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An asteroid as large as a stadium is moving towards Earth and will soon fly by our planet. Its massive size and the distance at which it will travel mean that it is considered potentially dangerous. The latest warning has been issued by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory as part of its Asteroid Watch programme. Asteroid 2011 AM24 is a whopping 880 feet in size and will make its closest approach to Earth on July 26. It will be 4,010,000 million miles from us at its nearest point. It is moving at a relative speed of 22320 km/hour and has been classified by NASA as a near-Earth object (NEO) and belongs to the Apollo group of these space bodies.&nbsp;

It is a big asteroid and is coming pretty close as well. But does it pose any threat to Earth? Going by NASA's criteria for classifying Potentially Hazardous Asteroids (PHAs), it does. The space agency says that asteroids that won't get closer than 4,650,000 million miles to Earth or are smaller than about 140 metres, that is around 460 feet, don't pose a threat. But the 2011 AM24 is 880 feet and is travelling a lot closer than deemed safe.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, July 26 will also see another asteroid hurtling towards us. While this one isn't as big in size, it will come extremely close to us. Asteroid 2024 MH1 is 91 feet long and also belongs to the Apollo group of these space rocks. It will be 1,115,952 million miles from Earth at its closest point and is moving at a relative velocity of 20,916 km/hr. This one will be even closer to us but is extremely small.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/asteroid-apophis-might-experience-landslides-when-it-crosses-earth-experts-say-741643">Landslides on asteroid? Apophis might witness a few when it crosses Earth, experts say</a>

<h2> 
Why does NASA monitor asteroids?</h2>

 
Asteroids can cause major destruction to planets, as witnessed in the past. NASA regularly monitors them to keep a check on those space bodies that might threaten the safety of Earth. Besides protecting the planet against any such scenario, monitoring them also lets NASA study these celestial visitors. By learning about their movement and travel patterns, scientists can devise ways to create safety plans in case a potentially hazardous asteroid threatens Earth.&nbsp;

The DART is one such mission where scientists worked to understand if they can hit an asteroid before it strikes us. As part of the mission, scientists hit an asteroid to better understand how an asteroid can be deflected in the future. The DART mission broke the asteroid into several pieces, many of which are likely to hit Mars.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

An asteroid as large as a stadium is moving towards Earth and will soon fly by our planet. Its massive size and the distance at which it will travel mean that it is considered potentially dangerous.

An asteroid as large as a stadium is moving towards Earth and will soon fly by our planet. Its massive size and the distance at which it will travel mean that it is considered potentially dangerous. The latest warning has been issued by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory as part of its Asteroid Watch programme. Asteroid 2011 AM24 is a whopping 880 feet in size and will make its closest approach to Earth on July 26. It will be 4,010,000 million miles from us at its nearest point. It is moving at a relative speed of 22320 km/hour and has been classified by NASA as a near-Earth object (NEO) and belongs to the Apollo group of these space bodies. It is a big asteroid and is coming pretty close as well. But does it pose any threat to Earth? Going by NASA's criteria for classifying Potentially Hazardous Asteroids (PHAs), it does. The space agency says that asteroids that won't get closer than 4,650,000 million miles to Earth or are smaller than about 140 metres, that is around 460 feet, don't pose a threat. But the 2011 AM24 is 880 feet and is travelling a lot closer than deemed safe. Meanwhile, July 26 will also see another asteroid hurtling towards us. While this one isn't as big in size, it will come extremely close to us. Asteroid 2024 MH1 is 91 feet long and also belongs to the Apollo group of these space rocks. It will be 1,115,952 million miles from Earth at its closest point and is moving at a relative velocity of 20,916 km/hr. This one will be even closer to us but is extremely small. Also Read: Landslides on asteroid? Apophis might witness a few when it crosses Earth, experts say Why does NASA monitor asteroids? Asteroids can cause major destruction to planets, as witnessed in the past. NASA regularly monitors them to keep a check on those space bodies that might threaten the safety of Earth. Besides protecting the planet against any such scenario, monitoring them also lets NASA study these celestial visitors. By learning about their movement and travel patterns, scientists can devise ways to create safety plans in case a potentially hazardous asteroid threatens Earth. The DART is one such mission where scientists worked to understand if they can hit an asteroid before it strikes us. As part of the mission, scientists hit an asteroid to better understand how an asteroid can be deflected in the future. The DART mission broke the asteroid into several pieces, many of which are likely to hit Mars.

NASA warns of 880ft asteroid that will come dangerously close to Earth this week

The rays of the Sun are not just impacting humans and the surface of the Earth, but also penetrating deep within the Earth and making changes in its core, as per a new study.

In a new paper, which was published in the journal Nature Communications, scientists explained how the ancient magma present inside the Earth's core has some chemical properties that show it is being impacted by the Sun's rays.&nbsp;

<h2>How are the Sun's rays making their way to Earth's core?</h2>

The Sun's rays impact Earth's core when the dead marine life gets transported into the interior of the Earth and changes the magma's "redox" state.

The Sun has been heavily influencing the marine life around the world which has depended on its energy and warmth.&nbsp;

Because of the variety in solar radiation across the surface of the planet, marine life remains differently distributed in the fossil record.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/oxygen-is-depleting-from-earths-water-heres-how-it-is-threatening-lives-on-planet-742670">Oxygen is depleting from Earth's water. Here's how it is threatening lives on planet</a>

After a wide span of time, these dead organisms reach into the magma-filled mantle of the Earth through the process called subduction, in which one plate of the crust of the Earth slowly gets sucked beneath another plate.

The paper suggested that the presence of these marine creatures in the magma is affecting the arc magma's "redox" state in which a balance is created between oxidised and reduced forms of molecules.&nbsp;

The researchers explained that the redox state of magma showed a gradient with latitude, which further explained how marine creatures are reducing the magma and the Sun is changing Earth's core.

"Previous studies mainly compared samples from the same longitudinal regions, such as the U.S. in the northern hemisphere and Mexico in the tropical zone, without finding significant differences. However, our samples from different latitudes showed varying redox responses, which piqued our curiosity. Trying to explain these differences led us to discover this unexpected pattern," said study author Wan Bo, who is a geologist at the Chinese Academy of Sciences,&nbsp;in a statement.

"This unexpected pattern suggests that the surface climate has a direct influence on the deep Earth. It also suggests that the Earth's surface environment and climate have a vital influence on the deep Earth," Wan added.

<h2>Carbon deposits on seafloors: study</h2>

The scientists also found more carbon deposits present on the seafloor at lower latitudes which have been interacting with sulfur and becoming sulfides. This is also suspected to have contributed to the redox of the magma.

Watch:&nbsp;China proposes information superhighway between Earth and Moon

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-proposes-information-superhighway-between-earth-and-moon-742681/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The observed pattern suggests a strong link between the surface environment and the redox state of the deep Earth, providing new directions for exploring the resources and environmental impacts of subduction systems at different latitudes," said Hu Fangyang, who is a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

(With inputs from agencies)

The rays of the Sun are not just impacting humans and the surface of the Earth, but also penetrating deep within the Earth and making changes in its core, as per a new study.

The rays of the Sun are not just impacting humans and the surface of the Earth, but also penetrating deep within the Earth and making changes in its core, as per a new study. In a new paper, which was published in the journal Nature Communications, scientists explained how the ancient magma present inside the Earth's core has some chemical properties that show it is being impacted by the Sun's rays. How are the Sun's rays making their way to Earth's core? The Sun's rays impact Earth's core when the dead marine life gets transported into the interior of the Earth and changes the magma's "redox" state. The Sun has been heavily influencing the marine life around the world which has depended on its energy and warmth. Because of the variety in solar radiation across the surface of the planet, marine life remains differently distributed in the fossil record. Also Read: Oxygen is depleting from Earth's water. Here's how it is threatening lives on planet After a wide span of time, these dead organisms reach into the magma-filled mantle of the Earth through the process called subduction, in which one plate of the crust of the Earth slowly gets sucked beneath another plate. The paper suggested that the presence of these marine creatures in the magma is affecting the arc magma's "redox" state in which a balance is created between oxidised and reduced forms of molecules. The researchers explained that the redox state of magma showed a gradient with latitude, which further explained how marine creatures are reducing the magma and the Sun is changing Earth's core. "Previous studies mainly compared samples from the same longitudinal regions, such as the U.S. in the northern hemisphere and Mexico in the tropical zone, without finding significant differences. However, our samples from different latitudes showed varying redox responses, which piqued our curiosity. Trying to explain these differences led us to discover this unexpected pattern," said study author Wan Bo, who is a geologist at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, in a statement. "This unexpected pattern suggests that the surface climate has a direct influence on the deep Earth. It also suggests that the Earth's surface environment and climate have a vital influence on the deep Earth," Wan added. Carbon deposits on seafloors: study The scientists also found more carbon deposits present on the seafloor at lower latitudes which have been interacting with sulfur and becoming sulfides. This is also suspected to have contributed to the redox of the magma. Watch: China proposes information superhighway between Earth and Moon "The observed pattern suggests a strong link between the surface environment and the redox state of the deep Earth, providing new directions for exploring the resources and environmental impacts of subduction systems at different latitudes," said Hu Fangyang, who is a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Sciences. (With inputs from agencies)

Sun is slowly penetrating and changing Earth's core. Here's how

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) said that a team at its Glenn Research Center in Cleveland streamed 4K video footage from an aircraft to the International Space Station (ISS) and back for the first time using optical (or laser) communications.&nbsp;

The team carried out the experiment as part of a series of tests on new technology. The scientists hope that this technology could provide live video coverage of astronauts on the Moon during the Artemis missions.&nbsp;

NASA has sent data to and from orbit via radio waves in the past also. Notably, laser communications can transfer 10–100 times more data more quickly by using infrared light compared to radio frequency systems.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/rock-varnish-from-indias-ladakh-may-help-find-habitable-environments-in-space-744147">Rock varnish from India’s Ladakh may help find habitable environments in space</a>&nbsp;

For the test, the scientists worked with the Air Force Research Laboratory and NASA's Small Business Innovation Research programme. They temporarily installed a portable laser terminal on the belly of a Pilatus PC-12 aircraft.&nbsp;

They then flew over Lake Erie sending data from the aircraft to an optical ground station in Cleveland and it was then sent over an Earth-based network to White Sands Test Facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico.&nbsp;

The scientists at NASA's facility in New Mexico used infrared light signals to send the data. The space agency stated that the signals travelled 22,000 miles away from Earth to its Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD), which is an orbiting experimental platform.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/james-webb-spots-super-jupiter-and-it-is-one-of-the-coldest-exoplanets-observed-to-date-743898">James Webb spots 'super Jupiter' and it is one of the coldest exoplanets observed to date</a>&nbsp;

The signal was then relayed by the LCRD to the ILLUMA-T (Integrated LCRD LEO User Modem and Amplifier Terminal) payload mounted on the orbiting laboratory. In the end, ILLUMA-T sent the data back to Earth.&nbsp;

Dr Daniel Raible, who is a principal investigator for the HDTN project at Glenn, said, "These experiments are a tremendous accomplishment. We can now build upon the success of streaming 4K HD videos to and from the space station to provide future capabilities, like HD videoconferencing, for our Artemis astronauts, which will be important for crew health and activity coordination."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Mysterious dark oxygen found on ocean floor

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<h2>Missy Elliott's song sent into deep space</h2>

For the first time, NASA recently transmitted the lyrics of popular Missy Elliot's song "The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)" to Venus, which is about 158 million miles (254 million kilometres) away. The lyrics were beamed using DSN (Deep Space Network).&nbsp;

The space agency's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California sent the transmission at 10:05 am PDT on July 12.&nbsp;

In 2008, NASA beamed The Beatles song "Across the Universe" into space. Elliott's 1997 debut single became the first hip-hop song sent to deep space.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) said that a team at its Glenn Research Center in Cleveland streamed 4K video footage from an aircraft to the International Space Station (ISS) and back for the first time using optical (or laser) communications.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) said that a team at its Glenn Research Center in Cleveland streamed 4K video footage from an aircraft to the International Space Station (ISS) and back for the first time using optical (or laser) communications. The team carried out the experiment as part of a series of tests on new technology. The scientists hope that this technology could provide live video coverage of astronauts on the Moon during the Artemis missions. NASA has sent data to and from orbit via radio waves in the past also. Notably, laser communications can transfer 10–100 times more data more quickly by using infrared light compared to radio frequency systems. Also read: Rock varnish from India’s Ladakh may help find habitable environments in space For the test, the scientists worked with the Air Force Research Laboratory and NASA's Small Business Innovation Research programme. They temporarily installed a portable laser terminal on the belly of a Pilatus PC-12 aircraft. They then flew over Lake Erie sending data from the aircraft to an optical ground station in Cleveland and it was then sent over an Earth-based network to White Sands Test Facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The scientists at NASA's facility in New Mexico used infrared light signals to send the data. The space agency stated that the signals travelled 22,000 miles away from Earth to its Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD), which is an orbiting experimental platform. Also read: James Webb spots 'super Jupiter' and it is one of the coldest exoplanets observed to date The signal was then relayed by the LCRD to the ILLUMA-T (Integrated LCRD LEO User Modem and Amplifier Terminal) payload mounted on the orbiting laboratory. In the end, ILLUMA-T sent the data back to Earth. Dr Daniel Raible, who is a principal investigator for the HDTN project at Glenn, said, "These experiments are a tremendous accomplishment. We can now build upon the success of streaming 4K HD videos to and from the space station to provide future capabilities, like HD videoconferencing, for our Artemis astronauts, which will be important for crew health and activity coordination." Watch: Gravitas: Mysterious dark oxygen found on ocean floor × Missy Elliott's song sent into deep space For the first time, NASA recently transmitted the lyrics of popular Missy Elliot's song "The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)" to Venus, which is about 158 million miles (254 million kilometres) away. The lyrics were beamed using DSN (Deep Space Network). The space agency's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California sent the transmission at 10:05 am PDT on July 12. In 2008, NASA beamed The Beatles song "Across the Universe" into space. Elliott's 1997 debut single became the first hip-hop song sent to deep space. (With inputs from agencies)

In a first, NASA streams 4K video footage from aircraft to ISS and back

Researchers have spotted Magnetofossils, fossil remains of magnetic particles produced by magnetotactic bacteria, in rock varnish layers in India's Ladakh, which is known as the "cold desert of India".&nbsp;

The study published in Planetary and Space Science mentioned that the findings suggesting biotic processes in the formation of rock varnish indicate how life can exist in extreme environments.&nbsp;

Researchers have said that the findings provide valuable insights for astrobiology as well as for planning future space missions which are aimed at identifying habitable environments in space.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-the-force-behind-the-black-hole-mergers-its-mysterious-dark-matter-744094">Scientists find the force behind the black hole mergers. It's mysterious dark matter!</a>&nbsp;

The report mentioned that Ladakh experiences extreme climatic conditions such as high UV radiation, significant temperature variations and limited water availability. All of these components make it a suitable terrestrial analogue for Martian studies.&nbsp;

The study was conducted by researchers from Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences, Lucknow (BSIP), an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST).&nbsp;

The researchers were inspired by the similarity&nbsp;between the rock varnish found in Ladakh and that seen on Mars, particularly during the Perseverance rover operations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/james-webb-spots-super-jupiter-and-it-is-one-of-the-coldest-exoplanets-observed-to-date-743898">James Webb spots 'super Jupiter' and it is one of the coldest exoplanets observed to date</a>&nbsp;

The researchers have collected samples of rock varnish from the Ladakh region, chosen and employed XPS to analyse the surface chemistry of the rock varnish.

