Macron’s awkward embrace with Iceland PM Kristrún Frostadóttir goes viral – What happened?

‘I hope you die…’: Jensen Huang told Indian-origin Nvidia VP in an outburst during meeting

Lakshya Sen becomes first Indian to clinch Kumamoto Masters title

‘I wanted to do justice to her performance’: Ami Trivedi reveals how she prepared to voice Sai Pallavi’s Sita in Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana

US flight chaos: Transport chief warns 'some delays, cancellations' to continue as thousands stranded after flight disruption

Why is the United States trying to control China's access to advanced AI chips?

Mumbai: 20-year-old arrested for allegedly surveying 26/11 target Chabad House, probe points to overseas links

Iran plotting to target Trump? Report claims Mossad shared intel with CIA

Panchayat 5 delayed? Prime Video's latest post leaves fans disappointed

US-Iran war | Iran: Targeted US early-warning radar in Bahrain

Why are liquid-cooled GPUs becoming important for modern AI data centres?

ASEAN Summit 2026: PM Modi to Grace 3-Day ASEAN-India & East Asia Summit in Manila

Shape-shifting UFO sighting in Oregon leaves mother-daughter sick: 'Fell like a dead bird'

'Currently has no role...': Megaspeed breaks silence on former boss Alice Huang and ex-Nvidia CEO's affair

'Democracy was destroyed in 2014': Rahul Gandhi questions legitimacy of elections at Bharat Summit in Hyderabad

'We are missing...': Copa jet loses left wingtip after collision with cargo plane at Miami airport, pilot's desperate call goes viral

Why do AI GPUs consume so much electricity?

IndiGo flight makes emergency landing in Pune after mid-air scare – What happened?

Indian ambassador to ASEAN Srinivas Gotru backs freedom of navigation in South China Sea, opposes isolating Myanmar

Netanyahu warns against Eisenkot's minority government plans

'I don’t negotiate with terrorists'- US school district faces lawsuit over teacher's remark to student

India backs death penalty at UN, says can't equate it with torture

AUS vs ENG: Perth hero Mahli Beardman rested for 2nd ODI; Nathan Ellis ruled out of T20I series

WPL 2027: BCCI moves Mumbai leg from Brabourne to Wankhede Stadium

How is China trying to build its own Nvidia to challenge the US chip industry?

Blasts, sirens rock Bahrain as Iran claims drone attack on US military base

Gurugram restaurant ordered to pay Rs 31,000 for forcing 10% service charge

Oak Ridge Boys' Richard Sterban dies at 83 after battle with cancer, tributes pour in

Jensen Huang seen with wife Lori in Paris in photos shared by daughter Madison

'No civic sense': Viral video shows family bursting crackers inside highway tunnel, sparks outrage | Watch

Why do Nvidia and Apple depend so heavily on Taiwan?

Paris protests | Interior Ministry: 106,000 take part in protests, 121 arrested

WATCH | SpaceX catches Starship spacecraft midair for first time after 22-hour orbital flight

Blinken says US ties with India, Pakistan are ‘fundamentally different’

Meta fined €805 million in Italy over alleged access to users’ phone galleries

Woman honey-trapped by Pak handler, associate arrested in Rajasthan rail track blast case

'He promised me a green card': Lebanese woman accuses Texas ICE officer of sexually assaulting her in detention

Aaryavir Sehwag chants ‘Sita Ram’ to stay calm during India-Pakistan U19 Asia Cup final | WATCH

Israel-Gaza war: Israeli airstrike on Nasser Hospital kills 6, wounds 20

Indian student sentenced to 30 years in UK for online grooming of over 70 children

Harry Potter: HBO series unveils new Hogwarts scene, Dumbledore's conversation with McGonagall grabs attention

Sun released another set of solar flares on Saturday (Jul 13) and the explosion was captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory from space. The X-class flare, the most powerful class of solar flare, was released from Sunspot AR3738. The solar flares resulted in shortwave radio blackouts across Australia, Southeast Asia, and Japan. Communication blackouts are a common occurrence due to the intensity of the X-rays and extreme ultraviolet radiation emitted during these events.

However, no coronal mass ejection (CME) was noticed by scientists as a result of the solar flare. CME is when the sun releases large amounts of plasma and magnetic field. Experts checked for CMEs until several hours later but failed to find any. Coronal mass ejections are responsible for the creation of auroras on Earth.&nbsp;

This one was an X-class solar flare, which is the strongest. Next comes the M-class flare which is 10 times less powerful than X-class. The list includes C-class, B-class and A-class, in that order.&nbsp;

The sun has been extremely active over the past few months. At the end of April, an extremely powerful solar flare caused massive radio blackouts across the Pacific region. In May, beautiful auroras were seen across the globe, even in regions where auroras are not common. Scientists witnessed the sun become active with solar flares being released from sunspot AR3664, along with massive coronal mass ejection.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ancient-shark-that-lived-alongside-dinosaurs-might-have-been-a-predator-741300">Ancient shark that lived alongside dinosaurs might have been a predator</a>

In June, sunspot AR3723 was seen firing off a strong solar flare and made a re-appearance in the next few days. It made a total of three appearances across the Earthside of the Sun. On June 23, it emitted an M-class solar flare. Temporary radio blackouts were reported in Africa and Western Europe.&nbsp;

<h2>Why do solar flares cause radio blackouts?</h2>

Travelling at the speed of light, radiation from solar flares electrically charges the upper atmosphere of Earth. The high-frequency shortwave radio signals then have a denser environment to pass through. When the radio waves interact with electrons in the ionized layers, increased collisions lead to loss of energy, absorbing the radio signals. 
&nbsp;

Sun released another set of solar flares on Saturday (Jul 13) and the explosion was captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory from space. The X-class flare, the most powerful class of solar flare, was released from Sunspot AR3738.

Sun released another set of solar flares on Saturday (Jul 13) and the explosion was captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory from space. The X-class flare, the most powerful class of solar flare, was released from Sunspot AR3738. The solar flares resulted in shortwave radio blackouts across Australia, Southeast Asia, and Japan. Communication blackouts are a common occurrence due to the intensity of the X-rays and extreme ultraviolet radiation emitted during these events. However, no coronal mass ejection (CME) was noticed by scientists as a result of the solar flare. CME is when the sun releases large amounts of plasma and magnetic field. Experts checked for CMEs until several hours later but failed to find any. Coronal mass ejections are responsible for the creation of auroras on Earth. This one was an X-class solar flare, which is the strongest. Next comes the M-class flare which is 10 times less powerful than X-class. The list includes C-class, B-class and A-class, in that order. The sun has been extremely active over the past few months. At the end of April, an extremely powerful solar flare caused massive radio blackouts across the Pacific region. In May, beautiful auroras were seen across the globe, even in regions where auroras are not common. Scientists witnessed the sun become active with solar flares being released from sunspot AR3664, along with massive coronal mass ejection. Also Read: Ancient shark that lived alongside dinosaurs might have been a predator In June, sunspot AR3723 was seen firing off a strong solar flare and made a re-appearance in the next few days. It made a total of three appearances across the Earthside of the Sun. On June 23, it emitted an M-class solar flare. Temporary radio blackouts were reported in Africa and Western Europe. Why do solar flares cause radio blackouts? Travelling at the speed of light, radiation from solar flares electrically charges the upper atmosphere of Earth. The high-frequency shortwave radio signals then have a denser environment to pass through. When the radio waves interact with electrons in the ionized layers, increased collisions lead to loss of energy, absorbing the radio signals.

Sunspot AR3738 releases X-class solar flare triggering radio blackouts in Australia and Japan

The world is not alien to the concept of driverless cars which even though has appeared as a complex challenge, with advanced technology and bright minds, the human race seems to have almost created it.&nbsp;

Such vehicles are built in a way that they have an understanding of their surroundings through which they control the car, even though there is no human intervention.&nbsp;

Taking a step ahead from this innovation, the scientists at the University of Tokyo, headed by Dr Kento Kawaharazuka, have now created a robot which can easily drive a regular car.

The musculoskeletal humanoid robot, named Musashi, has been designed in a way that mimics the human body and drives the car like any other human.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/can-robots-commit-suicide-the-curious-case-of-cyborgs-death-shocks-south-korea-738280">Can robots commit suicide? The curious case of cyborg's death shocks South Korea</a>

With this innovation, one day a robotic chauffeur may be driving a non-autonomous vehicle.

<h2>All about Musashi - robotic driver&nbsp;</h2>

The robot Musashi has a musculoskeletal structure which closely resembles the human body. It has 39 joints, excluding the hands, and 74 muscles.&nbsp;

It has five fingers in every hand and pressure sensors have been attached in both the hands and feet.

It has been designed in a way that it is able to perform complex tasks like using the handbrake, switching the ignition key, pressing pedals, steering wheel and using indicators.

The eyes of the robot have high-resolution cameras which are connected to artificial intelligence systems.

The cameras help Musashi recognise people in the wing mirrors and take steps according. It also helps in understanding when the pedestrians are crossing the road and the traffic lights are changing.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Chinese scientists develop robot with lab-grown human brain

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinese-scientists-develop-robot-with-lab-grown-human-brain-737584/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The robot Musashi can be seen as a significant step in the world of robotics and&nbsp;autonomous driving technology, which is still in the early stages of development.&nbsp;

As of now, this robot is only capable of driving in a straight line and turning right and can only speed at just 3 mph.&nbsp;

Kawaharazuka accepts that the robot is still not capable of driving and handling the car at a good speed which human drivers can do.

Kawaharazuka said that there will be a time when robots like Musashi will work as versatile drivers.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The world is not alien to the concept of driverless cars which even though has appeared as a complex challenge, with advanced technology and bright minds, the human race seems to have almost created it.

The world is not alien to the concept of driverless cars which even though has appeared as a complex challenge, with advanced technology and bright minds, the human race seems to have almost created it. Such vehicles are built in a way that they have an understanding of their surroundings through which they control the car, even though there is no human intervention. Taking a step ahead from this innovation, the scientists at the University of Tokyo, headed by Dr Kento Kawaharazuka, have now created a robot which can easily drive a regular car. The musculoskeletal humanoid robot, named Musashi, has been designed in a way that mimics the human body and drives the car like any other human. Also Read: Can robots commit suicide? The curious case of cyborg's death shocks South Korea With this innovation, one day a robotic chauffeur may be driving a non-autonomous vehicle. All about Musashi - robotic driver The robot Musashi has a musculoskeletal structure which closely resembles the human body. It has 39 joints, excluding the hands, and 74 muscles. It has five fingers in every hand and pressure sensors have been attached in both the hands and feet. It has been designed in a way that it is able to perform complex tasks like using the handbrake, switching the ignition key, pressing pedals, steering wheel and using indicators. The eyes of the robot have high-resolution cameras which are connected to artificial intelligence systems. The cameras help Musashi recognise people in the wing mirrors and take steps according. It also helps in understanding when the pedestrians are crossing the road and the traffic lights are changing. Watch: Gravitas: Chinese scientists develop robot with lab-grown human brain The robot Musashi can be seen as a significant step in the world of robotics and autonomous driving technology, which is still in the early stages of development. As of now, this robot is only capable of driving in a straight line and turning right and can only speed at just 3 mph. Kawaharazuka accepts that the robot is still not capable of driving and handling the car at a good speed which human drivers can do. Kawaharazuka said that there will be a time when robots like Musashi will work as versatile drivers. (With inputs from agencies)

A robotic chauffeur! Scientists develop robot which can drive regular cars

NASA has issued an alert against asteroid 2024 MG1 - which belongs to a class of asteroids known as the Apollo group which have their Earth-crossing orbits - and has been hurtling towards our planet at a scary speed of 33,600 kilometres per hour.&nbsp;

The asteroid, which measures 180 feet (55 metres) in size, will be making its closest approach to Earth on July 21, 2024, at 21:31 UTC (3:01 AM IST on July 22). The asteroid is expected to come within the distance of 4.2 million kilometres.&nbsp;

In astronomical terms, there seems to be a significant distance between the asteroid and Earth, however, such close encounters always raise concerns regarding their potential impacts.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-issues-sudden-warning-as-100ft-asteroid-races-towards-earth-at-zooming-speed-740568">NASA issues sudden warning as 100ft asteroid races towards Earth at lightning speed</a>

<h2>What are Apollo asteroids?&nbsp;</h2>

Apollo asteroids are a group of near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) and their orbits intersect the orbit of Earth. The group was given a name after the scientists discovered the first asteroid of this group called 1862 Apollo.&nbsp;

Such asteroids carry the potential risks if their orbits intersect with the orbit of the Earth closely.&nbsp;

<h2>What will happen if the asteroid collides with Earth?</h2>

According to scientists, if an asteroid like 2024 MG1 collides with Earth, there will be various consequences depending on its size, speed, and composition.&nbsp;

Considering the asteroid's estimated size of 180 feet, its impact can lead to localised devastation, however, such occurrences are doubtful as the chances of 2024 MG1 colliding with Earth are very low.&nbsp;

Space agencies and scientists keep monitoring such asteroids to timely predict their movements and take the required action.

Watch:&nbsp;Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaganyaan-mission-indian-astronaut-to-fly-to-space-station-by-2026-740296/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>How NASA is monitoring asteroids?</h2>

NASA's Monitoring and Response NASA along with other space agencies has been tracking asteroids like 2024 MG1 with the use of telescopes and radar systems.&nbsp;

While monitoring the asteroids, scientists are able to predict their path and adopt various mitigation strategies which range from deflection missions to evacuation plans decided for potentially affected areas.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

NASA has issued an alert against asteroid 2024 MG1 - which belongs to a class of asteroids known as the Apollo group which have their Earth-crossing orbits - and has been hurtling towards our planet at a scary speed of 33,600 kilometres per hour.

