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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lakshya Sen becomes first Indian to clinch Kumamoto Masters title

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

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

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

Why do Nvidia and Apple depend so heavily on Taiwan?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Netanyahu warns against Eisenkot's minority government plans

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why do AI GPUs consume so much electricity?

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

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

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

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

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

‘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

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

A new study has revealed that getting yourself tattooed may increase the chances of developing lymphoma, a broad term for cancer that begins in cells of the lymph system. Researchers at Lund University conducted a study involving 11,000 participants and found that the tattoo ink spurs inflammatory changes inside the body.

Study lead author Christel Nielsen, of Lund University, said in a statement, "People will likely want to continue to express their identity through tattoos, and therefore it is very important that we as a society can make sure that it is safe."

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj9zdnDjbOGAxUn2DgGHS80Av8QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/india-news/business-economy/etched-in-devotion-meet-the-ramnami-tribe-that-has-lord-ram-tattoos-all-over-body-1704298414584" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/india-news/business-economy/etched-in-devotion-meet-the-ramnami-tribe-that-has-lord-ram-tattoos-all-over-body-1704298414584&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj9zdnDjbOGAxUn2DgGHS80Av8QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Etched in Devotion: Meet the Ramnami Tribe that Has Lord Ram Tattoos All Over Body</a>

"For the individual, it is good to know that tattoos can affect your health, and that you should turn to your health care provider if you experience symptoms that you believe could be related to your tattoo," the statement added.

<h2>How was the study conducted?</h2>

A total of 11,905 participants were included in the study, including 2,938 of those who had developed lymphoma between the ages of 20 and 60. Out of them, 1,398 individuals completed a survey, compared to 4,193 participants in the control group.

Of the 289 members of the lymphoma group, 21 per cent were found to have tattoos, compared to 18 per cent of the 735 members of the control group who had not received a lymphoma diagnosis.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj9zdnDjbOGAxUn2DgGHS80Av8QxfQBKAB6BAgTEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-art-project-to-tattoo-un-declaration-on-30-people-in-uk-623115" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/international-art-project-to-tattoo-un-declaration-on-30-people-in-uk-623115&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj9zdnDjbOGAxUn2DgGHS80Av8QxfQBKAB6BAgTEAE">International art project to tattoo UN human rights declaration on 30 people in UK</a>

“After taking into account other relevant factors, such as smoking and age, we found that the risk of developing lymphoma was 21 per cent higher among those who were tattooed," Nielsen said in a university news release.

"It is important to remember that lymphoma is a rare disease and that our results apply at the group level. The results now need to be verified and investigated further in other studies and such research is ongoing," the researcher concluded.

<h2>Does tattoo size matter?</h2>

Researchers were not able to determine whether the size of the tattoo may have any impact on the chances of developing lymphoma.

"We already know that when the tattoo ink is injected into the skin, the body interprets this as something foreign that should not be there and the immune system is activated," she explained. "A large part of the ink is transported away from the skin, to the lymph nodes where it is deposited."

(With inputs from agencies)

A new study has revealed that getting yourself tattooed may increase the chances of developing lymphoma, a broad term for cancer that begins in cells of the lymph system.

A new study has revealed that getting yourself tattooed may increase the chances of developing lymphoma, a broad term for cancer that begins in cells of the lymph system. Researchers at Lund University conducted a study involving 11,000 participants and found that the tattoo ink spurs inflammatory changes inside the body. Study lead author Christel Nielsen, of Lund University, said in a statement, "People will likely want to continue to express their identity through tattoos, and therefore it is very important that we as a society can make sure that it is safe." Also read: Etched in Devotion: Meet the Ramnami Tribe that Has Lord Ram Tattoos All Over Body "For the individual, it is good to know that tattoos can affect your health, and that you should turn to your health care provider if you experience symptoms that you believe could be related to your tattoo," the statement added. How was the study conducted? A total of 11,905 participants were included in the study, including 2,938 of those who had developed lymphoma between the ages of 20 and 60. Out of them, 1,398 individuals completed a survey, compared to 4,193 participants in the control group. Of the 289 members of the lymphoma group, 21 per cent were found to have tattoos, compared to 18 per cent of the 735 members of the control group who had not received a lymphoma diagnosis. Also read: International art project to tattoo UN human rights declaration on 30 people in UK “After taking into account other relevant factors, such as smoking and age, we found that the risk of developing lymphoma was 21 per cent higher among those who were tattooed," Nielsen said in a university news release. "It is important to remember that lymphoma is a rare disease and that our results apply at the group level. The results now need to be verified and investigated further in other studies and such research is ongoing," the researcher concluded. Does tattoo size matter? Researchers were not able to determine whether the size of the tattoo may have any impact on the chances of developing lymphoma. "We already know that when the tattoo ink is injected into the skin, the body interprets this as something foreign that should not be there and the immune system is activated," she explained. "A large part of the ink is transported away from the skin, to the lymph nodes where it is deposited." (With inputs from agencies)

Got yourself tattooed? Study says it may lead to increased risk of cancer

A mysterious object was released into the Earth's orbit by China’s top-secret spaceplane nearly 372 miles above the surface.

The situation is being monitored by the US Space Force, however, the reason why the mysterious object was ejected on May 24 remains unknown.

The mysterious object was first spotted by a Harvard astrophysicist who speculated that it could be a subsatellite deployment or perhaps a piece of hardware which was released by the spaceplane before its mission ended and it deorbited.

Harvard-Smithsonian Centre for Astrophysics' Jonathan McDowell, after first spotting the object, wrote on X, "This object could be a subsatellite deployment, or it could be a piece of hardware ejected prior to end of the mission and deorbit (the spaceplane's first flight did something similar)."

The spacecraft, which was named Shenlong after a Chinese mythological spirit dragon, was launched last December and since then, it has released several objects into orbit. This action of the Chinese spaceplane has sent strong signals to the United States.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-hello-to-chat-xi-pt-ai-chatbot-trained-on-xi-jinpings-thoughts-725811">China says hello to 'Chat Xi PT', AI chatbot trained on Xi Jinping's thoughts</a>

China has remained secretive regarding the spaceplane which it said has the job of providing "technical support for the peaceful use of space."

“After operating in orbit for a period of time, the experimental spacecraft will return to the designated landing site in China,” stated China’s state media outlet Xinhuanet.&nbsp;

“During this period, it will carry out reusable technology verification and space science experiments as planned, providing technical support for the peaceful use of space," it added.

China launched the craft one day after the United States scrubbed the flight of its ‘spy’ plane. The US Space Force chief said that this was 'no coincidence.'

"It's probably no coincidence that they're trying to match us in timing and sequence of this," said General Chance Saltzman, Space Force's Chief of Space Operations.

<h2>US Space Force tracks down mysterious object</h2>

Currently, the mysterious object is being tracked down by the United States Space Force.

Meanwhile, amateur astronomer Scott Tilley, who was tracking the spaceplane when the six objects were ejected in December and signals were emitted over North America, said the signals most probably targeted a ground station or boat which was close to British Columbia, Canada.

Watch:&nbsp;China hosts Arab leaders | North Korea drops trash balloons on the South

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-hosts-arab-leaders-north-korea-drops-trash-balloons-on-the-south-726660/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"When the spaceplane passes over me, it only emits on a certain trajectory of pass that appears to favor a location south to southwest of me," Tilley said.

"I.e., on higher elevation passes over me, there are no signals, but on ocean-hugging passes to my southwest, all of my observations of the object have occurred," he added.

Tilley joined a group in Switzerland that specialises in optical-band space surveillance and the collaboration has been able to monitor the plane since it launched on December 15.

(With inputs from agencies)

A mysterious object was released into the Earth's orbit by China’s top-secret spaceplane nearly 372 miles above the surface. The situation is being monitored by the US Space Force, however, the reason why the mysterious object was ejected on May 24 remains unknown.

A mysterious object was released into the Earth's orbit by China’s top-secret spaceplane nearly 372 miles above the surface. The situation is being monitored by the US Space Force, however, the reason why the mysterious object was ejected on May 24 remains unknown. The mysterious object was first spotted by a Harvard astrophysicist who speculated that it could be a subsatellite deployment or perhaps a piece of hardware which was released by the spaceplane before its mission ended and it deorbited. Harvard-Smithsonian Centre for Astrophysics' Jonathan McDowell, after first spotting the object, wrote on X, "This object could be a subsatellite deployment, or it could be a piece of hardware ejected prior to end of the mission and deorbit (the spaceplane's first flight did something similar)." The spacecraft, which was named Shenlong after a Chinese mythological spirit dragon, was launched last December and since then, it has released several objects into orbit. This action of the Chinese spaceplane has sent strong signals to the United States. Also Read: China says hello to 'Chat Xi PT', AI chatbot trained on Xi Jinping's thoughts China has remained secretive regarding the spaceplane which it said has the job of providing "technical support for the peaceful use of space." “After operating in orbit for a period of time, the experimental spacecraft will return to the designated landing site in China,” stated China’s state media outlet Xinhuanet. “During this period, it will carry out reusable technology verification and space science experiments as planned, providing technical support for the peaceful use of space," it added. China launched the craft one day after the United States scrubbed the flight of its ‘spy’ plane. The US Space Force chief said that this was 'no coincidence.' "It's probably no coincidence that they're trying to match us in timing and sequence of this," said General Chance Saltzman, Space Force's Chief of Space Operations. US Space Force tracks down mysterious object Currently, the mysterious object is being tracked down by the United States Space Force. Meanwhile, amateur astronomer Scott Tilley, who was tracking the spaceplane when the six objects were ejected in December and signals were emitted over North America, said the signals most probably targeted a ground station or boat which was close to British Columbia, Canada. Watch: China hosts Arab leaders | North Korea drops trash balloons on the South "When the spaceplane passes over me, it only emits on a certain trajectory of pass that appears to favor a location south to southwest of me," Tilley said. "I.e., on higher elevation passes over me, there are no signals, but on ocean-hugging passes to my southwest, all of my observations of the object have occurred," he added. Tilley joined a group in Switzerland that specialises in optical-band space surveillance and the collaboration has been able to monitor the plane since it launched on December 15. (With inputs from agencies)

China’s secret spaceplane ejects mysterious object into Earth’s orbit. US hunts it down

Researchers have said that feeding children peanut products from infancy until the age of five cuts the risk of developing a peanut allergy during later years of life. They found that&nbsp;children who ate peanut pastes or puffed peanut snacks regularly from four to six months onwards were 71 per cent&nbsp;less likely to have a peanut allergy at age 13 than those who avoided peanuts.

The latest study, known as the Leap-Trio trial, followed 508 of the children to an average age of 13, during which time they were free to eat or avoid peanuts as they wished.

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

In the West, the prevalence of peanut allergy can be as high as 1 in 200 individuals in some populations.

In the United Kingdom, peanut allergy is present in between 0.4 to 0.6 per cent of the whole population.

Researchers say that this simple dietary intervention could prevent about 10,000 cases of potentially life-threatening peanut allergies each year in the UK alone and cut worldwide&nbsp; cases by 100,000 annually.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-natural-protein-that-stops-allergies-and-autoimmune-conditions-369741">Scientists discover natural protein that stops allergies and autoimmune conditions</a>

"I strongly recommend that babies are introduced to peanuts by four months if they have eczema and by six months if they don’t have eczema," Gideon Lack, professor of paediatric allergy at King’s College London told the Guardian.

Babies with eczema are more at risk of developing peanut allergies as traces of the food can penetrate the skin more easily.

Earlier work by the same researchers found that regular consumption of peanut products from infancy reduced the risk of peanut allergy at age five by 81 per cent, compared with children who avoided peanuts for the same period.

The results of the study published in NEJM Evidence also show that the protection remained intact even after the children stopped consuming peanut butter after the age of 5.

"You will prevent the vast majority of peanut allergy, but for those cases where you aren’t able to prevent it, you can identify the children earlier when treating them is much easier," Lack was quoted as saying by The Guardian.

"Once they are at seven, eight, nine months of age, you have really missed the boat. But even if you do miss the boat, you identify children who have peanut allergy early and can treat them with immunotherapy."

Peanut butter or peanut puffs could be given to children who were still breastfeeding once they were able to manage soft foods, according to the researchers. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers have said that feeding children peanut products from infancy until the age of five cuts the risk of developing a peanut allergy during later years of life.

Researchers have said that feeding children peanut products from infancy until the age of five cuts the risk of developing a peanut allergy during later years of life. They found that children who ate peanut pastes or puffed peanut snacks regularly from four to six months onwards were 71 per cent less likely to have a peanut allergy at age 13 than those who avoided peanuts. The latest study, known as the Leap-Trio trial, followed 508 of the children to an average age of 13, during which time they were free to eat or avoid peanuts as they wished. What does it mean? In the West, the prevalence of peanut allergy can be as high as 1 in 200 individuals in some populations. In the United Kingdom, peanut allergy is present in between 0.4 to 0.6 per cent of the whole population. Researchers say that this simple dietary intervention could prevent about 10,000 cases of potentially life-threatening peanut allergies each year in the UK alone and cut worldwide cases by 100,000 annually. Also read | Scientists discover natural protein that stops allergies and autoimmune conditions "I strongly recommend that babies are introduced to peanuts by four months if they have eczema and by six months if they don’t have eczema," Gideon Lack, professor of paediatric allergy at King’s College London told the Guardian. Babies with eczema are more at risk of developing peanut allergies as traces of the food can penetrate the skin more easily. Earlier work by the same researchers found that regular consumption of peanut products from infancy reduced the risk of peanut allergy at age five by 81 per cent, compared with children who avoided peanuts for the same period. The results of the study published in NEJM Evidence also show that the protection remained intact even after the children stopped consuming peanut butter after the age of 5. "You will prevent the vast majority of peanut allergy, but for those cases where you aren’t able to prevent it, you can identify the children earlier when treating them is much easier," Lack was quoted as saying by The Guardian. "Once they are at seven, eight, nine months of age, you have really missed the boat. But even if you do miss the boat, you identify children who have peanut allergy early and can treat them with immunotherapy." Peanut butter or peanut puffs could be given to children who were still breastfeeding once they were able to manage soft foods, according to the researchers. (With inputs from agencies)

Peanut butter-like products can save your children from THIS allergy

Scientists might have found the mechanism behind the unusual explosive eruptions seen at one of the most active volcanoes in the world - Kilauea.

