooned in space

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Dominick's another clicked image of moonrise from a "unique vantage point" had gone viral earlier. A crescent-shaped was visible above the atmosphere of the Earth in the image.

In the caption of the image, the astronaut wrote, "A sliver of a moon rises out of noctilucent clouds and appears to look towards the horizon awaiting the imminent sunrise."

(With inputs from agencies)

The astronaut of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has left the netizens once again mesmerised by capturing the stunning view of the Moon above the Pacific.

The astronaut of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has left the netizens once again mesmerised by capturing the stunning view of the Moon above the Pacific. The US Space Agency's social media, which is filled with fascinating images and videos of space, has once again garnered people's attention on the social media platform. NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick, who has been at the International Space Station for the last four months, clicked a mesmerising photo of the moon setting above the Pacific. "The moon setting over the Pacific. Went to the cupola to shoot Tropical Storm Hone near Hawaii but right after we passed by the storm the moon started to set," said Dominick, in the caption of the image of the Moon. The moon setting over the Pacific. Went to the cupola to shoot Tropical Storm Hone near Hawaii but right after we passed by the storm the moon started to set. 400mm, ISO 500, 1/20000s shutter speed, f2.8, cropped, denoised. pic.twitter.com/YtboVnRNpF — Matthew Dominick (@dominickmatthew) August 24, 2024 × The image, which has gone viral, captured a beautiful view of the Moon with the blue hues in the foreground in the atmosphere of the Earth. Also Read: NASA is on alert as a massive aeroplane-sized asteroid closely approaches Earth Speaking about the technical specifics of the breathtaking photo, he said, "400mm, ISO 500, 1/20000s shutter speed, f2.8, cropped, denoised." How netizens reacted to the viral image of Moon After the photo was shared on social media, it garnered more than four lakh views and five thousand likes. "This is absolutely mind-boggling," wrote a user. "Great shot!" commented another. "Star Wars vibes," said a person, meanwhile, another added, "This photograph touched my heart." "And to think it still takes nearly 3 days to arrive to the moon. The vastness of space is so humbling and so beautiful," wrote a user. "While that moon is beautiful, I was more impressed by those towering clouds near the horizon... How high do they reach!!" wrote a person. Watch: Nasa selects Musk's SpaceX to rescue astronauts marooned in space Dominick's another clicked image of moonrise from a "unique vantage point" had gone viral earlier. A crescent-shaped was visible above the atmosphere of the Earth in the image. In the caption of the image, the astronaut wrote, "A sliver of a moon rises out of noctilucent clouds and appears to look towards the horizon awaiting the imminent sunrise." (With inputs from agencies)

NASA astronaut captures mesmerising scene of moon setting above the Pacific

An innovative method for creating miniature brains has been created by Dr Tyler Wenzel from the University of Saskatchewan (USask) in which the stem cells of human blood have been used and is likely to transform&nbsp;the treatment and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s&nbsp;disease.

“Never in our wildest dreams did we think that our crazy idea would work. These could be used as a diagnostic tool, built from blood,” he said.

The idea of this one-in-a-kind mini-brain was developed by Wenzel, a postdoctoral fellow in the College of Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry, while he was working under the supervision of Dr. Darrell Mousseau (PhD).

According to the research, it is possible to manipulate human stem cells and develop them into practically any other kind of cell in the human body.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-for-the-first-time-use-cells-of-multiple-people-to-create-minibrains-737954">Scientists for the first time use cells of multiple people to create 'minibrains'</a>

Wenzel used the stem cells from human blood and created a tiny artificial organ, which was around three millimetres and appeared like a piece of chewed gum.

After using the stem cells from a blood sample to create "mini-brains", they are transformed to function in the way brain cells do.&nbsp;

<h2>How are these human blood-based "mini-brains" unique?</h2>

It is not a novel concept to use small synthetic organoids for research, however, the “mini-brains” created in Wenzel’s lab were unique.&nbsp;

According to the recently published article by Wenzel in Frontiers of Cellular Neuroscience, these brains had four different types of brain cells in comparison to other brain organoids comprising of just only neurons.

