A massive power outage in Chile has left millions without electricity, impacting internet and mobile services. Officials confirmed the blackout was caused by a transmission error. President Gabriel Boric has declared a state of emergency as authorities work to restore power.

Massive power outage in Chile leaves millions without electricity

As night falls on the Atacama Desert in northern Chile four giant telescopes turn their gaze towards the star-strewn heavens. The driest place on Earth is the best place to observe the universe, with darkness offering dazzling spectacles of cosmic wonder...However scientists say, A huge green energy project, part of Chile's plans to become carbon neutral, risks clouding the view...

Atacama skies at risk from green energy push

Chilean police have recovered four watches, including a $9,000 Rolex Submariner, stolen from an actor's California home over a year ago. Authorities found the watches during a raid in eastern Santiago on Saturday. Among the recovered items was a special Rolex Submariner, gifted by the actor to the stunt team of *John Wick: Chapter 4*. The watch featured an inscription with the actor's name, "2021, JW4," and a message of thanks, making it a unique and sentimental piece. Watch to know more!

Chile: Keanu Reeves’ Stolen Rolex And More Watches Recovered By Police

Fire brigades battling the flames in Chile's Metropolitan region also faced temperatures reaching almost 36 degrees Celsius on Monday. Watch this report for more details!

Chile: Fire Brigades Grapple With Heatwave As They Fight Fires

In Chile, a Zoo is being transformed into a biodiversity park. This move is part of an effort aimed at conserving ecosystems and underscores a growing trend towards environmental conservation. Watch in for more details!

Chile's Step Towards Environmental Conservation

A University team in Chile has built a 3D printed concrete home that they say is Latin America's first such building. Experts say that it needs to be adapted to the Chillian reality to deal with earthquakes. Watch this report to know more.

'Seed Home' To Adapt To Variety Of Climates

The annular solar eclipse will be visible on Wednesday (Oct 2). During this astronomical phenomenon, the moon will pass over the sun creating a “ring of fire”.

This year’s eclipse will be visible for a much longer duration of 7 minutes and 25 seconds and will cover 93% of the sun, according to Space.com. The last annular solar eclipse which occurred on October 14, 2023, was only visible for 4 minutes and 52 seconds in the United States, Mexico, and other countries in South and Central America.

<h2>What is a ring of fire solar eclipse?</h2>

According to NASA, a ring of fire eclipse occurs during a new moon, when the Earth, moon and sun are in a straight path. However, unlike a total eclipse, which completely covers the sun, an annular eclipse happens when the moon is at a farther point from the Earth and appears smaller. Thus, a ring of fire is visible as the moon cannot cover the entire sun.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-to-get-a-second-moon-this-fall-here-is-how-to-watch-it-762928">Earth to get a ‘second moon’ on Sep 29. Here is how to watch it</a>

About two to five solar eclipses are visible from Earth in a year, while a total solar eclipse occurs only once or twice a year. This phenomenon will not happen again until 2026&nbsp;and will be visible in Spain, Greenland, and Iceland.

<h2>Where will the ring of fire be visible?</h2>

The ring of fire will only be visible in the Pacific Ocean, and southern parts of Chile and Argentina.

The annular eclipse can be seen in Chile and Argentina a little before 5:30 pm local time. While April’s eclipse was visible to 32 million people across North America, the coming eclipse will be only visible to 175,000 people, making it much more remote.

The eclipse will also be visible in Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island around 2 pm local time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/huge-water-presence-three-times-greater-than-oceans-of-earth-found-in-space-762993">Huge water presence, three times greater than oceans of Earth, found in space</a>

A partial solar eclipse will be visible in parts of North America, South America, Antarctica, and the Atlantic Ocean, where the sun will appear as a crescent, including in Hawaii, Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay.

<h2>How to look at the solar eclipse safely?</h2>

It is important to take precautions while looking at a solar eclipse and only use solar viewers and filters as regular sunglasses are not safe.&nbsp;

If you don’t have proper safe solar viewers, you can also look at the eclipse indirectly by making a pinhole projector and protecting the image of the sun on a nearby surface. However, it is important to be cautious while using such methods.

(With inputs from agencies)

The annular solar eclipse will be visible on Wednesday (Oct 2). During this astronomical phenomenon, the moon will pass over the sun creating a “ring of fire”. This year’s eclipse will be visible for a much longer duration of 7 minutes and 25 seconds and will cover 93% of the sun, according to Space.

The annular solar eclipse will be visible on Wednesday (Oct 2). During this astronomical phenomenon, the moon will pass over the sun creating a “ring of fire”. This year’s eclipse will be visible for a much longer duration of 7 minutes and 25 seconds and will cover 93% of the sun, according to Space.com. The last annular solar eclipse which occurred on October 14, 2023, was only visible for 4 minutes and 52 seconds in the United States, Mexico, and other countries in South and Central America. What is a ring of fire solar eclipse? According to NASA, a ring of fire eclipse occurs during a new moon, when the Earth, moon and sun are in a straight path. However, unlike a total eclipse, which completely covers the sun, an annular eclipse happens when the moon is at a farther point from the Earth and appears smaller. Thus, a ring of fire is visible as the moon cannot cover the entire sun. Also read | Earth to get a ‘second moon’ on Sep 29. Here is how to watch it About two to five solar eclipses are visible from Earth in a year, while a total solar eclipse occurs only once or twice a year. This phenomenon will not happen again until 2026 and will be visible in Spain, Greenland, and Iceland. Where will the ring of fire be visible? The ring of fire will only be visible in the Pacific Ocean, and southern parts of Chile and Argentina. The annular eclipse can be seen in Chile and Argentina a little before 5:30 pm local time. While April’s eclipse was visible to 32 million people across North America, the coming eclipse will be only visible to 175,000 people, making it much more remote. The eclipse will also be visible in Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island around 2 pm local time. Also read | Huge water presence, three times greater than oceans of Earth, found in space A partial solar eclipse will be visible in parts of North America, South America, Antarctica, and the Atlantic Ocean, where the sun will appear as a crescent, including in Hawaii, Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay. How to look at the solar eclipse safely? It is important to take precautions while looking at a solar eclipse and only use solar viewers and filters as regular sunglasses are not safe. If you don’t have proper safe solar viewers, you can also look at the eclipse indirectly by making a pinhole projector and protecting the image of the sun on a nearby surface. However, it is important to be cautious while using such methods. (With inputs from agencies)