Lead author Dr Amritpal Singh Chaddha along with Dr Anupam Sharma conducted the analysis at BSIP with its Sophisticated Analytical Instrumentation Facility (SAIF) established by DST.&nbsp;

The analysis helped identify the nanochains of magnetofossils. In addition to that, higher concentrations of oxidized manganese and carboxylic acid functionality on the varnish surface were identified, which indicated organic signatures.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Mysterious dark oxygen found on ocean floor&nbsp;

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The study showed that rock varnish contains enriched concentrations of magnetic minerals which are likely derived from biotic sources.&nbsp;

The researchers said the findings highlighted the potential of rock varnish as an archive of ancient environmental records and as a geomaterial for astrobiological studies. &nbsp;

Scientists can help in the search for extraterrestrial life by better locating putative biosignatures on Mars and other planetary bodies by finding biotic markers in rock varnish.&nbsp;

The planning of upcoming space missions by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and other space organisations, such as Mars exploration, where detecting livable habitats is a main goal, depends on this information.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Researchers have spotted Magnetofossils, fossil remains of magnetic particles produced by magnetotactic bacteria, in rock varnish layers in India's Ladakh, which is known as the "cold desert of India".

Researchers have spotted Magnetofossils, fossil remains of magnetic particles produced by magnetotactic bacteria, in rock varnish layers in India's Ladakh, which is known as the "cold desert of India". The study published in Planetary and Space Science mentioned that the findings suggesting biotic processes in the formation of rock varnish indicate how life can exist in extreme environments. Researchers have said that the findings provide valuable insights for astrobiology as well as for planning future space missions which are aimed at identifying habitable environments in space. Also read: Scientists find the force behind the black hole mergers. It's mysterious dark matter! The report mentioned that Ladakh experiences extreme climatic conditions such as high UV radiation, significant temperature variations and limited water availability. All of these components make it a suitable terrestrial analogue for Martian studies. The study was conducted by researchers from Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences, Lucknow (BSIP), an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The researchers were inspired by the similarity between the rock varnish found in Ladakh and that seen on Mars, particularly during the Perseverance rover operations. Also read: James Webb spots 'super Jupiter' and it is one of the coldest exoplanets observed to date The researchers have collected samples of rock varnish from the Ladakh region, chosen and employed XPS to analyse the surface chemistry of the rock varnish. Lead author Dr Amritpal Singh Chaddha along with Dr Anupam Sharma conducted the analysis at BSIP with its Sophisticated Analytical Instrumentation Facility (SAIF) established by DST. The analysis helped identify the nanochains of magnetofossils. In addition to that, higher concentrations of oxidized manganese and carboxylic acid functionality on the varnish surface were identified, which indicated organic signatures. Watch: Gravitas: Mysterious dark oxygen found on ocean floor × The study showed that rock varnish contains enriched concentrations of magnetic minerals which are likely derived from biotic sources. The researchers said the findings highlighted the potential of rock varnish as an archive of ancient environmental records and as a geomaterial for astrobiological studies. Scientists can help in the search for extraterrestrial life by better locating putative biosignatures on Mars and other planetary bodies by finding biotic markers in rock varnish. The planning of upcoming space missions by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and other space organisations, such as Mars exploration, where detecting livable habitats is a main goal, depends on this information. (With inputs from agencies)

Rock varnish from India’s Ladakh may help find habitable environments in space

July 25 is the birthday of Rosalind Franklin, the almost-forgotten woman scientist who was part of the team that unravelled the mysteries of human DNA, but she did not get&nbsp;deserved credit for it during her lifetime. 
 
Besides sequencing the DNA, short for Deoxyribonucleic acid which is the building block of life, Franklin was also behind a number of pioneering scientific discoveries and experiments spanning across biology, chemistry and physics.

<h2>Who was Rosalind Franklin?</h2>

Rosalind Franklin was a British scientist whose work with&nbsp;X-ray crystallography, along with James Watson and Francis Crick, helped in the understanding of DNA as well as RNA or ribonucleic acid. Her work also helped in the study of structures of viruses as well as natural materials like coal and graphite.

Born in 1920 into a wealthy and influential British-Jewish family, she studied at some of the most prestigious institutions in the country including Cambridge University. 
 
As written in her tombstone, her discoveries on viruses "remain of lasting benefit to mankind".

But her best-known work remains the imaging of DNA through X-ray diffraction imaging.&nbsp;

As reported in a profile by Nature magazine, she "worked across biology, chemistry and physics".&nbsp;

Besides studying coal and carbon, she was an expert on viruses affecting both humans and plants including tobacco mosaic virus and poliovirus. Her work in DNA sequencing eventually helped modern medical science in tracing deadly viruses including the one that caused the recent Covid pandemic.

<h2>A forgotten heroine</h2>

Science, like many other fields, was a male-dominated domain in the 20th century, which led to Franklin&nbsp;facing sexism, sidelining and gender bias. It had been reported that while she worked with Maurice Wilkins on the imaging of DNA at King's College London, the latter passed on her data with Watson and Crick without her permission. Eventually, much of the DNA discoveries were named after Watson and Crick as we know today.

Franklin, who died of ovarian cancer at the young age of 37 in 1958, was not recognised in line with her contributions to science during her lifetime.

But currently, she is considered a pioneer in molecular biology, physics and chemistry. There have been frequent calls to honour her posthumously with a Nobel Prize, but that is yet to happen.

She was among the trailblazers who made the fields of genetics and molecular biology what they are today. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

July 25 is the birthday of Rosalind Franklin, the almost-forgotten woman scientist who was part of the team that unravelled the mysteries of human DNA, but she did not get deserved credit for it during her lifetime.

July 25 is the birthday of Rosalind Franklin, the almost-forgotten woman scientist who was part of the team that unravelled the mysteries of human DNA, but she did not get deserved credit for it during her lifetime. Besides sequencing the DNA, short for Deoxyribonucleic acid which is the building block of life, Franklin was also behind a number of pioneering scientific discoveries and experiments spanning across biology, chemistry and physics. Who was Rosalind Franklin? Rosalind Franklin was a British scientist whose work with X-ray crystallography, along with James Watson and Francis Crick, helped in the understanding of DNA as well as RNA or ribonucleic acid. Her work also helped in the study of structures of viruses as well as natural materials like coal and graphite. Born in 1920 into a wealthy and influential British-Jewish family, she studied at some of the most prestigious institutions in the country including Cambridge University. As written in her tombstone, her discoveries on viruses "remain of lasting benefit to mankind". But her best-known work remains the imaging of DNA through X-ray diffraction imaging. As reported in a profile by Nature magazine, she "worked across biology, chemistry and physics". Besides studying coal and carbon, she was an expert on viruses affecting both humans and plants including tobacco mosaic virus and poliovirus. Her work in DNA sequencing eventually helped modern medical science in tracing deadly viruses including the one that caused the recent Covid pandemic. A forgotten heroine Science, like many other fields, was a male-dominated domain in the 20th century, which led to Franklin facing sexism, sidelining and gender bias. It had been reported that while she worked with Maurice Wilkins on the imaging of DNA at King's College London, the latter passed on her data with Watson and Crick without her permission. Eventually, much of the DNA discoveries were named after Watson and Crick as we know today. Franklin, who died of ovarian cancer at the young age of 37 in 1958, was not recognised in line with her contributions to science during her lifetime. But currently, she is considered a pioneer in molecular biology, physics and chemistry. There have been frequent calls to honour her posthumously with a Nobel Prize, but that is yet to happen. She was among the trailblazers who made the fields of genetics and molecular biology what they are today. (With inputs from agencies)

Rosalind Franklin birthday: Story of the forgotten heroine of science who helped sequence DNA

Scientists have found a new connection between dark matter particles and supermassive black holes (SMBHs) which has the potential to resolve the longstanding “final parsec problem” in the field of astronomy.

Scientists have found a new connection between dark matter particles and supermassive black holes (SMBHs) which has the potential to resolve the longstanding “final parsec problem” in the field of astronomy. The research published in the journal Physical Review Letters suggests that the dark matter particles' behaviours, which were earlier overlooked, led to the merger of SMBH pairs into one larger black hole. A pervasive “hum” of gravitational waves was detected by astrophysicists in 2023 across the universe. It was then hypothesised that background signal was released from millions of merging SMBH pairs, each of which was billions of times more massive in comparison to our Sun. Also Read: Scientists spot intermediate-mass black hole lurking at centre of Milky Way star cluster The theoretical simulations indicated that these colossal objects stall the approach when they are nearly a parsec apart (about three light years), which prevents a merger. Here's how the team carried out the study Study co-author Gonzalo Alonso-Álvarez, who is a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Physics at the University of Toronto, said, “We show that including the previously overlooked effect of dark matter can help supermassive black holes overcome this final parsec of separation and coalesce." “Our calculations explain how that can occur, in contrast to what was previously thought,” Alonso-Álvarez added. Professor James Cline from McGill University headed the research. A new model was developed by the team in which it was proved that when dark matter particles interact with each other, they do not get dispersed. In this interaction, it was maintained that the density of the dark matter is halo which allowed the SMBHs to go spiralling inward and then merge. Watch: Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August According to the scientists, supermassive black holes are present at the centre of most of the galaxies. Therefore, when the collision between two galaxies occurs, the SMBHs fall into orbit near each other. When they revolve, they are slowed down by the gravitational pull of nearby stars which causes them to spiral inward. “The possibility that dark matter particles interact with each other is an assumption that we made, an extra ingredient that not all dark matter models contain. Our argument is that only models with that ingredient can solve the final parsec problem," Alonso-Álvarez said. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists find the force behind the black hole mergers. It's mysterious dark matter!

A supermoon is set to occur for the first time this year in the month of August and will illuminate the sky. On August 19, the supermoon will occur in which the Moon will appear a little larger and brighter, in comparison to a typical full moon.&nbsp;

This happens when the orbit of the Moon brings it closest to Earth, which is called perigee, coinciding with the full moon. The supermoon is expected to occur on August 19 at 2:26 PM ET, which will be 11:56 PM IST in India. This will be the year's first supermoon.

<h2>Four supermoons in 2024</h2>

NASA's former astrophysicist and eclipse expert Fred Espanak said that four supermoons will occur in 2024.&nbsp;

The supermoons are scheduled in August, September, October, and November. A supermoon has been defined by Espanak as a full moon which occurs Moon has made 90 percent of its closest approach to Earth.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/moon-to-occult-saturn-in-a-rare-eclipse-heres-how-to-watch-this-celestial-event-in-india-after-18-years-743660">Moon to occult Saturn in a rare eclipse. Here's how to watch this celestial event in India</a>

On October 17, the closest supermoon of 2024 will occur at 7:26 AM ET, or 4:56 PM IST. Generally, three to four supermoons happen every year.

The term "supermoon" has been used by researchers and scientists for around four decades, it received significant public attention in 2016 after astronomers spotted three consecutive supermoons.

<h2>Why does Supermoons occur?</h2>

The Moon has been orbiting the Earth in an elliptical path at a distance of nearly 382,900 km. Because of the gravitational influences from the Sun, Earth and other planets, the apogee and perigee distances of the Moon vary every month.

As per NASA's Noah Petro, the Moon's orbit has been irregular because of these gravitational forces.

When the Moon is at its closest point in its 27-day orbit, a supermoon is said to occur. The moon gets fully illuminated by the Sun and occurs approximately every 29.5 days.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;China proposes information superhighway between Earth and Moon

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This kind of alignment is rare and occurs only a few times a year when the orientation of the Moon's orbit changes.

When a supermoon occurs, the Moon is nearly 30 percent brighter and 14 percent larger than its usual size. The difference, however, cannot be discerned with the naked eye.

(With inputs from agencies)

A supermoon is set to occur for the first time this year in the month of August and will illuminate the sky. On August 19, the supermoon will occur in which the Moon will appear a little larger and brighter, in comparison to a typical full moon.

A supermoon is set to occur for the first time this year in the month of August and will illuminate the sky. On August 19, the supermoon will occur in which the Moon will appear a little larger and brighter, in comparison to a typical full moon. This happens when the orbit of the Moon brings it closest to Earth, which is called perigee, coinciding with the full moon. The supermoon is expected to occur on August 19 at 2:26 PM ET, which will be 11:56 PM IST in India. This will be the year's first supermoon. Four supermoons in 2024 NASA's former astrophysicist and eclipse expert Fred Espanak said that four supermoons will occur in 2024. The supermoons are scheduled in August, September, October, and November. A supermoon has been defined by Espanak as a full moon which occurs Moon has made 90 percent of its closest approach to Earth. Also Read: Moon to occult Saturn in a rare eclipse. Here's how to watch this celestial event in India On October 17, the closest supermoon of 2024 will occur at 7:26 AM ET, or 4:56 PM IST. Generally, three to four supermoons happen every year. The term "supermoon" has been used by researchers and scientists for around four decades, it received significant public attention in 2016 after astronomers spotted three consecutive supermoons. Why does Supermoons occur? The Moon has been orbiting the Earth in an elliptical path at a distance of nearly 382,900 km. Because of the gravitational influences from the Sun, Earth and other planets, the apogee and perigee distances of the Moon vary every month. As per NASA's Noah Petro, the Moon's orbit has been irregular because of these gravitational forces. When the Moon is at its closest point in its 27-day orbit, a supermoon is said to occur. The moon gets fully illuminated by the Sun and occurs approximately every 29.5 days. Watch: China proposes information superhighway between Earth and Moon This kind of alignment is rare and occurs only a few times a year when the orientation of the Moon's orbit changes. When a supermoon occurs, the Moon is nearly 30 percent brighter and 14 percent larger than its usual size. The difference, however, cannot be discerned with the naked eye. (With inputs from agencies)

Supermoon treat! This celestial event is to occur for first time this year on this date. Here's how to watch

James Webb Telescope: As the voyage of James Webb Space Telescope continues, NASA said its premier space observatory has captured a direct image from one of the coldest exoplanets, Epsilon Indi Ab, which is 12 light years away from Earth.