As per the tests, the "mini-brains" created by Wenzel are more accurate in reflecting the developed adult human brain and can closely examine neurological conditions of patients suffering from diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Watch:&nbsp;Microplastics found in human brain. What does this mean for you?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/microplastics-found-in-human-brain-what-does-this-mean-for-you-752827/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“If stem cells have the capacity to become any cell in the human body, the question then came ‘could we create something that resembles an entire organ?’” said Wenzel.&nbsp;

“While we were developing it, I had the crazy idea that if these truly are human brains, if a patient had a disease like Alzheimer’s and we grew their ‘mini-brain,’ in theory that tiny brain would have Alzheimer’s," he added.

Wenzel has accepted that he is still finding it difficult to believe the astounding success of the early “mini-brains".

“I’m still in disbelief, but it’s also extremely motivating that something like this happened,” Wenzel said. “It gives me something that I think will impact society and have actual relevance and create some change … it has a strong potential to shift the landscape of medicine," said the scientists.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An innovative method for creating miniature brains has been created by Dr Tyler Wenzel from the University of Saskatchewan (USask) in which the stem cells of human blood have been used and is likely to transform the treatment and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.

An innovative method for creating miniature brains has been created by Dr Tyler Wenzel from the University of Saskatchewan (USask) in which the stem cells of human blood have been used and is likely to transform the treatment and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. “Never in our wildest dreams did we think that our crazy idea would work. These could be used as a diagnostic tool, built from blood,” he said. The idea of this one-in-a-kind mini-brain was developed by Wenzel, a postdoctoral fellow in the College of Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry, while he was working under the supervision of Dr. Darrell Mousseau (PhD). According to the research, it is possible to manipulate human stem cells and develop them into practically any other kind of cell in the human body. Also Read: Scientists for the first time use cells of multiple people to create 'minibrains' Wenzel used the stem cells from human blood and created a tiny artificial organ, which was around three millimetres and appeared like a piece of chewed gum. After using the stem cells from a blood sample to create "mini-brains", they are transformed to function in the way brain cells do. How are these human blood-based "mini-brains" unique? It is not a novel concept to use small synthetic organoids for research, however, the “mini-brains” created in Wenzel’s lab were unique. According to the recently published article by Wenzel in Frontiers of Cellular Neuroscience, these brains had four different types of brain cells in comparison to other brain organoids comprising of just only neurons. As per the tests, the "mini-brains" created by Wenzel are more accurate in reflecting the developed adult human brain and can closely examine neurological conditions of patients suffering from diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Watch: Microplastics found in human brain. What does this mean for you? “If stem cells have the capacity to become any cell in the human body, the question then came ‘could we create something that resembles an entire organ?’” said Wenzel. “While we were developing it, I had the crazy idea that if these truly are human brains, if a patient had a disease like Alzheimer’s and we grew their ‘mini-brain,’ in theory that tiny brain would have Alzheimer’s," he added. Wenzel has accepted that he is still finding it difficult to believe the astounding success of the early “mini-brains". “I’m still in disbelief, but it’s also extremely motivating that something like this happened,” Wenzel said. “It gives me something that I think will impact society and have actual relevance and create some change … it has a strong potential to shift the landscape of medicine," said the scientists. (With inputs from agencies)

Human blood-based mini-brains may revolutionise treatment of Alzheimer’s: Scientist

In a new study, scientists have suggested that advanced alien civilisations may have been migrating near&nbsp;miniature black holes to fulfil the energy needs of their home planets.&nbsp;

There is a possibility that these aliens are capturing the unlimited energy around the black holes and taking it back to their planets.&nbsp;

In the study, Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb has suggested that these black hole “moons” can be a sign of advanced&nbsp;aliens&nbsp;and can help scientists in understanding the life outside the Solar System.