NASA has issued an alert against asteroid 2024 MG1 - which belongs to a class of asteroids known as the Apollo group which have their Earth-crossing orbits - and has been hurtling towards our planet at a scary speed of 33,600 kilometres per hour. The asteroid, which measures 180 feet (55 metres) in size, will be making its closest approach to Earth on July 21, 2024, at 21:31 UTC (3:01 AM IST on July 22). The asteroid is expected to come within the distance of 4.2 million kilometres. In astronomical terms, there seems to be a significant distance between the asteroid and Earth, however, such close encounters always raise concerns regarding their potential impacts. Also Read: NASA issues sudden warning as 100ft asteroid races towards Earth at lightning speed What are Apollo asteroids? Apollo asteroids are a group of near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) and their orbits intersect the orbit of Earth. The group was given a name after the scientists discovered the first asteroid of this group called 1862 Apollo. Such asteroids carry the potential risks if their orbits intersect with the orbit of the Earth closely. What will happen if the asteroid collides with Earth? According to scientists, if an asteroid like 2024 MG1 collides with Earth, there will be various consequences depending on its size, speed, and composition. Considering the asteroid's estimated size of 180 feet, its impact can lead to localised devastation, however, such occurrences are doubtful as the chances of 2024 MG1 colliding with Earth are very low. Space agencies and scientists keep monitoring such asteroids to timely predict their movements and take the required action. Watch: Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August How NASA is monitoring asteroids? NASA's Monitoring and Response NASA along with other space agencies has been tracking asteroids like 2024 MG1 with the use of telescopes and radar systems. While monitoring the asteroids, scientists are able to predict their path and adopt various mitigation strategies which range from deflection missions to evacuation plans decided for potentially affected areas. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA warns against 180-ft asteroid hurtling towards Earth at scary speed

The scientists confirmed that Starlink's 20 satellites - which were released prematurely when the SpaceX rocket's failed launch took place last week - fell back towards Earth and got burned up in the upper atmosphere.&nbsp;

Currently, the experts have been investigating what went wrong and the rockets - which are likely to have caused the catastrophic failure - have been grounded till the investigation ends.&nbsp;

A Falcon 9 rocket was launched by Space X on July 11 from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 10:35 pm&nbsp;ET. The launch took place one day after it was originally planned.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/house-for-astronauts-indian-startup-discusses-launch-of-space-habitat-by-2027-with-spacex-739929">House for astronauts? Indian startup discusses launch of 'space habitat' by 2027 with SpaceX</a>

Initially, the launch took place as expected and the first stage of the rocket was successful when it was detached from the satellite-laden second stage before the landing of a drone ship in the Pacific Ocean.

<h2>Where did the SpaceX rocket go wrong?</h2>

The SpaceX rocket failed to complete its second stage because of a leak in liquid oxygen due to which it was stranded in a low orbit around Earth.

However, the rocket was able to release its payload in the second stage. The satellites were however stuck in an elliptical orbit around Earth which has a minimum altitude of 84 miles (135 kilometres), which is nearly half the height at which they normally operate.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaganyaan-mission-indian-astronaut-to-fly-to-space-station-by-2026-740296/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In a statement, SpaceX representatives wrote that the satellites were slowed by the atmospheric drag at this elevation and they started to fall back towards the Earth by nearly 3 miles (5 km).&nbsp;

"At this level of drag, our maximum available thrust is unlikely to be enough to successfully raise the satellites," wrote SpaceX representatives. "As such, the satellites will re-enter Earth's atmosphere and fully demise," they added.

Space News reported that the company took control of most of the satellites and gave orders to burn them in the atmosphere at their maximum thrust known as "warp 9", in the last attempt to regain altitude.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The scientists confirmed that Starlink's 20 satellites - which were released prematurely when the SpaceX rocket's failed launch took place last week - fell back towards Earth and got burned up in the upper atmosphere.

The scientists confirmed that Starlink's 20 satellites - which were released prematurely when the SpaceX rocket's failed launch took place last week - fell back towards Earth and got burned up in the upper atmosphere. Currently, the experts have been investigating what went wrong and the rockets - which are likely to have caused the catastrophic failure - have been grounded till the investigation ends. A Falcon 9 rocket was launched by Space X on July 11 from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 10:35 pm ET. The launch took place one day after it was originally planned. Also Read: House for astronauts? Indian startup discusses launch of 'space habitat' by 2027 with SpaceX Initially, the launch took place as expected and the first stage of the rocket was successful when it was detached from the satellite-laden second stage before the landing of a drone ship in the Pacific Ocean. Where did the SpaceX rocket go wrong? The SpaceX rocket failed to complete its second stage because of a leak in liquid oxygen due to which it was stranded in a low orbit around Earth. However, the rocket was able to release its payload in the second stage. The satellites were however stuck in an elliptical orbit around Earth which has a minimum altitude of 84 miles (135 kilometres), which is nearly half the height at which they normally operate. Watch: Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August In a statement, SpaceX representatives wrote that the satellites were slowed by the atmospheric drag at this elevation and they started to fall back towards the Earth by nearly 3 miles (5 km). "At this level of drag, our maximum available thrust is unlikely to be enough to successfully raise the satellites," wrote SpaceX representatives. "As such, the satellites will re-enter Earth's atmosphere and fully demise," they added. Space News reported that the company took control of most of the satellites and gave orders to burn them in the atmosphere at their maximum thrust known as "warp 9", in the last attempt to regain altitude. (With inputs from agencies)

Starlink's 20 doomed satellites fall from space, burn in Earth's atmosphere

In an intriguing study, it has been found that the kangaroos in ancient times did not hop on two legs but walked on all fours when they roamed the prehistoric landscapes of Australia.

These mammoth&nbsp;“giant wallaby” kangaroos were ancestors of today's kangaroos and were not agile and bounding like them.

In the research, it was found that such contemporary kangaroos' extinct relatives travelled in quite a different way.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/giant-sea-animal-spotted-in-massachusetts-waters-in-rare-sighting-739100">Largest animal on Earth spotted in Massachusetts in rare sighting</a>

The ancestors of modern-day kangaroos were called Protemnodon which exhibited different kinds of locomotion techniques which emphasised the diverse evolutionary history of marsupials.

<h2>All about giant wallaby kangaroos</h2>

The extinct kangaroo species, called Protemnodon, was a giant wallaby which existed in the Pleistocene era. This era lasted between two and a half million to ten thousand years ago.

In comparison to modern kangaroos, these predecessors were far larger, however, they were not really hopping around, as per the latest study.

<h2>Ancient kangaroos walked on four legs: Study</h2>

It was earlier believed that even though they had large sizes, the ancient kangaroos hopped in a similar way to their descendants.

In a&nbsp;new study, conducted by a team of researchers, it&nbsp;has been found that these mega-marsupials were actually quadrupedal, which means they preferred to walk on all four legs.

University of Bristol's former master's student Billie Jones had earlier said that the giant wallaby has chances of being a quadrupedal.

The suggested theory was confirmed by the research team after they took a quantitative look at the animal's limb proportions.

Watch:&nbsp;Finger found in Ice Cream, followed by disturbing animal find in deliveries

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/finger-found-in-ice-cream-followed-by-disturbing-animal-find-in-deliveries-733481/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The scientists found that the limb proportions of Protemnodon were not like any other living kangaroos. It's short feet were one of the main reasons why it was believed Protemnodon was a quadrupedal creature.

“There had been some speculation in a graduate thesis from the University of Uppsala that it might have been more quadrupedal in its habits compared to living kangaroos,” said Jones, the study's lead author.

“This new paper draws on a couple of previous quantitative studies that looked at the anatomy of the humerus (upper arm bone) in a diversity of mammals, and concluded that&nbsp;Protemnodon&nbsp;habitually put more weight on its forelimbs than kangaroos today," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In an intriguing study, it has been found that the kangaroos in ancient times did not hop on two legs but walked on all fours when they roamed the prehistoric landscapes of Australia.

In an intriguing study, it has been found that the kangaroos in ancient times did not hop on two legs but walked on all fours when they roamed the prehistoric landscapes of Australia. These mammoth “giant wallaby” kangaroos were ancestors of today's kangaroos and were not agile and bounding like them. In the research, it was found that such contemporary kangaroos' extinct relatives travelled in quite a different way. Also Read: Largest animal on Earth spotted in Massachusetts in rare sighting The ancestors of modern-day kangaroos were called Protemnodon which exhibited different kinds of locomotion techniques which emphasised the diverse evolutionary history of marsupials. All about giant wallaby kangaroos The extinct kangaroo species, called Protemnodon, was a giant wallaby which existed in the Pleistocene era. This era lasted between two and a half million to ten thousand years ago. In comparison to modern kangaroos, these predecessors were far larger, however, they were not really hopping around, as per the latest study. Ancient kangaroos walked on four legs: Study It was earlier believed that even though they had large sizes, the ancient kangaroos hopped in a similar way to their descendants. In a new study, conducted by a team of researchers, it has been found that these mega-marsupials were actually quadrupedal, which means they preferred to walk on all four legs. University of Bristol's former master's student Billie Jones had earlier said that the giant wallaby has chances of being a quadrupedal. The suggested theory was confirmed by the research team after they took a quantitative look at the animal's limb proportions. Watch: Finger found in Ice Cream, followed by disturbing animal find in deliveries The scientists found that the limb proportions of Protemnodon were not like any other living kangaroos. It's short feet were one of the main reasons why it was believed Protemnodon was a quadrupedal creature. “There had been some speculation in a graduate thesis from the University of Uppsala that it might have been more quadrupedal in its habits compared to living kangaroos,” said Jones, the study's lead author. “This new paper draws on a couple of previous quantitative studies that looked at the anatomy of the humerus (upper arm bone) in a diversity of mammals, and concluded that Protemnodon habitually put more weight on its forelimbs than kangaroos today," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Giant kangaroos didn't hop on two legs, they walked on all fours in Australia

Scientists finally have an idea of what a shark that lived in the sea during the Cretaceous Period looked like. Till now, only its teeth had been available for study. The fish had large and rounded teeth, which it used to crush shelled creatures. Scientists have discovered its remains from limestone quarries in northeastern Mexico which is helping them understand what the fish looked like. One of the fossils, found in Nuevo León near the municipality of Vallecillo, shows the complete skeletal elements of the fish.&nbsp;

The predator was first discovered in the 18th century and its fossil records only consist of teeth since shark skeletons are made of cartilage, which means they do not fossilise well. The latest discovery also helps us place the genus Ptychodus on the shark evolutionary tree. Experts say it will help know more about the evolution of present-day sharks. The study on the shark has been published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences.&nbsp;

Species belonging to the Ptychodus genus lived 100 and 80 million years ago. As per a CNN report, the fossils were discovered in deposits dating back to approximately 93.9 to 91.85 million years ago. The size of the shark is now believed to be smaller than once thought. They possibly were 9.7 metres in length, as opposed to the size of a previous species known as Ptychodus mortoni which was estimated at 11.2 metres.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-underground-cave-on-moon-that-could-be-prime-location-for-future-lunar-base-741166">Scientists find underground cave on Moon that could be prime location for future lunar base</a>

<h2>Why did it go extinct?</h2>

The six fossils found at the site, including the complete specimen, were studied and the study authors deduced that Ptychodus belonged to the order of sharks known as Lamniformes, or mackerel sharks. Notably, the extinct Otodus megalodon and the modern great white shark also belong to this group. The species of megamouth, sand, goblin and basking sharks, are also from the same family.&nbsp;

As per the study, the shape of the shark's body and the location of the fin suggest that it might have been a predator and possibly hunted sea turtles and large ammonites. Previously, it was believed that it was simply a bottom dweller and fed only on molluscs found on the ocean floor. The authors say it being a predator might have played a role in its extinction since the shark was now competing with other Late Cretaceous marine predators for food.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Scientists finally have an idea of what a shark that lived in the sea during the Cretaceous Period looked like. Till now, only its teeth had been available for study.

Scientists finally have an idea of what a shark that lived in the sea during the Cretaceous Period looked like. Till now, only its teeth had been available for study. The fish had large and rounded teeth, which it used to crush shelled creatures. Scientists have discovered its remains from limestone quarries in northeastern Mexico which is helping them understand what the fish looked like. One of the fossils, found in Nuevo León near the municipality of Vallecillo, shows the complete skeletal elements of the fish. The predator was first discovered in the 18th century and its fossil records only consist of teeth since shark skeletons are made of cartilage, which means they do not fossilise well. The latest discovery also helps us place the genus Ptychodus on the shark evolutionary tree. Experts say it will help know more about the evolution of present-day sharks. The study on the shark has been published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences. Species belonging to the Ptychodus genus lived 100 and 80 million years ago. As per a CNN report, the fossils were discovered in deposits dating back to approximately 93.9 to 91.85 million years ago. The size of the shark is now believed to be smaller than once thought. They possibly were 9.7 metres in length, as opposed to the size of a previous species known as Ptychodus mortoni which was estimated at 11.2 metres. Also Read: Scientists find underground cave on Moon that could be prime location for future lunar base Why did it go extinct? The six fossils found at the site, including the complete specimen, were studied and the study authors deduced that Ptychodus belonged to the order of sharks known as Lamniformes, or mackerel sharks. Notably, the extinct Otodus megalodon and the modern great white shark also belong to this group. The species of megamouth, sand, goblin and basking sharks, are also from the same family. As per the study, the shape of the shark's body and the location of the fin suggest that it might have been a predator and possibly hunted sea turtles and large ammonites. Previously, it was believed that it was simply a bottom dweller and fed only on molluscs found on the ocean floor. The authors say it being a predator might have played a role in its extinction since the shark was now competing with other Late Cretaceous marine predators for food.

Ancient shark that lived alongside dinosaurs might have been a predator

Scientists have confirmed a cave on the Moon and suspect that there are hundreds more. They believe that such caves could house future astronauts. The one confirmed is quite close to the region where Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed in 1969.&nbsp;

The cave is said to be reachable from an open pit in the Mare Tranquillitatis (Sea of Tranquility). As it is accessible from the surface, it has made the spot a prime location to build a future lunar base. It would serve as a natural shelter against the difficult lunar environment.&nbsp;

Leonardo Carrer, the study's first author, said, "The main advantage of caves is that they make available the main structural parts of a possible human base without requiring complex construction activities."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-shares-stunning-images-of-a-space-get-away-captured-by-webb-and-chandra-741018">NASA shares stunning images of a space get-away captured by Webb and Chandra</a>&nbsp;

The latest research published in Nature Astronomy titled, "Radar evidence of an accessible cave conduit on the Moon below the Mare Tranquillitatis pit", made this milestone discovery about the Moon and future lunar explorations.&nbsp;

The research, which is a result of an international collaboration, was published on Monday (Jul 15). Scientists for the first time have found evidence of&nbsp;a substantial underground cave on the Moon. Researchers suspect that the cave is an empty lava tube.&nbsp;

The study was partially funded by the Italian Space Agency. It also involved researchers of the University of Padua and La Venta Geographic Explorations APS. The researchers contributed to the geological analyses and the modelling of the identified conduit.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/our-sun-has-been-emanating-mysterious-radio-signals-for-decades-nasa-plans-to-find-the-exact-source-740983">Our sun is sending mysterious radio signals for decades. NASA plans to find the exact source</a>&nbsp;

NASA's lunar reconnaissance orbiter (LRO) radar data analysis showed that the Mare Tranquillitatis pit, the Moon's deepest known pit, leads to a cave that is up to 80 metres long and 45 metres wide. The cave lies about 150 metres beneath the surface.&nbsp;

As quoted in reports, Lorenzo Bruzzone, professor at the University of Trento, explained: "These caves have been theorized for over 50 years, but it is the first time ever that we have demonstrated their existence."&nbsp;

Explaining further, Bruzzone said, "In 2010, as part of the ongoing LRO NASA mission, the Miniature Radio-Frequency (Mini-RF) instrument acquired data that included a pit in Mare Tranquilitatis."&nbsp;

"Years later we have reanalyzed these data with complex signal processing techniques we have recently developed, and have discovered radar reflections from the area of the pit that are best explained by an underground cave conduit," he added. &nbsp;

The scientist said that the "discovery provides the first direct evidence of an accessible lava tube under the surface of the Moon".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Scientists have confirmed a cave on the Moon and suspect that there are hundreds more. They believe that such caves could house future astronauts. The one confirmed is quite close to the region where Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed in 1969.