The image snapped by JWST shows Epsilon Indi Ab in a mostly black area, with blue scale-like features in the central region. The exoplanet is the bright orange circle in the picture.

Epsilon Indi Ab is one of the coldest exoplanets observed to date, NASA said in a release.

Its &nbsp;temperature is estimated to be 2 degrees Celsius colder than any other imaged planet beyond the solar system

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/supermoon-treat-this-celestial-event-is-to-occur-for-first-time-this-year-on-this-date-heres-how-to-watch-744054">Supermoon treat! This celestial event is to occur for first time this year on this date. Here's how to watch</a>

Six times larger than Jupiter, it orbits the K-type star Epsilon Indi A (Eps Ind A), which is as old as the Sun but cooler.

"The team observed Epsilon Indi Ab using the coronagraph on Webb’s MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument)," NASA said. So far only a handful of exoplanets were directly captured by observatories.

“This discovery is exciting because the planet is quite similar to Jupiter — it is a little warmer and is more massive, but is more similar to Jupiter than any other planet that has been imaged so far,” NASA quoted Elisabeth Matthews of the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy in Germany as saying.

“Our prior observations of this system have been more indirect measurements of the star, which actually allowed us to see ahead of time that there was likely a giant planet in this system tugging on the star,” said team member Caroline Morley of the University of Texas at Austin. “That's why our team chose this system to observe first with Webb.”

Exoplanets captured in the past were hotter, as they are still radiating much of the energy from the time of their formation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/massive-880ft-asteroid-to-come-dangerously-close-to-earth-this-week-743935">NASA warns of 880ft asteroid that will come dangerously close to Earth this week</a>

As planets cool and contract over their lifetime, they become significantly fainter and therefore harder to image, NASA noted.

<h2>What are cold planets?</h2>

“Cold planets are very faint, and most of their emission is in the mid-infrared,” said Matthews.&nbsp;

Morely noted that fictional planets orbiting Epsilon Indi have been featured in Star Trek episodes, novels, and video games like Halo.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/worrying-phenomenon-in-antarcticas-ice-shelves-can-add-to-climate-woes-744002">Worrying phenomenon in Antarctica's ice shelves can add to climate woes</a>

“It's exciting to actually see a planet there ourselves, and begin to measure its properties.”

Epsilon Indi Ab is the 12th closest exoplanet to Earth known to date and the closest planet more massive than Jupiter.&nbsp;

 
(With inputs from agencies)

James Webb Telescope: As the voyage of James Webb Space Telescope continues, NASA said its premier space observatory has captured a direct image from one of the coldest exoplanets, Epsilon Indi Ab, which is 12 light years away from Earth.

James Webb Telescope: As the voyage of James Webb Space Telescope continues, NASA said its premier space observatory has captured a direct image from one of the coldest exoplanets, Epsilon Indi Ab, which is 12 light years away from Earth. The image snapped by JWST shows Epsilon Indi Ab in a mostly black area, with blue scale-like features in the central region. The exoplanet is the bright orange circle in the picture. Epsilon Indi Ab is one of the coldest exoplanets observed to date, NASA said in a release. Its temperature is estimated to be 2 degrees Celsius colder than any other imaged planet beyond the solar system Also read: Supermoon treat! This celestial event is to occur for first time this year on this date. Here's how to watch Six times larger than Jupiter, it orbits the K-type star Epsilon Indi A (Eps Ind A), which is as old as the Sun but cooler. "The team observed Epsilon Indi Ab using the coronagraph on Webb’s MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument)," NASA said. So far only a handful of exoplanets were directly captured by observatories. “This discovery is exciting because the planet is quite similar to Jupiter — it is a little warmer and is more massive, but is more similar to Jupiter than any other planet that has been imaged so far,” NASA quoted Elisabeth Matthews of the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy in Germany as saying. “Our prior observations of this system have been more indirect measurements of the star, which actually allowed us to see ahead of time that there was likely a giant planet in this system tugging on the star,” said team member Caroline Morley of the University of Texas at Austin. “That's why our team chose this system to observe first with Webb.” Exoplanets captured in the past were hotter, as they are still radiating much of the energy from the time of their formation. Also read: NASA warns of 880ft asteroid that will come dangerously close to Earth this week As planets cool and contract over their lifetime, they become significantly fainter and therefore harder to image, NASA noted. What are cold planets? “Cold planets are very faint, and most of their emission is in the mid-infrared,” said Matthews. Morely noted that fictional planets orbiting Epsilon Indi have been featured in Star Trek episodes, novels, and video games like Halo. Also read: Worrying phenomenon in Antarctica's ice shelves can add to climate woes “It's exciting to actually see a planet there ourselves, and begin to measure its properties.” Epsilon Indi Ab is the 12th closest exoplanet to Earth known to date and the closest planet more massive than Jupiter. (With inputs from agencies)

James Webb telescope captures one of the coldest exoplanets, 6 times the size of Jupiter, 12 light years away

Scientists found that Komodo dragons, the world's largest living lizard, have a coat of iron on their razor-like teeth which helps them kill their prey.&nbsp;

The study, published on Wednesday (Jul 24) in the journal Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution, was led by researchers from King's College London. It noted that "this feature has never been reported before in a carnivorous reptile".&nbsp;

In the study titled, "Iron-coated Komodo dragon teeth and the complex dental enamel of carnivorous reptiles", the researchers carried out their work with advanced chemical and structural imaging.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/genetically-engineered-common-fly-species-to-combat-issue-of-humanitys-organic-waste-743855">Genetically engineered common fly species to combat issue of humanity's organic waste</a>&nbsp;

Researchers took teeth from various Komodo dragon specimens. They also considered studying the teeth of several other living and extinct reptiles, including monitor lizards, crocodiles, alligators and dinosaurs.&nbsp;

The study revealed that the protective iron coats in orange pigment found in the tips and serrations of the teeth of Komodo dragons, who are native to Indonesia.&nbsp;

"We reveal that V. komodoensis teeth possess a unique adaptation for maintaining their cutting edges: orange, iron-enriched coatings on their tooth serrations and tips," the researchers said.&nbsp;

The study said concentrated iron played "a crucial role in supporting serrated teeth" in the huge lizards, who use them to kill their prey. Notably,&nbsp;Komodo dragons&nbsp;prey on a range of animals from rodents to water buffalo and kill using a one-two punch of sharp teeth and a venomous bite.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/intersex-mosquitoes-may-help-stop-diseases-like-dengue-zika-yellow-fever-and-chikungunya-study-743125" target="_blank">Intersex mosquitoes may help stop diseases like dengue, Zika, yellow fever and Chikungunya: Study</a>&nbsp;

The researchers also believe that the iron coatings may have existed in carnivorous dinosaurs but were lost over time because they could not find evidence of them on the fossilised teeth of reptiles and dinosaurs closely related to Komodo dragons.&nbsp;

As quoted by media reports, Dr Aaron LeBlanc, who is the lecturer in Dental Biosciences at King's College London, said: "Komodo dragons have curved, serrated teeth to rip and tear their prey just like those of meat-eating dinosaurs."&nbsp;

"We want to use this similarity to learn more about how carnivorous dinosaurs might have eaten and if they used iron in their teeth the same way as the Komodo dragon," said LeBlanc, who is also the study's lead author.&nbsp;

Komodo dragons can grow to three metres (10 feet) in length and weigh up to 90 kilograms (200 pounds). They are threatened by human activity and climate change destroying their habitat.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Scientists found that Komodo dragons, the world's largest living lizard, have a coat of iron on their razor-like teeth which helps them kill their prey. The study, published on Wednesday (Jul 24) in the journal Nature Ecology & Evolution, was led by researchers from King's College London.

Scientists found that Komodo dragons, the world's largest living lizard, have a coat of iron on their razor-like teeth which helps them kill their prey. The study, published on Wednesday (Jul 24) in the journal Nature Ecology & Evolution, was led by researchers from King's College London. It noted that "this feature has never been reported before in a carnivorous reptile". In the study titled, "Iron-coated Komodo dragon teeth and the complex dental enamel of carnivorous reptiles", the researchers carried out their work with advanced chemical and structural imaging. Also read: Genetically engineered common fly species to combat issue of humanity's organic waste Researchers took teeth from various Komodo dragon specimens. They also considered studying the teeth of several other living and extinct reptiles, including monitor lizards, crocodiles, alligators and dinosaurs. The study revealed that the protective iron coats in orange pigment found in the tips and serrations of the teeth of Komodo dragons, who are native to Indonesia. "We reveal that V. komodoensis teeth possess a unique adaptation for maintaining their cutting edges: orange, iron-enriched coatings on their tooth serrations and tips," the researchers said. The study said concentrated iron played "a crucial role in supporting serrated teeth" in the huge lizards, who use them to kill their prey. Notably, Komodo dragons prey on a range of animals from rodents to water buffalo and kill using a one-two punch of sharp teeth and a venomous bite. Also read: Intersex mosquitoes may help stop diseases like dengue, Zika, yellow fever and Chikungunya: Study The researchers also believe that the iron coatings may have existed in carnivorous dinosaurs but were lost over time because they could not find evidence of them on the fossilised teeth of reptiles and dinosaurs closely related to Komodo dragons. As quoted by media reports, Dr Aaron LeBlanc, who is the lecturer in Dental Biosciences at King's College London, said: "Komodo dragons have curved, serrated teeth to rip and tear their prey just like those of meat-eating dinosaurs." "We want to use this similarity to learn more about how carnivorous dinosaurs might have eaten and if they used iron in their teeth the same way as the Komodo dragon," said LeBlanc, who is also the study's lead author. Komodo dragons can grow to three metres (10 feet) in length and weigh up to 90 kilograms (200 pounds). They are threatened by human activity and climate change destroying their habitat. (With inputs from agencies)

Why do Komodo dragons have teeth coated in iron? Will it reveal dinosaurs secrets?

A NASA spacecraft recorded a video of two loops of "dark" plasma exploding on the surface of the Sun on Sunday (Jul 21). NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) observed the two loops of cool, dense plasma eruption from the surface of the sun.

A NASA spacecraft recorded a video of two loops of "dark" plasma exploding on the surface of the Sun on Sunday (Jul 21). NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) observed the two loops of cool, dense plasma eruption from the surface of the sun. These black-coloured loops of plasma were found to be coronal mass ejection's (CME) beginning stages which is considered to be a solar magnetic mess that releases solar storms towards Earth. Also Read: Scientists suggest our Solar System was shaped like donut in the beginning In the fast-forwarded video, two wispy black plumes of plasma are seen erupting from sunspot AR3757 along with an M1-class solar flare. Watch two plumes of 'dark' plasma explode from the sun and send solar storm towards Earth (video) https://t.co/WKtcTmLQ0U pic.twitter.com/JSxDWcgcOF — All About Space (@spaceanswers) July 22, 2024 × The active sunspot regions are capable of releasing electromagnetic energy from the corona of the sun at any moment and these plumes move away from the atmosphere of the sun, then collect more and more plasma which eventually consolidates into the inner making of the CME. Why is the solar plasma dark? According to scientists, when the plasma is spewed from the sunspot and moves away from the sun, it is at a comparatively lower density and temperature than when it is inside the Sun. This makes it appear dark in the imagery of the SDO. After the CME is born, the images from the SOHO coronagraph are used by the scientists to spot the halo, which is its signature and understand if it is propagating toward Earth and can impact our planet. Watch: Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August According to the forecast of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), the CME is likely to reach Earth later on Wednesday (Jul 24) and begin another geomagnetic activity. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: NASA captures Sun's 'dark' plasma wildly exploding, hitting Earth with solar storm

The skywatchers are set to get a visual treat when the moon will occult Saturn in a rare celestial event on July 25, and the giant planet will go in hiding temporarily behind the natural satellite.&nbsp;

The phenomenon, which is known as occultation, will be a rare opportunity to witness the celestial event for both amateur and professional astronomers.

The process of occultation takes place when one celestial body covers the other one and makes it invisible for some time. In this case, the Moon will come in front of Saturn and its visibility will be blocked for a short duration, hence the event is called the "Lunar Occultation of Saturn".&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/strange-lakes-rivers-and-oceans-are-flowing-on-saturns-moon-scientists-find-it-eerily-similar-to-earth-742065">Strange lakes, rivers and oceans are flowing on Saturn's moon. Scientists find it eerily similar to Earth</a>

<h2>When will Saturn's Lunar Eclipse occur in India and how to watch it?</h2>

This kind of eclipse will become visible in India after a span of 18 years. It will begin at around 1:03 am IST and Saturn is expected to get completely hidden by the moon at 1:44 am IST.&nbsp;

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Moon will occult, or pass in front of, the planet Saturn in the early morning of 25 July, for the southern and eastern parts of India (see map below). For more info: check out our posts! 
🌏🌖🪐 
🗓️ After midnight of 24/25 July.<a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaDST?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaDST</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/asipoec?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@asipoec</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/doot_iia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@doot_iia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CosmosMysuru?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CosmosMysuru</a> <a href="https://t.co/0KmjwsRbbl">pic.twitter.com/0KmjwsRbbl</a>
— IIAstrophysics (@IIABengaluru) <a href="https://twitter.com/IIABengaluru/status/1815321008192237967?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The planet will then make its reappearance at 2:25 am IST and it will last till 2:56 am IST, as per the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA). However, the timings are likely to slightly differ at various locations.

According to the IIA, the occultation will appear in Bengaluru from 1:03 am to 2:09 am, in Bhubaneshwar from 1:30 am to 2:38 am, in Guwahati from 1:50 am to 2:56 am, in Mumbai from 1:26 am to 1:49 am and in Kolkata from 1:38 am to 2:46 am.

Watch:&nbsp;China finds traces of water in moon's soil, samples collected by China's Chang'E-5 rover

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The eclipse will also become visible in other countries like Japan, China, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. When the occultation occurs, it is expected that the rings of Saturn will emerge from behind the Moon.

For those interested in observing this event, binoculars or a small telescope can help them see the eclipse with the naked eye.

Before and after the occultation, Saturn will be visible as a bright star near the Moon. The occultation, which is part of a series of lunar occultations of planets, is expected to occur again on October 14, 2024.

(With inputs from agencies)

The skywatchers are set to get a visual treat when the moon will occult Saturn in a rare celestial event on July 25, and the giant planet will go in hiding temporarily behind the natural satellite.