The Big Island's Kilauea volcano, part of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, in 2018 erupted over a dozen times in a way scientists compared to a child's stomp rocket – a toy where you stomp to launch a rocket skyward.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ufos-spotted-now-japans-parliamentary-group-will-figure-out-what-they-are-726474">UFOs spotted! Now Japan's parliamentary group will figure out what they are</a>

This distinctive behaviour was explained in a recent paper published in Nature Geosciences.

According to lead researcher Josh Crozier, a geologist at Stanford University, this unusual eruptive style likely worsened the impact of the 2018 lava flow, which devastated over 600 properties.

The eruptions sometimes up to 30 feet high were uncommon because explosive eruptions are typically driven by either rising molten rock -- magma -- or by expanding steam from magma heating underground water.&nbsp;

The stomp-rocket toy mechanism geologists believe caused the 2018 eruptions likely stemmed from the collapse of the magma reservoir, which suddenly increased the pressure of gas trapped in the chamber and led to an explosive eruption.

Geologist Josh Crozier explains that a combination of seismic and geodetic instruments captured a significant and sudden swelling of the ground near the magma chamber. Additionally, infrasound readings, which track low-frequency sounds, indicated a decrease in air pressure.

"It's really quite different from a typical spectrum of groundwater-driven, magma-driven eruptions," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-eyes-on-rafah-picks-up-steam-on-social-media-heres-all-you-need-to-know-about-its-origins-726573">'All Eyes On Rafah'&nbsp;picks up steam on social media. Here's all you need to know about its origin</a>

The unusual eruptions at Kilauea have been witnessed as early as the 1920s, which began a series of large explosive eruptions, said Crozier, who conducted the study during his time with the US Geological Survey.

In 2018, the extra explosive activity at the summit helped drive the heavy outpouring of the magma, Crozier said. The lava then poured along the east rift zone of the volcano, damaging hundreds of homes on its path towards the ocean, he added.

Similar eruptions at Kilauea could occur in the future, but it would be "highly unlikely" in the next decade, Crozier said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists might have found the mechanism behind the unusual explosive eruptions seen at one of the most active volcanoes in the world - Kilauea. The Big Island's Kilauea volcano, part of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, in 2018 erupted over a dozen times in a way scientists compared to a child's stomp rocket – a toy where you stomp to launch a rocket skyward.

Scientists might have found the mechanism behind the unusual explosive eruptions seen at one of the most active volcanoes in the world - Kilauea. The Big Island's Kilauea volcano, part of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, in 2018 erupted over a dozen times in a way scientists compared to a child's stomp rocket – a toy where you stomp to launch a rocket skyward. Also read: UFOs spotted! Now Japan's parliamentary group will figure out what they are This distinctive behaviour was explained in a recent paper published in Nature Geosciences. According to lead researcher Josh Crozier, a geologist at Stanford University, this unusual eruptive style likely worsened the impact of the 2018 lava flow, which devastated over 600 properties. The eruptions sometimes up to 30 feet high were uncommon because explosive eruptions are typically driven by either rising molten rock -- magma -- or by expanding steam from magma heating underground water. The stomp-rocket toy mechanism geologists believe caused the 2018 eruptions likely stemmed from the collapse of the magma reservoir, which suddenly increased the pressure of gas trapped in the chamber and led to an explosive eruption. Geologist Josh Crozier explains that a combination of seismic and geodetic instruments captured a significant and sudden swelling of the ground near the magma chamber. Additionally, infrasound readings, which track low-frequency sounds, indicated a decrease in air pressure. "It's really quite different from a typical spectrum of groundwater-driven, magma-driven eruptions," he said. Also read: 'All Eyes On Rafah' picks up steam on social media. Here's all you need to know about its origin The unusual eruptions at Kilauea have been witnessed as early as the 1920s, which began a series of large explosive eruptions, said Crozier, who conducted the study during his time with the US Geological Survey. In 2018, the extra explosive activity at the summit helped drive the heavy outpouring of the magma, Crozier said. The lava then poured along the east rift zone of the volcano, damaging hundreds of homes on its path towards the ocean, he added. Similar eruptions at Kilauea could occur in the future, but it would be "highly unlikely" in the next decade, Crozier said. (With inputs from agencies)

Kilauea volcano could erupt like a 'stomp-rocket toy', says study

It's sad news for all Star Trek fans as the real-life version of planet Vulcan, which is shown as Mr Spock's fictional home, might not be a planet at all but only an astronomical illusion, as per a new study.&nbsp;

As a scientific study conducted by Abigail Burrows of Dartmouth College, and previously of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and her team, Vulcan orbiting the star 40 Eridani A, is a kind of illusion caused by the pulses and jitters of the star itself.

The study was published in a paper titled, "The death of Vulcan: NEID reveals the planet candidate orbiting HD 26965 is stellar activity," in&nbsp;The Astronomical Journal.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/volcanoes-have-turned-alive-on-venus-is-an-eruption-underway-on-earths-twin-sister-726262">Volcanoes have turned alive on Venus. Is an eruption underway on Earth's 'twin sister'?</a>

The study conducted with the help of a NASA-NSF instrument, installed atop Kitt Peak in Arizona, seems to have reduced the planet Vulcan to just an illusion.&nbsp;

<h2>Vulcan: An exoplanet or mere illusion?</h2>

The possibility of a planet similar to what Star Trek projected, drew a lot of excitement and intrigue in 2018 when something similar to Vulcan was discovered. But five years later, the planet appears to be at the threshold of being pushed into the science fiction realm.&nbsp;

Only five years later, the planet appeared to be on shaky ground when other researchers questioned whether it was there at all.&nbsp;

Usually, the "radial velocity" method has been in vogue to discover a healthy share of exoplanets. This method also works for systems with planets that don't, from Earth's point of view, cross the faces of their stars, unlike the transit method.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/black-holes-captured-acting-like-a-death-stars-weapon-point-jets-at-new-targets-726326">Black holes captured acting like a Death Star’s weapon, point jets at new targets</a>

By tracking subtle shifts in starlight, scientists can measure "wobbles" in the star itself, as the gravity of an orbiting planet tugs it one way, then another. This is called a star's radial velocity signal that mostly leads to planet detections.&nbsp;

The instrument used in the study, known as NEID, is a recent addition to the complex of telescopes at Kitt Peak National Observatory.&nbsp;

NEID, like other radial velocity instruments, relies on the Doppler effect- shifts in the light spectrum of a star that reveal its wobbling motions. In this case, parsing out the supposed planet signal at various wavelengths of light, emitted from different levels of the star's outer shell, revealed significant differences between individual wavelength measurements and the total signal when they were all combined.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sunspot-that-let-loose-strongest-auroras-and-solar-storms-might-make-a-comeback-this-month-726338">Sunspot that let loose strongest auroras and solar storms might make a comeback this month</a>

This could mean only one thing- that the planet signal is the flickering of something on the star's surface that coincides with a 42-day rotation, combined with stellar surface features such as spots and "plages," which are bright, active regions. Both can alter a star's radial velocity signals.

Even the scientists who made the original, possible detection of planet HD 26965 b, immediately compared to the fictional Vulcan, cautioned that it could turn out to be messy stellar jitters masquerading as a planet.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

It's sad news for all Star Trek fans as the real-life version of planet Vulcan, which is shown as Mr Spock's fictional home, might not be a planet at all but only an astronomical illusion, as per a new study.

It's sad news for all Star Trek fans as the real-life version of planet Vulcan, which is shown as Mr Spock's fictional home, might not be a planet at all but only an astronomical illusion, as per a new study. As a scientific study conducted by Abigail Burrows of Dartmouth College, and previously of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and her team, Vulcan orbiting the star 40 Eridani A, is a kind of illusion caused by the pulses and jitters of the star itself. The study was published in a paper titled, "The death of Vulcan: NEID reveals the planet candidate orbiting HD 26965 is stellar activity," in The Astronomical Journal. Also Read | Volcanoes have turned alive on Venus. Is an eruption underway on Earth's 'twin sister'? The study conducted with the help of a NASA-NSF instrument, installed atop Kitt Peak in Arizona, seems to have reduced the planet Vulcan to just an illusion. Vulcan: An exoplanet or mere illusion? The possibility of a planet similar to what Star Trek projected, drew a lot of excitement and intrigue in 2018 when something similar to Vulcan was discovered. But five years later, the planet appears to be at the threshold of being pushed into the science fiction realm. Only five years later, the planet appeared to be on shaky ground when other researchers questioned whether it was there at all. Usually, the "radial velocity" method has been in vogue to discover a healthy share of exoplanets. This method also works for systems with planets that don't, from Earth's point of view, cross the faces of their stars, unlike the transit method. Also Read | Black holes captured acting like a Death Star’s weapon, point jets at new targets By tracking subtle shifts in starlight, scientists can measure "wobbles" in the star itself, as the gravity of an orbiting planet tugs it one way, then another. This is called a star's radial velocity signal that mostly leads to planet detections. The instrument used in the study, known as NEID, is a recent addition to the complex of telescopes at Kitt Peak National Observatory. NEID, like other radial velocity instruments, relies on the Doppler effect- shifts in the light spectrum of a star that reveal its wobbling motions. In this case, parsing out the supposed planet signal at various wavelengths of light, emitted from different levels of the star's outer shell, revealed significant differences between individual wavelength measurements and the total signal when they were all combined. Also Read | Sunspot that let loose strongest auroras and solar storms might make a comeback this month This could mean only one thing- that the planet signal is the flickering of something on the star's surface that coincides with a 42-day rotation, combined with stellar surface features such as spots and "plages," which are bright, active regions. Both can alter a star's radial velocity signals. Even the scientists who made the original, possible detection of planet HD 26965 b, immediately compared to the fictional Vulcan, cautioned that it could turn out to be messy stellar jitters masquerading as a planet. (With inputs from agencies)

Star Trek heartbreak! Vulcan-like planet is merely a cosmic illusion created by its star, study reveals

While analysing some old unpublished images of Mars'&nbsp;moon Phobos, researchers found something peculiar that might prove our previous understanding of the moon wrong.&nbsp;

Phobos, also known as the "doomed moon", is a little different than other moons of the solar system. It is much smaller than its host planet and is covered in craters with surprisingly low density. Another such moon of Mars is Deimos. Both Phobos and Deimos have similar characteristics and are very irregular in shape.

The close-up images of these distinct moons show Phobos has 1-kilometre (0.6-mile) long grooves running across its surface, which is unusual for a moon. The images also show Phobos&nbsp;covered in loose&nbsp;regolith (rock and dust).&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronomers-from-china-and-ukraine-team-up-on-asteroid-defense-726127">Astronomers from China and Ukraine team up on asteroid defense</a>

There are some theories related to the formation of these moons, though none explain their unusual characteristics completely. According to one idea, the moons were created when a large object collided with Mars, creating a debris disk around Mars that slowly coalesced into the objects. Another suggests that the Moons are captured D-type asteroids, usually found in the outer asteroid belt, or with&nbsp;Jupiter's trojan asteroids.

The latter asteroid theory might explain their apparent composition, but it falls short of explaining their&nbsp;almost circular orbit. Meanwhile, the debris disk hypothesis might explain the circular&nbsp;orbit but doesn't do well for the moons' composition.

<h2>Researchers find peculiar properties on Phobos that are similar to a comet&nbsp;</h2>

A team of researchers from France and Germany came across previously unpublished photos of Phobos taken by the European Space Agency's (ESA) Mars Express spacecraft and found the moon does not reflect light uniformly, but appears brighter when the Sun is directly overhead, something which is seen in comets.

"Overall, our photometric analysis has shown that Phobos photometric properties show a close resemblance to those of comet 67P: both have a red spectrum, a high surface porosity, and similar opposition effect values," the team wrote in their study, adding that the moon could be a bilobated comet (i.e. comets with two distinct lobes) or a binary comet (composed of two bodies that have come together through gravitation).

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/heres-how-nasa-is-planning-to-reach-mars-from-earth-in-months-726183">Here's how NASA is planning to reach Mars from Earth in months</a>

When the team compared the phase integral and geometric albedo of Phobos with other dark Solar System bodies, it showed that Phobos has photometric properties similar to those of Jupiter family comets.

This is a unique hypothesis as thus far we have not discovered any&nbsp;comet moons, making Phobos a potential first.&nbsp;

The upcoming Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's (JAXA) Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission, launching in 2026, aims to return samples of Phobos to Earth after three years of observations. With its sample, the hypothesis can be proved true.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

While analysing some old unpublished images of Mars' moon Phobos, researchers found something peculiar that might prove our previous understanding of the moon wrong.