Scientists have confirmed a cave on the Moon and suspect that there are hundreds more. They believe that such caves could house future astronauts. The one confirmed is quite close to the region where Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed in 1969. The cave is said to be reachable from an open pit in the Mare Tranquillitatis (Sea of Tranquility). As it is accessible from the surface, it has made the spot a prime location to build a future lunar base. It would serve as a natural shelter against the difficult lunar environment. Leonardo Carrer, the study's first author, said, "The main advantage of caves is that they make available the main structural parts of a possible human base without requiring complex construction activities." Also read: NASA shares stunning images of a space get-away captured by Webb and Chandra The latest research published in Nature Astronomy titled, "Radar evidence of an accessible cave conduit on the Moon below the Mare Tranquillitatis pit", made this milestone discovery about the Moon and future lunar explorations. The research, which is a result of an international collaboration, was published on Monday (Jul 15). Scientists for the first time have found evidence of a substantial underground cave on the Moon. Researchers suspect that the cave is an empty lava tube. The study was partially funded by the Italian Space Agency. It also involved researchers of the University of Padua and La Venta Geographic Explorations APS. The researchers contributed to the geological analyses and the modelling of the identified conduit. Also read: Our sun is sending mysterious radio signals for decades. NASA plans to find the exact source NASA's lunar reconnaissance orbiter (LRO) radar data analysis showed that the Mare Tranquillitatis pit, the Moon's deepest known pit, leads to a cave that is up to 80 metres long and 45 metres wide. The cave lies about 150 metres beneath the surface. As quoted in reports, Lorenzo Bruzzone, professor at the University of Trento, explained: "These caves have been theorized for over 50 years, but it is the first time ever that we have demonstrated their existence." Explaining further, Bruzzone said, "In 2010, as part of the ongoing LRO NASA mission, the Miniature Radio-Frequency (Mini-RF) instrument acquired data that included a pit in Mare Tranquilitatis." "Years later we have reanalyzed these data with complex signal processing techniques we have recently developed, and have discovered radar reflections from the area of the pit that are best explained by an underground cave conduit," he added. The scientist said that the "discovery provides the first direct evidence of an accessible lava tube under the surface of the Moon". (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists find underground cave on Moon that could be prime location for future lunar base

Researchers from the UK and the United States have uncovered crucial insights into how pancreatic cancer spreads in the human body. Their work has paved the way for potential new treatments for one of the world's deadliest diseases.

<h2>How pancreatic cancer spreads?</h2>

The team discovered that pancreatic cancer can deactivate molecules in a critical gene due to which the disease spreads at an alarming speed. The development is being deemed as a game-changer in the battle against pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer has the lowest survival rates among common cancers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/indian-officials-find-cancer-causing-substance-in-golgappa-samples-736869">Indian officials find cancer-causing substance in Golgappa samples</a>

It ranks as the 12th most common cancer globally, with over half a million new cases each year. The disease is notorious for its poor prognosis, with most patients succumbing within three months of diagnosis.&nbsp;

High-profile victims include Alan Rickman, John Hurt, Steve Jobs, and Patrick Swayze.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-new-method-which-can-destroy-99-of-cancer-cells-eliminate-need-for-invasive-surgeries-674342">Scientists find new method which can destroy 99% of cancer cells, eliminate need for invasive surgeries</a>

Dr. Maria Hatziapostolou from Nottingham Trent University's John van Geest Cancer Research Centre told the Guardian: "This work has provided new understanding and knowledge of how pancreatic cancer behaves. It will hopefully help pave the way for potential new treatments in the future."

<h2>Pancreatic cancer triggers DNA methylation: Research</h2>

The study, published in the journal Gastro Hep Advances, involved the analysis of both healthy and cancerous pancreatic tissue samples.&nbsp;

Researchers identified that pancreatic cancer triggers DNA methylation, a process that switches off molecules in the HNF4A gene. This gene is essential for the proper functioning of many organs, but pancreatic cancer can deactivate its benefits, leading to rapid tumor growth.

Also watch |&nbsp;Obesity fuelling 32 types of cancer: Research

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/obesity-fuelling-32-types-of-cancer-research-720490/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Loss of HNF4A drives pancreatic cancer development and aggressiveness and we now know correlates with poor patient survival," Dr Hatziapostolou added.

The project included scientists from the University of Nottingham, Stanford University, the University of California, and Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre in Los Angeles.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers from the UK and the United States have uncovered crucial insights into how pancreatic cancer spreads in the human body. Their work has paved the way for potential new treatments for one of the world's deadliest diseases.

Researchers from the UK and the United States have uncovered crucial insights into how pancreatic cancer spreads in the human body. Their work has paved the way for potential new treatments for one of the world's deadliest diseases. How pancreatic cancer spreads? The team discovered that pancreatic cancer can deactivate molecules in a critical gene due to which the disease spreads at an alarming speed. The development is being deemed as a game-changer in the battle against pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer has the lowest survival rates among common cancers. Also read | Indian officials find cancer-causing substance in Golgappa samples It ranks as the 12th most common cancer globally, with over half a million new cases each year. The disease is notorious for its poor prognosis, with most patients succumbing within three months of diagnosis. High-profile victims include Alan Rickman, John Hurt, Steve Jobs, and Patrick Swayze. Also read | Scientists find new method which can destroy 99% of cancer cells, eliminate need for invasive surgeries Dr. Maria Hatziapostolou from Nottingham Trent University's John van Geest Cancer Research Centre told the Guardian: "This work has provided new understanding and knowledge of how pancreatic cancer behaves. It will hopefully help pave the way for potential new treatments in the future." Pancreatic cancer triggers DNA methylation: Research The study, published in the journal Gastro Hep Advances, involved the analysis of both healthy and cancerous pancreatic tissue samples. Researchers identified that pancreatic cancer triggers DNA methylation, a process that switches off molecules in the HNF4A gene. This gene is essential for the proper functioning of many organs, but pancreatic cancer can deactivate its benefits, leading to rapid tumor growth. Also watch | Obesity fuelling 32 types of cancer: Research × "Loss of HNF4A drives pancreatic cancer development and aggressiveness and we now know correlates with poor patient survival," Dr Hatziapostolou added. The project included scientists from the University of Nottingham, Stanford University, the University of California, and Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre in Los Angeles. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists find why pancreatic cancer spreads at alarming speed, discovery may hold key to cure

Our Sun is emanating mysterious radio waves and NASA plans to study the occurrence. The CubeSat Radio Interferometry Experiment, or CURIE, was launched from the &nbsp;European Space Agency Ariane 6 rocket in early July to study the radio waves that were first noticed decades ago. Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and solar flares mostly create auroras on Earth. But they also produce mysterious radio signals, and the exact point of origin has never been identified.&nbsp;

For years these radio waves were believed to be originating from solar flares and CMEs, but in 2023 astronomers discovered that sunspots, along with the cooler, darker, and more magnetically active areas of the Sun also housed them.&nbsp;

The CURIE mission will deploy a pair of tiny satellite units called CubeSats in orbit around Earth. CURIE was chosen in 2020 and started as a 6U CubeSat before separating into two 3U spacecraft. CubeSats can be combined into larger configurations depending on the requirements.

"This is a very ambitious and very exciting mission," David Sundkvist, the principal investigator of the CURIE mission said. "This is the first time that someone is ever flying a radio interferometer in space in a controlled way, and so it's a pathfinder for radio astronomy in general."

The CubeSats, about the size of a shoebox, will be deployed 360 miles above the Earth's surface, from where they will be able to scan radio waves between 0.1 and 19 megahertz. Such radio waves would normally be absorbed by the Earth's upper atmosphere. The twin satellites will be two miles apart from each other and will measure the time differences between radio signals reaching each satellite. This method will help scientists understand the point of origin of these radio waves.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watching-sports-makes-your-life-more-fulfilling-study-suggests-740930">Study suggests sports enthusiasts have more rewarding and fulfilling lives</a>

<h2>How do solar flares affect Earth?</h2>

When solar flares hit the Earth's atmosphere, the result is beautiful auroras. However, stronger flares also disrupt communication equipment. Our planet's magnetic field acts as a shield,&nbsp;protecting us from heavy radiation levels emanating from the Sun, which spread throughout the solar system. On Mars, where there is no atmosphere or a magnetic field, a strong solar particle event leads to high radiation, with one of the recent ones being recorded at 30 times higher than a chest X-ray would produce.&nbsp;

CURIE mission will be followed by the Sun Radio Interferometer Space Experiment, or SunRISE, mission. Using the results of the CURIE mission, the latter will use six CubeSats to prepare two-dimensional maps of the areas where solar radio waves originate.

The data from both the missions will be crucial in understanding the effects of solar storms on the solar system and how they impact Earth's environment.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Our Sun is emanating mysterious radio waves and NASA plans to study the occurrence. The CubeSat Radio Interferometry Experiment, or CURIE, was launched from the European Space Agency Ariane 6 rocket in early July to study the radio waves that were first noticed decades ago.

Our Sun is emanating mysterious radio waves and NASA plans to study the occurrence. The CubeSat Radio Interferometry Experiment, or CURIE, was launched from the European Space Agency Ariane 6 rocket in early July to study the radio waves that were first noticed decades ago. Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and solar flares mostly create auroras on Earth. But they also produce mysterious radio signals, and the exact point of origin has never been identified. For years these radio waves were believed to be originating from solar flares and CMEs, but in 2023 astronomers discovered that sunspots, along with the cooler, darker, and more magnetically active areas of the Sun also housed them. The CURIE mission will deploy a pair of tiny satellite units called CubeSats in orbit around Earth. CURIE was chosen in 2020 and started as a 6U CubeSat before separating into two 3U spacecraft. CubeSats can be combined into larger configurations depending on the requirements. "This is a very ambitious and very exciting mission," David Sundkvist, the principal investigator of the CURIE mission said. "This is the first time that someone is ever flying a radio interferometer in space in a controlled way, and so it's a pathfinder for radio astronomy in general." The CubeSats, about the size of a shoebox, will be deployed 360 miles above the Earth's surface, from where they will be able to scan radio waves between 0.1 and 19 megahertz. Such radio waves would normally be absorbed by the Earth's upper atmosphere. The twin satellites will be two miles apart from each other and will measure the time differences between radio signals reaching each satellite. This method will help scientists understand the point of origin of these radio waves. Also Read: Study suggests sports enthusiasts have more rewarding and fulfilling lives How do solar flares affect Earth? When solar flares hit the Earth's atmosphere, the result is beautiful auroras. However, stronger flares also disrupt communication equipment. Our planet's magnetic field acts as a shield, protecting us from heavy radiation levels emanating from the Sun, which spread throughout the solar system. On Mars, where there is no atmosphere or a magnetic field, a strong solar particle event leads to high radiation, with one of the recent ones being recorded at 30 times higher than a chest X-ray would produce. CURIE mission will be followed by the Sun Radio Interferometer Space Experiment, or SunRISE, mission. Using the results of the CURIE mission, the latter will use six CubeSats to prepare two-dimensional maps of the areas where solar radio waves originate. The data from both the missions will be crucial in understanding the effects of solar storms on the solar system and how they impact Earth's environment.

Our sun is sending mysterious radio signals for decades. NASA plans to find the exact source

NASA's latest asteroid alert is about an aeroplane-sized space rock hurtling towards Earth at a speed of 73,055 km/hr. The space agency has released a list of asteroids that will come close to our planet in the next 8-9 days. The biggest of these is the 220-foot (67 metre) asteroid named 2024 NF. It will make its closest approach to Earth on July 17.&nbsp;

<h2>Does it pose a danger to Earth?</h2>

As per NASA, only those space bodies that make an approach as close as 4.6 million miles and are bigger than 150 metres&nbsp;in size pose a danger. However, since asteroid 2024 NF is only about 67 metres in size, it is not going to cause any damage. Notably, the asteroid will come as close as three million miles, as per NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory data.&nbsp;

NASA regularly keeps an eye out for near-Earth objects that can pose a danger. There are four more asteroids that are going to come close to Earth in the coming days. But their sheer size means that they will not cause any harm.&nbsp;

Asteroid 2024 BY15 is approaching Earth on July 16 and will be 3.85 million miles from Earth at its closest point.&nbsp;

Asteroid 2024 NJ3 will be extremely close to Earth at 762,000 miles on July 17, but it is merely 47 feet in length.&nbsp;

On July 21, another asteroid will fly close by. Asteroid 2024 MG1, 55 metres in length, will be 2.64 million miles away from Earth.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-shares-stunning-images-of-a-space-get-away-captured-by-webb-and-chandra-741018">NASA shares stunning images of a space get-away captured by Webb and Chandra</a>

<h2>Why does NASA monitor asteroids?</h2>

Asteroids have the ability to cause major destruction to planets. The space agency regularly keeps an eye on near-Earth objects which can be classified as hazardous based on criteria. Besides protecting the planet against any impending doom, monitoring asteroids also lets NASA study these celestial visitors. By learning about their movement and travel patterns, scientists can devise ways to create safety plans for the future in case a potentially hazardous asteroid threatens Earth.&nbsp;

The DART is one such mission which aims to destroy an asteroid in the event of it becoming a threat to our planet. 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;

NASA's latest asteroid alert is about an aeroplane-sized space rock hurtling towards Earth at a speed of 73,055 km/hr. The space agency has released a list of asteroids that will come close to our planet in the next 8-9 days.

NASA's latest asteroid alert is about an aeroplane-sized space rock hurtling towards Earth at a speed of 73,055 km/hr. The space agency has released a list of asteroids that will come close to our planet in the next 8-9 days. The biggest of these is the 220-foot (67 metre) asteroid named 2024 NF. It will make its closest approach to Earth on July 17. Does it pose a danger to Earth? As per NASA, only those space bodies that make an approach as close as 4.6 million miles and are bigger than 150 metres in size pose a danger. However, since asteroid 2024 NF is only about 67 metres in size, it is not going to cause any damage. Notably, the asteroid will come as close as three million miles, as per NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory data. NASA regularly keeps an eye out for near-Earth objects that can pose a danger. There are four more asteroids that are going to come close to Earth in the coming days. But their sheer size means that they will not cause any harm. Asteroid 2024 BY15 is approaching Earth on July 16 and will be 3.85 million miles from Earth at its closest point. Asteroid 2024 NJ3 will be extremely close to Earth at 762,000 miles on July 17, but it is merely 47 feet in length. On July 21, another asteroid will fly close by. Asteroid 2024 MG1, 55 metres in length, will be 2.64 million miles away from Earth. Also Read: NASA shares stunning images of a space get-away captured by Webb and Chandra Why does NASA monitor asteroids? Asteroids have the ability to cause major destruction to planets. The space agency regularly keeps an eye on near-Earth objects which can be classified as hazardous based on criteria. Besides protecting the planet against any impending doom, monitoring asteroids also lets NASA study these celestial visitors. By learning about their movement and travel patterns, scientists can devise ways to create safety plans for the future in case a potentially hazardous asteroid threatens Earth. The DART is one such mission which aims to destroy an asteroid in the event of it becoming a threat to our planet. 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.