The skywatchers are set to get a visual treat when the moon will occult Saturn in a rare celestial event on July 25, and the giant planet will go in hiding temporarily behind the natural satellite. The phenomenon, which is known as occultation, will be a rare opportunity to witness the celestial event for both amateur and professional astronomers. The process of occultation takes place when one celestial body covers the other one and makes it invisible for some time. In this case, the Moon will come in front of Saturn and its visibility will be blocked for a short duration, hence the event is called the "Lunar Occultation of Saturn". Also Read: Strange lakes, rivers and oceans are flowing on Saturn's moon. Scientists find it eerily similar to Earth When will Saturn's Lunar Eclipse occur in India and how to watch it? This kind of eclipse will become visible in India after a span of 18 years. It will begin at around 1:03 am IST and Saturn is expected to get completely hidden by the moon at 1:44 am IST. Moon will occult, or pass in front of, the planet Saturn in the early morning of 25 July, for the southern and eastern parts of India (see map below). For more info: check out our posts! 🌏🌖🪐 🗓️ After midnight of 24/25 July.@IndiaDST @asipoec @doot_iia @CosmosMysuru pic.twitter.com/0KmjwsRbbl — IIAstrophysics (@IIABengaluru) July 22, 2024 × The planet will then make its reappearance at 2:25 am IST and it will last till 2:56 am IST, as per the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA). However, the timings are likely to slightly differ at various locations. According to the IIA, the occultation will appear in Bengaluru from 1:03 am to 2:09 am, in Bhubaneshwar from 1:30 am to 2:38 am, in Guwahati from 1:50 am to 2:56 am, in Mumbai from 1:26 am to 1:49 am and in Kolkata from 1:38 am to 2:46 am. Watch: China finds traces of water in moon's soil, samples collected by China's Chang'E-5 rover The eclipse will also become visible in other countries like Japan, China, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. When the occultation occurs, it is expected that the rings of Saturn will emerge from behind the Moon. For those interested in observing this event, binoculars or a small telescope can help them see the eclipse with the naked eye. Before and after the occultation, Saturn will be visible as a bright star near the Moon. The occultation, which is part of a series of lunar occultations of planets, is expected to occur again on October 14, 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

Moon to occult Saturn in a rare eclipse. Here's how to watch this celestial event in India

A delegation led by the Indian government's space sector regulator and facilitator, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), is taking part in the Australian Space Forum in Adelaide.

The ongoing visit is aimed at showcasing the capabilities of India's rapidly emerging private space sector and strengthening international collaboration. India's cutting-edge space projects, products, and services are being showcased, sparking business-to-business meetings and discussions with Australian counterparts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-budget-a-120mn-vc-fund-to-propel-indias-nascent-space-startups-743603">Indian budget 2024: A $120mn VC fund to propel India's nascent space startups</a>&nbsp;

The delegation, led by Dr Vinod Kumar, Director Promotion, IN-SPACe, and Shashank Saxena, Deputy Director IN-SPACe, included participants from Indian space startups such as Agnikul Cosmos, TakeMe2Space, Dhruva Space, Bellatrix Aerospace, XDLINX Space, mistEO OrbitAid Aerospace and Skyroot Aerospace.

At the event, in the presence of IN-SPACe&nbsp;officials and Enrico Palermo, Chief of the Australian Space Agency, firms from both nations signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).

"The Australian Space Forum provided an invaluable platform for Indian space startups to showcase their capabilities and explore potential collaborations with Australian partners. These MoUs represent a significant step towards strengthening ties between our two nations in the space sector," said&nbsp;Dr Kumar.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The first MoU was&nbsp;between HEX20, an Australian Satellite Platform company and OrbitAid, an Indian company specialising in developing satellite life extension solutions. OrbitAID and HEX20 will collaborate to develop a solution that is similar to a mobile fuel truck that can travel to the needy vehicle and offer fuel.

Performing this operation in space is extremely sophisticated, as it involves docking one satellite with another and transferring fuel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;India sun mission Aditya-L1 begins collecting data from distance of 50,000 kms | World DNA

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The second MoU was signed between HEX20 and TakeMe2Space, an Indian Startup building AI-first compute and storage satellite infrastructure.

TakeMe2Space and Hex20 will collaborate at the intersection of education, space, and AI. As part of the agreement, HEX20 will use TakeMe2Space AI modules and subsystems in their 'Flatsat'.

Meanwhile, TakeMe2Space will give access to its OrbitLab platform for researchers and students to test and run their models on an actual satellite in real time.

A delegation led by the Indian government's space sector regulator and facilitator, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), is taking part in the Australian Space Forum in Adelaide.

A delegation led by the Indian government's space sector regulator and facilitator, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), is taking part in the Australian Space Forum in Adelaide. The ongoing visit is aimed at showcasing the capabilities of India's rapidly emerging private space sector and strengthening international collaboration. India's cutting-edge space projects, products, and services are being showcased, sparking business-to-business meetings and discussions with Australian counterparts. Also read | Indian budget 2024: A $120mn VC fund to propel India's nascent space startups The delegation, led by Dr Vinod Kumar, Director Promotion, IN-SPACe, and Shashank Saxena, Deputy Director IN-SPACe, included participants from Indian space startups such as Agnikul Cosmos, TakeMe2Space, Dhruva Space, Bellatrix Aerospace, XDLINX Space, mistEO OrbitAid Aerospace and Skyroot Aerospace. At the event, in the presence of IN-SPACe officials and Enrico Palermo, Chief of the Australian Space Agency, firms from both nations signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). "The Australian Space Forum provided an invaluable platform for Indian space startups to showcase their capabilities and explore potential collaborations with Australian partners. These MoUs represent a significant step towards strengthening ties between our two nations in the space sector," said Dr Kumar. The first MoU was between HEX20, an Australian Satellite Platform company and OrbitAid, an Indian company specialising in developing satellite life extension solutions. OrbitAID and HEX20 will collaborate to develop a solution that is similar to a mobile fuel truck that can travel to the needy vehicle and offer fuel. Performing this operation in space is extremely sophisticated, as it involves docking one satellite with another and transferring fuel. Also watch | India sun mission Aditya-L1 begins collecting data from distance of 50,000 kms | World DNA × The second MoU was signed between HEX20 and TakeMe2Space, an Indian Startup building AI-first compute and storage satellite infrastructure. TakeMe2Space and Hex20 will collaborate at the intersection of education, space, and AI. As part of the agreement, HEX20 will use TakeMe2Space AI modules and subsystems in their 'Flatsat'. Meanwhile, TakeMe2Space will give access to its OrbitLab platform for researchers and students to test and run their models on an actual satellite in real time.

India's space sector prowess exhibited at Australian Space Forum

The brain recognises faces that it comes across. Sometimes we see those faces in places where they don't even exist. The science behind it is too complex for a common person&nbsp;to understand. To get insights, psychologists have used the popular TV series Game of Thrones to understand everything that goes inside our brains that helps us to recognise faces.&nbsp;

The psychology department at the University of York conducted a new study to better understand how the brain processes and identifies faces. In a press release, the university said that the findings provide new insights into prosopagnosia or face blindness, which is a condition that impairs facial recognition and affects approximately 1 in 50 people.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/genetically-engineered-common-fly-species-to-combat-issue-of-humanitys-organic-waste-743855">Genetically engineered common fly species to combat issue of humanity's organic waste</a>&nbsp;

As quoted in the press release, senior author of the study, Professor Tim Andrews from the university's Department of Psychology, said: "We were really excited to see the results of our study as they suggest that our ability to recognise faces relies on what we know about people, not just what they look like."&nbsp;

Andrews said that the study indicates that several factors are involved for us to recognise a face, including connecting a face with knowledge about the person, their character traits, body language, our personal experiences with them and our feelings towards them.&nbsp;

"Facial recognition is essential for daily life and social interactions. When people struggle with this, it can significantly impact their lives and relationships, often leading to mental health issues and social anxiety," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/intersex-mosquitoes-may-help-stop-diseases-like-dengue-zika-yellow-fever-and-chikungunya-study-743125" target="_blank">Intersex mosquitoes may help stop diseases like dengue, Zika, yellow fever and Chikungunya: Study</a>&nbsp;

Kira Noad, who is the lead author of the study and PhD student, said in the press release, "We chose to show participants footage from Game of Thrones because the series captivated people around the world with its strong characters and their deeply nuanced personalities."&nbsp;

More than 70&nbsp;participants involved in the study had their brains examined by the researchers while they were watching clips from the Games of Thrones. Half of the participants were familiar with the show's famously complex lead characters. while the other half had never seen the series.&nbsp;

MRI scans revealed that when main characters appeared on screen, brain activity in neurotypical participants who knew the characters increased in areas of the brain linked to non-visual knowledge about the characters.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/cocaine-sharks-are-swimming-in-the-seas-of-brazil-the-source-of-the-drug-will-disgust-you-743291" target="_blank">Cocaine sharks are swimming in the seas of Brazil. The source of the drug will disgust you</a>&nbsp;

The researchers then repeated the same process on people with prosopagnosia in order to determine whether these regions are important for face recognition. Their inability to recognise faces is consistent with the fact that the effect of familiarity was not observed in the same brain regions as neurotypical subjects.&nbsp;

The study found that there was also a decrease in the connections between the visual and non-visual regions in facial blindness.&nbsp;

"Many previous studies on the mechanisms in the brain behind facial recognition have been done in laboratory settings with 2D static images of faces. We aimed to create a study format that was more like real life, using video to show complex scenes with multiple people," Noad said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The brain recognises faces that it comes across. Sometimes we see those faces in places where they don't even exist. The science behind it is too complex for a common person to understand.

The brain recognises faces that it comes across. Sometimes we see those faces in places where they don't even exist. The science behind it is too complex for a common person to understand. To get insights, psychologists have used the popular TV series Game of Thrones to understand everything that goes inside our brains that helps us to recognise faces. The psychology department at the University of York conducted a new study to better understand how the brain processes and identifies faces. In a press release, the university said that the findings provide new insights into prosopagnosia or face blindness, which is a condition that impairs facial recognition and affects approximately 1 in 50 people. Also read: Genetically engineered common fly species to combat issue of humanity's organic waste As quoted in the press release, senior author of the study, Professor Tim Andrews from the university's Department of Psychology, said: "We were really excited to see the results of our study as they suggest that our ability to recognise faces relies on what we know about people, not just what they look like." Andrews said that the study indicates that several factors are involved for us to recognise a face, including connecting a face with knowledge about the person, their character traits, body language, our personal experiences with them and our feelings towards them. "Facial recognition is essential for daily life and social interactions. When people struggle with this, it can significantly impact their lives and relationships, often leading to mental health issues and social anxiety," he added. Also read: Intersex mosquitoes may help stop diseases like dengue, Zika, yellow fever and Chikungunya: Study Kira Noad, who is the lead author of the study and PhD student, said in the press release, "We chose to show participants footage from Game of Thrones because the series captivated people around the world with its strong characters and their deeply nuanced personalities." More than 70 participants involved in the study had their brains examined by the researchers while they were watching clips from the Games of Thrones. Half of the participants were familiar with the show's famously complex lead characters. while the other half had never seen the series. MRI scans revealed that when main characters appeared on screen, brain activity in neurotypical participants who knew the characters increased in areas of the brain linked to non-visual knowledge about the characters. Also read: Cocaine sharks are swimming in the seas of Brazil. The source of the drug will disgust you The researchers then repeated the same process on people with prosopagnosia in order to determine whether these regions are important for face recognition. Their inability to recognise faces is consistent with the fact that the effect of familiarity was not observed in the same brain regions as neurotypical subjects. The study found that there was also a decrease in the connections between the visual and non-visual regions in facial blindness. "Many previous studies on the mechanisms in the brain behind facial recognition have been done in laboratory settings with 2D static images of faces. We aimed to create a study format that was more like real life, using video to show complex scenes with multiple people," Noad said. (With inputs from agencies)

Game of Thrones helps researchers gain new insights into face blindness: Study

The mystery around Peru's 'alien mummies' has deepened after an attorney, who recently checked these unearthly specimens, found that these humanoid three-fingered creatures have “straight” fingerprints which are not similar to that of humans.&nbsp;

Defence attorney and former Colorado prosecutor Joshua McDowell examined one of those weird and extraterrestrial bodies, who had been given the name "Maria", along with the three independent forensic medical examiners who came from the United States.&nbsp;

The experts, along with him, were left stunned when they found that the fingerprints of these alien corpses had perfectly straight lines.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/lighter-than-petal-alien-spacecrafts-debris-is-on-earth-ufo-hunters-say-it-has-non-human-origin-741978">Lighter than petal alien spacecraft's debris is on Earth. UFO hunters say it has 'non-human' origin</a>

Speaking to The Daily Mail, attorney Joshua McDowell said, “These were not traditional human fingerprint patterns."

“We did not see any loops or whorls on the prints of the fingers or on the toes. I’m a former prosecutor. I’m a criminal defence attorney. I’ve seen lots of fingerprints. And these were not classic fingerprints,” he said.

<h2>Mummified aliens or just patched dolls? Mystery around these strange species continues</h2>

UFO enthusiast and controversial Mexican journalist José Jaime Maussan presented nearly half a dozen of these “alien mummies” at Mexico’s congress.

Last April, the US medical examiners and McDowell travelled to Peru to study these unearthly bodies, along with Maussan.

Although the lack of human fingerprints has left them puzzled, McDowell said it is “extremely premature” to make any statements regarding the origin of the mummies.

He said that such unusually straight fingerprints “could possibly have something to do with the way her skin was preserved”, adding that it’s “very odd.”

Meanwhile, Maria's body is covered with diatomaceous earth, which is a kind of white powder made from fossilized algae's sediment found in bodies of water.

Watch:&nbsp;US to upgrade sensors, communications &amp; space technologies in Arctic

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“However, on the fingers that were exposed, the epidermal ridges I saw appeared to be in mostly straight lines,” McDowell said.

Although nothing has been determined officially about what exactly these humanoid bodies are, still McDowell has been spending hours resolving this case.

These 4-foot tall “alien” species, who are called “the Nazca mummies” &nbsp;because they were found in the Nazca region of Peru, have been making headlines for having three fingers in their hands and elongated heads.&nbsp;

Maussan has time and again claimed that they are aliens, a theory which has not been accepted by government officials and scientists who are calling it a man-man hoax.

Peruvian authorities in January claimed that they were “dolls”&nbsp;which have been patched together using human and animal bones, metal, glue and paper. “They are not extraterrestrials; they are not aliens,” said forensic archaeologist Flavio Estrada, while speaking to the reporters.

(With inputs from agencies)

The mystery around Peru's 'alien mummies' has deepened after an attorney, who recently checked these unearthly specimens, found that these humanoid three-fingered creatures have “straight” fingerprints which are not similar to that of humans.