While analysing some old unpublished images of Mars' moon Phobos, researchers found something peculiar that might prove our previous understanding of the moon wrong. Phobos, also known as the "doomed moon", is a little different than other moons of the solar system. It is much smaller than its host planet and is covered in craters with surprisingly low density. Another such moon of Mars is Deimos. Both Phobos and Deimos have similar characteristics and are very irregular in shape. The close-up images of these distinct moons show Phobos has 1-kilometre (0.6-mile) long grooves running across its surface, which is unusual for a moon. The images also show Phobos covered in loose regolith (rock and dust). Also Read | Astronomers from China and Ukraine team up on asteroid defense There are some theories related to the formation of these moons, though none explain their unusual characteristics completely. According to one idea, the moons were created when a large object collided with Mars, creating a debris disk around Mars that slowly coalesced into the objects. Another suggests that the Moons are captured D-type asteroids, usually found in the outer asteroid belt, or with Jupiter's trojan asteroids. The latter asteroid theory might explain their apparent composition, but it falls short of explaining their almost circular orbit. Meanwhile, the debris disk hypothesis might explain the circular orbit but doesn't do well for the moons' composition. Researchers find peculiar properties on Phobos that are similar to a comet A team of researchers from France and Germany came across previously unpublished photos of Phobos taken by the European Space Agency's (ESA) Mars Express spacecraft and found the moon does not reflect light uniformly, but appears brighter when the Sun is directly overhead, something which is seen in comets. "Overall, our photometric analysis has shown that Phobos photometric properties show a close resemblance to those of comet 67P: both have a red spectrum, a high surface porosity, and similar opposition effect values," the team wrote in their study, adding that the moon could be a bilobated comet (i.e. comets with two distinct lobes) or a binary comet (composed of two bodies that have come together through gravitation). Also Read | Here's how NASA is planning to reach Mars from Earth in months When the team compared the phase integral and geometric albedo of Phobos with other dark Solar System bodies, it showed that Phobos has photometric properties similar to those of Jupiter family comets. This is a unique hypothesis as thus far we have not discovered any comet moons, making Phobos a potential first. The upcoming Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's (JAXA) Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission, launching in 2026, aims to return samples of Phobos to Earth after three years of observations. With its sample, the hypothesis can be proved true. (With inputs from agencies)

Is Phobos a comet moon? Scientists notice peculiar details on Mars' moon

Scientists have warned that the&nbsp;'crossbreeding'&nbsp;between different viruses may lead to the emergence of a completely new, altered virus with potentially more threatening characteristics. Such viruses may even trigger another COVID-19-like pandemic, said the virologists from the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ). This natural evolution of viruses occurs as different&nbsp;virus&nbsp;species create new pathogens inside vertebrates.

“Using a new computer-assisted analysis method, we discovered 40 previously unknown nidoviruses in various vertebrates from fish to rodents, including 13 coronaviruses,”&nbsp;said DKFZ group leader Stefan Seitz.

<h2>The unexplored world&nbsp;of viruses</h2>

According to researchers, most&nbsp;of the&nbsp;viruses are still unknown to humans as scientific studies have focused more on viruses that cause diseases in humans, domestic animals and crops.

But, with the new AI-assisted method, scientists&nbsp;were able to&nbsp;peruse 300,000 data sets and&nbsp;could&nbsp;derive insightful data in one go.

<h2>What are Nidoviruses?</h2>

Nidoviruses consist of ribonucleic acid (RNA) and bear common characteristics that distinguish them from all other RNA viruses and document their relationship.

The researchers found that when host animals&nbsp;are infected&nbsp;with different viruses&nbsp;at the same time, a new virus may emerge altogether&nbsp;as a result of&nbsp;a recombination of viral genes.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwij-7_ktK6GAxWMzTgGHYOeCjAQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/microplastics-found-in-blood-clots-linked-to-heart-attacks-and-strokes-724746" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/science/microplastics-found-in-blood-clots-linked-to-heart-attacks-and-strokes-724746&amp;ved=2ahUKEwij-7_ktK6GAxWMzTgGHYOeCjAQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE">Microplastics found in blood clots linked to heart attacks and strokes</a>

“Apparently, the nidoviruses we discovered in fish frequently exchange genetic material between different virus species, even across family boundaries,”&nbsp;says Stefan Seitz.

This evolution among viruses is more glaring and radical when two viruses from&nbsp;totally&nbsp; different families interact.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwij-7_ktK6GAxWMzTgGHYOeCjAQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-develop-technique-that-can-create-diamonds-in-just-15-minutes-724346" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-develop-technique-that-can-create-diamonds-in-just-15-minutes-724346&amp;ved=2ahUKEwij-7_ktK6GAxWMzTgGHYOeCjAQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Scientists develop technique that can create diamonds in just 15 minutes</a>

Such evolution may lead the virus to cause fatal and dangerous diseases to the host animal.

“A&nbsp;genetic exchange, as we have found in fish viruses, will probably also occur in mammalian viruses,”&nbsp;explains Stefan Seitz.

Such natural crossbreeding processes among viruses may easily&nbsp;take place&nbsp;in bats that are known to carry&nbsp;a large number of&nbsp;viruses inside their bodies.

Researchers suggest that the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus may also have developed among bats only.

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists have warned that the 'crossbreeding' between different viruses may lead to the emergence of a completely new, altered virus with potentially more threatening characteristics.

Scientists have warned that the 'crossbreeding' between different viruses may lead to the emergence of a completely new, altered virus with potentially more threatening characteristics. Such viruses may even trigger another COVID-19-like pandemic, said the virologists from the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ). This natural evolution of viruses occurs as different virus species create new pathogens inside vertebrates. “Using a new computer-assisted analysis method, we discovered 40 previously unknown nidoviruses in various vertebrates from fish to rodents, including 13 coronaviruses,” said DKFZ group leader Stefan Seitz. The unexplored world of viruses According to researchers, most of the viruses are still unknown to humans as scientific studies have focused more on viruses that cause diseases in humans, domestic animals and crops. But, with the new AI-assisted method, scientists were able to peruse 300,000 data sets and could derive insightful data in one go. What are Nidoviruses? Nidoviruses consist of ribonucleic acid (RNA) and bear common characteristics that distinguish them from all other RNA viruses and document their relationship. The researchers found that when host animals are infected with different viruses at the same time, a new virus may emerge altogether as a result of a recombination of viral genes. Also read: Microplastics found in blood clots linked to heart attacks and strokes “Apparently, the nidoviruses we discovered in fish frequently exchange genetic material between different virus species, even across family boundaries,” says Stefan Seitz. This evolution among viruses is more glaring and radical when two viruses from totally different families interact. Also read: Scientists develop technique that can create diamonds in just 15 minutes Such evolution may lead the virus to cause fatal and dangerous diseases to the host animal. “A genetic exchange, as we have found in fish viruses, will probably also occur in mammalian viruses,” explains Stefan Seitz. Such natural crossbreeding processes among viruses may easily take place in bats that are known to carry a large number of viruses inside their bodies. Researchers suggest that the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus may also have developed among bats only. (With inputs from agencies)

Researchers find genetically altered Nidoviruses may trigger the next pandemic

The major sunspot AR3664, which created powerful solar explosions resulting in widespread auroras recently, has now rotated back on the surface of the sun and already unleashed an X-class flare early Monday.

The X-flares are the strongest classification of flares. As per the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center, the flare that they observed on Monday was X2.8. It was found off the southeast limb of the sun.

The higher the number of these flares, the stronger the intensity of the flare will be, which can cause radio and other communication blackouts on Earth.

The source of the&nbsp;May 10 solar superstorm that generated historic aurora&nbsp;in all fifty US states for the first time in decades was also generated from sunspot&nbsp;AR3664. It was more directly aimed at Earth in early May.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-find-peculiar-properties-on-phobos-that-are-similar-to-a-comet-726189">Is Phobos a comet moon? Scientists notice peculiar details on Mars' moon</a>

As we are aware the sun rotates on its axis like Earth does, therefore, the sunspot AR3664 has spent the past few weeks on the far side of the sun that faces away from our&nbsp;planet, but it is just now rotating back into view from our viewpoint.

However, the strength of a flare is just one of the many factors that influence how solar unrest impacts systems on our planet.&nbsp;

Aurora and disruptions to electrical systems are&nbsp;actually more closely related to coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which are eruptions of charged particles that can take a few days to reach Earth. CMEs are also directional, so when one is aimed from a sunspot that is more directly aimed at Earth, it is more likely to result in stronger impacts.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/volcanoes-have-turned-alive-on-venus-is-an-eruption-underway-on-earths-twin-sister-726262">Volcanoes have turned alive on Venus. Is an eruption underway on Earth's 'twin sister'?</a>

It looks like AR3664 still has some energy left after its travels, and another sunspot, AR3691, is also growing and developing X-flare potential as its firing line approaches Earth.

All these factors could result in the same phenomenon as the one we saw on May 10.&nbsp;

Though no official forecasts have been made yet, the sun changes very quickly. We can simply observe it closely and can learn a lot about what's about to come.&nbsp;

Also, as this is the year of the solar cycle, the sun is at its peak activity, and Monday's X-flare can turn into a reality.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The major sunspot AR3664, which created powerful solar explosions resulting in widespread auroras recently, has now rotated back on the surface of the sun and already unleashed an X-class flare early Monday.

The major sunspot AR3664, which created powerful solar explosions resulting in widespread auroras recently, has now rotated back on the surface of the sun and already unleashed an X-class flare early Monday. The X-flares are the strongest classification of flares. As per the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center, the flare that they observed on Monday was X2.8. It was found off the southeast limb of the sun. The higher the number of these flares, the stronger the intensity of the flare will be, which can cause radio and other communication blackouts on Earth. The source of the May 10 solar superstorm that generated historic aurora in all fifty US states for the first time in decades was also generated from sunspot AR3664. It was more directly aimed at Earth in early May. Also Read | Is Phobos a comet moon? Scientists notice peculiar details on Mars' moon As we are aware the sun rotates on its axis like Earth does, therefore, the sunspot AR3664 has spent the past few weeks on the far side of the sun that faces away from our planet, but it is just now rotating back into view from our viewpoint. However, the strength of a flare is just one of the many factors that influence how solar unrest impacts systems on our planet. Aurora and disruptions to electrical systems are actually more closely related to coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which are eruptions of charged particles that can take a few days to reach Earth. CMEs are also directional, so when one is aimed from a sunspot that is more directly aimed at Earth, it is more likely to result in stronger impacts. Also Read | Volcanoes have turned alive on Venus. Is an eruption underway on Earth's 'twin sister'? It looks like AR3664 still has some energy left after its travels, and another sunspot, AR3691, is also growing and developing X-flare potential as its firing line approaches Earth. All these factors could result in the same phenomenon as the one we saw on May 10. Though no official forecasts have been made yet, the sun changes very quickly. We can simply observe it closely and can learn a lot about what's about to come. Also, as this is the year of the solar cycle, the sun is at its peak activity, and Monday's X-flare can turn into a reality. (With inputs from agencies)

Sunspot that let loose strongest auroras and solar storms might make a comeback this month

NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory along with the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)'s National Radio Astronomical Observatory's (NRAO) Very Long Baseline Array spotted gargantuan black holes firing strong beams of supercharged particles which were slowly changing direction over millions of years.

NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory along with the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)'s National Radio Astronomical Observatory's (NRAO) Very Long Baseline Array spotted gargantuan black holes firing strong beams of supercharged particles which were slowly changing direction over millions of years. The supermassive black holes were seen spinning in different directions and shooting these particle jets in deep space. In a statement, Astrophysicist Francesco Ubertosi said, "We found that about a third of the beams are now pointing in completely different directions than before. These Death Star black holes are swivelling around and pointing at new targets, like the fictional space station in Star Wars." Also Read: Parasite black holes devouring stars from inside, says study As per a new paper published in The Astrophysical Journal, these cosmic jets which were released from every black hole in two opposite-facing streams created cavities in clouds of gas. Supermassive black holes are a type of colossal black holes which are present at the centres of many galaxies, which include our own Milky Way. As per the paper, scientists can understand the direction of the jets which were released from 16 supermassive black holes by investigating pairs of bubbles present in clouds of gas in space. The force of the powerful particle beams may have created such cavities in gas. Scientists remain puzzled about the change in the direction of jets It was found by the researchers that many of the black holes, which were studied, changed the direction in which their jets were released by around 90 degrees. In a statement, study co-author and researcher at the Harvard & Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CFA) Gerrit Schellenberger said, "Considering that these black holes are likely more than 10 billion years old, we consider a large change in direction over a few million years to be fast. Changing the direction of the giant black hole beams in about a million years is analogous to changing the direction of a new battleship in a few minutes." Watch: Scientists unveil Black Hole's plunge, bizarre region around black holes found The researchers have failed to figure out how the black holes are turning their beams in different directions, as they were earlier believed to align with the axis. It is around this axis that the black holes continue to rotate. As per the scientists, if the material falls into the black hole at an angle which is not parallel to its disk it may change the direction that is faced by this rotational axis. In the statement, co-author and a researcher at CFA Jan Vrtilek said, "It's possible that material rapidly falling towards the black holes at a different angle for long enough would drag their rotation axes in a different direction, causing the beams to point in a different direction." (With inputs from agencies)

Black holes captured acting like a Death Star’s weapon, point jets at new targets

To better track near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) and assess probable risks, a joint China-Ukraine research team has been using regular observations to pinpoint their location and precisely map their orbits.