Asteroid 2024 NF hurtling towards Earth will come extremely close on this date

NASA has shared some incredible pictures clicked by its Chandra X-ray Observatory and James Webb Space Telescope. Describing the experience as a cosmic road trip, NASA took the readers on a trip to "four stunning destinations across space".&nbsp;

Located at a distance of about 390 light-years from Earth, Rho Ophiuchi is the first stop. It is a cloud complex filled with gas and stars of different sizes and ages. It is one of the closest star-forming regions and of particular interest to astronomers. X-rays from Chandra show infant stars in purple, while infrared data from Webb are red, yellow, cyan, light blue and darker blue, showing views of the spectacular regions of gas and dust.

<img alt="Rho Ophiuchi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e5deb31e-55dc-46de-a8fc-c3d94353b2bb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/rho.png" />

Orion Nebula, located in the Milky Way, is about 1,500 light-years away from Earth. This nebula can be seen through a small telescope. Chandra and Webb have captured young stars glowing brightly and the gas and dust in the nebula. The stars are coloured red, green, and blue, while the gas and dust, captured by Webb, are darker red.

<img alt="Orion Nebula" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="20835c27-f54a-4b8d-aac1-2525772f922f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/orion.png" />

The third photo in the series if of another galaxy, the spiral galaxy called NGC 3627. The central region of this galaxy is rectangular, which is why it is also known as a barred spiral galaxy. Two distinct spiral arms appear as arcs in the photo. Chandra has captured a supermassive black hole at its centre in purple. Dust and gas are also visible throughout the galaxy.

<img alt="NGC 3627" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d328355e-f83c-4109-b5a0-1b6060e7ebd7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/NGC.png" />

A picture of the galaxy cluster MACS J0416 has also been shared. It is the farthest place of the four from Earth and as per NASA, "is among the largest objects in the Universe held together by gravity". The cluster is said to contain hundreds or thousands of galaxies. The galaxies in the photo can be seen in red, green and blue.&nbsp;

<img alt="MACS J0416" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="620b92fb-684c-47ff-afb5-293fae0425ed" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/MACS.png" />

NASA has shared some incredible pictures clicked by its Chandra X-ray Observatory and James Webb Space Telescope. Describing the experience as a cosmic road trip, NASA took the readers on a trip to "four stunning destinations across space".

NASA has shared some incredible pictures clicked by its Chandra X-ray Observatory and James Webb Space Telescope. Describing the experience as a cosmic road trip, NASA took the readers on a trip to "four stunning destinations across space". Located at a distance of about 390 light-years from Earth, Rho Ophiuchi is the first stop. It is a cloud complex filled with gas and stars of different sizes and ages. It is one of the closest star-forming regions and of particular interest to astronomers. X-rays from Chandra show infant stars in purple, while infrared data from Webb are red, yellow, cyan, light blue and darker blue, showing views of the spectacular regions of gas and dust. Orion Nebula, located in the Milky Way, is about 1,500 light-years away from Earth. This nebula can be seen through a small telescope. Chandra and Webb have captured young stars glowing brightly and the gas and dust in the nebula. The stars are coloured red, green, and blue, while the gas and dust, captured by Webb, are darker red. The third photo in the series if of another galaxy, the spiral galaxy called NGC 3627. The central region of this galaxy is rectangular, which is why it is also known as a barred spiral galaxy. Two distinct spiral arms appear as arcs in the photo. Chandra has captured a supermassive black hole at its centre in purple. Dust and gas are also visible throughout the galaxy. A picture of the galaxy cluster MACS J0416 has also been shared. It is the farthest place of the four from Earth and as per NASA, "is among the largest objects in the Universe held together by gravity". The cluster is said to contain hundreds or thousands of galaxies. The galaxies in the photo can be seen in red, green and blue.

NASA shares stunning images of a space get-away captured by Webb and Chandra

Researchers from Columbia University in the United States have identified the specific area in the brain where curiosity originates. The finding reveals new light on the intrinsic human drive to learn and adapt to new environments.

The researchers utilised functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to monitor oxygen levels in various brain regions, a method that reveals how active each area is at a given time. This way, the scientists pinpointed the neural basis of curiosity for the first time.

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

The humanity's understanding of where curiosity stems from could provide deeper insights into human behaviour and potentially lead to new therapies for conditions marked by a lack of curiosity, such as chronic depression.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Chinese scientists develop robot with lab-grown human brain

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinese-scientists-develop-robot-with-lab-grown-human-brain-737584/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"This is really the first time we can link the subjective feeling of curiosity about information to the way your brain represents that information," neuroscientist Jacqueline Gottlieb said in a statement.

<h2>Curiosity area in brain: How scientists pinpointed this?</h2>

During their study, the researchers presented 32 participants with texforms, which are images of familiar objects and animals—like hats or frogs—that have been distorted to varying degrees.&nbsp;

The participants were then asked to rate their confidence and curiosity in identifying the subjects of these images.

By comparing these ratings with fMRI data, the researchers observed significant activity in three key brain regions: the occipitotemporal cortex (associated with vision and object recognition), the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), which is involved in assessing value and confidence, and the anterior cingulate cortex (responsible for information gathering).

The vmPFC, in particular, seems to function as a neural bridge. This area links the levels of certainty recorded by the occipitotemporal cortex with the subjective experience of curiosity. Essentially, it acts as a trigger that prompts curiosity when confidence in identifying an image is low. The researchers noted that the less confident participants were about an image's subject, the more curious they became.

"These results illuminate how perceptual input is transformed by successive neural representations to ultimately evoke a feeling of curiosity," the researchers wrote in their published paper.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/robot-trained-to-read-braille-at-2x-speed-of-humans-wion-tech-it-out-686839">Robot trained to read braille at 2x speed of humans</a>

The full research findings have been published in the Journal of Neuroscience.

<h2>Importance of curiosity in humanity's functioning</h2>

Curiosity is a fundamental aspect of being human, essential for our survival and ability to learn and absorb new information. It may even play a role in driving biodiversity. "Curiosity has deep biological origins," Gottlieb noted. "What distinguishes human curiosity is that it drives us to explore much more broadly than other animals, and often just because we want to find things out, not because we are seeking a material reward or survival benefit."

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers from Columbia University in the United States have identified the specific area in the brain where curiosity originates. The finding reveals new light on the intrinsic human drive to learn and adapt to new environments.

Researchers from Columbia University in the United States have identified the specific area in the brain where curiosity originates. The finding reveals new light on the intrinsic human drive to learn and adapt to new environments. The researchers utilised functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to monitor oxygen levels in various brain regions, a method that reveals how active each area is at a given time. This way, the scientists pinpointed the neural basis of curiosity for the first time. What does it mean? The humanity's understanding of where curiosity stems from could provide deeper insights into human behaviour and potentially lead to new therapies for conditions marked by a lack of curiosity, such as chronic depression. Also watch | Gravitas: Chinese scientists develop robot with lab-grown human brain × "This is really the first time we can link the subjective feeling of curiosity about information to the way your brain represents that information," neuroscientist Jacqueline Gottlieb said in a statement. Curiosity area in brain: How scientists pinpointed this? During their study, the researchers presented 32 participants with texforms, which are images of familiar objects and animals—like hats or frogs—that have been distorted to varying degrees. The participants were then asked to rate their confidence and curiosity in identifying the subjects of these images. By comparing these ratings with fMRI data, the researchers observed significant activity in three key brain regions: the occipitotemporal cortex (associated with vision and object recognition), the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), which is involved in assessing value and confidence, and the anterior cingulate cortex (responsible for information gathering). The vmPFC, in particular, seems to function as a neural bridge. This area links the levels of certainty recorded by the occipitotemporal cortex with the subjective experience of curiosity. Essentially, it acts as a trigger that prompts curiosity when confidence in identifying an image is low. The researchers noted that the less confident participants were about an image's subject, the more curious they became. "These results illuminate how perceptual input is transformed by successive neural representations to ultimately evoke a feeling of curiosity," the researchers wrote in their published paper. Also read | Robot trained to read braille at 2x speed of humans The full research findings have been published in the Journal of Neuroscience. Importance of curiosity in humanity's functioning Curiosity is a fundamental aspect of being human, essential for our survival and ability to learn and absorb new information. It may even play a role in driving biodiversity. "Curiosity has deep biological origins," Gottlieb noted. "What distinguishes human curiosity is that it drives us to explore much more broadly than other animals, and often just because we want to find things out, not because we are seeking a material reward or survival benefit." (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists pinpoint brain area responsible for curiosity

A new definition of what a planet is, has been proposed by planetary scientists to replace the one which already exists, and is seen as outdated and sun-centric by many experts.&nbsp;

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) had established the current definition in 2006 which says to qualify for a planet a celestial body needs to orbit the sun in our solar system.

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) is the organisation which officially names objects present in space.

In an article, which is to be published in the Planetary Science Journal, the scientists have argued that there is a new definition needed for a planet, which includes celestial bodies unrestrained by the bounds of our solar system.&nbsp;

The proposal further speaks about adding quantitative criteria to give clarity to the definition of a planet. Currently, the paper is available&nbsp;on the&nbsp;arXiv&nbsp;preprint server.

UCLA professor of Earth, planetary and space sciences and of physics and astronomy and the article's lead author Jean-Luc Margot will be presenting the proposed new definition of the planet at the IAU General Assembly in August 2024.

According to the current definition, a planet refers to a celestial body which orbits the sun and is big enough for gravity to force it into a spherical shape and clear away other objects which are close to its orbit around the sun.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/unknown-planet-lurking-in-our-solar-system-scientists-say-earth-may-have-a-new-neighbour-740531">Unknown planet lurking in our Solar System? Scientists say Earth may have a new neighbour</a>

"The current definition specifically mentions orbiting our sun. We now know about the existence of thousands of&nbsp;planets, but the IAU definition applies only to the ones in our solar system," said Margot.&nbsp;

"We propose a new definition that can be applied to celestial bodies that orbit any star, stellar remnant or brown dwarf," he added.

<h2>Why do authors want to redefine the planet?</h2>

The authors have argued although the requirement to orbit the Sun is very specific, the other criteria in the definition sanctioned by the IAU are vague.

The definition says that the planet has "cleared its orbit" without clearly saying what it means.

In the new definition, there is a quantifiable criterion which can be applied for defining planets which are mentioned inside and outside our solar system.

Watch:&nbsp;Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaganyaan-mission-indian-astronaut-to-fly-to-space-station-by-2026-740296/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Margot and co-authors Brett Gladman of the University of British Columbia and Tony Yang worked on a mathematical algorithm to understand how objects cluster together in our solar system.

In the analysis, it was found that the planets share distinct qualities in our solar system which can be used as a starting point to build a taxonomy for the planets.

"All the planets in our solar system are dynamically dominant, but other objects—including dwarf planets like Pluto and asteroids—are not. So this property can be included in the definition of planet," Margot said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A new definition of what a planet is, has been proposed by planetary scientists to replace the one which already exists, and is seen as outdated and sun-centric by many experts.

A new definition of what a planet is, has been proposed by planetary scientists to replace the one which already exists, and is seen as outdated and sun-centric by many experts. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) had established the current definition in 2006 which says to qualify for a planet a celestial body needs to orbit the sun in our solar system. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) is the organisation which officially names objects present in space. In an article, which is to be published in the Planetary Science Journal, the scientists have argued that there is a new definition needed for a planet, which includes celestial bodies unrestrained by the bounds of our solar system. The proposal further speaks about adding quantitative criteria to give clarity to the definition of a planet. Currently, the paper is available on the arXiv preprint server. UCLA professor of Earth, planetary and space sciences and of physics and astronomy and the article's lead author Jean-Luc Margot will be presenting the proposed new definition of the planet at the IAU General Assembly in August 2024. According to the current definition, a planet refers to a celestial body which orbits the sun and is big enough for gravity to force it into a spherical shape and clear away other objects which are close to its orbit around the sun. Also Read: Unknown planet lurking in our Solar System? Scientists say Earth may have a new neighbour "The current definition specifically mentions orbiting our sun. We now know about the existence of thousands of planets, but the IAU definition applies only to the ones in our solar system," said Margot. "We propose a new definition that can be applied to celestial bodies that orbit any star, stellar remnant or brown dwarf," he added. Why do authors want to redefine the planet? The authors have argued although the requirement to orbit the Sun is very specific, the other criteria in the definition sanctioned by the IAU are vague. The definition says that the planet has "cleared its orbit" without clearly saying what it means. In the new definition, there is a quantifiable criterion which can be applied for defining planets which are mentioned inside and outside our solar system. Watch: Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August Margot and co-authors Brett Gladman of the University of British Columbia and Tony Yang worked on a mathematical algorithm to understand how objects cluster together in our solar system. In the analysis, it was found that the planets share distinct qualities in our solar system which can be used as a starting point to build a taxonomy for the planets. "All the planets in our solar system are dynamically dominant, but other objects—including dwarf planets like Pluto and asteroids—are not. So this property can be included in the definition of planet," Margot said. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists plan to revisit definition of planet but Pluto still remains out of list

A warning was issued by NASA after they spotted a 100-foot&nbsp;asteroid&nbsp;named&nbsp;2024 NB2 which is about to make an extremely close flyby Earth on Saturday (July 13).

The aeroplane-sized asteroid is travelling at a stunning speed of 47,921 kilometres per hour. Even though it will be very close to the Earth, scientists believe that it won't act as an immediate threat to the planet.

The astronomers spotted asteroid 2024 NB2 racing towards Earth at the Catalina Sky Survey in Tucson, Arizona.

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has been closely monitoring this near-Earth object in Southern California.&nbsp;

When the space rock makes its closest approach, the asteroid will be just 2,390,000 miles (3,850,000 kilometres) away from Earth. In astronomical terms, this distance is considered safe.

Asteroid 2024 NB2 is also being tracked by the Goldstone Solar System Radar, which is part of NASA’s Deep Space Network.&nbsp;

This radar system, which is located near Barstow, can give detailed observation of the size, orbit and speed of the asteroid.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/asteroid-2024-mt-1-makes-extremely-close-approach-to-earth-739111">Asteroid 2024 MT-1 makes extremely close approach to Earth</a>

Such observations are important to understand how near-Earth objects behave in space and improvise planetary defence strategies.