The mystery around Peru's 'alien mummies' has deepened after an attorney, who recently checked these unearthly specimens, found that these humanoid three-fingered creatures have “straight” fingerprints which are not similar to that of humans. Defence attorney and former Colorado prosecutor Joshua McDowell examined one of those weird and extraterrestrial bodies, who had been given the name "Maria", along with the three independent forensic medical examiners who came from the United States. The experts, along with him, were left stunned when they found that the fingerprints of these alien corpses had perfectly straight lines. Also Read: Lighter than petal alien spacecraft's debris is on Earth. UFO hunters say it has 'non-human' origin Speaking to The Daily Mail, attorney Joshua McDowell said, “These were not traditional human fingerprint patterns." “We did not see any loops or whorls on the prints of the fingers or on the toes. I’m a former prosecutor. I’m a criminal defence attorney. I’ve seen lots of fingerprints. And these were not classic fingerprints,” he said. Mummified aliens or just patched dolls? Mystery around these strange species continues UFO enthusiast and controversial Mexican journalist José Jaime Maussan presented nearly half a dozen of these “alien mummies” at Mexico’s congress. Last April, the US medical examiners and McDowell travelled to Peru to study these unearthly bodies, along with Maussan. Although the lack of human fingerprints has left them puzzled, McDowell said it is “extremely premature” to make any statements regarding the origin of the mummies. He said that such unusually straight fingerprints “could possibly have something to do with the way her skin was preserved”, adding that it’s “very odd.” Meanwhile, Maria's body is covered with diatomaceous earth, which is a kind of white powder made from fossilized algae's sediment found in bodies of water. Watch: US to upgrade sensors, communications & space technologies in Arctic “However, on the fingers that were exposed, the epidermal ridges I saw appeared to be in mostly straight lines,” McDowell said. Although nothing has been determined officially about what exactly these humanoid bodies are, still McDowell has been spending hours resolving this case. These 4-foot tall “alien” species, who are called “the Nazca mummies” because they were found in the Nazca region of Peru, have been making headlines for having three fingers in their hands and elongated heads. Maussan has time and again claimed that they are aliens, a theory which has not been accepted by government officials and scientists who are calling it a man-man hoax. Peruvian authorities in January claimed that they were “dolls” which have been patched together using human and animal bones, metal, glue and paper. “They are not extraterrestrials; they are not aliens,” said forensic archaeologist Flavio Estrada, while speaking to the reporters. (With inputs from agencies)

Are Peru's 'alien mummies’ real? 'Non-human' fingerprints of unearthly specimens leave experts puzzled

The world faces the massive challenge of managing organic waste. In order to combat the problem, a team of scientists is genetically engineering a common fly species. In a latest scientific paper, Australian scientists said that the fly can eat more of humanity's organic waste while producing ingredients for making everything to high-grade animal feeds.&nbsp;

A team based at Sydney's Macquarie University mentioned how black soldier flies can help tackle the issue. Researchers said that black soldier flies (BSF) are already being used commercially to consume organic waste. When the fly reaches the maggot stage, its job of consuming organic garbage is completed. The maggots are harvested once they develop into pupae.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/cocaine-sharks-are-swimming-in-the-seas-of-brazil-the-source-of-the-drug-will-disgust-you-743291">Cocaine sharks are swimming in the seas of Brazil. The source of the drug will disgust you</a>&nbsp;

However, by modifying their genetic makeup, it may be possible to increase the variety of garbage that their larvae ingest and simultaneously produce enzymes and fatty compounds.&nbsp;

The findings were published in the study, titled "Diverting organic waste from landfills via insect biomanufacturing using engineered black soldier flies (Hermetia illucens)", on Wednesday (Jul 24) in Communications Biology.&nbsp;

Solid waste is estimated to be responsible for five per cent&nbsp;of global annual carbon dioxide&nbsp;emissions, with the majority of this due to the methane generated from landfilling organic waste.&nbsp;

The study revealed that currently, 40–70 per cent&nbsp;of organic waste is disposed of in landfills, where it is tightly compacted to economise space.&nbsp;

It causes the anaerobic microbial decomposition of organic waste into methane, a greenhouse gas (GHG) that is 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/intersex-mosquitoes-may-help-stop-diseases-like-dengue-zika-yellow-fever-and-chikungunya-study-743125">Intersex mosquitoes may help stop diseases like dengue, Zika, yellow fever and Chikungunya: Study</a>&nbsp;

"Using synthetic biology, BSF could be developed into a novel sustainable biomanufacturing platform to valorise a broader variety of organic waste feedstocks into enhanced animal feeds, a large variety of high-value biomolecules, including industrial enzymes and lipids, and improved fertiliser," the paper said.&nbsp;

As quoted by The Guardian, Dr Kate Tepper, the lead author of the paper, said, "We are heading towards a climate disaster, and landfill waste releases methane. We need to get that to zero." &nbsp;Tepper has already started engineering the flies at Macquarie University where Dr Maciej Maselko runs an animal synthetic biology lab.&nbsp;

Black soldier flies are found in all continents except Antarctica and "if you've got a compost bin, then you've probably got some", said Maselko, further adding that the insects would become the "next frontier" in dealing with the planet's waste management problem.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The world faces the massive challenge of managing organic waste. In order to combat the problem, a team of scientists is genetically engineering a common fly species.

The world faces the massive challenge of managing organic waste. In order to combat the problem, a team of scientists is genetically engineering a common fly species. In a latest scientific paper, Australian scientists said that the fly can eat more of humanity's organic waste while producing ingredients for making everything to high-grade animal feeds. A team based at Sydney's Macquarie University mentioned how black soldier flies can help tackle the issue. Researchers said that black soldier flies (BSF) are already being used commercially to consume organic waste. When the fly reaches the maggot stage, its job of consuming organic garbage is completed. The maggots are harvested once they develop into pupae. Also read: Cocaine sharks are swimming in the seas of Brazil. The source of the drug will disgust you However, by modifying their genetic makeup, it may be possible to increase the variety of garbage that their larvae ingest and simultaneously produce enzymes and fatty compounds. The findings were published in the study, titled "Diverting organic waste from landfills via insect biomanufacturing using engineered black soldier flies (Hermetia illucens)", on Wednesday (Jul 24) in Communications Biology. Solid waste is estimated to be responsible for five per cent of global annual carbon dioxide emissions, with the majority of this due to the methane generated from landfilling organic waste. The study revealed that currently, 40–70 per cent of organic waste is disposed of in landfills, where it is tightly compacted to economise space. It causes the anaerobic microbial decomposition of organic waste into methane, a greenhouse gas (GHG) that is 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Also read: Intersex mosquitoes may help stop diseases like dengue, Zika, yellow fever and Chikungunya: Study "Using synthetic biology, BSF could be developed into a novel sustainable biomanufacturing platform to valorise a broader variety of organic waste feedstocks into enhanced animal feeds, a large variety of high-value biomolecules, including industrial enzymes and lipids, and improved fertiliser," the paper said. As quoted by The Guardian, Dr Kate Tepper, the lead author of the paper, said, "We are heading towards a climate disaster, and landfill waste releases methane. We need to get that to zero." Tepper has already started engineering the flies at Macquarie University where Dr Maciej Maselko runs an animal synthetic biology lab. Black soldier flies are found in all continents except Antarctica and "if you've got a compost bin, then you've probably got some", said Maselko, further adding that the insects would become the "next frontier" in dealing with the planet's waste management problem. (With inputs from agencies)

Genetically engineered common fly species to combat issue of humanity's organic waste

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has spotted stormy weather in the two brown dwarfs' sky as it made a weather report of such "failed stars".

The two&nbsp;brown dwarfs have formed a binary pair known as WISE 1049AB which was spotted by&nbsp;NASA's Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) in 2013. The two brown dwarfs are just 6.5&nbsp;light-years&nbsp;away from Earth.

These are the closest brown dwarfs to our&nbsp;sun and hence became the best target for powerful&nbsp;infrared instruments of the&nbsp;James Webb Space Telescope.

<h2>What are brown dwarfs?</h2>

A brown dwarf is a celestial object which is big enough to ignite the&nbsp;nuclear fusion&nbsp;of hydrogen to helium and turn into a full-fledged&nbsp;star.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-iss-captures-fireworks-in-space-shares-footage-of-mesmerising-northern-lights-738470">ISS captures fireworks in space, shares footage of mesmerising Northern Lights</a>

It is also considered big enough to become a planet. The brown dwarfs are believed to be a missing link between&nbsp;lowest mass stars&nbsp;M-dwarfs and gas giant planets&nbsp;like&nbsp;Jupiter.

Earlier, the atmosphere of various brown dwarfs has been investigated, however, due to time-averaged snapshots, the changes in the brown-dwarf atmosphere were not visible.

The brown dwarfs rotate very fast like WISE 1049A which spins on its axis once every 7 hours and the other one once every 5 hours.&nbsp;

The conditions in the atmospheres of the brown dwarfs can alter over time which meant that the scientists were missing a lot of variabilities in their observations.

However, the JWST has the ability to detect the changes over time.&nbsp;

<h2>How the brown dwarfs were observed?</h2>

A team headed by the University of Edinburgh's Beth Biller used JWST's Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) to observe WISE 1049AB for 8 hours and then spent another seven hours on it using its Near-Infrared Spectrometer (NIRSpec).

Watch:&nbsp;US to upgrade sensors, communications &amp; space technologies in Arctic

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The researchers discovered that brown dwarfs have tumultuous clouds which are composed of silicate grains and are sweltering in temperatures between 875 degrees Celsius (1,610 degrees F) and 1,026 degrees Celsius (1880 degrees F).&nbsp;

This meant that hot sand was blowing in the winds on the brown dwarfs and it also had carbon monoxide, methane and water vapour in it.

"Our findings show that we are on the cusp of transforming our understanding of worlds far beyond our own," Biller said, in a&nbsp;statement.&nbsp;

"Insights such as these can help us understand the conditions not just on celestial objects like brown dwarfs, but also on giant exoplanets beyond our&nbsp;solar system. Eventually, the techniques we are refining here may enable the first detections of weather on&nbsp;habitable planets&nbsp;like our own, which orbit other stars," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has spotted stormy weather in the two brown dwarfs' sky as it made a weather report of such "failed stars". The two brown dwarfs have formed a binary pair known as WISE 1049AB which was spotted by NASA's Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) in 2013.

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has spotted stormy weather in the two brown dwarfs' sky as it made a weather report of such "failed stars". The two brown dwarfs have formed a binary pair known as WISE 1049AB which was spotted by NASA's Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) in 2013. The two brown dwarfs are just 6.5 light-years away from Earth. These are the closest brown dwarfs to our sun and hence became the best target for powerful infrared instruments of the James Webb Space Telescope. What are brown dwarfs? A brown dwarf is a celestial object which is big enough to ignite the nuclear fusion of hydrogen to helium and turn into a full-fledged star. Also Read: ISS captures fireworks in space, shares footage of mesmerising Northern Lights It is also considered big enough to become a planet. The brown dwarfs are believed to be a missing link between lowest mass stars M-dwarfs and gas giant planets like Jupiter. Earlier, the atmosphere of various brown dwarfs has been investigated, however, due to time-averaged snapshots, the changes in the brown-dwarf atmosphere were not visible. The brown dwarfs rotate very fast like WISE 1049A which spins on its axis once every 7 hours and the other one once every 5 hours. The conditions in the atmospheres of the brown dwarfs can alter over time which meant that the scientists were missing a lot of variabilities in their observations. However, the JWST has the ability to detect the changes over time. How the brown dwarfs were observed? A team headed by the University of Edinburgh's Beth Biller used JWST's Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) to observe WISE 1049AB for 8 hours and then spent another seven hours on it using its Near-Infrared Spectrometer (NIRSpec). Watch: US to upgrade sensors, communications & space technologies in Arctic The researchers discovered that brown dwarfs have tumultuous clouds which are composed of silicate grains and are sweltering in temperatures between 875 degrees Celsius (1,610 degrees F) and 1,026 degrees Celsius (1880 degrees F). This meant that hot sand was blowing in the winds on the brown dwarfs and it also had carbon monoxide, methane and water vapour in it. "Our findings show that we are on the cusp of transforming our understanding of worlds far beyond our own," Biller said, in a statement. "Insights such as these can help us understand the conditions not just on celestial objects like brown dwarfs, but also on giant exoplanets beyond our solar system. Eventually, the techniques we are refining here may enable the first detections of weather on habitable planets like our own, which orbit other stars," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Two dwarf ‘failed stars’ are getting slammed by hot, sandy wind, spots James Webb

Scientists have noticed the presence of mysterious and massive invisible bodies moving around in deep space, but they aren't exactly sure what they are. They believe these could be anything - from dark matter to white dwarfs or brown dwarfs, or something else entirely that is not yet known to man. These bodies were discovered rather unknowingly while detecting the light pulses emitted by pulsars. They found that something was blocking the pulses, triggering the theory that something was lurking around the pulsars, and thus in our galaxy, and maybe even beyond.

Pulsars are the remains of dead stars and are known to be highly accurate cosmic timekeepers. They are highly magnetised and are like cosmic lighthouses, spinning in deep space while emitting extremely steady flashes of light. These pulses are extremely consistent and so are the best timekeepers in the entire universe. These pulses are capable of measuring time with atomic-level accuracy and are also used to observe gravitational waves. However, recently, scientists noticed that these pulses sometimes become erratic.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-marks-25th-anniversary-of-chandra-with-25-photos-including-of-the-peacocks-galaxy-743234">25 years, 25 photos: NASA's Chandra Observatory peeks into the mysteries of cosmos</a>

<h2>How did they discover the anomaly?</h2>

Rotating rapidly, pulsars emit beams of electromagnetic radiation that cover vast expanses of space. As said earlier, they are steady, consistent and predictable. Upon intersection with Earth, these pulses turn into radio waves. Due to the consistency, pulsars are ideal for probing the gravitational environment of the Milky Way and testing the effects of gravitational fields on time. Researchers monitor the timing of these pulses, and even the slightest change might mean that a massive object might be passing between the pulsar and Earth.

Scientists base the above theory on general relativity, according to which a gravitational field affects the passing of time. The time a pulse takes to reach Earth will change if a massive object passes in front of a pulsar. This delay can be as minute as 10 microseconds if an object the size of the sun passes in front of it.&nbsp;

<h2>So what are these objects?</h2>

Professor John LoSecco from the University of Notre Dame says he has been "warned not to call them planets, not to call them dark matter, just call them mass concentrations" as you can’t determine what they are by simply looking at the radio. These masses could be brown dwarfs, white dwarfs, or another unknown object,&nbsp;he says.&nbsp;

These objects can comprise dark matter, and if that is the case, then scientists can learn more about the one thing that has eluded human beings till now.&nbsp;

Scientists have noticed the presence of mysterious and massive invisible bodies moving around in deep space, but they aren't exactly sure what they are. They believe these could be anything - from dark matter to white dwarfs or brown dwarfs, or something else entirely that is not yet known to man.