It is known that black holes emit photons and large sub-atomic particles which are collectively called Hawking Radiation, named after physicist&nbsp;Stephen Hawking.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earths-mantle-is-hosting-strange-black-holes-with-mysterious-waves-heres-what-they-are-753231">Earth's mantle is hosting strange 'black holes' with mysterious waves. Here's what they are</a>

Hawking in 1974 suggested that a black hole is able to shine on its own without the need of an external fuel supply.

The new study was published in the journal&nbsp;Research Notes of the American Astronomical Society and it took into consideration the possibility that technologically&nbsp;advanced alien civilisation may have been creating and tapping their own “mini” black hole for fulfilling their energy needs.

<h2>How aliens are extracting energy from black hole 'moons'?</h2>

The momentum of the&nbsp;rotating disc of matter which is around the black hole is likely to have been utilised by the aliens to produce energy in this system, suggested scientists.

According to Dr Loeb, another way could have been to feed matter in the black hole and create Hawking Radiation.

The Harvard scientist suggested that such kinds of black holes should weigh only 100,000 tonnes.

Dr Loeb said that in exchange for the matter thrown inside black holes, they can provide “an endless supply of&nbsp;power”.

Watch:&nbsp;Nasa selects Musk's SpaceX to rescue astronauts marooned in space

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-selects-musks-spacex-to-rescue-astronauts-marooned-in-space-753057/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“This black hole system is the most efficient engine I ever thought about. The fuel is converted to energy with perfect efficiency of 100 per cent as the mass falling into the black hole is ultimately coming out as Hawking Radiation,” Dr Loeb said.

“The only other method for converting mass to radiation with this efficiency is matter-antimatter annihilation,” added the Harvard researcher.

Such black hole systems have the capacity to power roaming rogue planets which do not have a star and can otherwise become uninhabitable and frozen.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a new study, scientists have suggested that advanced alien civilisations may have been migrating near miniature black holes to fulfil the energy needs of their home planets.

In a new study, scientists have suggested that advanced alien civilisations may have been migrating near miniature black holes to fulfil the energy needs of their home planets. There is a possibility that these aliens are capturing the unlimited energy around the black holes and taking it back to their planets. In the study, Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb has suggested that these black hole “moons” can be a sign of advanced aliens and can help scientists in understanding the life outside the Solar System. It is known that black holes emit photons and large sub-atomic particles which are collectively called Hawking Radiation, named after physicist Stephen Hawking. Also Read: Earth's mantle is hosting strange 'black holes' with mysterious waves. Here's what they are Hawking in 1974 suggested that a black hole is able to shine on its own without the need of an external fuel supply. The new study was published in the journal Research Notes of the American Astronomical Society and it took into consideration the possibility that technologically advanced alien civilisation may have been creating and tapping their own “mini” black hole for fulfilling their energy needs. How aliens are extracting energy from black hole 'moons'? The momentum of the rotating disc of matter which is around the black hole is likely to have been utilised by the aliens to produce energy in this system, suggested scientists. According to Dr Loeb, another way could have been to feed matter in the black hole and create Hawking Radiation. The Harvard scientist suggested that such kinds of black holes should weigh only 100,000 tonnes. Dr Loeb said that in exchange for the matter thrown inside black holes, they can provide “an endless supply of power”. Watch: Nasa selects Musk's SpaceX to rescue astronauts marooned in space “This black hole system is the most efficient engine I ever thought about. The fuel is converted to energy with perfect efficiency of 100 per cent as the mass falling into the black hole is ultimately coming out as Hawking Radiation,” Dr Loeb said. “The only other method for converting mass to radiation with this efficiency is matter-antimatter annihilation,” added the Harvard researcher. Such black hole systems have the capacity to power roaming rogue planets which do not have a star and can otherwise become uninhabitable and frozen. (With inputs from agencies)

Aliens may be exploiting miniature black hole 'moons' for energy: Study

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