<h2>How does NASA keep an eye on any potential hazards to Earth?</h2>

The way Asteroid 2024 NB2 is moving towards Earth also reflects the importance of keeping a tab on space to detect any potential hazards.&nbsp;

NASA’s Planetary Defence Coordination Office (PDCO) has been tracking such cosmic objects and ensuring that Earth remains safe.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaganyaan-mission-indian-astronaut-to-fly-to-space-station-by-2026-740296/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The high speed at which the asteroid is travelling shows the solar system's dynamic nature.&nbsp;

Asteroids keep moving across space constantly and are influenced by the planets' gravitation pull.&nbsp;

The scientists can predict future trajectories by understanding their movements. It also helps in assessing potential risks.

(With inputs from agencies)

A warning was issued by NASA after they spotted a 100-foot asteroid named 2024 NB2 which is about to make an extremely close flyby Earth on Saturday (July 13). The aeroplane-sized asteroid is travelling at a stunning speed of 47,921 kilometres per hour.

A warning was issued by NASA after they spotted a 100-foot asteroid named 2024 NB2 which is about to make an extremely close flyby Earth on Saturday (July 13). The aeroplane-sized asteroid is travelling at a stunning speed of 47,921 kilometres per hour. Even though it will be very close to the Earth, scientists believe that it won't act as an immediate threat to the planet. The astronomers spotted asteroid 2024 NB2 racing towards Earth at the Catalina Sky Survey in Tucson, Arizona. NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has been closely monitoring this near-Earth object in Southern California. When the space rock makes its closest approach, the asteroid will be just 2,390,000 miles (3,850,000 kilometres) away from Earth. In astronomical terms, this distance is considered safe. Asteroid 2024 NB2 is also being tracked by the Goldstone Solar System Radar, which is part of NASA’s Deep Space Network. This radar system, which is located near Barstow, can give detailed observation of the size, orbit and speed of the asteroid. Also Read: Asteroid 2024 MT-1 makes extremely close approach to Earth Such observations are important to understand how near-Earth objects behave in space and improvise planetary defence strategies. How does NASA keep an eye on any potential hazards to Earth? The way Asteroid 2024 NB2 is moving towards Earth also reflects the importance of keeping a tab on space to detect any potential hazards. NASA’s Planetary Defence Coordination Office (PDCO) has been tracking such cosmic objects and ensuring that Earth remains safe. Watch: Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August The high speed at which the asteroid is travelling shows the solar system's dynamic nature. Asteroids keep moving across space constantly and are influenced by the planets' gravitation pull. The scientists can predict future trajectories by understanding their movements. It also helps in assessing potential risks. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA issues sudden warning as 100ft asteroid races towards Earth at lightning speed

It is very well known that there are eight planets in our Solar System and then a dwarf planet - Pluto. But now the astronomers are suspecting there is a 7 per cent chance that another planet is hiding in the Oort cloud near Earth.

It is very well known that there are eight planets in our Solar System and then a dwarf planet - Pluto. But now the astronomers are suspecting there is a 7 per cent chance that another planet is hiding in the Oort cloud near Earth. Oort cloud is a spherical region in space which is filled with ice chunks and rocks and is tens of thousands of times far from the Sun. Co-author of the study and astronomer at the Planetary Science Institute Nathan Kaib said, “It’s completely plausible for our solar system to have captured such an Oort cloud planet." He added that hidden worlds like this are “a class of planets that should definitely exist but have received relatively little attention” until now. Also Read: Strictly speaking, Earth is not revolving around the Sun currently. Here's what it means In case, there is a planet in the Oort cloud, it is likely to be an ice giant. Generally, large planets like Saturn and Jupiter come into existence as twins. However, such planets have huge gravitational pulls and can even destabilise another planet. This can lead to the nudging of a planet from the Solar System and moving it entirely to the outer reaches where the Oort Cloud is present. University of Bordeaux’s Astrophysics Laboratory researcher and lead author Sean Raymond said, “The survivor planets have eccentric orbits, which are like the scars from their violent pasts." How is an Oort cloud planet different from other planets? So a planet inside the Oort Cloud is likely to have a significantly elongated orbit, which is very different from the near-perfect circular shape of the Earth. The scientists find it difficult to spot such planets because they are far away. “It would be extremely hard to detect,” said Raymond. Watch: NASA releases Webb telescope images of a galactic merger Meanwhile, an astronomer at MIT Malena Rice said, “If a Neptune-sized planet existed in our own Oort cloud, there’s a good chance that we wouldn’t have found it yet." “Amazingly, it can sometimes be easier to spot planets hundreds of light-years away than those right in our own backyard," the astronomer said, reported indy100. (With inputs from agencies)

Unknown planet lurking in our Solar System? Scientists say Earth may have a new neighbour

An international team of researchers finally found a fossilised skeleton of a giant basal tetrapod in the arid region of Namibia after three years of research.

Basal tetrapods were four-legged vertebrates which existed when the predators made the crucial transition from water to land.&nbsp;

The researchers have now found the three-metre-long skeleton in the Ugab River valley which is the largest one ever discovered. Its discovery has also jeopardised the theory that early vertebrates existed only in the northern hemisphere.&nbsp;

The skeleton's discovery gave scientists insight into the terrestrial animals' early evolution.

<h2>A nearly complete skeleton leaves scientists amazed</h2>

The team was surveying the rugged terrain during the fieldwork in Namibia when they made the significant discovery.&nbsp;

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/black-hole-of-palaeontology-dinosaur-that-burrowed-and-lived-underground-discovered-739519">&nbsp;'Black hole of palaeontology': Dinosaur that burrowed and lived underground discovered</a>

In a statement, study co-author Roger Smith said, "The nearly complete skeleton was preserved in mudstone from an ancient freshwater lake. As the soft tissue decomposed, gasses formed that caused calcium carbonate to crystallize around the bones, creating a hard crust that protected them from being crushed as they were buried deeper."

Meanwhile, Iziko Museum's skilled fossil technician, Sibusiso Mtungata, remembered how the discovery was made.&nbsp;

“We had found isolated vertebrae of something big, so we were looking for a more complete&nbsp;skeleton. I came across two round cylinders of rock with bone in the middle, which fitted together – and then a third. I called Roger over to help me find more, and as we walked upslope, he spotted a large flat rock, which he recognised as the head," said Mtungata.

He added, “When we looked along the edge and saw rows of teeth, we knew we had finally found what we had been searching for – a nearly complete skull and skeleton!"

<h2>Basal tetrapod with large interlocking fangs&nbsp;</h2>

Palaeontologist at the&nbsp;University of Buenos Aires, Argentina and lead author Claudia Marsicano said that she knew it was different from other species.

“As soon as I saw this enormous animal, I knew it was a different species. There is no record of giant basal tetrapods during the Carboniferous-Permian transition (approximately 299 million years ago) anywhere in the world, and certainly none from the southern continents that made up Gondwana," Marsicano said.

Watch:&nbsp;South African government to ban captive breeding of Lions

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-african-government-to-ban-captive-breeding-of-lions-740291/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“What caught my attention next was the structure of the front part of the skull, which was sticking out of the ground. It showed unusually large interlocking fangs," she added.

The scientists suggested that it was an ambush predator who was feeding on fish which lived in the same lake.

(With inputs from agencies)

An international team of researchers finally found a fossilised skeleton of a giant basal tetrapod in the arid region of Namibia after three years of research. Basal tetrapods were four-legged vertebrates which existed when the predators made the crucial transition from water to land.

An international team of researchers finally found a fossilised skeleton of a giant basal tetrapod in the arid region of Namibia after three years of research. Basal tetrapods were four-legged vertebrates which existed when the predators made the crucial transition from water to land. The researchers have now found the three-metre-long skeleton in the Ugab River valley which is the largest one ever discovered. Its discovery has also jeopardised the theory that early vertebrates existed only in the northern hemisphere. The skeleton's discovery gave scientists insight into the terrestrial animals' early evolution. A nearly complete skeleton leaves scientists amazed The team was surveying the rugged terrain during the fieldwork in Namibia when they made the significant discovery. Also Read: 'Black hole of palaeontology': Dinosaur that burrowed and lived underground discovered In a statement, study co-author Roger Smith said, "The nearly complete skeleton was preserved in mudstone from an ancient freshwater lake. As the soft tissue decomposed, gasses formed that caused calcium carbonate to crystallize around the bones, creating a hard crust that protected them from being crushed as they were buried deeper." Meanwhile, Iziko Museum's skilled fossil technician, Sibusiso Mtungata, remembered how the discovery was made. “We had found isolated vertebrae of something big, so we were looking for a more complete skeleton. I came across two round cylinders of rock with bone in the middle, which fitted together – and then a third. I called Roger over to help me find more, and as we walked upslope, he spotted a large flat rock, which he recognised as the head," said Mtungata. He added, “When we looked along the edge and saw rows of teeth, we knew we had finally found what we had been searching for – a nearly complete skull and skeleton!" Basal tetrapod with large interlocking fangs Palaeontologist at the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina and lead author Claudia Marsicano said that she knew it was different from other species. “As soon as I saw this enormous animal, I knew it was a different species. There is no record of giant basal tetrapods during the Carboniferous-Permian transition (approximately 299 million years ago) anywhere in the world, and certainly none from the southern continents that made up Gondwana," Marsicano said. Watch: South African government to ban captive breeding of Lions “What caught my attention next was the structure of the front part of the skull, which was sticking out of the ground. It showed unusually large interlocking fangs," she added. The scientists suggested that it was an ambush predator who was feeding on fish which lived in the same lake. (With inputs from agencies)

Researchers discover fossilised giant predator which once survived on water and land in Namibia

Astronomers have spotted a massive black hole which is closest to the Earth and appears to be "frozen in time". It was spotted with the help of the Hubble Space Telescope.

The cosmic object appears to be an elusive "intermediate-mass black hole" and is likely to serve as a missing link in understanding the connection between supermassive black holes and stellar mass black holes.&nbsp;

The black hole is said to have a mass of nearly 8,200 suns which means it is more massive in comparison to the stellar-mass black holes, which have masses between 5 and 100 times that of the sun.

The study's lead from the &nbsp;University of Utah, Anil Seth&nbsp;said, “This is a once-in-a-career kind of finding. I’ve been excited about it for nine straight months. Every time I think about it, I have a hard time sleeping."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/house-for-astronauts-indian-startup-discusses-launch-of-space-habitat-by-2027-with-spacex-739929">House for astronauts? Indian startup discusses launch of 'space habitat' by 2027 with SpaceX</a>

“I think that extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence. This is really, truly extraordinary evidence," he added.

The closest stellar-mass black hole to have ever been discovered is Gaia-BH1, which is just&nbsp;1,560 light-years away.

The intermediate-mass black hole is present in a collection of nearly ten million stars called&nbsp;Omega Centauri, which is 18,000 light-years from Earth.

<h2>Stellar black holes vs supermassive black holes</h2>

Black holes are created on the collapse of extremely large stars as they run out of their fuel.&nbsp;

The 'stellar black holes' in size are only a few times the mass of our sun and the monstrous 'supermassive black holes' which have millions or billions of stellar masses.

The University of Utah's undergraduate student and co-author Matthew Whittaker said, "There are black holes a little heavier than our sun that are like ants or spiders—they’re hard to spot, but kind of everywhere throughout the universe."

"Then you've got supermassive black holes that are like Godzilla in the centres of galaxies tearing things up, and we can see them easily," he added.

Watch:&nbsp;Defunct Russian satellite generated space debris, threatening astronauts, space station

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-defunct-russian-satellite-generated-space-debris-threatening-astronauts-space-station-736125/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It is very difficult to observe the 'intermediate black holes' since the massive black holes are generally located at the centre of the galaxies.&nbsp;

"These intermediate-mass black holes are kind of on the level of Bigfoot. Spotting them is like finding the first evidence for Bigfoot—people are going to freak out," Whittaker said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Astronomers have spotted a massive black hole which is closest to the Earth and appears to be "frozen in time". It was spotted with the help of the Hubble Space Telescope.

Astronomers have spotted a massive black hole which is closest to the Earth and appears to be "frozen in time". It was spotted with the help of the Hubble Space Telescope. The cosmic object appears to be an elusive "intermediate-mass black hole" and is likely to serve as a missing link in understanding the connection between supermassive black holes and stellar mass black holes. The black hole is said to have a mass of nearly 8,200 suns which means it is more massive in comparison to the stellar-mass black holes, which have masses between 5 and 100 times that of the sun. The study's lead from the University of Utah, Anil Seth said, “This is a once-in-a-career kind of finding. I’ve been excited about it for nine straight months. Every time I think about it, I have a hard time sleeping." Also Read: House for astronauts? Indian startup discusses launch of 'space habitat' by 2027 with SpaceX “I think that extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence. This is really, truly extraordinary evidence," he added. The closest stellar-mass black hole to have ever been discovered is Gaia-BH1, which is just 1,560 light-years away. The intermediate-mass black hole is present in a collection of nearly ten million stars called Omega Centauri, which is 18,000 light-years from Earth. Stellar black holes vs supermassive black holes Black holes are created on the collapse of extremely large stars as they run out of their fuel. The 'stellar black holes' in size are only a few times the mass of our sun and the monstrous 'supermassive black holes' which have millions or billions of stellar masses. The University of Utah's undergraduate student and co-author Matthew Whittaker said, "There are black holes a little heavier than our sun that are like ants or spiders—they’re hard to spot, but kind of everywhere throughout the universe." "Then you've got supermassive black holes that are like Godzilla in the centres of galaxies tearing things up, and we can see them easily," he added. Watch: Defunct Russian satellite generated space debris, threatening astronauts, space station It is very difficult to observe the 'intermediate black holes' since the massive black holes are generally located at the centre of the galaxies. "These intermediate-mass black holes are kind of on the level of Bigfoot. Spotting them is like finding the first evidence for Bigfoot—people are going to freak out," Whittaker said. (With inputs from agencies)

Astronomers spot closest massive black hole to Earth, say it is 'frozen in time'

According to the scientists, the night sky will soon get a "new star" or nova after a "once-in-a-lifetime" explosion.&nbsp;

Although the explosion will not set the sky ablaze, it will give people a rare opportunity to see something they have never seen.

The new star will not be the brightening point of light, but the nova eruption will glow in the sky, nearly 3,000 light-years away from Earth.&nbsp;

A white dwarf star, which is orbiting a red giant, is expected to tear apart from its larger companion.

After enough mass collects on the surface of the white dwarf, the temperatures and rising pressures will lead to a blast which will be visible to the naked eye from the Earth. However, it will be visible for just a few days or a week.