Scientists have noticed the presence of mysterious and massive invisible bodies moving around in deep space, but they aren't exactly sure what they are. They believe these could be anything - from dark matter to white dwarfs or brown dwarfs, or something else entirely that is not yet known to man. These bodies were discovered rather unknowingly while detecting the light pulses emitted by pulsars. They found that something was blocking the pulses, triggering the theory that something was lurking around the pulsars, and thus in our galaxy, and maybe even beyond. Pulsars are the remains of dead stars and are known to be highly accurate cosmic timekeepers. They are highly magnetised and are like cosmic lighthouses, spinning in deep space while emitting extremely steady flashes of light. These pulses are extremely consistent and so are the best timekeepers in the entire universe. These pulses are capable of measuring time with atomic-level accuracy and are also used to observe gravitational waves. However, recently, scientists noticed that these pulses sometimes become erratic. Also Read: 25 years, 25 photos: NASA's Chandra Observatory peeks into the mysteries of cosmos How did they discover the anomaly? Rotating rapidly, pulsars emit beams of electromagnetic radiation that cover vast expanses of space. As said earlier, they are steady, consistent and predictable. Upon intersection with Earth, these pulses turn into radio waves. Due to the consistency, pulsars are ideal for probing the gravitational environment of the Milky Way and testing the effects of gravitational fields on time. Researchers monitor the timing of these pulses, and even the slightest change might mean that a massive object might be passing between the pulsar and Earth. Scientists base the above theory on general relativity, according to which a gravitational field affects the passing of time. The time a pulse takes to reach Earth will change if a massive object passes in front of a pulsar. This delay can be as minute as 10 microseconds if an object the size of the sun passes in front of it. So what are these objects? Professor John LoSecco from the University of Notre Dame says he has been "warned not to call them planets, not to call them dark matter, just call them mass concentrations" as you can’t determine what they are by simply looking at the radio. These masses could be brown dwarfs, white dwarfs, or another unknown object, he says. These objects can comprise dark matter, and if that is the case, then scientists can learn more about the one thing that has eluded human beings till now.

Mysterious dark objects are blocking cosmic timekeepers in deep space

Researchers have created a 'long-range', 'large-volume' and remote mind control device in South Korea and are now planning to use this technology for 'non-invasive' medical procedures.

The never-ever-heard hardware was developed by the researchers of&nbsp;Korea's&nbsp;Institute for Basic Science (IBS). This device is capable of manipulating a human brain from a distance with the help of magnetic fields.

The technology was tested by inducing 'maternal' instincts in the test subjects which were female mice.

The researchers also exposed some lab mice to the magnetic fields which were designed to reduce the appetite and it resulted in a 10 percent loss in body weight.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/brains-of-humans-go-through-significant-change-after-death-study-737176">Brain of humans goes through significant change after death: Study</a>

"This is the world's first technology to freely control specific brain regions using magnetic fields," said the professor of chemistry and nanomedicine, who led the entire test.&nbsp;

<h2>How do scientists plan to use new hardware?&nbsp;</h2>

South Korea's IBS Center for Nanomedicine director and researcher Dr&nbsp;Cheon Jinwoo said that he plans to use the new hardware for a variety of healthcare applications where it is required.&nbsp;

"We expect it to be widely used in research to understand brain functions, sophisticated artificial neural networks, two-way brain-computer interface technologies, and new treatments for neurological disorders," said Dr Cheon.&nbsp;

Even though the remote mind control has science fiction quality, health experts emphasised that magnetic fields for decades have been successfully used in medical imaging.

Watch:&nbsp;Study reveals lung cancer hit non-smoker Indian earlier than westerners

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/study-reveals-lung-cancer-hit-non-smoker-indian-earlier-than-westerners-740591/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The concept of using magnetic fields to manipulate biological systems is now well established," said&nbsp;Dr Felix Leroy, a senior scientist at Spain's Instituto de Neurociencias, in an op-ed.&nbsp;

"It has been applied in various fields," he said, adding, "magnetic resonance imaging [MRI], transcranial magnetic stimulation, and magnetic hyperthermia for cancer treatment."&nbsp;

The technique, which is formally known as magneto-mechanical genetics (MMG), helped Dr Cheon and his colleagues as they created their&nbsp;brain-modulating technology.

The team called their invention Nano-MIND, which stood for "Nano-Magnetogenetic Interface for NeuroDynamics."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers have created a 'long-range', 'large-volume' and remote mind control device in South Korea and are now planning to use this technology for 'non-invasive' medical procedures.

Researchers have created a 'long-range', 'large-volume' and remote mind control device in South Korea and are now planning to use this technology for 'non-invasive' medical procedures. The never-ever-heard hardware was developed by the researchers of Korea's Institute for Basic Science (IBS). This device is capable of manipulating a human brain from a distance with the help of magnetic fields. The technology was tested by inducing 'maternal' instincts in the test subjects which were female mice. The researchers also exposed some lab mice to the magnetic fields which were designed to reduce the appetite and it resulted in a 10 percent loss in body weight. Also Read: Brain of humans goes through significant change after death: Study "This is the world's first technology to freely control specific brain regions using magnetic fields," said the professor of chemistry and nanomedicine, who led the entire test. How do scientists plan to use new hardware? South Korea's IBS Center for Nanomedicine director and researcher Dr Cheon Jinwoo said that he plans to use the new hardware for a variety of healthcare applications where it is required. "We expect it to be widely used in research to understand brain functions, sophisticated artificial neural networks, two-way brain-computer interface technologies, and new treatments for neurological disorders," said Dr Cheon. Even though the remote mind control has science fiction quality, health experts emphasised that magnetic fields for decades have been successfully used in medical imaging. Watch: Study reveals lung cancer hit non-smoker Indian earlier than westerners "The concept of using magnetic fields to manipulate biological systems is now well established," said Dr Felix Leroy, a senior scientist at Spain's Instituto de Neurociencias, in an op-ed. "It has been applied in various fields," he said, adding, "magnetic resonance imaging [MRI], transcranial magnetic stimulation, and magnetic hyperthermia for cancer treatment." The technique, which is formally known as magneto-mechanical genetics (MMG), helped Dr Cheon and his colleagues as they created their brain-modulating technology. The team called their invention Nano-MIND, which stood for "Nano-Magnetogenetic Interface for NeuroDynamics." (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists in South Korea create first remote device which can control human minds

Scientists have made a shocking discovery in sharks off the coast of Brazil. A group of marine biologists say that they have found cocaine in the sharks swimming in the area, and they fear that the drug might be making them behave differently. The cocaine was found inside the muscles and livers of 13 sharks of the Brazilian sharpnose type taken from near Rio de Janeiro. The biologists, in a paper published in the journal Science of the Total Environment, say that the drug probably came from drains linked to illicit labs where cocaine is manufactured. Another disturbing theory is that the drug entered the sea from the excrement of drug users, via untreated sewage.

Further, since tonnes of cocaine are dumped into the seas by the drug smugglers themselves, chances are that the sharks end up feeding on these bales of cocaine. However, as per the scientists, this seems to be the least viable theory. Dr Rachel Ann Hauser-Davis, a British scientist and member of the research team from the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation in Rio de Janeiro, told the Telegraph, that not a lot of "bales of coke are dumped or lost at sea here, unlike in Mexico and Florida".

When the researchers dissected the small sharks, they found shockingly high concentrations of cocaine in them. The quantity was up to 100 times higher than previously detected in other marine animals, and “worrying” for the marine ecosystem.&nbsp;

Dr Rachel added that the finding shows “chronic exposure due to human use of cocaine in Rio de Janeiro and the discharge of human urine and faeces by sewage outfalls, as well as from illegal labs".

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/intersex-mosquitoes-may-help-stop-diseases-like-dengue-zika-yellow-fever-and-chikungunya-study-743125">Intersex mosquitoes may help stop diseases like dengue, Zika, yellow fever and Chikungunya: Study</a>

<h2>How is cocaine affecting the health of the sharks</h2>

She further said that cocaine is in all likelihood affecting the health of the sharks. However, they don't know if it is also making them more aggressive and unpredictable, causing crazed behaviour or feeding frenzies.

Dr Enrico Mendes Saggioro, an ecotoxicologist from the Oswaldo Cruz Institute, said that this might be happening since the drug "targets the brain, and hyperactive and erratic behaviour has been noted in other animals."

Other experts say that the cocaine might be affecting their eyesight, inhibiting their ability to hunt. The drug might also be reducing the life expectancy of these sharks.&nbsp;

The discovery creates a disturbing scenario for the environment with chemicals polluting it and altering the ecosystem in the process.

Scientists have made a shocking discovery in sharks off the coast of Brazil. A group of marine biologists say that they have found cocaine in the sharks swimming in the area, and they fear that the drug might be making them behave differently.

Scientists have made a shocking discovery in sharks off the coast of Brazil. A group of marine biologists say that they have found cocaine in the sharks swimming in the area, and they fear that the drug might be making them behave differently. The cocaine was found inside the muscles and livers of 13 sharks of the Brazilian sharpnose type taken from near Rio de Janeiro. The biologists, in a paper published in the journal Science of the Total Environment, say that the drug probably came from drains linked to illicit labs where cocaine is manufactured. Another disturbing theory is that the drug entered the sea from the excrement of drug users, via untreated sewage. Further, since tonnes of cocaine are dumped into the seas by the drug smugglers themselves, chances are that the sharks end up feeding on these bales of cocaine. However, as per the scientists, this seems to be the least viable theory. Dr Rachel Ann Hauser-Davis, a British scientist and member of the research team from the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation in Rio de Janeiro, told the Telegraph, that not a lot of "bales of coke are dumped or lost at sea here, unlike in Mexico and Florida". When the researchers dissected the small sharks, they found shockingly high concentrations of cocaine in them. The quantity was up to 100 times higher than previously detected in other marine animals, and “worrying” for the marine ecosystem. Dr Rachel added that the finding shows “chronic exposure due to human use of cocaine in Rio de Janeiro and the discharge of human urine and faeces by sewage outfalls, as well as from illegal labs". Also Read: Intersex mosquitoes may help stop diseases like dengue, Zika, yellow fever and Chikungunya: Study How is cocaine affecting the health of the sharks She further said that cocaine is in all likelihood affecting the health of the sharks. However, they don't know if it is also making them more aggressive and unpredictable, causing crazed behaviour or feeding frenzies. Dr Enrico Mendes Saggioro, an ecotoxicologist from the Oswaldo Cruz Institute, said that this might be happening since the drug "targets the brain, and hyperactive and erratic behaviour has been noted in other animals." Other experts say that the cocaine might be affecting their eyesight, inhibiting their ability to hunt. The drug might also be reducing the life expectancy of these sharks. The discovery creates a disturbing scenario for the environment with chemicals polluting it and altering the ecosystem in the process.

Cocaine sharks are swimming in the seas of Brazil. The source of the drug will disgust you

July 21 was the hottest day ever registered globally, according to preliminary data published Tuesday by the EU's climate monitor.

The Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) said the global average surface air temperature of 17.09 degrees Celsius (62.7 degrees Fahrenheit) on Sunday was the warmest in their record books&nbsp;that&nbsp;date back to 1940.

It comes as heatwaves and wildfires ravage swathes of Europe and the United States.

"The Earth has just experienced its warmest day," the monitor said in a statement.

The new daily high was 0.01 degree Celsius above the previous record temperature of 17.08 registered on July 6, 2023.

"On July 21st, C3S recorded a new record for the daily global mean temperature," C3S director Carlo Buontempo said in a statement.

"We are now in truly uncharted territory, and as the climate keeps warming, we are bound to see new records being broken in future months and years," he said.

Though just a tiny rise above the previous record, what was "truly staggering" was the streak of unprecedented global heat recorded over the past 13 months, Buontempo added.

Every month since June 2023 has eclipsed its own temperature record compared to the same month in previous years.

Copernicus said in this context that,&nbsp;at the peak of the northern hemisphere summer, it was not "completely unexpected" that this new daily high would be breached.&nbsp;

It could be eclipsed by the soaring heat experienced earlier this week, the monitor said, pointing to a streak of record-breaking days that occurred in July and August 2023.

Global temperatures were expected to peak and drop soon, though there could be further fluctuations in the coming weeks, Copernicus said.

<h2>Heat and fire</h2>

Climate change is causing longer, stronger and more frequent extreme weather events like heatwaves and floods, and this year has been marked by major disasters across the globe.

Deadly heatwaves have already hit North America, Mexico, India and Thailand this year, to name a few, while flooding has devastated parts of East Africa, China and Brazil.

Wildfires are torching a path across southern and eastern Europe and in Canada and the United States as prolonged scorching temperatures in parts of the northern hemisphere make conditions tinder dry.

The burning of fossil fuels is the primary driver of global warming but emissions of heat-trapping greenhouse gases keep rising, despite international efforts to switch to clean energy and slow rising temperatures.

2023 was the hottest year on record and 2024 could follow in step considering the "sufficiently warm" temperatures experienced to date, Copernicus said.

But it was "too early to predict with confidence" which would be hotter between the years, it added.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

July 21 was the hottest day ever registered globally, according to preliminary data published Tuesday by the EU's climate monitor. The Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) said the global average surface air temperature of 17.