The NEAs are asteroids whose routes are in close proximity to the Earth's orbit. The chance of it having an impact on our planet presents a serious threat, underscoring the imperative need for prompt follow-up observations of newly identified NEAs for rapidly assessing their orbital elements.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-find-genetically-altered-nidoviruses-may-trigger-the-next-pandemic-726070">Researchers find genetically altered Nidoviruses may trigger the next&nbsp;pandemic</a>

However, for accurate astronomical measurements, observing rapidly moving objects requires short exposure times to avoid elongated streaks in the image.

The researchers from Shanghai Astronomical Observatory (SHAO) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Mykolaiv Astronomical Observatory found an innovative technique known as the rotating-drift-scan (RDS) charge-coupled device (CCD) technique, which allows the asteroid to be imaged as a point source, even with a long exposure time.

Their work leveraged an extensive dataset comprising more than 11,000 positional measurements of nearly 500 NEAs captured by the two 50-centimeter telescopes located, respectively, in the northwestern Chinese city of Xi'an from 2019 to 2023 and in Mykolaiv, Ukraine, from 2011 to 2022.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-reveals-how-ancient-viral-dna-in-human-genome-impacts-mental-health-726038">Study reveals how ancient viral DNA in human genome impacts mental health</a>

A new study in the Astronomical Journal suggests a game-changer for asteroid detection. By leveraging a network of small telescopes with a clever technique, we can significantly improve global monitoring and protect Earth from potential asteroid impacts.

(With inputs from agencies)

To better track near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) and assess probable risks, a joint China-Ukraine research team has been using regular observations to pinpoint their location and precisely map their orbits.

To better track near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) and assess probable risks, a joint China-Ukraine research team has been using regular observations to pinpoint their location and precisely map their orbits. The NEAs are asteroids whose routes are in close proximity to the Earth's orbit. The chance of it having an impact on our planet presents a serious threat, underscoring the imperative need for prompt follow-up observations of newly identified NEAs for rapidly assessing their orbital elements. Also read: Researchers find genetically altered Nidoviruses may trigger the next pandemic However, for accurate astronomical measurements, observing rapidly moving objects requires short exposure times to avoid elongated streaks in the image. The researchers from Shanghai Astronomical Observatory (SHAO) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Mykolaiv Astronomical Observatory found an innovative technique known as the rotating-drift-scan (RDS) charge-coupled device (CCD) technique, which allows the asteroid to be imaged as a point source, even with a long exposure time. Their work leveraged an extensive dataset comprising more than 11,000 positional measurements of nearly 500 NEAs captured by the two 50-centimeter telescopes located, respectively, in the northwestern Chinese city of Xi'an from 2019 to 2023 and in Mykolaiv, Ukraine, from 2011 to 2022. Also read: Study reveals how ancient viral DNA in human genome impacts mental health A new study in the Astronomical Journal suggests a game-changer for asteroid detection. By leveraging a network of small telescopes with a clever technique, we can significantly improve global monitoring and protect Earth from potential asteroid impacts. (With inputs from agencies)

Astronomers from China and Ukraine team up to defend Earth against asteroids

The scientists, while analysing data which was collected nearly 30 years ago on Venus, have concluded that the volcanoes are likely to be active currently on the planet.

The scientists, while analysing data which was collected nearly 30 years ago on Venus, have concluded that the volcanoes are likely to be active currently on the planet. A research group, which was headed by David Sulcanese of the Universita d'Annunzio in Pescara, Italy, used data collected from radar mapping of the surface of the Earth's twin sister in the 1990s when the experts were searching for volcanic lava flows and found their presence in two regions. The latest discovery has hinted that volcanic activity taking place currently on Venus may be more widespread than believed. Also Read: Skygazers assemble! Six planets are set to align in spectacular view for 'planet parade' in June The work was published in the journal Nature Astronomy. Venus, which is also known as "Earth's twin sister", has a CO2-dominated atmosphere which leads to a massive greenhouse effect and bakes the planet's surface at around 465°C (870°F). According to scientists, the surface of Venus was very similar to that of Earth billions of years ago. The presence of liquid water, the brightening sun and volcanic activity increased the planet's temperatures and led to evaporation of all water from the planet, creating a runaway greenhouse effect. Currently, Venus is broiling hot and appears dead as dense clouds of sulfuric acid surround it. Venus likely to witness 42 volcanic eruptions a year: study Scientists, while studying a host of other possibilities, said their "best interpretation" of the observation is that the planet's surface scattering properties like its roughness and composition went through a change between the first cycle of scans and the third cycle, which spanned across nearly 16 months. "Our study covered only about 16% of Venus's surface due to the limitation of comparing images from just the two left-look cycles," stated lead author Sulcanese, who has been employed at his university's International Research School of Planetary Sciences. "Therefore, it is likely that more evidence of this nature exists on Venus," he added. Watch: Gravitas: Most promising indication of life on another planet found The observations have also supported earlier work that had inferred the current volcanic activity on Venus from indirect evidence like changes in a region's thermal emissivity data, variations in the atmosphere's sulfuric acid and morphological analysis of volcanic-like surface features. It was also discovered by scientists that Venus is likely to face nearly 42 volcanic eruptions every year and around 20 eruptions will last more than 1,000 Earth days. (With inputs from agencies)

Volcanoes have turned alive on Venus. Is an eruption underway on Earth's 'twin sister'?

US space agency NASA has collaborated with a private company to develop a new rocket that can reduce space travel time between Earth and Mars. The scientists will design the engine of this rocket in a way to sharply increase the amount of thrust for accelerating space travel and take rocket efficiency to another level.

US space agency NASA has collaborated with a private company to develop a new rocket that can reduce space travel time between Earth and Mars. The scientists will design the engine of this rocket in a way to sharply increase the amount of thrust for accelerating space travel and take rocket efficiency to another level. Thrust is the force which lifts the spacecraft in the air. A propulsion system produces this thrust by burning a gas or liquid fuel at the back of a spacecraft to propel it forward at high speed. The new design, which is known as the Pulsed Plasma Rocket (PPR), is being developed by Howe Industries, an Arizona-based company. Currently, the company is in the early stages of studying the technology after which they will start working on building engine models. Also Read: NASA launches satellite PREFIRE to monitor, predict and help mitigate climate change Howe Industries, in a recent statement, said, "Such rocket technology will be needed to support NASA’s plans to return humans to the moon and, after that, possibly Mars." A goal has been established by the space agency for building a long-term base in space. However, one hurdle in all these plans is the long travel times required in the current spacecraft systems. As per the estimated distance of NASA, the moon is around 382,500 kilometres away from Earth. The distance between Earth and its satellite keeps on changing because of the moon's orbit. The average distance between Earth and Mars is 225 million kilometres. NASA says SLS rocket system is most powerful one built till now NASA said it takes at least 200 days to reach Mars from Earth with existing spacecraft. The proposed Pulsed Plasma Rocket's developers said that it could reduce travel time to the red planet to around two months one way. Howe Industries said that the new design has given the rocket the power to reach extremely high speeds for completing “reasonable” space travel times. Watch: NASA restores contact with Voyager 1 after months of silence According to the development team's estimates, the PPR system has the capacity to produce around 100,000 Newtons of thrust. According to NASA, its Space Launch System (SLS) is the most powerful one ever built. The agency said that the SLS rocket system is likely to provide around 53 Newtons of thrust amid space travel. PPR's developers said that along with a huge increase in thrust, the new design also gives a “specific impulse” rate of 5,000. Specific impulse is a method which is used to measure the levels of thrust and efficiency in rocket engines in seconds. (With inputs from agencies)

Here's how NASA is planning to reduce travel time between Mars and Earth

Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS (C/2023 A3) is steadily brightening and developing a tail, according to reports. Following recent celestial events like the total solar eclipse and intense solar superstorms, this comet is predicted to become visible to the naked eye later this year.

It is situated in the constellation Virgo and is currently travelling between Mars and Jupiter.

Comet A3 is expected to significantly brighten in October and will potentially become as luminous as Venus in the night sky. This could make it the "comet of the year" or even the century. For interested skygazers, Comet A3 can only be observed with a large telescope.

Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) is a long-period comet discovered in early 2023. Its discovery was notable because it was independently observed by two separate astronomical surveys - the Tsuchinshan (Purple Mountain Observatory) in China and the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) in South Africa.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-found-co2-and-co-ices-far-away-in-our-solar-system-for-the-first-time-study-725702">Scientists find CO2 and CO ice far away in our solar system for the first time</a>

A long-period comet with an orbit of over 80,000 years, A3 originates from the Oort Cloud, a distant region of our solar system that is believed to be a vast, spherical shell of icy objects.

Comet A3 is anticipated to become visible to the naked eye as it gets closer to the Sun on October 10, 2024. It may become one of the brightest comets in recent years, depending on its behavior as it approaches perihelion.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-launches-satellite-to-monitor-and-mitigate-climate-change-725385">NASA launches satellite PREFIRE to monitor, predict and help mitigate climate change</a>

After this, it will be most visible from the northern hemisphere in the southwest just after sunset. Throughout October and November, it is hoped that the comet will be an eye-catching object in the southern sky.&nbsp;

<h2>Brightness as that of Venus&nbsp;</h2>

Venus is one of the brightest objects in the night sky, after moon. Its apparent magnitude, which measures its brightness as seen from Earth, can reach up to about magnitude -5 at its brightest. It appears brightest when it is in its crescent phase, which occurs shortly after sunset or before sunrise, known as the "evening star" and "morning star" phases, respectively.

Watch | Ultra-processed food could damage your brain, reveals Harvard study

<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/ultra-processed-food-could-damage-your-brain-reveals-harvard-study-724856/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, even at its brightest, the comet might be low on the horizon and obscured by haze in the northern hemisphere.

(With inputs from agencies)

Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS (C/2023 A3) is steadily brightening and developing a tail, according to reports. Following recent celestial events like the total solar eclipse and intense solar superstorms, this comet is predicted to become visible to the naked eye later this year.

Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS (C/2023 A3) is steadily brightening and developing a tail, according to reports. Following recent celestial events like the total solar eclipse and intense solar superstorms, this comet is predicted to become visible to the naked eye later this year. It is situated in the constellation Virgo and is currently travelling between Mars and Jupiter. Comet A3 is expected to significantly brighten in October and will potentially become as luminous as Venus in the night sky. This could make it the "comet of the year" or even the century. For interested skygazers, Comet A3 can only be observed with a large telescope. Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) is a long-period comet discovered in early 2023. Its discovery was notable because it was independently observed by two separate astronomical surveys - the Tsuchinshan (Purple Mountain Observatory) in China and the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) in South Africa. Also Read | Scientists find CO2 and CO ice far away in our solar system for the first time A long-period comet with an orbit of over 80,000 years, A3 originates from the Oort Cloud, a distant region of our solar system that is believed to be a vast, spherical shell of icy objects. Comet A3 is anticipated to become visible to the naked eye as it gets closer to the Sun on October 10, 2024. It may become one of the brightest comets in recent years, depending on its behavior as it approaches perihelion. Also Read | NASA launches satellite PREFIRE to monitor, predict and help mitigate climate change After this, it will be most visible from the northern hemisphere in the southwest just after sunset. Throughout October and November, it is hoped that the comet will be an eye-catching object in the southern sky. Brightness as that of Venus Venus is one of the brightest objects in the night sky, after moon. Its apparent magnitude, which measures its brightness as seen from Earth, can reach up to about magnitude -5 at its brightest. It appears brightest when it is in its crescent phase, which occurs shortly after sunset or before sunrise, known as the "evening star" and "morning star" phases, respectively. Watch | Ultra-processed food could damage your brain, reveals Harvard study × However, even at its brightest, the comet might be low on the horizon and obscured by haze in the northern hemisphere. (With inputs from agencies)

'Comet of the Year' Tsuchinshan-ATLAS brightens, skygazers anticipate spectacular October show

Ancient viruses have left behind genetic sequences that make up to 8 per cent of human DNA. These sequences are hundreds of thousands to millions of years old,&nbsp;some even predate the origin of Homo sapiens. They are known as human endogenous retroviruses, or Hervs.

According to recent studies, there may be a connection between some ancient viral DNA sequences in the human genome and the vulnerability to mental illnesses including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder.

Hervs were once thought to be "junk DNA," or sections of our genome that had no&nbsp;purpose. However, it's now clear that this so-called junk DNA serves more purposes than once thought as our understanding of the human genome has grown.

Early studies revealed that Hervs control the expression of nearby genes involved in vital biological processes.&nbsp;

In blood and brain samples, hervs have also been shown to generate RNAs and even proteins. Since these molecules may move across different cellular compartments to perform various activities, they have the ability to exert a wide range of actions.

Additionally, research has shown evidence that suggests certain human genes are descended from Hervs. This suggests that Hervs were co-opted&nbsp;for specialised biological roles along the course of evolution.

The researchers attempted to determine if variations in Herv expression were linked to genetic predisposition to certain mental diseases, given the plethora of Hervs in the genome and their potentially various functions.

Researchers were able to identify DNA variants that altered Herv expression in the brain by profiling Herv expression in almost 800 postmortem brain samples.

They then compared the results of these findings with those from extensive genetic studies that examined genetic variations among tens of thousands of individuals, both with and without mental health issues.

The study discovered that the expression of four Hervs was associated with a hereditary predisposition to serious mental illnesses. Of these Hervs, the expression of two was linked to schizophrenia, one to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, and one to depression.&nbsp;These findings imply that Hervs could be more significant in the brain than previously believed.