Astronomer at the Universidad Nacional De Hurlingham in Argentina, Gerardo Juan Manuel Luna said, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We are in the right time, in the right moment, with the right instruments.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-is-set-to-shoot-a-space-projectile-at-an-asteroid-in-space-by-2030-will-it-threaten-earth-739985">China set to shoot projectile at asteroid in space by 2030. Will it threaten Earth?</a>

The white dwarf and red giant are part of a binary system which is known as the T Corona Borealis, or T CrB.&nbsp;

According to astronomers, the supernova explosion can happen anytime between now and September.&nbsp;

The eruption of T CrB occurs every 80 years. It had last occurred in 1946.&nbsp;

The scientists now plan to see the nova in a better way than before. Multiple telescopes will be fixed at T CrB so as to decode the mysteries of the cosmic blast.

Watch:&nbsp;Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaganyaan-mission-indian-astronaut-to-fly-to-space-station-by-2026-740296/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“We hope to be able to answer questions with this object that then might be relevant to all the other accreting and eruptive white dwarfs,” said &nbsp;Jennifer Sokoloski, who is an astrophysicist at Columbia University.

<h2>Here's how to spot the new star</h2>

The constellation Corona Borealis, which simply means “Northern Crown", has seven stars positioned in an arc. It is positioned between the bright stars Arcturus and Vega and is visible high overhead during summer evenings in the Northern Hemisphere.&nbsp;

In the Southern Hemisphere, it appears close to the northern horizon. To locate the Northern Crown, trace an arcing line from the Big Dipper to Arcturus and then spot for semicircle of stars nearby to the east.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

According to the scientists, the night sky will soon get a "new star" or nova after a "once-in-a-lifetime" explosion. Although the explosion will not set the sky ablaze, it will give people a rare opportunity to see something they have never seen.

According to the scientists, the night sky will soon get a "new star" or nova after a "once-in-a-lifetime" explosion. Although the explosion will not set the sky ablaze, it will give people a rare opportunity to see something they have never seen. The new star will not be the brightening point of light, but the nova eruption will glow in the sky, nearly 3,000 light-years away from Earth. A white dwarf star, which is orbiting a red giant, is expected to tear apart from its larger companion. After enough mass collects on the surface of the white dwarf, the temperatures and rising pressures will lead to a blast which will be visible to the naked eye from the Earth. However, it will be visible for just a few days or a week. Astronomer at the Universidad Nacional De Hurlingham in Argentina, Gerardo Juan Manuel Luna said, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We are in the right time, in the right moment, with the right instruments.” Also Read: China set to shoot projectile at asteroid in space by 2030. Will it threaten Earth? The white dwarf and red giant are part of a binary system which is known as the T Corona Borealis, or T CrB. According to astronomers, the supernova explosion can happen anytime between now and September. The eruption of T CrB occurs every 80 years. It had last occurred in 1946. The scientists now plan to see the nova in a better way than before. Multiple telescopes will be fixed at T CrB so as to decode the mysteries of the cosmic blast. Watch: Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August “We hope to be able to answer questions with this object that then might be relevant to all the other accreting and eruptive white dwarfs,” said Jennifer Sokoloski, who is an astrophysicist at Columbia University. Here's how to spot the new star The constellation Corona Borealis, which simply means “Northern Crown", has seven stars positioned in an arc. It is positioned between the bright stars Arcturus and Vega and is visible high overhead during summer evenings in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, it appears close to the northern horizon. To locate the Northern Crown, trace an arcing line from the Big Dipper to Arcturus and then spot for semicircle of stars nearby to the east. (With inputs from agencies)

Sky to get a 'new star' after 'once-in-a-lifetime' explosion. Here's how to watch it

SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket has been grounded by the US Federal Aviation Administration. The rocket failed after it broke apart in space on Thursday night (Jul&nbsp;11). This mishap was the rocket's first failure in over seven years.

The rocket was carrying 20 Starlink satellites to deploy them into Earth's low orbit. The initial stage of the launch was successful after which the first stage was to return to a drone ship.

About an hour after its launch at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, Falcon 9's second stage failed to complete its second burn and deployed the satellites into a lower orbital path than it was supposed to. Due to this, the satellites will return to Earth's atmosphere and burn up.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/james-webb-telescope-unveils-breathtaking-image-of-merging-galaxies-740429">James Webb Telescope unveils breathtaking image of merging galaxies</a>

SpaceX's founder and CEO Elon Musk said that the software of the satellites is being updated to fire their onboard thrusters more than usual and avoid an intense re-entry into the atmosphere. According to Musk, the problem arose in the upper stage of the rocket.

"Unlike a Star Trek episode, this will probably not work, but it's worth a shot," Musk said.

The Falcon 9 has been ordered to stay grounded by the FAA until SpaceX completes an investigation, fixes the rocket, and gets approval. Depending on the complexity of the problem, the process could take some weeks or months.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/exclusive-indian-astronauts-us-training-from-august-spaceflight-by-year-end-740415">Exclusive: Indian astronauts' US training from August; spaceflight by year-end</a>

According to a post on X, the space company has said that the satellites are no threat to the public. They would appear in the sky as streaks of glow, but SpaceX has not estimated the time of their re-entry.

"Shooting stars," Musk replied to the SpaceX post.

The engineers at SpaceX had detected a leak of propellant liquid oxygen, after which the second stage failed.

(With inputs from agencies)

SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket has been grounded by the US Federal Aviation Administration. The rocket failed after it broke apart in space on Thursday night (Jul 11).

SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket has been grounded by the US Federal Aviation Administration. The rocket failed after it broke apart in space on Thursday night (Jul 11). This mishap was the rocket's first failure in over seven years. The rocket was carrying 20 Starlink satellites to deploy them into Earth's low orbit. The initial stage of the launch was successful after which the first stage was to return to a drone ship. About an hour after its launch at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, Falcon 9's second stage failed to complete its second burn and deployed the satellites into a lower orbital path than it was supposed to. Due to this, the satellites will return to Earth's atmosphere and burn up. Also Read | James Webb Telescope unveils breathtaking image of merging galaxies SpaceX's founder and CEO Elon Musk said that the software of the satellites is being updated to fire their onboard thrusters more than usual and avoid an intense re-entry into the atmosphere. According to Musk, the problem arose in the upper stage of the rocket. "Unlike a Star Trek episode, this will probably not work, but it's worth a shot," Musk said. The Falcon 9 has been ordered to stay grounded by the FAA until SpaceX completes an investigation, fixes the rocket, and gets approval. Depending on the complexity of the problem, the process could take some weeks or months. Also Read | Exclusive: Indian astronauts' US training from August; spaceflight by year-end According to a post on X, the space company has said that the satellites are no threat to the public. They would appear in the sky as streaks of glow, but SpaceX has not estimated the time of their re-entry. "Shooting stars," Musk replied to the SpaceX post. The engineers at SpaceX had detected a leak of propellant liquid oxygen, after which the second stage failed. (With inputs from agencies)

Musk's SpaceX rocket grounded by US aviation regulator. Know why

To mark the second anniversary of operations of the James Webb Space Telescope on Friday (Jul&nbsp;12), NASA released a magnificent new cosmic image of two galaxies merging together.&nbsp;

The James Webb Space Telescope, which launched on Dec&nbsp;25, 2021, has transformed the field of astronomy with spectacular images that are assisting researchers discover some of the mysteries of the universe.

The James Webb Space Telescope is a joint project involving NASA, the European Space Agency, and the Canadian Space Agency. Unlike the Hubble Space Telescope, which orbits Earth, Webb orbits the sun approximately 1 million miles away from Earth.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/strictly-speaking-earth-is-not-revolving-around-the-sun-currently-heres-what-it-means-740359">Strictly speaking, Earth is not revolving around the Sun currently. Here's what it means</a>

The image released on Friday shows two merging galaxies, together known as Arp 142 and nicknamed "the Penguin and the Egg."&nbsp;

The "Penguin" is the indistinct coiled galaxy that looks a lot like a penguin in the middle, while the "Egg" is the egg-shaped galaxy on the left.&nbsp;

It is likely that the "Penguin" and the "Egg" are about 100,000 lightyears apart.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We’re celebrating two years of science for <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAWebb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASAWebb</a>! 🎉 
 
The second anniversary image from the largest telescope in space shows two interacting galaxies called the Penguin (NGC 2936) and the Egg (NGC 2937), entwined in a slow cosmic dance: <a href="https://t.co/x4GImWwTRw">https://t.co/x4GImWwTRw</a> <a href="https://t.co/po60sNkQQN">pic.twitter.com/po60sNkQQN</a>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1811764298328248430?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

NASA observed that these galaxies first crossed paths 25 to 75 million years in the past. Their gravitational attraction will cause them to circle each other multiple times before ultimately merging into a single galaxy in hundreds of millions of years.

When observed closely, Webb's image is filled with distant galaxies. Some appear in spiral and oval shapes, while others are scattered as shapeless dots.&nbsp;

"Thanks to ongoing research, we're making significant strides in understanding how the very first galaxies formed and evolved in the universe," says Dr&nbsp;Mark Clampin, director of the astrophysics division at NASA headquarters in Washington.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-captures-eerie-red-light-above-south-africa-heres-what-red-sprite-was-doing-in-earths-atmosphere-740310">NASA captures eerie red light above South Africa. Here's what 'red sprite' was doing in Earth's atmosphere</a>

He further explained that, unlike the Hubble Telescope, Webb can see inside these big dust clouds, and start to study stars as they're being formed."&nbsp;

This allows scientists to watch these stars evolve and study.

"Beyond understanding the first galaxies," Dr. Clampin continued, "our focus is on characterising exoplanets, planets beyond our solar system, and ultimately searching for signs that they could support life."

(With inputs from agencies)

To mark the second anniversary of operations of the James Webb Space Telescope on Friday (Jul 12), NASA released a magnificent new cosmic image of two galaxies merging together.

To mark the second anniversary of operations of the James Webb Space Telescope on Friday (Jul 12), NASA released a magnificent new cosmic image of two galaxies merging together. The James Webb Space Telescope, which launched on Dec 25, 2021, has transformed the field of astronomy with spectacular images that are assisting researchers discover some of the mysteries of the universe. The James Webb Space Telescope is a joint project involving NASA, the European Space Agency, and the Canadian Space Agency. Unlike the Hubble Space Telescope, which orbits Earth, Webb orbits the sun approximately 1 million miles away from Earth. Also read: Strictly speaking, Earth is not revolving around the Sun currently. Here's what it means The image released on Friday shows two merging galaxies, together known as Arp 142 and nicknamed "the Penguin and the Egg." The "Penguin" is the indistinct coiled galaxy that looks a lot like a penguin in the middle, while the "Egg" is the egg-shaped galaxy on the left. It is likely that the "Penguin" and the "Egg" are about 100,000 lightyears apart. We’re celebrating two years of science for @NASAWebb! 🎉 The second anniversary image from the largest telescope in space shows two interacting galaxies called the Penguin (NGC 2936) and the Egg (NGC 2937), entwined in a slow cosmic dance: https://t.co/x4GImWwTRw pic.twitter.com/po60sNkQQN — NASA (@NASA) July 12, 2024 × NASA observed that these galaxies first crossed paths 25 to 75 million years in the past. Their gravitational attraction will cause them to circle each other multiple times before ultimately merging into a single galaxy in hundreds of millions of years. When observed closely, Webb's image is filled with distant galaxies. Some appear in spiral and oval shapes, while others are scattered as shapeless dots. "Thanks to ongoing research, we're making significant strides in understanding how the very first galaxies formed and evolved in the universe," says Dr Mark Clampin, director of the astrophysics division at NASA headquarters in Washington. Also read: NASA captures eerie red light above South Africa. Here's what 'red sprite' was doing in Earth's atmosphere He further explained that, unlike the Hubble Telescope, Webb can see inside these big dust clouds, and start to study stars as they're being formed." This allows scientists to watch these stars evolve and study. "Beyond understanding the first galaxies," Dr. Clampin continued, "our focus is on characterising exoplanets, planets beyond our solar system, and ultimately searching for signs that they could support life." (With inputs from agencies)

James Webb Telescope unveils breathtaking images of merging galaxies

Two Indian astronauts from the existing pool of four astronaut designates (specially selected test pilots of the Indian Air Force) will be training at NASA's Johnson Space Center, Texas, from early August, ISRO Chief,&nbsp;Dr. S. Somanath told WION.

He added that one of the two NASA-trained Indian astronauts would later fly on the upcoming Indo-US mission to the International Space Station.

The NASA training of Indian astronauts and the Indo-US mission to the International Space Station (ISS) was&nbsp;announced by US President Joe Biden, during Indian Prime Minister Modi's state visit to the US in June 2023.

The NASA training and the joint ISS mission are meant to serve as precursors to India's homegrown Human Spaceflight programme:&nbsp;Gaganyaan.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
“Collaboration on Human Spaceflight, including sending an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> astronaut to the International <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/space?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#space</a> station in 2024” says <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> as he lists out areas of bilateral cooperation between <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USA</a> 
 
Travel to <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a> &amp; working there will prep astronauts for Gaganyaan <a href="https://t.co/mJfcX4sKdP">pic.twitter.com/mJfcX4sKdP</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1672074359031361537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Responding to a query from WION, US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti expressed confidence that the Indo-US crewed mission to the ISS would take place by 2024-end.

The question was raised based on recent reports that this&nbsp;mission would be pushed to early 2025. In&nbsp;fact, President Biden had specifically announced in June 2023 that the joint crewed mission would be executed in 2024.

Ambassador Garcetti was speaking at the&nbsp;US-India Defence Conclave organised by CUTS International.

Incidentally, this Indo-US astronaut mission comes forty years after India's first and only astronaut Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma flew on a Soyuz T-11 rocket to the Soviet Salyut-7 Space station in April 1984.

<img alt="Indian Air Force's Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, flight engineer Gennady Strekalov and commander Yury Malyshev alongside screengrabs of the-then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's interaction with Rakesh Sharma" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-09T123411.047.png" />

Indian Air Force's Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma (centre), flight engineer Gennady Strekalov (L) and commander Yury Malyshev (R) alongside the screengrabs of the-then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's interaction with Rakesh Sharma |&nbsp;spacefacts.de/YouTube via Indian National Congress

Queried on the specifics of the Indo-US mission, Ambassador Garcetti told WION that it would be executed by American private firms SpaceX and Axiom.

SpaceX's Falcon9 rocket would be the launcher and the Crew Dragon would be the capsule, whereas Axiom will serve as a facilitator of this effort.

For the last four years, SpaceX has been the lone US option to ferry astronauts to the space station and back. Boeing Starliner is meant to be the other American offering in this lucrative segment but the ongoing technical issues with Starliner and its overstaying in space would further delay routine missions by Starliner.&nbsp;

<h2>What is India's Gaganyaan?&nbsp;</h2>

India has revealed the names of four astronaut candidates who are to fly on the country's homegrown 'Gaganyaan' programme that aims to fly an astronaut-carrying capsule to earth orbit (400kms above the planet's surface) and bring them back safely for an oceanic splashdown landing.