July 21 was the hottest day ever registered globally, according to preliminary data published Tuesday by the EU's climate monitor. The Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) said the global average surface air temperature of 17.09 degrees Celsius (62.7 degrees Fahrenheit) on Sunday was the warmest in their record books that date back to 1940. It comes as heatwaves and wildfires ravage swathes of Europe and the United States. "The Earth has just experienced its warmest day," the monitor said in a statement. The new daily high was 0.01 degree Celsius above the previous record temperature of 17.08 registered on July 6, 2023. "On July 21st, C3S recorded a new record for the daily global mean temperature," C3S director Carlo Buontempo said in a statement. "We are now in truly uncharted territory, and as the climate keeps warming, we are bound to see new records being broken in future months and years," he said. Though just a tiny rise above the previous record, what was "truly staggering" was the streak of unprecedented global heat recorded over the past 13 months, Buontempo added. Every month since June 2023 has eclipsed its own temperature record compared to the same month in previous years. Copernicus said in this context that, at the peak of the northern hemisphere summer, it was not "completely unexpected" that this new daily high would be breached. It could be eclipsed by the soaring heat experienced earlier this week, the monitor said, pointing to a streak of record-breaking days that occurred in July and August 2023. Global temperatures were expected to peak and drop soon, though there could be further fluctuations in the coming weeks, Copernicus said. Heat and fire Climate change is causing longer, stronger and more frequent extreme weather events like heatwaves and floods, and this year has been marked by major disasters across the globe. Deadly heatwaves have already hit North America, Mexico, India and Thailand this year, to name a few, while flooding has devastated parts of East Africa, China and Brazil. Wildfires are torching a path across southern and eastern Europe and in Canada and the United States as prolonged scorching temperatures in parts of the northern hemisphere make conditions tinder dry. The burning of fossil fuels is the primary driver of global warming but emissions of heat-trapping greenhouse gases keep rising, despite international efforts to switch to clean energy and slow rising temperatures. 2023 was the hottest year on record and 2024 could follow in step considering the "sufficiently warm" temperatures experienced to date, Copernicus said. But it was "too early to predict with confidence" which would be hotter between the years, it added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Climate monitor notes this day of 2024 as Earth's hottest ever

Scientists have said that a Chinese lunar probe found traces of water in samples of the Moon's soil. The Chang'e-5 rover completed its mission in 2020, returning to Earth with rock and soil samples from the Moon.&nbsp;

A group of scientists from Chinese universities wrote in the Nature Astronomy journal that the lunar samples "revealed the presence of trace water".&nbsp;

India's Chandrayaan-1 played a crucial role in the discovery of water molecules on the Moon. The mission carried NASA's Moon Minerology Mapper (M3), an imaging spectrometer that helped confirm the discovery of water locked in minerals on the Moon.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/bronze-age-artefact-stuns-scientists-after-mysteriously-appearing-in-norway-waters-743492">Bronze Age artefact stuns scientists after mysteriously appearing in Norway waters</a>&nbsp;

In 2020, water on the Moon was already confirmed by a NASA infrared detector and recent examinations of materials from the 1960s and 1970s have shown water traces.&nbsp;

According to the Chinese scientists, the Chang'e-5 samples are from a "much higher latitude", providing new clues as to what form water takes on the Moon's surface.&nbsp;

They said that the samples suggest that "water molecules can persist in sunlit areas of the Moon in the form of hydrated salts".&nbsp;

As reported by SCMP, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) on Tuesday said that Chinese scientists have found a hydrated mineral "enriched" with molecular water based on lunar soil samples returned by China's Chang'e-5 mission in 2020.&nbsp;

Researchers from the Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, the Institute of Physics of CAS and other domestic research institutions jointly carried out the research, which was published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Astronomy on July 16.&nbsp;

Researchers have also eliminated the chance that the mineral-carrying water was tainted by rocket exhaust or other terrestrial sources.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-marks-25th-anniversary-of-chandra-with-25-photos-including-of-the-peacocks-galaxy-743234">25 years, 25 photos: NASA's Chandra Observatory peeks into the mysteries of cosmos</a>&nbsp;

As quoted by SCMP, a scientist who asked not to be named said, "If this water-bearing mineral is present in the lunar samples, more than one piece should be found." The scientist was not associated with the study.&nbsp;

The researchers said that the presence of ammonium indicates a more complex lunar degassing history and highlights its potential as a resource for lunar habitation.

"Our findings also suggest that water molecules can persist in sunlit areas of the Moon as hydrated salts, providing crucial constraints on the fugacity of water and ammonia vapour in lunar volcanic gases," researchers said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists have said that a Chinese lunar probe found traces of water in samples of the Moon's soil. The Chang'e-5 rover completed its mission in 2020, returning to Earth with rock and soil samples from the Moon.

Scientists have said that a Chinese lunar probe found traces of water in samples of the Moon's soil. The Chang'e-5 rover completed its mission in 2020, returning to Earth with rock and soil samples from the Moon. A group of scientists from Chinese universities wrote in the Nature Astronomy journal that the lunar samples "revealed the presence of trace water". India's Chandrayaan-1 played a crucial role in the discovery of water molecules on the Moon. The mission carried NASA's Moon Minerology Mapper (M3), an imaging spectrometer that helped confirm the discovery of water locked in minerals on the Moon. Also read: Bronze Age artefact stuns scientists after mysteriously appearing in Norway waters In 2020, water on the Moon was already confirmed by a NASA infrared detector and recent examinations of materials from the 1960s and 1970s have shown water traces. According to the Chinese scientists, the Chang'e-5 samples are from a "much higher latitude", providing new clues as to what form water takes on the Moon's surface. They said that the samples suggest that "water molecules can persist in sunlit areas of the Moon in the form of hydrated salts". As reported by SCMP, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) on Tuesday said that Chinese scientists have found a hydrated mineral "enriched" with molecular water based on lunar soil samples returned by China's Chang'e-5 mission in 2020. Researchers from the Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, the Institute of Physics of CAS and other domestic research institutions jointly carried out the research, which was published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Astronomy on July 16. Researchers have also eliminated the chance that the mineral-carrying water was tainted by rocket exhaust or other terrestrial sources. Also read: 25 years, 25 photos: NASA's Chandra Observatory peeks into the mysteries of cosmos As quoted by SCMP, a scientist who asked not to be named said, "If this water-bearing mineral is present in the lunar samples, more than one piece should be found." The scientist was not associated with the study. The researchers said that the presence of ammonium indicates a more complex lunar degassing history and highlights its potential as a resource for lunar habitation. "Our findings also suggest that water molecules can persist in sunlit areas of the Moon as hydrated salts, providing crucial constraints on the fugacity of water and ammonia vapour in lunar volcanic gases," researchers said. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese lunar probe finds traces of water in samples of Moon's soil

NASA is celebrating the 25th anniversary of NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory launch. To mark the momentous occasion, the space agency shared a picture of the NGC 6872, a spiral galaxy located in the Pavo (Peacock) constellation. This galaxy has never been pictured before, and that makes it special. A total of 25 images containing data from Chandra have been shared by NASA. These images are just a sample of almost 25,000 observations made by Chandra in its quarter-century in space.
<img alt="The barred spiral galaxy NGC 6872" data-caption="The barred spiral galaxy NGC 6872" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="633f2dbc-a4c2-4018-b56e-ef0339767589" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Chandra.png" />
NGC 6872 spans across a whopping 522,000 light-years, making it more than five times the size of the Milky Way. In 2013, a fascinating fact about the galaxy was discovered by a set of astronomers from different countries. These scientists from the United States, Chile, and Brazil scoured through archival data from NASA’s Galaxy Evolution Explorer and found it to be the largest-known spiral galaxy. However, the NGC 262, a galaxy that measures 1.3 million light-years in diameter, later broke its record.&nbsp;
<img alt="Cassiopeia A in X-ray &amp; Infrared Light" data-caption="&lt;strong&gt;Cassiopeia A in X-ray &amp;amp; Infrared Light&lt;/strong&gt;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="884c402a-0c08-4978-af7f-b4ee6fb52478" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-07-23T082120.021.png" />
&nbsp;
<img alt="M16 in X-ray &amp; Infrared Light" data-caption="&lt;strong&gt;M16 in X-ray &amp;amp; Infrared Light&lt;/strong&gt;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="12ba2f52-1eed-4bb0-a78e-7125710da55c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-07-23T082246.886.png" /><img alt="Crab Nebula " data-caption="Crab Nebula in X-ray" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4c053843-e49b-47ba-a91d-322c4c6d8b20" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-07-23T082412.044_0.png" />
&nbsp;
<img alt="Jupiter" data-caption="Jupiter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ec43c34-6b87-4814-858a-280ea07fb222" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-07-23T082748.461.png" />
&nbsp;
<img alt="NGC 3324 in Infrared" data-caption="NGC 3324 in Infrared" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0069c701-2f6f-464c-8a52-b255e00e205c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-07-23T082846.811.png" />
&nbsp;

Astronomers combined X-rays from Chandra with other observatories in space and telescopes on the ground to probe several cosmic mysteries.

<h2>Facts about Chandra X-ray Observatory&nbsp;</h2>

Space shuttle Columbia launched on July 23, 1999, carrying with it Chandra. At the time, it was the heaviest payload to have ever been carried by the shuttle. Commander Eileen Collins led operations to successfully deploy Chandra into its highly elliptical orbit. In this orbit, it sits at nearly one-third of the distance to the Moon.

“For a quarter century, Chandra has made discovery after amazing discovery,” said Pat Slane, director of the Chandra X-ray Center located at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in Cambridge, Massachusetts. “Astronomers have used Chandra to investigate mysteries that we didn’t even know about when we were building the telescope — including exoplanets and dark energy.”

The X-ray Observatory is especially important as it can help point out certain regions in the space that glow strongly in X-rays. This includes debris from stars that have exploded and material swirling around black holes. X-rays are also released by stars, galaxies, and even planets that can be studied with Chandra. 
&nbsp;

(All photos credit: NASA)

NASA is celebrating the 25th anniversary of NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory launch. To mark the momentous occasion, the space agency shared a picture of the NGC 6872, a spiral galaxy located in the Pavo (Peacock) constellation.

NASA is celebrating the 25th anniversary of NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory launch. To mark the momentous occasion, the space agency shared a picture of the NGC 6872, a spiral galaxy located in the Pavo (Peacock) constellation. This galaxy has never been pictured before, and that makes it special. A total of 25 images containing data from Chandra have been shared by NASA. These images are just a sample of almost 25,000 observations made by Chandra in its quarter-century in space. NGC 6872 spans across a whopping 522,000 light-years, making it more than five times the size of the Milky Way. In 2013, a fascinating fact about the galaxy was discovered by a set of astronomers from different countries. These scientists from the United States, Chile, and Brazil scoured through archival data from NASA’s Galaxy Evolution Explorer and found it to be the largest-known spiral galaxy. However, the NGC 262, a galaxy that measures 1.3 million light-years in diameter, later broke its record. Astronomers combined X-rays from Chandra with other observatories in space and telescopes on the ground to probe several cosmic mysteries. Facts about Chandra X-ray Observatory Space shuttle Columbia launched on July 23, 1999, carrying with it Chandra. At the time, it was the heaviest payload to have ever been carried by the shuttle. Commander Eileen Collins led operations to successfully deploy Chandra into its highly elliptical orbit. In this orbit, it sits at nearly one-third of the distance to the Moon. “For a quarter century, Chandra has made discovery after amazing discovery,” said Pat Slane, director of the Chandra X-ray Center located at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in Cambridge, Massachusetts. “Astronomers have used Chandra to investigate mysteries that we didn’t even know about when we were building the telescope — including exoplanets and dark energy.” The X-ray Observatory is especially important as it can help point out certain regions in the space that glow strongly in X-rays. This includes debris from stars that have exploded and material swirling around black holes. X-rays are also released by stars, galaxies, and even planets that can be studied with Chandra. (All photos credit: NASA)

25 years, 25 photos: NASA's Chandra Observatory peeks into the mysteries of cosmos

We all feel the pang to take a nap in the middle of the day, at home or even in the middle of work at the office. Most people might frown upon those putting their heads down on their desks and taking a quick snooze at work. However, you should do it anyway since the benefits of a nap are immense, as per science. The latest addition in the list of benefits is the ability of a nap to reduce the risk of developing dementia.&nbsp;

Artificial intelligence (AI) expert and University of Waterloo professor Mohamed Elmasry, in his book "iMind: Artificial and Real Intelligence", has stressed the importance of keeping your brain active and giving it some rest. He says that naps act as "resets" that can refresh our memories and other brain and body functions.

Several studies have cited the benefits of taking a nap. Our brain cannot work continuously, and so it is important to give it a break to "recharge, to rewrite our memory, and to dream," Elmasry told Newsweek. Naps are also known to improve performance in cognitive tests. Memory tests are also often aced by people who take a small break in the day to let their brain reset.&nbsp;

"Napping is to give our brain a good sleep at midday to recharge, to rewrite our memory, and to dream," he said. "The alternative? A brain that works non-stop, say from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m."

Similarly, he also suggests people take a proper break once a week where they sleep, stay active, eat healthy, meditate and stay away from alcohol and smoking. A day like this can help keep chronic stress, which can trigger cognitive decline, at bay.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-wants-to-release-biosignatures-of-life-from-icy-shells-of-europa-and-enceladus-743053">NASA wants to release biosignatures of life from icy shells of Europa and Enceladus</a>

<h2>Brain games and exercises</h2>

He also pointed out the hazards of not giving your brain a good exercise. Relying on Artificial Intelligence can make people use their brains less, upping their risk of developing dementia. He says that one must pay attention to their "physical, mental, and spiritual fitness" and exercise those brain muscles in order to keep the memory sharp as it runs on the principle of "use it or lose it", just like our body muscles.&nbsp;

He suggests playing brain games to keep the brain muscles in motion. One should also not rely too much on AI as then the brain doesn't get to do much, which can prove harmful in the long run.&nbsp;

We all feel the pang to take a nap in the middle of the day, at home or even in the middle of work at the office. Most people might frown upon those putting their heads down on their desks and taking a quick snooze at work.

We all feel the pang to take a nap in the middle of the day, at home or even in the middle of work at the office. Most people might frown upon those putting their heads down on their desks and taking a quick snooze at work. However, you should do it anyway since the benefits of a nap are immense, as per science. The latest addition in the list of benefits is the ability of a nap to reduce the risk of developing dementia. Artificial intelligence (AI) expert and University of Waterloo professor Mohamed Elmasry, in his book "iMind: Artificial and Real Intelligence", has stressed the importance of keeping your brain active and giving it some rest. He says that naps act as "resets" that can refresh our memories and other brain and body functions. Several studies have cited the benefits of taking a nap. Our brain cannot work continuously, and so it is important to give it a break to "recharge, to rewrite our memory, and to dream," Elmasry told Newsweek. Naps are also known to improve performance in cognitive tests. Memory tests are also often aced by people who take a small break in the day to let their brain reset. "Napping is to give our brain a good sleep at midday to recharge, to rewrite our memory, and to dream," he said. "The alternative? A brain that works non-stop, say from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m." Similarly, he also suggests people take a proper break once a week where they sleep, stay active, eat healthy, meditate and stay away from alcohol and smoking. A day like this can help keep chronic stress, which can trigger cognitive decline, at bay. Also Read: NASA wants to release biosignatures of life from icy shells of Europa and Enceladus Brain games and exercises He also pointed out the hazards of not giving your brain a good exercise. Relying on Artificial Intelligence can make people use their brains less, upping their risk of developing dementia. He says that one must pay attention to their "physical, mental, and spiritual fitness" and exercise those brain muscles in order to keep the memory sharp as it runs on the principle of "use it or lose it", just like our body muscles. He suggests playing brain games to keep the brain muscles in motion. One should also not rely too much on AI as then the brain doesn't get to do much, which can prove harmful in the long run.