Ring of fire solar eclipse 2024: When, where and how to watch?

Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez and Paulo Dybala were on target as Argentina tightened their grip on South America's 2026 World Cup qualifying tournament with a 3-0 win over Chile on Thursday. Liverpool midfielder Mac Allister swept in a low finish three minutes after half-time to break the deadlock at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires against a defensive Chile side.

Former Manchester City striker Alvarez doubled the lead in the 84th minute with a thumping shot from outside the area before substitute Dybala put the seal on the victory with a late strike in stoppage time. It was another clinical victory for the reigning world champions, who are now cruising towards confirming their place at the 2026 finals being staged in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Lionel Scaloni's team lead South America's 10-team round-robin qualifying table by five points after seven games. The top six teams in the final standings qualify automatically for the 2026 finals in North America with the seventh-placed team advancing to a playoff.

Argentina, who also beat Chile 1-0 on their way to clinching back-to-back Copa America titles earlier this year, went into Thursday's game missing injured captain Lionel Messi and veteran winger Angel Di Maria, who retired from international football after the Copa America triumph in July.

Di Maria was feted by his former teammates at a pre-game ceremony before taking his place in the stands to watch the world champions secure their sixth win from seven qualifying games. Despite the absence of Messi and Di Maria, Argentina had plenty of creative guile in attack with Lautaro Martinez and Atletico Madrid's Alvarez causing problems for the Chile defense.

Argentina, meanwhile, controlled midfield with Mac Allister lining up alongside Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernandez. After a cagey first-half, the breakthrough came in the 48th minute when Alvarez whipped in a low cross from the right.

Martinez dummied cleverly and allowed the ball to roll through to Mac Allister, who guided an accurate shot into the bottom corner.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-winners-spain-held-in-nations-league-ronaldo-scores-900th-goal-during-portugals-win-over-croatia-756283">Euro winners Spain held in Nations League, Ronaldo scores 900th goal during Portugal's win over Croatia</a>

<h2>- Bolivia thrash Venezuela -</h2>

In Thursday's other qualifier, Bolivia reignited their campaign with a 4-0 drubbing over Venezuela in a game played more than 4,000m (13,100 feet) above sea level. Goals from Ramiro Vaca, Carmelo Algaranaz, Miguel Terceros and Enzo Monteiro handed Bolivia only their second win of qualifying and lifted them into seventh place in the standings.

The result was a vindication of Bolivia's move to play Thursday's game in El Alto -- Spanish for "The Heights" -- rather than at their usual home venue in neighboring La Paz, which is 3,600m above sea level. The thin air of El Alto clearly left Venezuela's players struggling for energy against a Bolivian team aiming to qualify for their first World Cup since reaching the 1994 finals in the United States.

Despite his team's heavy loss, Venezuela coach Fernando Batista refused to dwell on the altitude issue after the game. "Out of 10 questions, eight are about altitude," Batista said. "You won't hear anything from me about it."

The pick of Bolivia's goals came from Vaca after just 13 minutes. The 25-year-old midfielder gathered the ball around 30 yards from goal, cut in from the left and unleashed a ferocious shot which flew into the top corner.

Venezuela, the only team from South America never to have qualified for a World Cup, remain well-placed to reach the finals despite Thursday's loss. The 'Vinotinto' are fourth in the standings with nine points from seven games, trailing Argentina, Uruguay and Colombia.

Venezuela host Uruguay next Tuesday in their eighth game of qualifying.&nbsp;South America's qualifiers continue on Friday with second-placed Uruguay hosting Paraguay in Montevideo while struggling Brazil, who are 11 points adrift of leaders Argentina in sixth, face Ecuador in Curitiba.

Third-placed Colombia, meanwhile, travel to Lima to face bottom-of-the-table Peru.

Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez and Paulo Dybala were on target as Argentina tightened their grip on South America's 2026 World Cup qualifying tournament with a 3-0 win over Chile on Thursday.

Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez and Paulo Dybala were on target as Argentina tightened their grip on South America's 2026 World Cup qualifying tournament with a 3-0 win over Chile on Thursday. Liverpool midfielder Mac Allister swept in a low finish three minutes after half-time to break the deadlock at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires against a defensive Chile side. Former Manchester City striker Alvarez doubled the lead in the 84th minute with a thumping shot from outside the area before substitute Dybala put the seal on the victory with a late strike in stoppage time. It was another clinical victory for the reigning world champions, who are now cruising towards confirming their place at the 2026 finals being staged in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Lionel Scaloni's team lead South America's 10-team round-robin qualifying table by five points after seven games. The top six teams in the final standings qualify automatically for the 2026 finals in North America with the seventh-placed team advancing to a playoff. Argentina, who also beat Chile 1-0 on their way to clinching back-to-back Copa America titles earlier this year, went into Thursday's game missing injured captain Lionel Messi and veteran winger Angel Di Maria, who retired from international football after the Copa America triumph in July. Di Maria was feted by his former teammates at a pre-game ceremony before taking his place in the stands to watch the world champions secure their sixth win from seven qualifying games. Despite the absence of Messi and Di Maria, Argentina had plenty of creative guile in attack with Lautaro Martinez and Atletico Madrid's Alvarez causing problems for the Chile defense. Argentina, meanwhile, controlled midfield with Mac Allister lining up alongside Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernandez. After a cagey first-half, the breakthrough came in the 48th minute when Alvarez whipped in a low cross from the right. Martinez dummied cleverly and allowed the ball to roll through to Mac Allister, who guided an accurate shot into the bottom corner. Also read: Euro winners Spain held in Nations League, Ronaldo scores 900th goal during Portugal's win over Croatia - Bolivia thrash Venezuela - In Thursday's other qualifier, Bolivia reignited their campaign with a 4-0 drubbing over Venezuela in a game played more than 4,000m (13,100 feet) above sea level. Goals from Ramiro Vaca, Carmelo Algaranaz, Miguel Terceros and Enzo Monteiro handed Bolivia only their second win of qualifying and lifted them into seventh place in the standings. The result was a vindication of Bolivia's move to play Thursday's game in El Alto -- Spanish for "The Heights" -- rather than at their usual home venue in neighboring La Paz, which is 3,600m above sea level. The thin air of El Alto clearly left Venezuela's players struggling for energy against a Bolivian team aiming to qualify for their first World Cup since reaching the 1994 finals in the United States. Despite his team's heavy loss, Venezuela coach Fernando Batista refused to dwell on the altitude issue after the game. "Out of 10 questions, eight are about altitude," Batista said. "You won't hear anything from me about it." The pick of Bolivia's goals came from Vaca after just 13 minutes. The 25-year-old midfielder gathered the ball around 30 yards from goal, cut in from the left and unleashed a ferocious shot which flew into the top corner. Venezuela, the only team from South America never to have qualified for a World Cup, remain well-placed to reach the finals despite Thursday's loss. The 'Vinotinto' are fourth in the standings with nine points from seven games, trailing Argentina, Uruguay and Colombia. Venezuela host Uruguay next Tuesday in their eighth game of qualifying. South America's qualifiers continue on Friday with second-placed Uruguay hosting Paraguay in Montevideo while struggling Brazil, who are 11 points adrift of leaders Argentina in sixth, face Ecuador in Curitiba. Third-placed Colombia, meanwhile, travel to Lima to face bottom-of-the-table Peru.

Argentina ease past Chile, Bolivia humble Venezuela in World Cup qualifiers

A massive undersea mountain has been discovered by a team of oceanographers off the coast of Chile which is taller than the iconic Mount Olympus of Greece and is hosting many rare sea creatures.

The Schmidt Ocean Institute of California's researchers have recorded the never-seen seamount, which is spread over 1.9 miles from the Pacific Ocean floor and has a thriving ecosystem, as per the organisation.

The unnamed peak, which is located nearly 900 miles from South America, was discovered by the team during their 28-day expedition on the&nbsp;R/V Falkor&nbsp;vessel during which the sea floor was mapped by them using the sonar system beneath the hull.

“Sound waves go down and they bounce back off the surface, and we measure the time it takes to come back and get measured. From that we get a really good idea (of the seabed topography),” said Jyotika Virmani, the institute’s executive director,&nbsp;while speaking to CNN.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/are-deep-seas-on-earth-hiding-alien-life-amid-dark-oxygen-study-hints-so-753986">Are deep seas on Earth hiding alien life amid 'dark oxygen'? Study hints so</a>

Virmani emphasised that to date the scientists have been able to map only a quarter of the ocean floor even though they have covered 71 per cent of the surface of the Earth.

The newly-discovered underwater mountain is taller than Mount Olympus which is 9,570 feet high.&nbsp;

But it is smaller than Japan’s&nbsp;Mount Fuji which is 12,388 feet high.&nbsp;

<h2>Rare sea species thriving on undersea mountain&nbsp;</h2>

According to scientists, there are at least 100,000 seamounts, which are more than 1,000 meters in height, across the globe which are unique and vital habitats of some sea species.

The latest mountain, which was found off Chile, was filled with ancient corals and sponge gardens.&nbsp;

The oceanographers used an underwater robot to film a rare Promachoteuthis squid which was living in the mountain. This was the first time the creature was seen alive on the mountain.

Watch:&nbsp;Mumbai: Rising sea level poses risk of floods, storms

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mumbai-rising-sea-level-poses-risk-of-floods-storms-747646/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The scientists also found the ghostly white “Casper Octopus” which marked the first time such an eight-legged critter was spotted in the southern Pacific. So far, it has never been captured by scientists and hence it does not have an official name.&nbsp;

The oceanographers also spotted two rare Bathyphysa siphonophores - which were known as flying spaghetti monsters because of their string-like appearance.

These creatures were discovered during the third trip of R/V Falkor to the Nazca Ridge which could soon become the first protected marine area of the world in international waters, according to a new United Nations treaty which was adopted in 2023, as reported by CNN.

“Across the three expeditions, we managed to map and explore 25 seamounts, which is quite a number to explore. I think we’ve got some good data as a community that could be put forward to make the case that this is a really interesting region for protection," Virmani said.

Before the expeditions of Schmidt Ocean Institute this year, nearly 1,019 species were believed to living in this portion of the Pacific Ocean, which has now reached 1,300.