This finding is significant because it suggests that these ancient viral DNA sequences may be more important to our brains than previously believed. Though there are many contributing variables to mental diseases, knowing how Hervs function may aid in the development of more effective therapies down the road.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ancient viruses have left behind genetic sequences that make up to 8 per cent of human DNA. These sequences are hundreds of thousands to millions of years old, some even predate the origin of Homo sapiens.

Ancient viruses have left behind genetic sequences that make up to 8 per cent of human DNA. These sequences are hundreds of thousands to millions of years old, some even predate the origin of Homo sapiens. They are known as human endogenous retroviruses, or Hervs. According to recent studies, there may be a connection between some ancient viral DNA sequences in the human genome and the vulnerability to mental illnesses including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. Hervs were once thought to be "junk DNA," or sections of our genome that had no purpose. However, it's now clear that this so-called junk DNA serves more purposes than once thought as our understanding of the human genome has grown. Early studies revealed that Hervs control the expression of nearby genes involved in vital biological processes. In blood and brain samples, hervs have also been shown to generate RNAs and even proteins. Since these molecules may move across different cellular compartments to perform various activities, they have the ability to exert a wide range of actions. Additionally, research has shown evidence that suggests certain human genes are descended from Hervs. This suggests that Hervs were co-opted for specialised biological roles along the course of evolution. The researchers attempted to determine if variations in Herv expression were linked to genetic predisposition to certain mental diseases, given the plethora of Hervs in the genome and their potentially various functions. Researchers were able to identify DNA variants that altered Herv expression in the brain by profiling Herv expression in almost 800 postmortem brain samples. They then compared the results of these findings with those from extensive genetic studies that examined genetic variations among tens of thousands of individuals, both with and without mental health issues. The study discovered that the expression of four Hervs was associated with a hereditary predisposition to serious mental illnesses. Of these Hervs, the expression of two was linked to schizophrenia, one to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, and one to depression. These findings imply that Hervs could be more significant in the brain than previously believed. This finding is significant because it suggests that these ancient viral DNA sequences may be more important to our brains than previously believed. Though there are many contributing variables to mental diseases, knowing how Hervs function may aid in the development of more effective therapies down the road. (With inputs from agencies)

Study reveals how ancient viral DNA in human genome impacts mental health

Scientists have observed carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide ices in the far reaches of our solar system on trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs) for the first time.&nbsp;

The observations were made using the infrared spectral capabilities of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), which is the largest and most powerful telescope ever launched into space.&nbsp;

In a study published in the journal Nature Astronomy earlier this week, scientists analysed the chemical composition of 59 trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs) and Centaurs.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-launches-satellite-to-monitor-and-mitigate-climate-change-725385">NASA launches satellite PREFIRE to monitor, predict and help mitigate climate change</a>

The groundbreaking study suggests that carbon dioxide ice was abundant in the cold outer parts of the protoplanetary disc,&nbsp;the enormous revolving disc of gas and dust from which the solar system began.&nbsp;

However, a research team, led by planetary scientists Mário Nascimento De Prá and Noemí Pinilla-Alonso from the University of Central Florida's Florida Space Institute (FSI) also said that more investigation is required to understand the carbon monoxide ice's origins because it is also prevalent on the TNOs in the study.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-james-webb-may-have-found-answers-to-planets-extreme-puffiness-around-stars-725236">NASA's James Webb may have found answers to planets' extreme puffiness around stars</a>

As quoted by phys.org, De Prá, who co-authored the study, said, "It is the first time we observed this region of the spectrum for a large collection of TNOs, so in a sense, everything we saw was exciting and unique."&nbsp;

"We did not expect to find that carbon dioxide was so ubiquitous in the TNO region, and even less that carbon monoxide was present in so many TNOs," he added.&nbsp;

Experts believe that the study would help in understanding the formation of our solar system. It could also shed some light on how celestial objects may have migrated.&nbsp;

"Trans-Neptunian Objects are relics from the process of planetary formation," de Prá said, further adding, "These findings can impose important constraints about where these objects were formed, how they reached the region they inhabit nowadays, and how their surfaces evolved since their formation. Because they formed at greater distances to the sun and are smaller than the planets, they contain the pristine information about the original composition of the protoplanetary disk."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Scientists have observed carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide ices in the far reaches of our solar system on trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs) for the first time. The observations were made using the infrared spectral capabilities of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), which is the largest and most powerful telescope ever launched into space.

Scientists have observed carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide ices in the far reaches of our solar system on trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs) for the first time. The observations were made using the infrared spectral capabilities of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), which is the largest and most powerful telescope ever launched into space. In a study published in the journal Nature Astronomy earlier this week, scientists analysed the chemical composition of 59 trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs) and Centaurs. Also read: NASA launches satellite PREFIRE to monitor, predict and help mitigate climate change The groundbreaking study suggests that carbon dioxide ice was abundant in the cold outer parts of the protoplanetary disc, the enormous revolving disc of gas and dust from which the solar system began. However, a research team, led by planetary scientists Mário Nascimento De Prá and Noemí Pinilla-Alonso from the University of Central Florida's Florida Space Institute (FSI) also said that more investigation is required to understand the carbon monoxide ice's origins because it is also prevalent on the TNOs in the study. Also read: NASA's James Webb may have found answers to planets' extreme puffiness around stars As quoted by phys.org, De Prá, who co-authored the study, said, "It is the first time we observed this region of the spectrum for a large collection of TNOs, so in a sense, everything we saw was exciting and unique." "We did not expect to find that carbon dioxide was so ubiquitous in the TNO region, and even less that carbon monoxide was present in so many TNOs," he added. Experts believe that the study would help in understanding the formation of our solar system. It could also shed some light on how celestial objects may have migrated. "Trans-Neptunian Objects are relics from the process of planetary formation," de Prá said, further adding, "These findings can impose important constraints about where these objects were formed, how they reached the region they inhabit nowadays, and how their surfaces evolved since their formation. Because they formed at greater distances to the sun and are smaller than the planets, they contain the pristine information about the original composition of the protoplanetary disk." (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists find CO2 and CO ice far away in our solar system for the first time

Retailers are being encouraged to stop using brightly coloured plastics for everyday products such as drinks bottles, outdoor furniture, and toys. This call to action comes after research showed that coloured plastics degrade into microplastics faster than their plainer counterparts.

Microplastics are everywhere, in fact the pollutants were recently discovered in human testicles, and were potentially linked to declining sperm counts.

<h2>Study on microplastics</h2>

A study led by the University of Leicester found that red, blue, and green plastics become "very brittle and fragmented" over time, while black, white, and silver plastics remain "largely unaffected."&nbsp;

The joint project between scientists from the UK and the University of Cape Town in South Africa, spanning three years, found that plastics based on colour had varying degradation rates.

<h2>How did scientists conclude this?</h2>

In the study, UK researchers placed bottle lids of different colours on a university rooftop, exposing them to sun and weather for three years. Simultaneously, scientists in South Africa examined plastic items found on a remote beach.&nbsp;

Both studies yielded similar results, revealing significant differences in microplastic formation based on colour.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/microplastics-found-in-blood-clots-linked-to-heart-attacks-and-strokes-724746">Microplastics found in blood clots linked to heart attacks and strokes</a>

Dr&nbsp;Sarah Key, who led the project, remarked, "It's amazing that samples left to weather on a rooftop in Leicester and those collected on a windswept beach at the southern tip of the African continent show similar results."&nbsp;

"What the experiments showed is that even in a relatively cool and cloudy environment for only three years, huge differences can be seen in the formation of microplastics," she added.

This field study is the first to provide such proof. It suggests that retailers and manufacturers should reconsider the use of brightly coloured plastics, especially for short-lived products.

The findings have been published in the journal Environmental Pollution.&nbsp;

Professor Sarah Gabbott, co-author of the study, revealed that she "often wondered why microplastics in beach sand often appear to be all the colours of the rainbow."

"I assumed that my eyes were being deceived and that I was just seeing the more colourful microplastics because they were easier to spot."

"Turns out there really are likely to be more brightly coloured microplastics in the environment because those plastic items pigmented red, green, and blue are more susceptible to being fragmented into millions of tiny yet colourful microplastic particles."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-launches-satellite-to-monitor-and-mitigate-climate-change-725385">NASA launches satellite PREFIRE to monitor, predict and help mitigate climate change</a>

Adam Herriott, a senior specialist for plastics at the anti-waste charity Wrap, explained that coloured plastics have traditionally been used to make products stand out. However, the organisation now advises manufacturers to avoid using pigments to facilitate recycling.

<h2>Why do coloured plastics break up faster?</h2>

The study found that unlike other pigments, black, white, and silver colourants protect plastics from damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV exposure alters the polymer structure of plastics, making them brittle and prone to fragmentation.

(With inputs from agencies)

Retailers are being encouraged to stop using brightly coloured plastics for everyday products such as drinks bottles, outdoor furniture, and toys. This call to action comes after research showed that coloured plastics degrade into microplastics faster than their plainer counterparts.

Retailers are being encouraged to stop using brightly coloured plastics for everyday products such as drinks bottles, outdoor furniture, and toys. This call to action comes after research showed that coloured plastics degrade into microplastics faster than their plainer counterparts. Microplastics are everywhere, in fact the pollutants were recently discovered in human testicles, and were potentially linked to declining sperm counts. Study on microplastics A study led by the University of Leicester found that red, blue, and green plastics become "very brittle and fragmented" over time, while black, white, and silver plastics remain "largely unaffected." The joint project between scientists from the UK and the University of Cape Town in South Africa, spanning three years, found that plastics based on colour had varying degradation rates. How did scientists conclude this? In the study, UK researchers placed bottle lids of different colours on a university rooftop, exposing them to sun and weather for three years. Simultaneously, scientists in South Africa examined plastic items found on a remote beach. Both studies yielded similar results, revealing significant differences in microplastic formation based on colour. Also read | Microplastics found in blood clots linked to heart attacks and strokes Dr Sarah Key, who led the project, remarked, "It's amazing that samples left to weather on a rooftop in Leicester and those collected on a windswept beach at the southern tip of the African continent show similar results." "What the experiments showed is that even in a relatively cool and cloudy environment for only three years, huge differences can be seen in the formation of microplastics," she added. This field study is the first to provide such proof. It suggests that retailers and manufacturers should reconsider the use of brightly coloured plastics, especially for short-lived products. The findings have been published in the journal Environmental Pollution. Professor Sarah Gabbott, co-author of the study, revealed that she "often wondered why microplastics in beach sand often appear to be all the colours of the rainbow." "I assumed that my eyes were being deceived and that I was just seeing the more colourful microplastics because they were easier to spot." "Turns out there really are likely to be more brightly coloured microplastics in the environment because those plastic items pigmented red, green, and blue are more susceptible to being fragmented into millions of tiny yet colourful microplastic particles." Also read | NASA launches satellite PREFIRE to monitor, predict and help mitigate climate change Adam Herriott, a senior specialist for plastics at the anti-waste charity Wrap, explained that coloured plastics have traditionally been used to make products stand out. However, the organisation now advises manufacturers to avoid using pigments to facilitate recycling. Why do coloured plastics break up faster? The study found that unlike other pigments, black, white, and silver colourants protect plastics from damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV exposure alters the polymer structure of plastics, making them brittle and prone to fragmentation. (With inputs from agencies)

Ditch bright plastics: Study shows bright plastics break down quicker into microplastics

Pluto's secrets are being unraveled! Astronomers have found convincing evidence of a massive ocean of liquid water hidden beneath the dwarf planet's icy surface.&nbsp;

This exciting discovery, published in Icarus, offers new insights into the makeup of this distant world.

<h2>What lies beneath the ice in the ocean?</h2>

This new research was led by Alex Nguyen, a graduate student in Earth, environmental and planetary sciences at Washington University in St. Louis.

Nguyen and his team used mathematical models and images from NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft to investigate Pluto’s subsurface ocean.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/massive-iceberg-in-antarctica-breaks-off-during-calving-event-report-725850">Massive iceberg in Antarctica breaks off in third major calving in past four years</a>

The research co-authored by Patrick McGovern of the Lunar and Planetary Institute in Houston,&nbsp;sheds light on a long-standing debate about the possibility of liquid water on Pluto.

<h2>Pluto is not just a frozen rock</h2>

Clyde Tombaugh discovered Pluto in 1930. Initially recognised as the ninth planet in our solar system, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) reclassified it as a dwarf planet in 2006.&nbsp;

Pluto orbits the Sun at an average distance of 5.9 billion kilometers, taking approximately 248 Earth years to complete one orbit. It is smaller than Earth's moon, with a diameter of about 2,372 kilometers.

<h2>Composition and moons</h2>

Pluto mainly consists of rock and ice. Its surface features a variety of landscapes, including mountains, valleys, plains, and an ocean that we’ll learn more about soon. The dwarf planet has a thin atmosphere composed primarily of nitrogen, methane, and carbon monoxide.

Pluto has five moons: Charon, Nix, Hydra, Kerberos, and Styx. Charon, the largest of these moons, is nearly half the size of Pluto itself.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/comet-of-the-year-tsuchinshan-atlas-brightens-skygazers-anticipate-spectacular-october-show-725771">'Comet of the Year' Tsuchinshan-ATLAS brightens, skygazers anticipate spectacular October show</a>

Scientists believed that Pluto’s extremely cold surface temperature of -220°C, which causes even gases like nitrogen and methane to freeze solid, would make the existence of liquid water impossible.