Take a nap at work, it might just keep dementia away, says expert

NASA's Juno spacecraft has given us several memorable views of Jupiter and its moons, especially Lo. Now, in another stunning piece of imagery, Juno has sent back photos of the giant planet's chaotic northern hemisphere. The colour-enhanced photo shows clouds and cyclonic storms in the folded filamentary region of the planet.&nbsp;

This region of Jupiter displays turbulent patterns due to the zonal jets breaking down. These zonal jets are responsible for the creation of banded patterns in Jupiter's clouds. This also results in cloud structures that rapidly evolve over the course of only a few days.

This photo was captured by Juno during its 61st close flyby of Jupiter on May 12, 2024. It was captured by Juno from a distance of about 18,000 miles (29,000 kilometres) above Jupiter's cloud tops.&nbsp;

In order to give the photo more clarity and detail, citizen scientist Gary Eason adopted a couple of techniques. He used raw data from the JunoCam instrument and applied digital processing techniques to enhance the colour and clarity of the photo.

<h2>Lava lakes and volcanoes on Jupiter's moon lo</h2>

Juno has been responsible for enlightening us about not only Jupiter but also its moons. Lo is one of the most prominent moons of the biggest planet of our solar system. During a planned flyby near Lo in April this year, Juno captured some mind-blowing images of the moon bursting with volcanoes.&nbsp;

The rocky moon is the "most volcanically active world in the solar system, with hundreds of volcanoes, some erupting lava fountains dozens of miles (or kilometres) high," as per NASA.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-nasas-juno-spacecraft-spots-lava-lake-on-jovian-moon-io-712875">NASA's Juno spacecraft spots glass-smooth lava lake and a mountain on a moon</a>

In the same month, Juno sent back photos of a "potential magma lake rimmed with hot lava" on Lo. You can also see a mountain and an island amidst the lava lake.

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Jupiter's moon Lo makes a fascinating sight &amp; study for Juno probe: a lava lake, active volcanos, a surface that bulges 300 feet with gravitational tug of Jupiter, a plasma torus, a magnetic light show. Some seen with Space/Earth (500M m) telescopes. <a href="https://t.co/T6uhG2QJKR">https://t.co/T6uhG2QJKR</a>
— Jim Hoover (@ocjim0) <a href="https://twitter.com/ocjim0/status/1784247392214339745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"The specular reflection our instruments recorded of the lake suggests parts of Io’s surface are as smooth as glass, reminiscent of volcanically created obsidian glass on Earth," Scott Bolton, the principal investigator of the Juno mission at the European Geophysical Union’s General Assembly said.

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Animated gif showing 13 of the images from Juno's encounter with Io this week! Great views of Pele, Xihe, and Io's south polar region. <a href="https://t.co/rh8zWfJiiI">pic.twitter.com/rh8zWfJiiI</a>
— Jason Perry (@volcanopele) <a href="https://twitter.com/volcanopele/status/1778946227700457728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Juno undertook two flybys of Jupiter’s moon in December last year and then in February 2024. It clicked pictures of flowing volcanoes from a distance of 930 miles (approx. 1500 kilometres) of the moon’s surface.

Earlier this year, it also spotted the elusive fifth moon of Jupiter, known as Amalthea. Amalthea is Jupiter's fifth largest moon of the 95 known moons. Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto are the four largest moons of Jupiter.&nbsp;

NASA's Juno spacecraft has given us several memorable views of Jupiter and its moons, especially Lo. Now, in another stunning piece of imagery, Juno has sent back photos of the giant planet's chaotic northern hemisphere.

NASA's Juno spacecraft has given us several memorable views of Jupiter and its moons, especially Lo. Now, in another stunning piece of imagery, Juno has sent back photos of the giant planet's chaotic northern hemisphere. The colour-enhanced photo shows clouds and cyclonic storms in the folded filamentary region of the planet. This region of Jupiter displays turbulent patterns due to the zonal jets breaking down. These zonal jets are responsible for the creation of banded patterns in Jupiter's clouds. This also results in cloud structures that rapidly evolve over the course of only a few days. This photo was captured by Juno during its 61st close flyby of Jupiter on May 12, 2024. It was captured by Juno from a distance of about 18,000 miles (29,000 kilometres) above Jupiter's cloud tops. In order to give the photo more clarity and detail, citizen scientist Gary Eason adopted a couple of techniques. He used raw data from the JunoCam instrument and applied digital processing techniques to enhance the colour and clarity of the photo. Lava lakes and volcanoes on Jupiter's moon lo Juno has been responsible for enlightening us about not only Jupiter but also its moons. Lo is one of the most prominent moons of the biggest planet of our solar system. During a planned flyby near Lo in April this year, Juno captured some mind-blowing images of the moon bursting with volcanoes. The rocky moon is the "most volcanically active world in the solar system, with hundreds of volcanoes, some erupting lava fountains dozens of miles (or kilometres) high," as per NASA. Also Read: NASA's Juno spacecraft spots glass-smooth lava lake and a mountain on a moon In the same month, Juno sent back photos of a "potential magma lake rimmed with hot lava" on Lo. You can also see a mountain and an island amidst the lava lake. Jupiter's moon Lo makes a fascinating sight & study for Juno probe: a lava lake, active volcanos, a surface that bulges 300 feet with gravitational tug of Jupiter, a plasma torus, a magnetic light show. Some seen with Space/Earth (500M m) telescopes. https://t.co/T6uhG2QJKR — Jim Hoover (@ocjim0) April 27, 2024 × "The specular reflection our instruments recorded of the lake suggests parts of Io’s surface are as smooth as glass, reminiscent of volcanically created obsidian glass on Earth," Scott Bolton, the principal investigator of the Juno mission at the European Geophysical Union’s General Assembly said. Animated gif showing 13 of the images from Juno's encounter with Io this week! Great views of Pele, Xihe, and Io's south polar region. pic.twitter.com/rh8zWfJiiI — Jason Perry (@volcanopele) April 13, 2024 × Juno undertook two flybys of Jupiter’s moon in December last year and then in February 2024. It clicked pictures of flowing volcanoes from a distance of 930 miles (approx. 1500 kilometres) of the moon’s surface. Earlier this year, it also spotted the elusive fifth moon of Jupiter, known as Amalthea. Amalthea is Jupiter's fifth largest moon of the 95 known moons. Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto are the four largest moons of Jupiter.

Jupiter's north is filled with chaotic clouds and cyclonic storms. See photo

Four scientists who spent a year in a Mars simulation recently came out of it and shared their experience of what it was like living on the red planet. They had to grow their own food to supplement a year's supply of freeze-dried meals while living inside the Mars Dune Alpha, a 1,700 sq ft 3D-printed habitat at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. Anca Selariu, who was part of the crew, describes the experience of being on Mars as “absolutely exhilarating”.

Talking to the Guardian, she said,&nbsp;“Humans will be getting to Mars at some point in the future, and just the opportunity to participate in any way one can to help that happen, hopefully in our lifetimes, is beyond compare."

Selariu added that the day humans step foot on Mars, she will celebrate knowing that she was a part of it. "I’ll be celebrating when we see the first step on Mars, knowing I contributed.&nbsp;It was an incredible honour and absolutely exhilarating," she said.&nbsp;

NASA plans to send humans to Mars by the end of the 2030s. Under the Crew Health and Performance Exploration Analog (Chapea) mission, the Mars Dune Alpha provided the crew of four with the exact environment and challenges astronauts will ultimately face on Mars.&nbsp;

Selariu is a member of the US Naval Medical Research Unit and holds expertise in vaccines, gene therapy and infectious disease. Qualifications like these will help astronauts stay healthy and fit during their months-long journey to Mars.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-wants-to-release-biosignatures-of-life-from-icy-shells-of-europa-and-enceladus-743053">NASA wants to release biosignatures of life from icy shells of Europa and Enceladus&nbsp;</a>

<h2>The challenges of Chapea mission</h2>

Selariu says that growing their own food and touching the green was "such a joy" as that is the one thing she missed most while being away from Earth. In fact, she recalled how just seeing a lettuce leaf while in isolation provoked feelings like homesickness and existential self-questioning.&nbsp;

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The crew was also tested to see their response during simulated emergencies and stressors. Equipment failures and resource limitations were two of the things that they worked to handle. Selariu said the study aimed to understand how will humans adjust to isolation and confinement on Mars.

Something else only witnessed in sci-fi-shows and films is the communication gap. The crew had to communicate with ground control keeping in mind that each message in or out was delayed 22 minutes, something that will happen while it journeys through space. Selariu said, "45 minutes for back and forth means you really have to think ahead and formulate the communication clearly and thoroughly."&nbsp;

The second Chapea mission is scheduled to start next year.&nbsp;

Four scientists who spent a year in a Mars simulation recently came out of it and shared their experience of what it was like living on the red planet. They had to grow their own food to supplement a year's supply of freeze-dried meals while living inside the Mars Dune Alpha, a 1,700 sq ft 3D-printed habitat at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.

Four scientists who spent a year in a Mars simulation recently came out of it and shared their experience of what it was like living on the red planet. They had to grow their own food to supplement a year's supply of freeze-dried meals while living inside the Mars Dune Alpha, a 1,700 sq ft 3D-printed habitat at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. Anca Selariu, who was part of the crew, describes the experience of being on Mars as “absolutely exhilarating”. Talking to the Guardian, she said, “Humans will be getting to Mars at some point in the future, and just the opportunity to participate in any way one can to help that happen, hopefully in our lifetimes, is beyond compare." Selariu added that the day humans step foot on Mars, she will celebrate knowing that she was a part of it. "I’ll be celebrating when we see the first step on Mars, knowing I contributed. It was an incredible honour and absolutely exhilarating," she said. NASA plans to send humans to Mars by the end of the 2030s. Under the Crew Health and Performance Exploration Analog (Chapea) mission, the Mars Dune Alpha provided the crew of four with the exact environment and challenges astronauts will ultimately face on Mars. Selariu is a member of the US Naval Medical Research Unit and holds expertise in vaccines, gene therapy and infectious disease. Qualifications like these will help astronauts stay healthy and fit during their months-long journey to Mars. Also Read: NASA wants to release biosignatures of life from icy shells of Europa and Enceladus The challenges of Chapea mission Selariu says that growing their own food and touching the green was "such a joy" as that is the one thing she missed most while being away from Earth. In fact, she recalled how just seeing a lettuce leaf while in isolation provoked feelings like homesickness and existential self-questioning. × The crew was also tested to see their response during simulated emergencies and stressors. Equipment failures and resource limitations were two of the things that they worked to handle. Selariu said the study aimed to understand how will humans adjust to isolation and confinement on Mars. Something else only witnessed in sci-fi-shows and films is the communication gap. The crew had to communicate with ground control keeping in mind that each message in or out was delayed 22 minutes, something that will happen while it journeys through space. Selariu said, "45 minutes for back and forth means you really have to think ahead and formulate the communication clearly and thoroughly." The second Chapea mission is scheduled to start next year.

When a lettuce leaf made a scientist feel homesick inside the Mars simulation

A prehistoric artefact has left scientists stunned after it was discovered off the coast of southern Norway. Experts at the Norwegian Maritime Museum (NMM) say that the artefact, a type of Bronze Age axe, likely dates to around 1300-1100 BC. Jørgen Johannessen, a marine archaeologist at the NMM, told Newsweek that the axe was found on the seabed in the strait of Tromøysund at approximately 40 feet. &nbsp;

A routine investigation done on behalf of the Norwegian Coastal Administration threw up the axe, and Johannessen says he was "completely stunned by the discovery".

The surprising thing is that this is the first time a metal artefact from prehistoric times has been found in Norwegian waters. Experts say it is a mystery as to how the socketed axe went down in the strait. One of the possibilities, they say, is that it came from a shipwreck belonging to the Bronze Age that dated to more than 3,000 years ago.

Frode Kalvø, an archaeologist at the NMM and project leader, says that if it was indeed a shipwreck that dumped the axe in the water, then this would be the first of its kind in the region from the Bronze Age. "If that's the case, it would be the first Bronze Age shipwreck discovered in Norway," Kalvø told ScienceNorway.no.

But why only one artefact if it does belong to a shipwreck? According to a press release from the museum, in this case, there must be many more such artefacts around and further research is needed to explore the area.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/cocaine-sharks-are-swimming-in-the-seas-of-brazil-the-source-of-the-drug-will-disgust-you-743291">Cocaine sharks are swimming in the seas of Brazil. The source of the drug will disgust you</a>

<h2>The second theory</h2>

Another theory that experts say is more likely to have happened is that the axe was used as ballast on a sailing ship only a few hundred years ago and was discarded after use.&nbsp;

"This might have happened in the 19th century. It could have been thrown overboard to make room for new cargo," Johannessen told ScienceNorway.no.

Kalvø said that the axe was likely picked up while someone gathered ballast for the ship. Till then, it probably "lay in a grave since the Bronze Age or was lost on the beach," he said.&nbsp;

A prehistoric artefact has left scientists stunned after it was discovered off the coast of southern Norway. Experts at the Norwegian Maritime Museum (NMM) say that the artefact, a type of Bronze Age axe, likely dates to around 1300-1100 BC.

A prehistoric artefact has left scientists stunned after it was discovered off the coast of southern Norway. Experts at the Norwegian Maritime Museum (NMM) say that the artefact, a type of Bronze Age axe, likely dates to around 1300-1100 BC. Jørgen Johannessen, a marine archaeologist at the NMM, told Newsweek that the axe was found on the seabed in the strait of Tromøysund at approximately 40 feet. A routine investigation done on behalf of the Norwegian Coastal Administration threw up the axe, and Johannessen says he was "completely stunned by the discovery". The surprising thing is that this is the first time a metal artefact from prehistoric times has been found in Norwegian waters. Experts say it is a mystery as to how the socketed axe went down in the strait. One of the possibilities, they say, is that it came from a shipwreck belonging to the Bronze Age that dated to more than 3,000 years ago. Frode Kalvø, an archaeologist at the NMM and project leader, says that if it was indeed a shipwreck that dumped the axe in the water, then this would be the first of its kind in the region from the Bronze Age. "If that's the case, it would be the first Bronze Age shipwreck discovered in Norway," Kalvø told ScienceNorway.no. But why only one artefact if it does belong to a shipwreck? According to a press release from the museum, in this case, there must be many more such artefacts around and further research is needed to explore the area. Also Read: Cocaine sharks are swimming in the seas of Brazil. The source of the drug will disgust you The second theory Another theory that experts say is more likely to have happened is that the axe was used as ballast on a sailing ship only a few hundred years ago and was discarded after use. "This might have happened in the 19th century. It could have been thrown overboard to make room for new cargo," Johannessen told ScienceNorway.no. Kalvø said that the axe was likely picked up while someone gathered ballast for the ship. Till then, it probably "lay in a grave since the Bronze Age or was lost on the beach," he said.

Bronze Age artefact stuns scientists after mysteriously appearing in Norway waters

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