(With inputs from agencies)

A massive undersea mountain has been discovered by a team of oceanographers off the coast of Chile which is taller than the iconic Mount Olympus of Greece and is hosting many rare sea creatures.

A massive undersea mountain has been discovered by a team of oceanographers off the coast of Chile which is taller than the iconic Mount Olympus of Greece and is hosting many rare sea creatures. The Schmidt Ocean Institute of California's researchers have recorded the never-seen seamount, which is spread over 1.9 miles from the Pacific Ocean floor and has a thriving ecosystem, as per the organisation. The unnamed peak, which is located nearly 900 miles from South America, was discovered by the team during their 28-day expedition on the R/V Falkor vessel during which the sea floor was mapped by them using the sonar system beneath the hull. “Sound waves go down and they bounce back off the surface, and we measure the time it takes to come back and get measured. From that we get a really good idea (of the seabed topography),” said Jyotika Virmani, the institute’s executive director, while speaking to CNN. Also Read: Are deep seas on Earth hiding alien life amid 'dark oxygen'? Study hints so Virmani emphasised that to date the scientists have been able to map only a quarter of the ocean floor even though they have covered 71 per cent of the surface of the Earth. The newly-discovered underwater mountain is taller than Mount Olympus which is 9,570 feet high. But it is smaller than Japan’s Mount Fuji which is 12,388 feet high. Rare sea species thriving on undersea mountain According to scientists, there are at least 100,000 seamounts, which are more than 1,000 meters in height, across the globe which are unique and vital habitats of some sea species. The latest mountain, which was found off Chile, was filled with ancient corals and sponge gardens. The oceanographers used an underwater robot to film a rare Promachoteuthis squid which was living in the mountain. This was the first time the creature was seen alive on the mountain. Watch: Mumbai: Rising sea level poses risk of floods, storms The scientists also found the ghostly white “Casper Octopus” which marked the first time such an eight-legged critter was spotted in the southern Pacific. So far, it has never been captured by scientists and hence it does not have an official name. The oceanographers also spotted two rare Bathyphysa siphonophores - which were known as flying spaghetti monsters because of their string-like appearance. These creatures were discovered during the third trip of R/V Falkor to the Nazca Ridge which could soon become the first protected marine area of the world in international waters, according to a new United Nations treaty which was adopted in 2023, as reported by CNN. “Across the three expeditions, we managed to map and explore 25 seamounts, which is quite a number to explore. I think we’ve got some good data as a community that could be put forward to make the case that this is a really interesting region for protection," Virmani said. Before the expeditions of Schmidt Ocean Institute this year, nearly 1,019 species were believed to living in this portion of the Pacific Ocean, which has now reached 1,300. (With inputs from agencies)

Massive undersea mountain discovered beneath Chile. It is home to ghostly 'Casper Octopus' which can...

The world's oldest mummies in Chile face the threat of decomposition due to climate change. These ancient relics are even older than the Egyptian mummies of pharaohs and their decorated tombs.

According to Bernando Arriaza, a professor at the University of Tarapaca, the ancient Chincorro people who lived in the Atacama Desert of Chile started mummifying their dead around 5,000 years ago, while the Egyptians began much later in about 2600 BCE.

Since then, the desert has preserved the mummies and other ancient remains and has given significant information about the Chincorro people to archaeologists.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/archaeologists-discover-ruins-of-4000-year-old-temple-738555">Archaeologists discover ruins of 4,000-year-old ceremonial temple</a>

According to archaeologists, the idea of preserving bodies as mummies came from observing the natural process the dead went through under the dry conditions of the desert. The mummies were also adorned with clay masks, reed blankets, human hair and other articles.

The desert region has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO&nbsp;to help save the relics, however, it might not be enough. While there are many museums in the ancient city of Arica which display the relics from Chincorro culture in climate-controlled exhibits, the remaining antiques that are still buried in the arid desert are at risk.

"If we have an increase in sea surface temperatures, for example, across the coast of northern Chile, that would increase atmospheric humidity," said Claudio LaTorre, a paleo-ecologist at the Catholic University of Chile. "And that in turn would generate decomposition, (in) places where you don't have decomposition today, and you would lose the mummies themselves."&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/saudi-arabia-had-no-barren-lands-but-monumental-buildings-in-ancient-times-claims-study-738490">Ancient Saudi Arabia had monumental buildings, not just barren lands: Study</a>

Other ancient clues in the region that archaeologists could find may also be lost.

"Human-induced climate change is one aspect that we're really worried about, because it'll change a number of different aspects that are forming the desert today," said LaTorre.&nbsp;

Arriaza has been advocating the preservation of mummies and has been working to raise awareness on the matter.

"It's a big, big challenge because you need to have resources," Arriaza said. "It's everybody's effort to a common goal, to preserve the site, to preserve the mummies."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The world's oldest mummies in Chile face the threat of decomposition due to climate change. These ancient relics are even older than the Egyptian mummies of pharaohs and their decorated tombs.