“Pluto because of its smaller size, could have lost almost all of its heat shortly after it was formed, so basic calculations would suggest that it’s frozen solid to its core.”

Despite Pluto's frigid surface, recent discoveries like cryovolcanoes erupting with ice and water vapor are fueling the theory of a hidden ocean. Prominent scientists, including William B. McKinnon of WUSTL, now widely agree that Pluto likely conceals a vast liquid water ocean beneath its icy shell.

<h2>Pluto’s subsurface secrets</h2>

Nguyen and McGovern’s study dig deeper into the properties of Pluto’s hidden ocean. They created mathematical models to explain the cracks and bulges in the ice covering the Sputnik Platina Basin.

This colossal basin, sculpted by a huge meteor impact billions of years ago, hints at the ocean below. The team's models suggest this ocean is shielded by a 40-to-80-kilometer-thick (25-to-50-mile-thick) shell of water ice. By analysing surface fractures, they were even able to estimate the ocean's potential density or salinity.&nbsp;

“We estimated a sort of Goldilocks zone where the density and shell thickness is just right,” Nguyen explains.

The findings recommend that Pluto’s ocean is, at most, about 8% denser than Earth’s seawater, comparable to Utah’s Great Salt Lake. If humans could somehow reach Pluto’s ocean, they would effortlessly float.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/alien-object-or-spacex-dragon-debris-mysterious-space-object-found-in-north-carolina-725888">Alien object or SpaceX Dragon debris? Mysterious space object found in North Carolina</a>

However the space agencies have no such immediate plans to revisit Pluto, but these findings lay the groundwork for future exploration and research.

The discovery of a liquid water ocean beneath Pluto’s icy surface challenges our understanding of this distant world and opens up new avenues for planetary exploration.

A hidden ocean of liquid water beneath Pluto's icy challenges our current understanding of this distant world, demanding a reevaluation of its internal makeup and processes.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pluto's secrets are being unraveled! Astronomers have found convincing evidence of a massive ocean of liquid water hidden beneath the dwarf planet's icy surface.

Pluto's secrets are being unraveled! Astronomers have found convincing evidence of a massive ocean of liquid water hidden beneath the dwarf planet's icy surface. This exciting discovery, published in Icarus, offers new insights into the makeup of this distant world. What lies beneath the ice in the ocean? This new research was led by Alex Nguyen, a graduate student in Earth, environmental and planetary sciences at Washington University in St. Louis. Nguyen and his team used mathematical models and images from NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft to investigate Pluto’s subsurface ocean. Also read: Massive iceberg in Antarctica breaks off in third major calving in past four years The research co-authored by Patrick McGovern of the Lunar and Planetary Institute in Houston, sheds light on a long-standing debate about the possibility of liquid water on Pluto. Pluto is not just a frozen rock Clyde Tombaugh discovered Pluto in 1930. Initially recognised as the ninth planet in our solar system, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) reclassified it as a dwarf planet in 2006. Pluto orbits the Sun at an average distance of 5.9 billion kilometers, taking approximately 248 Earth years to complete one orbit. It is smaller than Earth's moon, with a diameter of about 2,372 kilometers. Composition and moons Pluto mainly consists of rock and ice. Its surface features a variety of landscapes, including mountains, valleys, plains, and an ocean that we’ll learn more about soon. The dwarf planet has a thin atmosphere composed primarily of nitrogen, methane, and carbon monoxide. Pluto has five moons: Charon, Nix, Hydra, Kerberos, and Styx. Charon, the largest of these moons, is nearly half the size of Pluto itself. Also read: 'Comet of the Year' Tsuchinshan-ATLAS brightens, skygazers anticipate spectacular October show Scientists believed that Pluto’s extremely cold surface temperature of -220°C, which causes even gases like nitrogen and methane to freeze solid, would make the existence of liquid water impossible. “Pluto because of its smaller size, could have lost almost all of its heat shortly after it was formed, so basic calculations would suggest that it’s frozen solid to its core.” Despite Pluto's frigid surface, recent discoveries like cryovolcanoes erupting with ice and water vapor are fueling the theory of a hidden ocean. Prominent scientists, including William B. McKinnon of WUSTL, now widely agree that Pluto likely conceals a vast liquid water ocean beneath its icy shell. Pluto’s subsurface secrets Nguyen and McGovern’s study dig deeper into the properties of Pluto’s hidden ocean. They created mathematical models to explain the cracks and bulges in the ice covering the Sputnik Platina Basin. This colossal basin, sculpted by a huge meteor impact billions of years ago, hints at the ocean below. The team's models suggest this ocean is shielded by a 40-to-80-kilometer-thick (25-to-50-mile-thick) shell of water ice. By analysing surface fractures, they were even able to estimate the ocean's potential density or salinity. “We estimated a sort of Goldilocks zone where the density and shell thickness is just right,” Nguyen explains. The findings recommend that Pluto’s ocean is, at most, about 8% denser than Earth’s seawater, comparable to Utah’s Great Salt Lake. If humans could somehow reach Pluto’s ocean, they would effortlessly float. Also read: Alien object or SpaceX Dragon debris? Mysterious space object found in North Carolina However the space agencies have no such immediate plans to revisit Pluto, but these findings lay the groundwork for future exploration and research. The discovery of a liquid water ocean beneath Pluto’s icy surface challenges our understanding of this distant world and opens up new avenues for planetary exploration. A hidden ocean of liquid water beneath Pluto's icy challenges our current understanding of this distant world, demanding a reevaluation of its internal makeup and processes. (With inputs from agencies)

Pluto may not be a real planet, but it has got a hidden ocean 

A massive iceberg measuring 380 square kilometres broke off the Brunt Ice Shelf in Antarctica last week. A report by the European Space Agency on May 23 said that this was the region's third significant iceberg calving in the past four years.

A massive iceberg measuring 380 square kilometres broke off the Brunt Ice Shelf in Antarctica last week. A report by the European Space Agency on May 23 said that this was the region's third significant iceberg calving in the past four years. The first such event was reported in 2021, when A-74 broke off the ice sheet, while an even larger berg named A-81 followed in 2023, the report said. The separation of this iceberg was captured by two Earth Observation satellites – the ESA's Copernicus Sentinel-1 and NASA's Landsat 8. How was the May 20 event caused? The May 20 calving event, just like its predecessors, was caused by the weakening of the ice at the McDonald Ice Rumples and the extension of the 'Halloween Crack' into the ice shelf. "This calving event results from a prolonged weakening of the ice at the McDonald Ice Rumples and progressive eastward extension of the so-called ‘Halloween Crack’ into the ice shelf," the report added. The routine monitoring of ice shelves by satellites allows scientists to track the effects of climate change in remote areas, including Antarctica. Iceberg identified as A-83 The iceberg has been officially identified as A-83 by the US National Ice Center. Antarctic icebergs are named after the Antarctic quadrant in which they were originally sighted, then a sequential number, and then, in case the iceberg breaks, a sequential letter, the ESA added. The iceberg did not threaten the British Antarctic Survey's Halley VI Research Station. The station, which is still located on the Brunt Ice Shelf, was relocated to the Caird coast in 2017 after the outer ice shelf was deemed unstable. (With inputs from agencies)

Massive iceberg in Antarctica breaks off in third major calving in last four years

Although considered unattractive by human standards, the large, bulbous noses of male proboscis monkeys (Nasalis larvatus) play a crucial role in attracting mates, a new research published in 'Scientific Reports' shows.&nbsp;

Unlike the elephant seal’s similar appendage, which helps in moisture preservation, the proboscis monkey’s nose serves a different purpose in the tropical rainforest.

The prominent nose of the proboscis monkey is clearly a form of sexual signaling. It is just like a peacock’s tail,&nbsp;a classic example of sexual signaling in the animal kingdom where the colourful tail feathers of a male peacock, known as a train, serve as a signal to potential mates and are used in sexual selection.&nbsp;

The size difference between males and females indicated its role in mating, with a study six years ago linking nose size to the number of females a male could attract.

<h2>What makes this large nose attractive?</h2>

One theory suggested&nbsp;that apart from looks, the sounds the nose produces also matters. Proboscis monkeys,&nbsp;that are native to the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia, have a distinctive feature.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/massive-iceberg-in-antarctica-breaks-off-during-calving-event-report-725850">Massive iceberg in Antarctica breaks off in third major calving in past four years</a>

Their&nbsp;nasal cavities make a variety of vocalisations such as honks and roars that play a crucial role in their communication system.&nbsp;The study showed that females find the nose visually appealing as well in addition to the sound it produces.

Dr. Katharine Balolia of the Australian National University and her student Pippa Fitzgerald noted that&nbsp;the visual effect also involves the fleshy parts of the nose.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/comet-of-the-year-tsuchinshan-atlas-brightens-skygazers-anticipate-spectacular-october-show-725771">'Comet of the Year' Tsuchinshan-ATLAS brightens, skygazers anticipate spectacular October show</a>

“We found that males have much bigger nasal cavities than female monkeys, and their nasal cavities also have a different shape compared to females,” Balolia said. “Being able to emit louder and deeper calls thanks to a longer and larger nasal cavity helps male monkeys assert their health and dominance. This helps the male monkeys attract females and ward off other males.”

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/satellite-to-study-how-clouds-affect-climate-725870">Satellite to study how clouds affect climate</a>

<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/satellite-to-study-how-clouds-affect-climate-725870/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Proving that sound mattered didn’t rule out the importance of appearance.&nbsp;Balolia examined a collection of monkey skulls and noted, “We ranked them by toothwear, since the youngest have less.”

The study found that while the nasal cavity reaches its final size around sexual maturity, the fleshy parts of the nose continue to grow and that it modifies sound in an attractive manner.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Although considered unattractive by human standards, the large, bulbous noses of male proboscis monkeys (Nasalis larvatus) play a crucial role in attracting mates, a new research published in 'Scientific Reports' shows.

Although considered unattractive by human standards, the large, bulbous noses of male proboscis monkeys (Nasalis larvatus) play a crucial role in attracting mates, a new research published in 'Scientific Reports' shows. Unlike the elephant seal’s similar appendage, which helps in moisture preservation, the proboscis monkey’s nose serves a different purpose in the tropical rainforest. The prominent nose of the proboscis monkey is clearly a form of sexual signaling. It is just like a peacock’s tail, a classic example of sexual signaling in the animal kingdom where the colourful tail feathers of a male peacock, known as a train, serve as a signal to potential mates and are used in sexual selection. The size difference between males and females indicated its role in mating, with a study six years ago linking nose size to the number of females a male could attract. What makes this large nose attractive? One theory suggested that apart from looks, the sounds the nose produces also matters. Proboscis monkeys, that are native to the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia, have a distinctive feature. Also Read | Massive iceberg in Antarctica breaks off in third major calving in past four years Their nasal cavities make a variety of vocalisations such as honks and roars that play a crucial role in their communication system. The study showed that females find the nose visually appealing as well in addition to the sound it produces. Dr. Katharine Balolia of the Australian National University and her student Pippa Fitzgerald noted that the visual effect also involves the fleshy parts of the nose. Also Read | 'Comet of the Year' Tsuchinshan-ATLAS brightens, skygazers anticipate spectacular October show “We found that males have much bigger nasal cavities than female monkeys, and their nasal cavities also have a different shape compared to females,” Balolia said. “Being able to emit louder and deeper calls thanks to a longer and larger nasal cavity helps male monkeys assert their health and dominance. This helps the male monkeys attract females and ward off other males.” Watch | Satellite to study how clouds affect climate × Proving that sound mattered didn’t rule out the importance of appearance. Balolia examined a collection of monkey skulls and noted, “We ranked them by toothwear, since the youngest have less.” The study found that while the nasal cavity reaches its final size around sexual maturity, the fleshy parts of the nose continue to grow and that it modifies sound in an attractive manner. (With inputs from agencies)

Big noses, big attraction: Study shows how male Proboscis monkeys woo their mates

Neanderthals in present-day Europe acquired strange new genetic neighbours about 60,000 years ago, scientists have found. According to a study of hundreds of ancient and modern genomes, this exact genetic intermingling lasted for a very short period of time on an evolutionary scale.&nbsp;

The findings, yet to be peer reviewed, were published on preprint server bioRxiv.

<h2>Genetic intermingling between Neanderthals and Homo sapiens: What does it mean?</h2>

The ties between humans and Neanderthals must have been cordial because almost every living individual of African descent carries&nbsp;genetic signs of past pairings between the two.

The understood timeline of this intermingling is between 50,000 to 60,000 years ago.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/were-neanderthals-spiritual-and-religious-netflix-documentary-secrets-of-the-neanderthals-explores-717631">Our long-lost ancestors Neanderthals believed in divine connection, new discoveries suggest</a>

The researchers&nbsp;found that Neanderthal-derived genetic contributions in the modern samples could be traced to a single 'pulse' of gene flow starting roughly 47,000 years ago — more recently than originally projected — and spanned some 6,800 years, almost near the time when the Neanderthals were nearing extinction.

Nearly 7,000 years might seem like a long time, but it is remarkably short on evolutionary timescales.

According to Emilia Huerta-Sanchez, an evolutionary biologist at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, said this work fills important gaps in ancient human history.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;New findings shed light on the social organisation of Neanderthals

<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/new-findings-shed-light-on-the-social-organisation-of-neanderthals-527226/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"One of the strengths of the study is that by incorporating ancient human genomes, they learnt more about how evolutionary forces have shaped Neanderthal variation in human populations," Emilia was quoted as saying in the Nature

But other gaps remain, according to an article in the Nature.