Gaganyaan would be carried out by the Indian Space Agency ISRO, with test pilots of the Indian Air Force, serving as the crew members.

The four candidates have already completed their training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center, Moscow, and are presently undergoing training at ISRO and Indian Air Force facilities, while also assisting ISRO teams in designing and developing some systems required for Gaganyaan.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India's best-kept secret of the last 5yrs - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indian</a> astronaut candidates who have been training for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/isro?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#isro</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gaganyaan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gaganyaan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/space?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#space</a> <a href="https://t.co/j9Uxd2qyXD">pic.twitter.com/j9Uxd2qyXD</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1762370086571327716?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Gaganyaan is the first step in a series of sustained human spaceflight missions that India wants to carry out in a phased manner. By the end of this decade, India hopes to put an uncrewed space station in Earth orbit. By 2035, it would be used as a crewed Indian outpost that's circling the earth.

India also plans to land its astronauts on the moon by 2040.&nbsp;

Coming as&nbsp;a precursor to Gaganyaan, the Indo-US Astronaut mission would help India gain contemporary spaceflight experience, something that only Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma has from his Soviet-era spaceflight in 1984.

With spaceflight technologies having drastically changed, the contemporary spaceflight experience would offer valuable technological and experiential insights.&nbsp;

At present, India is in the process of gradually testing various systems and technologies required to execute an uncrewed Gaganyaan mission, slated for later this year or in early 2025. After a couple of flawless uncrewed missions, India will embark on the astronaut-carrying mission, perhaps, by 2026.&nbsp;

ISRO Chief Dr S.Somanath had earlier told WION that human spaceflight is a highly challenging endeavour and how India only had the minimal experience of Rakesh Sharma's flight in 1984.

Also watch |&nbsp;Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaganyaan-mission-indian-astronaut-to-fly-to-space-station-by-2026-740296/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He added that the Indian astronauts have to "touch, feel, and experience space" and how the mission to Space station would help ISRO in its own Gaganyaan efforts.&nbsp;

In another significant collaborative effort, India's GSLV Mk2 rocket will be launching an Indo-US satellite known as NISAR - NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR).

NISAR is an all-weather earth observation satellite that will help study the vital signs of the earth, such as the temperature, ice melting, deforestation, and many more important parameters that help better understand climate change, natural calamities etc.

NISAR was to launch by mid-2024 but has been delayed owing to technical glitches in the satellite components. NISAR is expected to launch by 2024-end or early 2025.&nbsp;

Two Indian astronauts from the existing pool of four astronaut designates (specially selected test pilots of the Indian Air Force) will be training at NASA's Johnson Space Center, Texas, from early August, ISRO Chief, Dr.

Two Indian astronauts from the existing pool of four astronaut designates (specially selected test pilots of the Indian Air Force) will be training at NASA's Johnson Space Center, Texas, from early August, ISRO Chief, Dr. S. Somanath told WION. He added that one of the two NASA-trained Indian astronauts would later fly on the upcoming Indo-US mission to the International Space Station. The NASA training of Indian astronauts and the Indo-US mission to the International Space Station (ISS) was announced by US President Joe Biden, during Indian Prime Minister Modi's state visit to the US in June 2023. The NASA training and the joint ISS mission are meant to serve as precursors to India's homegrown Human Spaceflight programme: Gaganyaan. “Collaboration on Human Spaceflight, including sending an #Indian astronaut to the International #space station in 2024” says @POTUS as he lists out areas of bilateral cooperation between #india & #USA Travel to @Space_Station & working there will prep astronauts for Gaganyaan pic.twitter.com/mJfcX4sKdP — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) June 23, 2023 × Responding to a query from WION, US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti expressed confidence that the Indo-US crewed mission to the ISS would take place by 2024-end. The question was raised based on recent reports that this mission would be pushed to early 2025. In fact, President Biden had specifically announced in June 2023 that the joint crewed mission would be executed in 2024. Ambassador Garcetti was speaking at the US-India Defence Conclave organised by CUTS International. Incidentally, this Indo-US astronaut mission comes forty years after India's first and only astronaut Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma flew on a Soyuz T-11 rocket to the Soviet Salyut-7 Space station in April 1984. Indian Air Force's Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma (centre), flight engineer Gennady Strekalov (L) and commander Yury Malyshev (R) alongside the screengrabs of the-then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's interaction with Rakesh Sharma | spacefacts.de/YouTube via Indian National Congress Queried on the specifics of the Indo-US mission, Ambassador Garcetti told WION that it would be executed by American private firms SpaceX and Axiom. SpaceX's Falcon9 rocket would be the launcher and the Crew Dragon would be the capsule, whereas Axiom will serve as a facilitator of this effort. For the last four years, SpaceX has been the lone US option to ferry astronauts to the space station and back. Boeing Starliner is meant to be the other American offering in this lucrative segment but the ongoing technical issues with Starliner and its overstaying in space would further delay routine missions by Starliner. What is India's Gaganyaan? India has revealed the names of four astronaut candidates who are to fly on the country's homegrown 'Gaganyaan' programme that aims to fly an astronaut-carrying capsule to earth orbit (400kms above the planet's surface) and bring them back safely for an oceanic splashdown landing. Gaganyaan would be carried out by the Indian Space Agency ISRO, with test pilots of the Indian Air Force, serving as the crew members. The four candidates have already completed their training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center, Moscow, and are presently undergoing training at ISRO and Indian Air Force facilities, while also assisting ISRO teams in designing and developing some systems required for Gaganyaan. India's best-kept secret of the last 5yrs - #indian astronaut candidates who have been training for #isro #gaganyaan #india #space pic.twitter.com/j9Uxd2qyXD — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 27, 2024 × Gaganyaan is the first step in a series of sustained human spaceflight missions that India wants to carry out in a phased manner. By the end of this decade, India hopes to put an uncrewed space station in Earth orbit. By 2035, it would be used as a crewed Indian outpost that's circling the earth. India also plans to land its astronauts on the moon by 2040. Coming as a precursor to Gaganyaan, the Indo-US Astronaut mission would help India gain contemporary spaceflight experience, something that only Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma has from his Soviet-era spaceflight in 1984. With spaceflight technologies having drastically changed, the contemporary spaceflight experience would offer valuable technological and experiential insights. At present, India is in the process of gradually testing various systems and technologies required to execute an uncrewed Gaganyaan mission, slated for later this year or in early 2025. After a couple of flawless uncrewed missions, India will embark on the astronaut-carrying mission, perhaps, by 2026. ISRO Chief Dr S.Somanath had earlier told WION that human spaceflight is a highly challenging endeavour and how India only had the minimal experience of Rakesh Sharma's flight in 1984. Also watch | Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August × He added that the Indian astronauts have to "touch, feel, and experience space" and how the mission to Space station would help ISRO in its own Gaganyaan efforts. In another significant collaborative effort, India's GSLV Mk2 rocket will be launching an Indo-US satellite known as NISAR - NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR). NISAR is an all-weather earth observation satellite that will help study the vital signs of the earth, such as the temperature, ice melting, deforestation, and many more important parameters that help better understand climate change, natural calamities etc. NISAR was to launch by mid-2024 but has been delayed owing to technical glitches in the satellite components. NISAR is expected to launch by 2024-end or early 2025.

Exclusive: Indian astronauts' US training from August; spaceflight by year-end

Researchers may soon be able to use "intelligent onesies" to&nbsp;observe&nbsp;how newborns move around and&nbsp;diagnose autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent disorders in infants.

Researchers at the University of Sussex in England are monitoring the movements of newborns from birth to 18 months of age using clothes fitted with motion sensors, as well as video recordings, as part of an ongoing study.

To discover critical motor behaviours that predict symptoms of neurodivergence, researchers wanted to compare certain motions, such as wriggling, sitting, and crawling, with newborns' social and communicative abilities during their first 18&nbsp;months of development.

Gillian Forrester, lead author and professor of comparative cognition at the University of Sussex, told Newsweek that the study aims to identify early movement patterns linked to a future autism diagnosis.

"This could lead to much earlier screening compared with our current diagnostic practices. Earlier screening, in turn, can lead to earlier and novel interventions,"&nbsp;Forrester&nbsp;said.

"I'm extremely excited about this new research because it gives us a better understanding of how moving our bodies in the first days of life informs our subsequent social and communication development," she added.

The Baby Grow project, as the name implies, tries to demonstrate how repetitive and less diverse movements in babies are connected with complications such as autism and ADHD, whereas more complex and varied motions are associated with normal cognitive development.

"It is commonly known that from the first days of life, the way we move helps prepare our brains and bodies to navigate a complex physical and social world. However, the direct links between a baby's early movements and their social abilities later in life are not well understood," Forrester said in a statement.

The&nbsp;lead author also&nbsp;explained that by gathering data on infants' earliest movements, the goal is to equip clinicians, GPs, and parents with the necessary tools to identify early markers of neurodivergence. The aim is that this research will facilitate earlier screening, diagnosis, and interventions during infancy, thereby supporting children and their families.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earths-groundwater-to-turn-undrinkable-for-half-a-billion-people-by-2100-study-740031">Earth's groundwater to turn 'undrinkable' for half a billion people by 2100: study</a>

The findings will be presented at this year's Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition, along with an interactive "Baby Boogie" game.&nbsp;

Attendees can compare their motor abilities to those of a baby, highlighting the challenge of mimicking the complex movements linked to healthy cognitive development.

"The way we solve problems with our hands has a motion structure similar to how we put words together to create meaningful speech. But we often investigate ourselves in isolation from the rest of the animal kingdom," Forrester said.

"Our research explores how we became (and become) upright, walking, talking, tool-using great apes that we are today—through evolution and development, creating a bridge between us and the natural world," the lead author&nbsp;added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers may soon be able to use "intelligent onesies" to observe how newborns move around and diagnose autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent disorders in infants.

Researchers may soon be able to use "intelligent onesies" to observe how newborns move around and diagnose autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent disorders in infants. Researchers at the University of Sussex in England are monitoring the movements of newborns from birth to 18 months of age using clothes fitted with motion sensors, as well as video recordings, as part of an ongoing study. To discover critical motor behaviours that predict symptoms of neurodivergence, researchers wanted to compare certain motions, such as wriggling, sitting, and crawling, with newborns' social and communicative abilities during their first 18 months of development. Gillian Forrester, lead author and professor of comparative cognition at the University of Sussex, told Newsweek that the study aims to identify early movement patterns linked to a future autism diagnosis. "This could lead to much earlier screening compared with our current diagnostic practices. Earlier screening, in turn, can lead to earlier and novel interventions," Forrester said. "I'm extremely excited about this new research because it gives us a better understanding of how moving our bodies in the first days of life informs our subsequent social and communication development," she added. The Baby Grow project, as the name implies, tries to demonstrate how repetitive and less diverse movements in babies are connected with complications such as autism and ADHD, whereas more complex and varied motions are associated with normal cognitive development. "It is commonly known that from the first days of life, the way we move helps prepare our brains and bodies to navigate a complex physical and social world. However, the direct links between a baby's early movements and their social abilities later in life are not well understood," Forrester said in a statement. The lead author also explained that by gathering data on infants' earliest movements, the goal is to equip clinicians, GPs, and parents with the necessary tools to identify early markers of neurodivergence. The aim is that this research will facilitate earlier screening, diagnosis, and interventions during infancy, thereby supporting children and their families. Also read: Earth's groundwater to turn 'undrinkable' for half a billion people by 2100: study The findings will be presented at this year's Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition, along with an interactive "Baby Boogie" game. Attendees can compare their motor abilities to those of a baby, highlighting the challenge of mimicking the complex movements linked to healthy cognitive development. "The way we solve problems with our hands has a motion structure similar to how we put words together to create meaningful speech. But we often investigate ourselves in isolation from the rest of the animal kingdom," Forrester said. "Our research explores how we became (and become) upright, walking, talking, tool-using great apes that we are today—through evolution and development, creating a bridge between us and the natural world," the lead author added. (With inputs from agencies)

Babies' movements tracked with 'intelligent onesies' could help diagnose autism, ADHD

When our ancient ancestors left Africa more than 50,000 years ago, they encountered Neanderthals who already shared some of their genes. Today, we are the only surviving species of humans worldwide, but the past was different. About 400,000 years ago, while our Homo sapiens ancestors lived in East Africa, Neanderthals thrived in Eurasia. Travelling on foot meant these populations were separated by vast distances.

<h2>Who Were the Neanderthals?</h2>

Neanderthals were a species of ancient humans who lived in Eurasia, distinct from our Homo sapiens ancestors who originated in Africa. They coexisted with early Homo sapiens for thousands of years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/strictly-speaking-earth-is-not-revolving-around-the-sun-currently-heres-what-it-means-740359">Strictly speaking, Earth is not revolving around the Sun currently. Here's what it means</a>

<h2>Genetic Legacy</h2>

&nbsp;The sequencing of the Neanderthal genome in 2010 uncovered significant evidence of interbreeding between Neanderthals and Homo sapiens. This genetic exchange has left a lasting imprint in the DNA of modern non-African populations, offering crucial insights into human evolution and the emergence of diverse genetic traits.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/majority-of-lung-cancer-patients-in-india-are-non-smokers-startling-study-reveals-740441">Majority of lung cancer patients in India are non-smokers, startling study reveals</a>

The question of what led to the eventual disappearance of Neanderthals, shortly after Homo sapiens arrived in their territories, remains a subject of debate among scientists. Some theories suggest direct competition, while others propose more complex scenarios involving cultural exchanges and environmental pressures.

Recent studies have explored not only how Neanderthals influenced modern human genetics but also how much Homo sapiens DNA is present in Neanderthal genomes. This reciprocal gene flow highlights the dynamic interactions between these ancient human groups.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/james-webb-telescope-unveils-breathtaking-image-of-merging-galaxies-740429">James Webb Telescope unveils breathtaking image of merging galaxies</a>

Ongoing research into African genetic diversity aims to uncover more about early human migration patterns, including potential movements back to Africa after encounters with Neanderthals. These studies promise to deepen our understanding of our shared evolutionary history.

(With inputs from agencies)

When our ancient ancestors left Africa more than 50,000 years ago, they encountered Neanderthals who already shared some of their genes. Today, we are the only surviving species of humans worldwide, but the past was different.