The world's oldest mummies in Chile face the threat of decomposition due to climate change. These ancient relics are even older than the Egyptian mummies of pharaohs and their decorated tombs. According to Bernando Arriaza, a professor at the University of Tarapaca, the ancient Chincorro people who lived in the Atacama Desert of Chile started mummifying their dead around 5,000 years ago, while the Egyptians began much later in about 2600 BCE. Since then, the desert has preserved the mummies and other ancient remains and has given significant information about the Chincorro people to archaeologists. Also Read | Archaeologists discover ruins of 4,000-year-old ceremonial temple According to archaeologists, the idea of preserving bodies as mummies came from observing the natural process the dead went through under the dry conditions of the desert. The mummies were also adorned with clay masks, reed blankets, human hair and other articles. The desert region has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO to help save the relics, however, it might not be enough. While there are many museums in the ancient city of Arica which display the relics from Chincorro culture in climate-controlled exhibits, the remaining antiques that are still buried in the arid desert are at risk. "If we have an increase in sea surface temperatures, for example, across the coast of northern Chile, that would increase atmospheric humidity," said Claudio LaTorre, a paleo-ecologist at the Catholic University of Chile. "And that in turn would generate decomposition, (in) places where you don't have decomposition today, and you would lose the mummies themselves." Also Read | Ancient Saudi Arabia had monumental buildings, not just barren lands: Study Other ancient clues in the region that archaeologists could find may also be lost. "Human-induced climate change is one aspect that we're really worried about, because it'll change a number of different aspects that are forming the desert today," said LaTorre. Arriaza has been advocating the preservation of mummies and has been working to raise awareness on the matter. "It's a big, big challenge because you need to have resources," Arriaza said. "It's everybody's effort to a common goal, to preserve the site, to preserve the mummies." (With inputs from agencies)

Chile: The oldest mummies in the world are at threat from climate change

Dozens of people were stranded after avalanches blanketed mountain towns east of Chile's capital Santiago and blocked roads. Watch in for more details!

Avalanche leave dozens stranded in Chile

The scientists on board Schmidt Ocean Institute’s R/V Falkor (too) who are in the midst of a research expedition in the Atacama Trench found Chile’s deepest and most northern cold seeps at the depth of 2,836 metres. During their research, they also spotted a type of odd-looking sea cucumber.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the researchers find?</h2>

During their expedition in the Atacama Trench, an 8,000-metre-deep formation that stretches along the length of Peru and Chile, the scientists discovered the record-breaking cold seeps.&nbsp;

Cold seeps, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), are locations where hydrocarbon-rich fluid like methane or hydrogen sulphide seeps up from below the seafloor.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/freshwater-and-key-conditions-for-life-first-appeared-on-earth-4-billion-years-ago-study-suggests-732846">Freshwater and key conditions for life first appeared on Earth 4 billion years ago, study suggests</a>

These areas which get more difficult to find as you go deeper were discovered by the team on board the R/V Falkor (too) after more than 12 hours using seafloor mapping data.

At 2,836 metres deep, the seeps provide chemical energy for deep-sea animals living without sunlight and offer insights as to how these conditions led to the development of life on Earth, said the team in a press release, on Tuesday (Jun 18).&nbsp;

“The microbes that live on these seeps have amazing strategies for producing food without sunlight,” said expedition lead Dr Lauren Seyler of Stockton University, in the statement. &nbsp;

She added, “Here on Earth, life in the dark is alien in its own right and provides critical information for understanding how organisms persist under the most extreme conditions.”

Seyler noted that we are still to figure out how life started on Earth and environments like these “might offer clues about the spark that ignited all the biodiversity on our beautiful planet.”

<h2>Creatures found&nbsp;</h2>

In a statement, the researchers said that visual evidence “strongly suggests” that the seeps found are methane seeps, chemosynthetic ecosystems where naturally occurring bubbles of the gas emerge from fissures in the seafloor.&nbsp;

They noted that the methane on the seafloor not only provides energy for the bacteria but also acts as a food source for animals like clams, squat lobsters, and tube worms.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/atoco-point-nasas-rover-spots-strikingly-mysterious-rock-never-seen-before-on-mars-732906">‘Atoco Point’: NASA’s rover spots strikingly mysterious rock never seen before on Mars</a>

The team reportedly collected 70 specimens during their expedition and even spotted a sea pig, one of the planet’s strangest deep sea cucumbers, snuffling along the seafloor.&nbsp;

The sea pig may have gotten its name due to its pink-coloured body and love of the muddy seafloor as it is known for sifting out organic morsels to feed on.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The scientists on board Schmidt Ocean Institute’s R/V Falkor (too) who are in the midst of a research expedition in the Atacama Trench found Chile’s deepest and most northern cold seeps at the depth of 2,836 metres.

The scientists on board Schmidt Ocean Institute’s R/V Falkor (too) who are in the midst of a research expedition in the Atacama Trench found Chile’s deepest and most northern cold seeps at the depth of 2,836 metres. During their research, they also spotted a type of odd-looking sea cucumber. What did the researchers find? During their expedition in the Atacama Trench, an 8,000-metre-deep formation that stretches along the length of Peru and Chile, the scientists discovered the record-breaking cold seeps. Cold seeps, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), are locations where hydrocarbon-rich fluid like methane or hydrogen sulphide seeps up from below the seafloor. Also Read | Freshwater and key conditions for life first appeared on Earth 4 billion years ago, study suggests These areas which get more difficult to find as you go deeper were discovered by the team on board the R/V Falkor (too) after more than 12 hours using seafloor mapping data. At 2,836 metres deep, the seeps provide chemical energy for deep-sea animals living without sunlight and offer insights as to how these conditions led to the development of life on Earth, said the team in a press release, on Tuesday (Jun 18). “The microbes that live on these seeps have amazing strategies for producing food without sunlight,” said expedition lead Dr Lauren Seyler of Stockton University, in the statement. She added, “Here on Earth, life in the dark is alien in its own right and provides critical information for understanding how organisms persist under the most extreme conditions.” Seyler noted that we are still to figure out how life started on Earth and environments like these “might offer clues about the spark that ignited all the biodiversity on our beautiful planet.” Creatures found In a statement, the researchers said that visual evidence “strongly suggests” that the seeps found are methane seeps, chemosynthetic ecosystems where naturally occurring bubbles of the gas emerge from fissures in the seafloor. They noted that the methane on the seafloor not only provides energy for the bacteria but also acts as a food source for animals like clams, squat lobsters, and tube worms. Also Read | ‘Atoco Point’: NASA’s rover spots strikingly mysterious rock never seen before on Mars The team reportedly collected 70 specimens during their expedition and even spotted a sea pig, one of the planet’s strangest deep sea cucumbers, snuffling along the seafloor. The sea pig may have gotten its name due to its pink-coloured body and love of the muddy seafloor as it is known for sifting out organic morsels to feed on. (With inputs from agencies)