For example, the Nature adds, ancestral human genomic data from some geographical regions, including Oceania and East Asia, are much scarcer than from western Eurasia. East Asia is particularly intriguing, because modern humans in the region retain roughly 20 per cent more Neanderthal DNA than European people.

(With inputs from agencies)

Neanderthals in present-day Europe acquired strange new genetic neighbours about 60,000 years ago, scientists have found. According to a study of hundreds of ancient and modern genomes, this exact genetic intermingling lasted for a very short period of time on an evolutionary scale.

Neanderthals in present-day Europe acquired strange new genetic neighbours about 60,000 years ago, scientists have found. According to a study of hundreds of ancient and modern genomes, this exact genetic intermingling lasted for a very short period of time on an evolutionary scale. The findings, yet to be peer reviewed, were published on preprint server bioRxiv. Genetic intermingling between Neanderthals and Homo sapiens: What does it mean? The ties between humans and Neanderthals must have been cordial because almost every living individual of African descent carries genetic signs of past pairings between the two. The understood timeline of this intermingling is between 50,000 to 60,000 years ago. Also read | Our long-lost ancestors Neanderthals believed in divine connection, new discoveries suggest The researchers found that Neanderthal-derived genetic contributions in the modern samples could be traced to a single 'pulse' of gene flow starting roughly 47,000 years ago — more recently than originally projected — and spanned some 6,800 years, almost near the time when the Neanderthals were nearing extinction. Nearly 7,000 years might seem like a long time, but it is remarkably short on evolutionary timescales. According to Emilia Huerta-Sanchez, an evolutionary biologist at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, said this work fills important gaps in ancient human history. Also watch | New findings shed light on the social organisation of Neanderthals × "One of the strengths of the study is that by incorporating ancient human genomes, they learnt more about how evolutionary forces have shaped Neanderthal variation in human populations," Emilia was quoted as saying in the Nature But other gaps remain, according to an article in the Nature. For example, the Nature adds, ancestral human genomic data from some geographical regions, including Oceania and East Asia, are much scarcer than from western Eurasia. East Asia is particularly intriguing, because modern humans in the region retain roughly 20 per cent more Neanderthal DNA than European people. (With inputs from agencies)

Neanderthal weds Homo sapien: When intermingling shaped human population in Europe

Climate Change is a reality that can't be denied — although many have tried. On Saturday (May 25), NASA launched a tiny satellite that will help better climate change predictions in a warming world.

The satellite was launched&nbsp;into orbit atop Rocket Lab's Electron rocket from the company's Launch Complex 1 in Māhia, New Zealand at 7:41 p.m. NZST (3:41 a.m. EDT).

<h2>NASA's PREFIRE</h2>

NASA's PREFIRE (Polar Radiant Energy in the Far-InfraRed Experiment) mission will use two shoebox-size cube satellites, or CubeSats to measure the amount of heat our planet Earth radiates into space from two of the coldest, most remote regions on the planet — the North and South Poles.

Speaking at a recent news conference, NASA's earth sciences research director Karen St. Germain said "This new information — and we've never had it before — will improve our ability to model what's happening in the poles, what's happening in climate."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-james-webb-may-have-found-answers-to-planets-extreme-puffiness-around-stars-725236">NASA's James Webb may have found answers to planets' extreme puffiness around stars</a>

The satellite will take infrared measurements far above the Arctic and Antarctic to measure directly the heat that the poles release into space, reports AFP.

"NASA's innovative PREFIRE mission will fill a gap in our understanding of the Earth system–providing our scientists a detailed picture of how Earth's polar regions influence how much energy our planet absorbs and releases," said St. Germain.

"This will improve prediction of sea ice loss, ice sheet melt, and sea level rise, creating a better understanding of how our planet’s system will change in the coming years — crucial information to farmers tracking changes in weather and water, fishing fleets working in changing seas, and coastal communities building resilience."

<h2>Innovative technology</h2>

With PREFIRE, NASA aims to understand how clouds, humidity, and the melting of ice affect heat loss from the poles.

According to Tristan L'Ecuyer, a mission researcher at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, climate change scientists have till now been relying on theoretical models instead of real observations to measure heat loss.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/tesla-car-roadster-is-in-space-but-do-you-know-where-it-is-right-now-725261">Tesla car Roadster is in space. But do you know WHERE it is right now?</a>

"Hopefully we'll be able to improve our ability to simulate what sea level rise might look like in the future and also how the polar climate change is going to affect the weather systems around the planet," he said.&nbsp;

According to St. Germain, small satellites like this are an affordable method to address specific scientific inquiries. She said that while larger satellites can be thought of as "generalists", the small ones are "specialists," and "NASA needs both."

(With inputs from agencies)

Climate Change is a reality that can't be denied — although many have tried. On Saturday (May 25), NASA launched a tiny satellite that will help better climate change predictions in a warming world.

Climate Change is a reality that can't be denied — although many have tried. On Saturday (May 25), NASA launched a tiny satellite that will help better climate change predictions in a warming world. The satellite was launched into orbit atop Rocket Lab's Electron rocket from the company's Launch Complex 1 in Māhia, New Zealand at 7:41 p.m. NZST (3:41 a.m. EDT). NASA's PREFIRE NASA's PREFIRE (Polar Radiant Energy in the Far-InfraRed Experiment) mission will use two shoebox-size cube satellites, or CubeSats to measure the amount of heat our planet Earth radiates into space from two of the coldest, most remote regions on the planet — the North and South Poles. Speaking at a recent news conference, NASA's earth sciences research director Karen St. Germain said "This new information — and we've never had it before — will improve our ability to model what's happening in the poles, what's happening in climate." Also read | NASA's James Webb may have found answers to planets' extreme puffiness around stars The satellite will take infrared measurements far above the Arctic and Antarctic to measure directly the heat that the poles release into space, reports AFP. "NASA's innovative PREFIRE mission will fill a gap in our understanding of the Earth system–providing our scientists a detailed picture of how Earth's polar regions influence how much energy our planet absorbs and releases," said St. Germain. "This will improve prediction of sea ice loss, ice sheet melt, and sea level rise, creating a better understanding of how our planet’s system will change in the coming years — crucial information to farmers tracking changes in weather and water, fishing fleets working in changing seas, and coastal communities building resilience." Innovative technology With PREFIRE, NASA aims to understand how clouds, humidity, and the melting of ice affect heat loss from the poles. According to Tristan L'Ecuyer, a mission researcher at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, climate change scientists have till now been relying on theoretical models instead of real observations to measure heat loss. Also read | Tesla car Roadster is in space. But do you know WHERE it is right now? "Hopefully we'll be able to improve our ability to simulate what sea level rise might look like in the future and also how the polar climate change is going to affect the weather systems around the planet," he said. According to St. Germain, small satellites like this are an affordable method to address specific scientific inquiries. She said that while larger satellites can be thought of as "generalists", the small ones are "specialists," and "NASA needs both." (With inputs from agencies)

NASA launches satellite PREFIRE to monitor, predict and help mitigate climate change

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) may have found the answer to why some planets swell at staggering amounts in the presence of a star, a mystery that puzzled scientists when recently they spotted a puffy exoplanet, WASP-107 b.&nbsp;

A surprisingly low reservoir of methane in a planet might unravel the mystery of a planet growing weirdly puffy near a star. The observations made by JWST show that planetary atmospheres can inflate immensely, which defies some of the existing planet formation theories.&nbsp;

"The Webb data tells us that planets like WASP-107 b didn't have to form in some odd way with a super small core and a huge gassy envelope," explains Michael Line, an extrasolar planetologist at Arizona State University.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-ecological-grief-and-how-can-you-help-your-loved-ones-cope-with-it-725040">What is ecological grief and how can you help your loved ones cope with it?</a>

"Instead, we can take something more like Neptune, with a lot of rock and not as much gas, just dial up the temperature, and poof it up to look the way it does."

WASP-107 b was discovered in 2017 by the Wide Angle Search for Planets (WASP) consortium, roughly 200 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Virgo. It was found to be the lightest of known exoplanets.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Data collected using <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAWebb?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASAWebb</a>, combined with prior observations from <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAHubble?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASAHubble</a>, is giving researchers answers as to why the warm gas-giant exoplanet WASP-107 b is so puffy! 
 
FIND OUT &gt;&gt; <a href="https://t.co/Jiw78BtYZx">https://t.co/Jiw78BtYZx</a> <a href="https://t.co/YsQDuNzrlW">pic.twitter.com/YsQDuNzrlW</a>
— NASA Marshall (@NASA_Marshall) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA_Marshall/status/1793660377709892097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 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>

Despite being as large as Jupiter, WASP-107 b weighs just 12 per cent of the planet's mass, which is equivalent to only 30 Earths. For context, one Jupiter mass is equal to about 318 Earth masses. This planet is so puffy, the team says, that its density can be compared to a microwaved marshmallow.

<h2>James Webb suspects low methane in planets as&nbsp;cause of their puffiness</h2>

The study was conducted on the basis of data from JWST and previous observations from the Hubble Space Telescope- divided among two independent teams.&nbsp;

In a nutshell, the teams discovered that methane in the planet’s atmosphere is 1,000th of what would be expected for the world. As methane is unstable at high temperatures, researchers say the astonishingly low amount of it is evidence that the gas from deep within the planet is “mixing vigorously with cooler layers higher up,” says David Sing of John Hopkins University (JHU) in Maryland, who led one of the two studies.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/are-fish-oil-supplements-causing-more-harm-to-the-heart-than-good-725106">Are fish oil supplements causing more harm to the heart than good?</a>

"The fact that we detected so little, even though we did detect other carbon-bearing molecules, tells us that the interior of the planet must be significantly hotter than we thought."

One thing that could explain this extra heat is the fact that WASP-107 b zips around its star every 5.7 days in an orbit that is not a perfect circle, the researchers say. The star's constant gravitational pull on WASP-107 b, whose distance from its star keeps varying throughout, stretches and contracts the planet’s profile, thereby heating it up. On Earth, a similar force by the moon causes high and low tides.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/neanderthal-weds-homo-sapien-when-intermingling-shaped-human-populations-in-europe-725205">Neanderthal weds Homo sapien: When intermingling shaped human population in Europe</a>

The planet's hot core combined with tidal heating from its star is also changing the chemistry of the gases deep within the planet, Zafar Rustamkulov, who is a graduate student at JHU and a co-author of one of the two new studies, said in a statement. "We think this heat is causing the chemistry of the gases to change, specifically destroying methane and making elevated amounts of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide."

The planet’s extremely puffy nature helps astronomers look about 50 times deeper into its atmosphere than they can for a world like Jupiter.&nbsp;

This research is described in two studies published Monday (May 20) in the journal Nature.

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) may have found the answer to why some planets swell at staggering amounts in the presence of a star, a mystery that puzzled scientists when recently they spotted a puffy exoplanet, WASP-107 b.

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) may have found the answer to why some planets swell at staggering amounts in the presence of a star, a mystery that puzzled scientists when recently they spotted a puffy exoplanet, WASP-107 b. A surprisingly low reservoir of methane in a planet might unravel the mystery of a planet growing weirdly puffy near a star. The observations made by JWST show that planetary atmospheres can inflate immensely, which defies some of the existing planet formation theories. "The Webb data tells us that planets like WASP-107 b didn't have to form in some odd way with a super small core and a huge gassy envelope," explains Michael Line, an extrasolar planetologist at Arizona State University. Also Read | What is ecological grief and how can you help your loved ones cope with it? "Instead, we can take something more like Neptune, with a lot of rock and not as much gas, just dial up the temperature, and poof it up to look the way it does." WASP-107 b was discovered in 2017 by the Wide Angle Search for Planets (WASP) consortium, roughly 200 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Virgo. It was found to be the lightest of known exoplanets. Data collected using @NASAWebb, combined with prior observations from @NASAHubble, is giving researchers answers as to why the warm gas-giant exoplanet WASP-107 b is so puffy! FIND OUT >> https://t.co/Jiw78BtYZx pic.twitter.com/YsQDuNzrlW — NASA Marshall (@NASA_Marshall) May 23, 2024 × Despite being as large as Jupiter, WASP-107 b weighs just 12 per cent of the planet's mass, which is equivalent to only 30 Earths. For context, one Jupiter mass is equal to about 318 Earth masses. This planet is so puffy, the team says, that its density can be compared to a microwaved marshmallow. James Webb suspects low methane in planets as cause of their puffiness The study was conducted on the basis of data from JWST and previous observations from the Hubble Space Telescope- divided among two independent teams. In a nutshell, the teams discovered that methane in the planet’s atmosphere is 1,000th of what would be expected for the world. As methane is unstable at high temperatures, researchers say the astonishingly low amount of it is evidence that the gas from deep within the planet is “mixing vigorously with cooler layers higher up,” says David Sing of John Hopkins University (JHU) in Maryland, who led one of the two studies. Also Read | Are fish oil supplements causing more harm to the heart than good? "The fact that we detected so little, even though we did detect other carbon-bearing molecules, tells us that the interior of the planet must be significantly hotter than we thought." One thing that could explain this extra heat is the fact that WASP-107 b zips around its star every 5.7 days in an orbit that is not a perfect circle, the researchers say. The star's constant gravitational pull on WASP-107 b, whose distance from its star keeps varying throughout, stretches and contracts the planet’s profile, thereby heating it up. On Earth, a similar force by the moon causes high and low tides. Also Read | Neanderthal weds Homo sapien: When intermingling shaped human population in Europe The planet's hot core combined with tidal heating from its star is also changing the chemistry of the gases deep within the planet, Zafar Rustamkulov, who is a graduate student at JHU and a co-author of one of the two new studies, said in a statement. "We think this heat is causing the chemistry of the gases to change, specifically destroying methane and making elevated amounts of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide." The planet’s extremely puffy nature helps astronomers look about 50 times deeper into its atmosphere than they can for a world like Jupiter. This research is described in two studies published Monday (May 20) in the journal Nature. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA's James Webb may have found answers to planets' extreme puffiness around stars

Researchers have reportedly developed an iron-based cathode material which can pave the way for making cheaper, safer, and more sustainable batteries. The new material will end the need to use expensive and scarce metals such as cobalt and nickel, leading to the manufacturing of electric vehicles (EVs) at cheaper rates.