When our ancient ancestors left Africa more than 50,000 years ago, they encountered Neanderthals who already shared some of their genes. Today, we are the only surviving species of humans worldwide, but the past was different. About 400,000 years ago, while our Homo sapiens ancestors lived in East Africa, Neanderthals thrived in Eurasia. Travelling on foot meant these populations were separated by vast distances. Who Were the Neanderthals? Neanderthals were a species of ancient humans who lived in Eurasia, distinct from our Homo sapiens ancestors who originated in Africa. They coexisted with early Homo sapiens for thousands of years. Also read | Strictly speaking, Earth is not revolving around the Sun currently. Here's what it means Genetic Legacy The sequencing of the Neanderthal genome in 2010 uncovered significant evidence of interbreeding between Neanderthals and Homo sapiens. This genetic exchange has left a lasting imprint in the DNA of modern non-African populations, offering crucial insights into human evolution and the emergence of diverse genetic traits. Also read | Majority of lung cancer patients in India are non-smokers, startling study reveals The question of what led to the eventual disappearance of Neanderthals, shortly after Homo sapiens arrived in their territories, remains a subject of debate among scientists. Some theories suggest direct competition, while others propose more complex scenarios involving cultural exchanges and environmental pressures. Recent studies have explored not only how Neanderthals influenced modern human genetics but also how much Homo sapiens DNA is present in Neanderthal genomes. This reciprocal gene flow highlights the dynamic interactions between these ancient human groups. Also read | James Webb Telescope unveils breathtaking image of merging galaxies Ongoing research into African genetic diversity aims to uncover more about early human migration patterns, including potential movements back to Africa after encounters with Neanderthals. These studies promise to deepen our understanding of our shared evolutionary history. (With inputs from agencies)

Study finds human-Neanderthal interbreeding dates back earlier, shaped genetic diversity

It has been taught to us from school days that Earth orbits around the Sun, which results in the cycle of day and night.&nbsp;

However, if we try to understand the movement of Earth currently in the Solar System from the point of view of scientists,&nbsp;our planet is not currently orbiting the Sun.

<h2>So, what's happening between Earth and the Sun?</h2>

In the Solar System, the Sun is the largest object and has 1,048 times the mass of Jupiter. However, the gravitational pull which Earth exerts on the celestial body is exerted in the same or smaller amount on the planet.

"Kepler's third law describes the relationship between the masses of two objects mutually revolving around each other and the determination of orbital parameters,"&nbsp;explained NASA.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/house-for-astronauts-indian-startup-discusses-launch-of-space-habitat-by-2027-with-spacex-739929">House for astronauts? Indian startup discusses launch of 'space habitat' by 2027 with SpaceX</a>

"Consider a small star in orbit about a more massive one. Both stars actually revolve about a common centre of mass, which is called the&nbsp;barycentre. This is true no matter what the size or mass of each of the objects involved. Measuring a star's motion about its barycenter with a massive planet is one method that has been used to discover planetary systems associated with distant stars," it added.

So, Earth orbits a barycentre and not exactly the Sun. Generally, the barycentre of the bodies in the Solar System is near the Sun, however, because of the mass, and influence of gas giants Jupiter and Saturn and orbits, it is rarely inside the Sun.&nbsp;

<h2>Where is the barycentre currently?</h2>

Currently, the barycentre is outside the Sun and not inside it and hence, Earth is not currently orbiting it. So, the planet is revolving around a point in space and not the Sun.&nbsp;

Explaining this positioning of the planet, planetary astronomer and science communicator&nbsp;James O'Donoghue said, "Planets orbit the Sun in general terms", "but *technically* they don't orbit the Sun alone because the gravitational influence of (mainly) Jupiter means planets must orbit a new point in space."

"The planets do orbit the Sun of course, we are just being pedantic about the situation," he&nbsp;added. "The natural thinking is that we orbit the Sun's centre, but that very rarely happens, i.e. it's very rare for the solar system's centre of mass to align with the Sun's centre," he added.

Watch:&nbsp;Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaganyaan-mission-indian-astronaut-to-fly-to-space-station-by-2026-740296/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This also applies to the smaller objects, like the&nbsp;planets and their moons.&nbsp;

The Earth and Moon orbit a point which is 5,000 kilometres&nbsp;(3,100 miles) from the Earth's centre, however, this keeps changing as the Moon slowly moves away from the Earth.

(With inputs from agencies)

It has been taught to us from school days that Earth orbits around the Sun, which results in the cycle of day and night. However, if we try to understand the movement of Earth currently in the Solar System from the point of view of scientists, our planet is not currently orbiting the Sun.

It has been taught to us from school days that Earth orbits around the Sun, which results in the cycle of day and night. However, if we try to understand the movement of Earth currently in the Solar System from the point of view of scientists, our planet is not currently orbiting the Sun. So, what's happening between Earth and the Sun? In the Solar System, the Sun is the largest object and has 1,048 times the mass of Jupiter. However, the gravitational pull which Earth exerts on the celestial body is exerted in the same or smaller amount on the planet. "Kepler's third law describes the relationship between the masses of two objects mutually revolving around each other and the determination of orbital parameters," explained NASA. Also Read: House for astronauts? Indian startup discusses launch of 'space habitat' by 2027 with SpaceX "Consider a small star in orbit about a more massive one. Both stars actually revolve about a common centre of mass, which is called the barycentre. This is true no matter what the size or mass of each of the objects involved. Measuring a star's motion about its barycenter with a massive planet is one method that has been used to discover planetary systems associated with distant stars," it added. So, Earth orbits a barycentre and not exactly the Sun. Generally, the barycentre of the bodies in the Solar System is near the Sun, however, because of the mass, and influence of gas giants Jupiter and Saturn and orbits, it is rarely inside the Sun. Where is the barycentre currently? Currently, the barycentre is outside the Sun and not inside it and hence, Earth is not currently orbiting it. So, the planet is revolving around a point in space and not the Sun. Explaining this positioning of the planet, planetary astronomer and science communicator James O'Donoghue said, "Planets orbit the Sun in general terms", "but *technically* they don't orbit the Sun alone because the gravitational influence of (mainly) Jupiter means planets must orbit a new point in space." "The planets do orbit the Sun of course, we are just being pedantic about the situation," he added. "The natural thinking is that we orbit the Sun's centre, but that very rarely happens, i.e. it's very rare for the solar system's centre of mass to align with the Sun's centre," he added. Watch: Indian astronauts to train at NASA from August This also applies to the smaller objects, like the planets and their moons. The Earth and Moon orbit a point which is 5,000 kilometres (3,100 miles) from the Earth's centre, however, this keeps changing as the Moon slowly moves away from the Earth. (With inputs from agencies)

Strictly speaking, Earth is not revolving around the Sun currently. Here's what it means

Boeing Starliner astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are stranded in space as their spacecraft has malfunctioned. No one knows when will they return to Earth as NASA is still working to resolve the problem with the space capsule. As per the latest, the Starliner is suffering from overheating thrusters owing to a design flaw, which the space agency admitted to a few days back. The fault in the thrusters also led to the Starliner facing issues while docking with the space station. The agency has been testing out one of the spacecraft's thrusters on Earth for the past month, as per a report by Ars Technica.&nbsp;

A design flaw is apparently causing the propulsion devices to overheat. The Starliner has four thrusters fitted around the circumference of the rocket in propulsion pods, which NASA officials call "doghouses". NASA has been probing the issue at the White Sands, New Mexico test facility, where the engineers found that a design flaw is to blame for the overheating of the thrusters. The doghouses are creating a thermos-like insulation due to which the heat remains caught inside, causing them to overheat.

Besides the doghouse problem, the thrusters also seem to be thrusting too much.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunita-williams-butch-wilmore-may-be-stuck-in-space-this-summer-due-to-technical-problems-in-boeing-capsule-739855">Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore may be stuck in space this summer</a>

"What we have found in this flight is we have fired the thrusters more than expected, and I would say more frequently," explained Steve Stich, NASA's commercial crew programme manager.&nbsp;

Stich added that they are trying to understand the heating effects of the pulses the thrusters saw and "make sure there’s no unintended consequences of those pulses".

<h2>Timeline of Boeing Starliner's journey</h2>

Boeing Starliner was initially supposed to take its first crewed journey in May, but technical issues kept delaying it until it finally took off on June 5. Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore were supposed to be in space for a week, but the problem with the thrusters has kept them there longer. NASA says that there is no risk to the health of the two astronauts as the space station had sufficient supplies for the two Starliner crew and the seven regular crew members. The ISS crew will be rotated in August and NASA would have to get the two back before then.

Boeing Starliner astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are stranded in space as their spacecraft has malfunctioned. No one knows when will they return to Earth as NASA is still working to resolve the problem with the space capsule.

Boeing Starliner astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are stranded in space as their spacecraft has malfunctioned. No one knows when will they return to Earth as NASA is still working to resolve the problem with the space capsule. As per the latest, the Starliner is suffering from overheating thrusters owing to a design flaw, which the space agency admitted to a few days back. The fault in the thrusters also led to the Starliner facing issues while docking with the space station. The agency has been testing out one of the spacecraft's thrusters on Earth for the past month, as per a report by Ars Technica. A design flaw is apparently causing the propulsion devices to overheat. The Starliner has four thrusters fitted around the circumference of the rocket in propulsion pods, which NASA officials call "doghouses". NASA has been probing the issue at the White Sands, New Mexico test facility, where the engineers found that a design flaw is to blame for the overheating of the thrusters. The doghouses are creating a thermos-like insulation due to which the heat remains caught inside, causing them to overheat. Besides the doghouse problem, the thrusters also seem to be thrusting too much. Also Read: Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore may be stuck in space this summer "What we have found in this flight is we have fired the thrusters more than expected, and I would say more frequently," explained Steve Stich, NASA's commercial crew programme manager. Stich added that they are trying to understand the heating effects of the pulses the thrusters saw and "make sure there’s no unintended consequences of those pulses". Timeline of Boeing Starliner's journey Boeing Starliner was initially supposed to take its first crewed journey in May, but technical issues kept delaying it until it finally took off on June 5. Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore were supposed to be in space for a week, but the problem with the thrusters has kept them there longer. NASA says that there is no risk to the health of the two astronauts as the space station had sufficient supplies for the two Starliner crew and the seven regular crew members. The ISS crew will be rotated in August and NASA would have to get the two back before then.

A 'hot doghouse' problem is plaguing Boeing Starliner and NASA is working to fix it

A team of scientists from the University of Bristol studied the earliest ecosystem on Earth to understand when life began flourishing on our planet, just a hundred million years after planetary formation.

The new study was published in&nbsp;Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution. The living beings are said to have come from a single common ancestor known as LUCA (Last Universal Common Ancestor), according to the scientists.

LUCA is a hypothesised common ancestor from which it is believed all modern cellular life has descended.

The living beings that evolved from LUCA also came from different sources: the amino acids which had built proteins in other cellular organisms, cellular machinery like the ribosome and others, and the shared energy currency.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earths-groundwater-to-turn-undrinkable-for-half-a-billion-people-by-2100-study-740031">Earth's groundwater to turn 'undrinkable' for half a billion people by 2100: Study</a>

The team compared all the genes in the genomes of living species, counting the mutations that have occurred within their sequences over time since they shared an ancestor in LUCA.

Some species' time of separation was understood from the fossil record and a genetic equivalent of the familiar equation was used by the team to understand when LUCA existed, which was found to be 4.2 billion years ago - nearly four hundred million years after the Earth and our solar system was formed.

<h2>LUCA was a complex organism, exploiting its environment: Scientists&nbsp;</h2>

The study's co-author Dr Sandra Álvarez-Carretero said, "We did not expect LUCA to be so old, within just hundreds of millions of years of Earth formation. However, our results fit with modern views on the habitability of early Earth."

The researchers also worked on LUCA's biology by modelling the physiological characteristics of living species with the genealogy of LUCA's life.

Explaining the process, lead author Dr Edmund Moody said, "The evolutionary history of genes is complicated by their exchange between lineages. We have to use complex evolutionary models to reconcile the evolutionary history of genes with the genealogy of species."

Watch:&nbsp;Scientists say the Earth's core is behaving oddly. Here's why

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-say-the-earths-core-is-behaving-oddly-heres-why-739062/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Our study showed that LUCA was a complex organism, not too different from modern prokaryotes, but what is really interesting is that it's clear it possessed an early immune system, showing that even by 4.2 billion years ago, our ancestor was engaging in an arms race with viruses," said co-author Professor Davide Pisani, while speaking about the features of LUCA.

Taking this discussion further, co-author Tim Lenton said, "It's clear that LUCA was exploiting and changing its environment, but it is unlikely to have lived alone. Its waste would have been food for other microbes, like methanogens, that would have helped to create a recycling ecosystem."

(With inputs from agencies)

A team of scientists from the University of Bristol studied the earliest ecosystem on Earth to understand when life began flourishing on our planet, just a hundred million years after planetary formation.

A team of scientists from the University of Bristol studied the earliest ecosystem on Earth to understand when life began flourishing on our planet, just a hundred million years after planetary formation. The new study was published in Nature Ecology & Evolution. The living beings are said to have come from a single common ancestor known as LUCA (Last Universal Common Ancestor), according to the scientists. LUCA is a hypothesised common ancestor from which it is believed all modern cellular life has descended. The living beings that evolved from LUCA also came from different sources: the amino acids which had built proteins in other cellular organisms, cellular machinery like the ribosome and others, and the shared energy currency. Also Read: Earth's groundwater to turn 'undrinkable' for half a billion people by 2100: Study The team compared all the genes in the genomes of living species, counting the mutations that have occurred within their sequences over time since they shared an ancestor in LUCA. Some species' time of separation was understood from the fossil record and a genetic equivalent of the familiar equation was used by the team to understand when LUCA existed, which was found to be 4.2 billion years ago - nearly four hundred million years after the Earth and our solar system was formed. LUCA was a complex organism, exploiting its environment: Scientists The study's co-author Dr Sandra Álvarez-Carretero said, "We did not expect LUCA to be so old, within just hundreds of millions of years of Earth formation. However, our results fit with modern views on the habitability of early Earth." The researchers also worked on LUCA's biology by modelling the physiological characteristics of living species with the genealogy of LUCA's life. Explaining the process, lead author Dr Edmund Moody said, "The evolutionary history of genes is complicated by their exchange between lineages. We have to use complex evolutionary models to reconcile the evolutionary history of genes with the genealogy of species." Watch: Scientists say the Earth's core is behaving oddly. Here's why "Our study showed that LUCA was a complex organism, not too different from modern prokaryotes, but what is really interesting is that it's clear it possessed an early immune system, showing that even by 4.2 billion years ago, our ancestor was engaging in an arms race with viruses," said co-author Professor Davide Pisani, while speaking about the features of LUCA. Taking this discussion further, co-author Tim Lenton said, "It's clear that LUCA was exploiting and changing its environment, but it is unlikely to have lived alone. Its waste would have been food for other microbes, like methanogens, that would have helped to create a recycling ecosystem." (With inputs from agencies)

Earth was barren till life came into existence 4.2 billion years ago: Study

science

Science, News on Science, stories on Science, articles on Science, Science stories at Wion, Science news, Science latest news