Researchers spot sea pig in Chile’s deepest known cold seeps located 2,836 metres below the sea

More than 50 companies have expressed their interest in developing lithium projects in Chile, as stated by the Finance Minister Mario Marcel on Tuesday. This announcement came after the Chilean government called for proposals for a range of salt flats containing the battery metal.

Chile, renowned as the world's largest copper producer, issued a call for proposals in April to develop lithium projects in more than two dozen salt flats that have not been fully explored yet. However, the government has reserved the Atacama and Maricunga brine deposits for state control.

In response to this call, 54 firms from 10 different countries submitted statements of interest to develop 88 projects through the public process, which concluded on Monday, as revealed by Minister Marcel during an event in Santiago. He further elaborated, "There are investors of different sizes ... there are local investors and many foreign investors. There is clearly a very broad interest in investing in this industry."

The mining ministry will later provide detailed information on the salt flats that have received overlapping proposals from multiple companies.

Back in April, Chile's mining minister had stated that a tender process would be initiated if more than one company expressed interest in a single site.

However, investors have raised concerns about how the government will award lithium contracts in salt flats where mining concessions have previously been granted, as this could create a situation of double ownership, leading to potential conflicts.

Chile is actively seeking to strengthen its role in the lithium industry, currently the second-largest after Australia. The country aims to achieve this through state-led projects as well as private investment.

During an event in Santiago on Tuesday, the U.S. ambassador to Chile, Bernadette Meehan, highlighted the "intense interest" shown by U.S. companies not only in extracting lithium but also in producing components that utilise the material, such as batteries. She stated, "There are U.S. companies and Western companies interested in all lithium opportunities announced by the government of Chile."

Currently, only the U.S. firm Albemarle and the local miner SQM are producing lithium in Chile. Last month, SQM signed an agreement with the state-run giant Codelco to launch a majority state-run joint venture in the Atacama salt flat. Codelco is actively seeking a partner for a major new lithium project in the Maricunga salt flat.&nbsp;

More than 50 companies have expressed their interest in developing lithium projects in Chile, as stated by the Finance Minister Mario Marcel on Tuesday. This announcement came after the Chilean government called for proposals for a range of salt flats containing the battery metal.

More than 50 companies have expressed their interest in developing lithium projects in Chile, as stated by the Finance Minister Mario Marcel on Tuesday. This announcement came after the Chilean government called for proposals for a range of salt flats containing the battery metal. Chile, renowned as the world's largest copper producer, issued a call for proposals in April to develop lithium projects in more than two dozen salt flats that have not been fully explored yet. However, the government has reserved the Atacama and Maricunga brine deposits for state control. In response to this call, 54 firms from 10 different countries submitted statements of interest to develop 88 projects through the public process, which concluded on Monday, as revealed by Minister Marcel during an event in Santiago. He further elaborated, "There are investors of different sizes ... there are local investors and many foreign investors. There is clearly a very broad interest in investing in this industry." The mining ministry will later provide detailed information on the salt flats that have received overlapping proposals from multiple companies. Back in April, Chile's mining minister had stated that a tender process would be initiated if more than one company expressed interest in a single site. However, investors have raised concerns about how the government will award lithium contracts in salt flats where mining concessions have previously been granted, as this could create a situation of double ownership, leading to potential conflicts. Chile is actively seeking to strengthen its role in the lithium industry, currently the second-largest after Australia. The country aims to achieve this through state-led projects as well as private investment. During an event in Santiago on Tuesday, the U.S. ambassador to Chile, Bernadette Meehan, highlighted the "intense interest" shown by U.S. companies not only in extracting lithium but also in producing components that utilise the material, such as batteries. She stated, "There are U.S. companies and Western companies interested in all lithium opportunities announced by the government of Chile." Currently, only the U.S. firm Albemarle and the local miner SQM are producing lithium in Chile. Last month, SQM signed an agreement with the state-run giant Codelco to launch a majority state-run joint venture in the Atacama salt flat. Codelco is actively seeking a partner for a major new lithium project in the Maricunga salt flat.

Chile's lithium projects spark interest from over 50 companies

Headlines of the hour: - G7 agree $50 bn loan for Ukraine - PM Modi arrives in Italy for G7 - US top court allows access to abortion pills - Hezbollah fire 100 rockets, 30 drones - Houthi missile strikes set ship ablaze - Rain and floods affect thousands in Chile - Shareholders approve Musk's $45 bn pay

Rain & floods affect thousands in Chile | Shareholders approve Musk's $45 bn pay

Heavy rains have lashed much of Chile, damaging homes, flooding roads, knocking out power and causing mudslides. The storms drenched centre and south Chile throughout the week, displacing at least 4000 people and forcing schools to shut down .

Chile: Heavy rains damage homes, flood roads

Headlines of the hour: - US: G7 reaches deal on Ukraine - X makes likes private - Heavy rains batter Chile - Israel: Heavy rocket fire from Lebanon

US: G7 reaches deal on Ukraine | X makes 'likes' private | Heavy rains batter Chile

Chile police and rescue teams are helping isolated residents to evacuate flooded areas as Southern Chile battles intense rains red alerts have been issued for several regions.