Researchers have reportedly developed an iron-based cathode material which can pave the way for making cheaper, safer, and more sustainable batteries. The new material will end the need to use expensive and scarce metals such as cobalt and nickel, leading to the manufacturing of electric vehicles (EVs) at cheaper rates. Oregon State University chemistry researcher Xiulei “David” Ji explained how they transformed the reactivity of iron metal to achieve exciting results. “Our electrode can offer a higher energy density than the state-of-the-art cathode materials in electric vehicles. And since we use iron, whose cost can be less than a dollar per kilogramme – a small fraction of nickel and cobalt, which are indispensable in current high-energy lithium-ion batteries – the cost of our batteries is potentially much lower,” he was quoted as saying by a science website 'Interesting Engineering'. The researcher added that the use of scarce metals contributes up to 50 per cent to the production cost of lithium-ion battery cells. He also warned that the overexploitation of these metals may even cause a shortage and the ensuing collapse of nickel and cobalt-based battery manufacturing. On the other hand, iron is the most common element on Earth as measured by mass, the researcher adds. “We will not run out of iron till the sun turns into a red giant,” he says. Also read: Nio joins forces with FAW to supercharge battery swapping network Scientists mixed special chemicals with iron powder, lithium fluoride, and lithium phosphate to create iron salts that can change back and forth. This way, they could use iron in the battery without needing to change other parts of how batteries are made. “We’ve demonstrated that the materials designed with anions can break the ceiling of energy density for batteries that are more sustainable and cost less,” Ji explained. “We’re not using some more expensive salt in conjunction with iron – just those the battery industry has been using and then iron powder," he added. Also read : Scientists develop sodium battery that can be charged in seconds “To put this new cathode in applications, one needs to change nothing else – no new anodes, no new production lines, no new design of the battery. We are just replacing one thing, the cathode,” added Ji. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists use iron to develop cheaper, safer, sustainable lithium-ion batteries

In the latest study, published on Friday (May 24), it was found that unpasteurised milk - contaminated with bird-flu virus H5N1 - if fed to the mice, will make them sick and damage their organs.

In the latest study, published on Friday (May 24), it was found that unpasteurised milk - contaminated with bird-flu virus H5N1 - if fed to the mice, will make them sick and damage their organs. The study was conducted in the wake of the bird flu virus detected in the dairy herds of nine states in the United States. A new study has added more evidence to the argument that virus-infected raw milk may not be safe for mammals, especially humans. Virologist Yoshihiro Kawaoka said, “Don’t drink raw milk — that’s the message." Kawaoka works at the University of Wisconsin, Madison and was head of the study. In the United States, most of the commercial milk is pasteurised. Food and Drug Administration has found traces of the virus in 20 per cent of dairy products sampled from grocery shelves across the country. Also Read: Bird flu in raw cow milk kills more than half of cats on Texas farm However, no signs of infectious virus have been found by the officials in those samples and have said that it is safe to consume pasteurised milk. While speaking to The New York Times, Boston University Center on Emerging Infectious Diseases Director Dr Nahid Bhadelia said that the findings will have global implications. “If this becomes a more widespread outbreak in cows, there are other places where there isn’t central pasteurisation and there are a lot more rural communities that drink milk," she added. How the study was carried out? While carrying out the study, Dr Kawaoka and his colleagues looked for viruses in the milk samples which were collected from an affected dairy herd in New Mexico. The researchers discovered that there was a slow decline in the levels of the virus in a sample of milk which was stored at 4 degrees Celsius and hinted at the chances of H5N1 being present in refrigerated raw milk for several weeks. The findings from the study were published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Watch: Gravitas | US: Bird Flu virus found in pasteurized milk, probe results awaited Meanwhile, the mice who drank the contaminated milk became ill and had ruffled fur and lethargy. Bird flu virus also discovered in an ill dairy cow's beef The US Department of Agriculture on Friday (May 24) said that bird flu was found in beef for the first time. However, the officials said that a single sickened dairy cow's meat did not have permission to enter the food supply of the country and hence, beef was safe to eat. The USDA said that they found the virus while testing 96 dairy cows, who were diverted from the supply after federal inspectors saw signs of illness while carrying out routine inspections of carcasses present at meat processing plants. (With inputs from agencies)

Raw milk contaminated with bird-flu virus damaging multiple organs of mice: study

SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Elon Musk, made history on February 6, 2018, with the launch of the Falcon Heavy rocket. What made this particular launch even more unique and captured the world's imagination was the payload - Elon Musk's own cherry-red Tesla Roadster.

This was a big milestone not only for SpaceX but for space exploration as a whole. But do you know what is the current location of this space car?&nbsp;

The current location is "is 62,730,425 miles (100,954,865 km, 0.675 AU, 5.61 light minutes) from Earth, moving away from Earth at a speed of 16,461 mi/h (26,491 km/h, 7.36 km/s)," as checked by WION at 1:37 IST on Saturday (May 25), 2024. This location is as per a tracker named "WhereisRoadster".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-james-webb-may-have-found-answers-to-planets-extreme-puffiness-around-stars-725236">NASA's James Webb may have found answers to planets' extreme puffiness around stars</a>

It is interesting to note that in the car is Starman, a mannequin wearing a SpaceX spacesuit and positioned in the driver's seat of the Tesla Roadster. Starman,&nbsp;equipped with sensors represents the potential for human space exploration and its adventurous spirit.

It was launched "6 years, 3 months, 18 days, 11 hours, 22 minutes and 11 seconds" back (as checked at the time of writing this).&nbsp;

As the Falcon Heavy roared to life and lifted off from Kennedy Space Center's historic Launch Complex 39A in Florida, this sleek electric sports car soared into the cosmos and started drifting through space, with Earth as a backdrop.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/largest-ever-planet-forming-disk-found-heres-what-it-tells-us-about-earth-725235">Largest-ever planet-forming disk&nbsp;found. Here's what it tells us about Earth</a>

By sending a payload into deep space, SpaceX was able to test the Falcon Heavy's capabilities in delivering payloads to destinations beyond Earth's orbit, such as Mars.&nbsp;

"The car is 220,623,655 miles (355,059,466 km, 2.373 AU, 19.74 light minutes) from Mars, moving away from the planet at a speed of 8,538 mi/h (13,740 km/h, 3.82 km/s). The car is 107,530,103 miles (173,052,980 km, 1.157 AU, 9.62 light minutes) from the Sun, moving away from the star at a speed of 14,657 mi/h (23,588 km/h, 6.55 km/s)," as per the tracker.&nbsp;

The car boasts a fuel efficiency equivalent to 25,122.1 miles per gallon, based on an estimated consumption of 126,000 gallons of fuel.

<h2>Starman listening to 'Is There Life On Mars?'&nbsp;</h2>

If its battery were still operational, Starman, seated within, would have indulged in David Bowie's "Space Oddity" a staggering 624,700 times in one ear and "Is There Life On Mars?" 841,757 times in the other.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/six-die-as-climbers-scale-nepals-mount-everest-725257">Six die as climbers scale Nepal's Mount Everest</a>

<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/six-die-as-climbers-scale-nepals-mount-everest-725257/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Since its launch, Starman has completed approximately 4.1280 orbits around the Sun. Observing it from Earth requires a colossal telescope roughly 14,816 ft (4,516 m) in diametre.

The Roadster's journey is equal to traversing all of the world’s roads for 79.2 times.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Elon Musk, made history on February 6, 2018, with the launch of the Falcon Heavy rocket. What made this particular launch even more unique and captured the world's imagination was the payload - Elon Musk's own cherry-red Tesla Roadster.

SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Elon Musk, made history on February 6, 2018, with the launch of the Falcon Heavy rocket. What made this particular launch even more unique and captured the world's imagination was the payload - Elon Musk's own cherry-red Tesla Roadster. This was a big milestone not only for SpaceX but for space exploration as a whole. But do you know what is the current location of this space car? The current location is "is 62,730,425 miles (100,954,865 km, 0.675 AU, 5.61 light minutes) from Earth, moving away from Earth at a speed of 16,461 mi/h (26,491 km/h, 7.36 km/s)," as checked by WION at 1:37 IST on Saturday (May 25), 2024. This location is as per a tracker named "WhereisRoadster". Also Read | NASA's James Webb may have found answers to planets' extreme puffiness around stars It is interesting to note that in the car is Starman, a mannequin wearing a SpaceX spacesuit and positioned in the driver's seat of the Tesla Roadster. Starman, equipped with sensors represents the potential for human space exploration and its adventurous spirit. It was launched "6 years, 3 months, 18 days, 11 hours, 22 minutes and 11 seconds" back (as checked at the time of writing this). As the Falcon Heavy roared to life and lifted off from Kennedy Space Center's historic Launch Complex 39A in Florida, this sleek electric sports car soared into the cosmos and started drifting through space, with Earth as a backdrop. Also Read | Largest-ever planet-forming disk found. Here's what it tells us about Earth By sending a payload into deep space, SpaceX was able to test the Falcon Heavy's capabilities in delivering payloads to destinations beyond Earth's orbit, such as Mars. "The car is 220,623,655 miles (355,059,466 km, 2.373 AU, 19.74 light minutes) from Mars, moving away from the planet at a speed of 8,538 mi/h (13,740 km/h, 3.82 km/s). The car is 107,530,103 miles (173,052,980 km, 1.157 AU, 9.62 light minutes) from the Sun, moving away from the star at a speed of 14,657 mi/h (23,588 km/h, 6.55 km/s)," as per the tracker. The car boasts a fuel efficiency equivalent to 25,122.1 miles per gallon, based on an estimated consumption of 126,000 gallons of fuel. Starman listening to 'Is There Life On Mars?' If its battery were still operational, Starman, seated within, would have indulged in David Bowie's "Space Oddity" a staggering 624,700 times in one ear and "Is There Life On Mars?" 841,757 times in the other. Watch | Six die as climbers scale Nepal's Mount Everest × Since its launch, Starman has completed approximately 4.1280 orbits around the Sun. Observing it from Earth requires a colossal telescope roughly 14,816 ft (4,516 m) in diametre. The Roadster's journey is equal to traversing all of the world’s roads for 79.2 times. (With inputs from agencies)

Tesla car Roadster is in space. But do you know WHERE it is right now?

In a path-breaking discovery, scientists have spotted the largest-ever planet-forming disk - officially called IRAS 23077+6707 - nearly 1,000 light-years away from Earth.

In a path-breaking discovery, scientists have spotted the largest-ever planet-forming disk - officially called IRAS 23077+6707 - nearly 1,000 light-years away from Earth. When the scientists initially spotted it in 2016, the planet-forming disk's true nature remained hidden for years. In the new research, which was carried out using advanced telescopes, it was found that this cosmic element is the largest planet-forming disk ever discovered. A cosmic butterfly? When the planet-forming disk was first observed by Ciprian T. Berghea from the U.S. Naval Observatory using the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System (Pan-STARRS), the disk's unique appearance made it look like a giant cosmic butterfly. Also Read: Another milestone in alien hunt? Earth-size exoplanet may be hiding life in 'Goldilocks Zone' “After finding out about this possible planet-forming disk from Pan-STARRS data, we were keen to observe it with the SMA, which allowed us to understand its physical nature,” said Kristina Monsch, an astrophysicist who headed the Submillimeter Array (SMA) campaign, as reported by Earth.com. The SMA is an array of telescopes in Hawaii which is capable of detecting millimetre wavelengths that are important in unravelling the composition of cosmic objects like IRAS 23077. Protoplanetary disks are nothing but 'nurseries' of planets With the help of SMA, it was found that the massive protoplanetary disk is a cloud of dust and gas in which planets are born. “What we found was incredible — evidence that this was the largest planet-forming disk ever discovered. It is extremely rich in dust and gas, which we know are the building blocks of planets,” Monsch explained. Protoplanetary disks, in a way, are nurseries for planets. In these disks, giant planets like Jupiter and Saturn, and rocky planets like Earth and Mars are formed around young stars. These disks are filled with dust and gas in abundance and rotate in a way which helps astronomers find their sizes as well as the masses of their central stars. Here's what these disks contain While observing the IRAS 23077, the astronomers were able to gather multiple information regarding the unique protoplanetary disk. Watch: Gravitas: Most promising indication of life on another planet found “The data from the SMA offer us the smoking-gun evidence that this is a disk, and coupled with the estimate of the system’s distance, that it is rotating around a star likely two to four times more massive than our own sun,” Monsch said. Such information is important in understanding how the planets are formed in such extreme environments. (With inputs from agencies)

Largest-ever planet-forming disk found. Here's what it tells us about Earth

science

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