Chile: Heavy rains paralyse daily life, evacuation operations on

Humboldt penguins found primarily in South America are facing extinction. Their population has decreased in areas along the central coast of Chile.

Chile's Humboldt penguins could face extinction as population plummets

With a resolution above 3.2 gigapixels, a nearly three-ton weight and the ambitious task of carrying out an unprecedented decade-long exploration, the largest digital camera ever built for optical astronomy is ready to be installed under the clear skies of northern Chile.

Chile to install world's largest astronomy camera on the edge of Atacama desert

A volunteer firefighter and a Chilean forestry official have been formally accused by prosecutors for their alleged roles in setting the wildfires that ravaged the coastal city of Vina del Mar in February, claiming the lives of 137 people.

Volunteer firefighter Francisco Ignacio Mondaca and an official from Chile's National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) Francisco Pinto have been implicated in the deadly blaze. Both the suspects are currently in pre-trial detention. Authorities alleged that Mondaca executed the arson, while Pinto is identified as the mastermind behind the plot.

Regional Prosecutor Claudia Perivancich reportedly stated, "We have material that shows that they agreed to act jointly when the appropriate meteorological conditions arose to ensure that the fires occurred."

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Evidence uncovered by investigators revealed that the fires were allegedly ignited using devices made of cigarettes and matches placed at four outbreak sites.

This deliberate act has prompted a rigorous investigation. A judge granted six months to complete inquiries, focusing on the cases of missing victims and the suspects' cell phone records.

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Prosecutor Osvaldo Ossandon linked Mondaca to six previous fires in the region.

<h2>Deadly wildfires&nbsp;</h2>

The severity of these wildfires marked Chile's deadliest forest fires, making them the worst natural disaster since the 2010 earthquake and tsunami. In the aftermath, the disaster left Vina del Mar, a popular tourist destination, in ruins.

Rodrigo Mundaca, the governor of the Valparaiso region, at the time of the incident expressed concerns over the possibility of deliberate arson, stating, "These fires began in four points that lit up simultaneously."&nbsp;

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The February fires prompted a national response, with the Chilean president declaring two days of national mourning.

Reflecting on the tragedy, Commander of the 13th Fire Company of Valparaiso, Vicente Maggiolo, said,&nbsp;“We are completely devastated by what happened, it is a totally isolated incident... we have served Valparaiso for more than 170 years and cannot allow such things."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A volunteer firefighter and a Chilean forestry official have been formally accused by prosecutors for their alleged roles in setting the wildfires that ravaged the coastal city of Vina del Mar in February, claiming the lives of 137 people.

A volunteer firefighter and a Chilean forestry official have been formally accused by prosecutors for their alleged roles in setting the wildfires that ravaged the coastal city of Vina del Mar in February, claiming the lives of 137 people. Volunteer firefighter Francisco Ignacio Mondaca and an official from Chile's National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) Francisco Pinto have been implicated in the deadly blaze. Both the suspects are currently in pre-trial detention. Authorities alleged that Mondaca executed the arson, while Pinto is identified as the mastermind behind the plot. Regional Prosecutor Claudia Perivancich reportedly stated, "We have material that shows that they agreed to act jointly when the appropriate meteorological conditions arose to ensure that the fires occurred." Also Read | Pilot killed in crash of WWII-era Spitfire near RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire Evidence uncovered by investigators revealed that the fires were allegedly ignited using devices made of cigarettes and matches placed at four outbreak sites. This deliberate act has prompted a rigorous investigation. A judge granted six months to complete inquiries, focusing on the cases of missing victims and the suspects' cell phone records. Also Read | Undercooked black bear meat infected six people in US with brain worm: CDC report Prosecutor Osvaldo Ossandon linked Mondaca to six previous fires in the region. Deadly wildfires The severity of these wildfires marked Chile's deadliest forest fires, making them the worst natural disaster since the 2010 earthquake and tsunami. In the aftermath, the disaster left Vina del Mar, a popular tourist destination, in ruins. Rodrigo Mundaca, the governor of the Valparaiso region, at the time of the incident expressed concerns over the possibility of deliberate arson, stating, "These fires began in four points that lit up simultaneously." Watch | Papua New Guinea landslide: More than 300 people feared dead in 'massive' landslide × The February fires prompted a national response, with the Chilean president declaring two days of national mourning. Reflecting on the tragedy, Commander of the 13th Fire Company of Valparaiso, Vicente Maggiolo, said, “We are completely devastated by what happened, it is a totally isolated incident... we have served Valparaiso for more than 170 years and cannot allow such things." (With inputs from agencies)

Volunteer firefighter, forestry official accused of setting fatal wildfires in Chile

A firefighter in Chile was arrested on Friday (May 24) on suspicion of igniting a blaze in February this year that killed 137 people in the coastal city of Vina del Mar, media reports said citing authorities.

Police director Eduardo Cerna during a presser said,&nbsp;"An arrest warrant was issued today against the person who started the fires in February in the Valparaiso region."

It is worth mentioning that the Valparaíso region experienced an intense heat wave this summer, with temperatures soaring to 95-100 degrees Fahrenheit. During the first week of February 2024, deadly fires ravaged the area amid extreme heat and the city of Viña del Mar in the region, which is home to 300,000 people, was hit particularly hard.

As per reports, the accused firefighter who was arrested is a 22-year-old. He reportedly joined the force only 1.5 years ago.&nbsp;

Commander of the 13th Fire Company of Valparaiso Vicente Maggiolo said,&nbsp;“We are completely devastated by what happened, it is a totally isolated incident... we have served Valparaiso for more than 170 years and cannot allow such things."&nbsp;

There were bodies lying around in the streets and many homes were destroyed in the unfortunate February incident.&nbsp;

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These wildfires have been recorded as Chile’s deadliest forest fires in history, marking the most devastating disaster since the 2010 earthquake and tsunami, measured 8.8 on the magnitude scale. The disaster of the massive quake resulted in over 500 confirmed deaths, with hundreds&nbsp;injured, many people missing and $30 billion in damages.

Vina del Mar that was gutted in the February fire is a popular tourist destination. In the wake of the horrific incident at the time, the Chilean president had announced two days of national mourning starting February 5.

<h2>Suspicion of arson&nbsp;</h2>

According to the Chilean National Disaster Prevention and Response Service (SENAPRED), there were 165 active fires at the peak of the fire outbreak. The ignition of four fires at the same time on February 2 made some officials suspicious of arson.&nbsp;

Rodrigo Mundaca, the governor of the Valparaiso region also said that some fires might have been deliberately set. Mundaca said, “These fires began in four points that lit up simultaneously." “As authorities we will have to work rigorously to find who is responsible."

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Wildfires are indeed common during the Southern Hemisphere's summer, which spans from December to February. Several factors contribute to the increased incidence and intensity of wildfires during this period.&nbsp;

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In central Chile, the cause of fire cited were high temperatures, high winds and low humidity.

(With inputs from agencies)
</section>

A firefighter in Chile was arrested on Friday (May 24) on suspicion of igniting a blaze in February this year that killed 137 people in the coastal city of Vina del Mar, media reports said citing authorities.

A firefighter in Chile was arrested on Friday (May 24) on suspicion of igniting a blaze in February this year that killed 137 people in the coastal city of Vina del Mar, media reports said citing authorities. Police director Eduardo Cerna during a presser said, "An arrest warrant was issued today against the person who started the fires in February in the Valparaiso region." It is worth mentioning that the Valparaíso region experienced an intense heat wave this summer, with temperatures soaring to 95-100 degrees Fahrenheit. During the first week of February 2024, deadly fires ravaged the area amid extreme heat and the city of Viña del Mar in the region, which is home to 300,000 people, was hit particularly hard. As per reports, the accused firefighter who was arrested is a 22-year-old. He reportedly joined the force only 1.5 years ago. Commander of the 13th Fire Company of Valparaiso Vicente Maggiolo said, “We are completely devastated by what happened, it is a totally isolated incident... we have served Valparaiso for more than 170 years and cannot allow such things." There were bodies lying around in the streets and many homes were destroyed in the unfortunate February incident. Also Read | Canada to reinstate citizenship for foreign-born offspring of Canadians after court ruling These wildfires have been recorded as Chile’s deadliest forest fires in history, marking the most devastating disaster since the 2010 earthquake and tsunami, measured 8.8 on the magnitude scale. The disaster of the massive quake resulted in over 500 confirmed deaths, with hundreds injured, many people missing and $30 billion in damages. Vina del Mar that was gutted in the February fire is a popular tourist destination. In the wake of the horrific incident at the time, the Chilean president had announced two days of national mourning starting February 5. Suspicion of arson According to the Chilean National Disaster Prevention and Response Service (SENAPRED), there were 165 active fires at the peak of the fire outbreak. The ignition of four fires at the same time on February 2 made some officials suspicious of arson. Rodrigo Mundaca, the governor of the Valparaiso region also said that some fires might have been deliberately set. Mundaca said, “These fires began in four points that lit up simultaneously." “As authorities we will have to work rigorously to find who is responsible." Also Read | UK's baby-killer nurse Lucy Letby loses bid to appeal against convictions Wildfires are indeed common during the Southern Hemisphere's summer, which spans from December to February. Several factors contribute to the increased incidence and intensity of wildfires during this period. Watch | Gravitas | Why are monkeys in Mexico dropping dead? × In central Chile, the cause of fire cited were high temperatures, high winds and low humidity. (With inputs from agencies)

Chilean firefighter arrested for allegedly igniting Feb blaze that killed 137 in Vina del Mar

Today in history: A 9.5-magnitude earthquake hit Southern Chile on May 22, 1960. It killed at least 1,655 people and left 2 million homeless. It was the largest earthquake in recorded history.

Gravitas recall: The deadliest earthquake in recorded history

The flamingo population in Chile's Los Flamencos National Reserve is dwindling and scientists are trying to find out where the long-legged, pink-plumed birds are going. Watch in for more details!

Chilean scientists track 'flamingos' by satellite to preserve declining population

Winter-like weather surprisingly returned to Santiago on Tuesday (April 23), with heavy snow falling in and around USA. Watch to know more.

Chile capital faces fiercest cold snap in decades

Chile turns chilly as rare, snowfall hits Santiago

Good news for all astronomy enthusiasts! The world’s highest astronomical observatory at 5,640 metres (18,500 feet) above sea level is now open in the Atacama Desert. Any stargazer who has camped on a mountainside is aware of how much clearer the stars look from there, now imagine observing the starry world from the highest point in the world.&nbsp;

The University of Tokyo Atacama Observatory (TAO) is now built and fully operational, sitting on the summit of a mountain in the Atacama Desert. It is now the world’s highest location with a ground-based telescope that will give astronomers an infrared view of the universe.&nbsp;

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But constructing this observatory at a peak of 5,640 metres was not an easy task, and took 26 years to come out in its present form. The TAO was first conceptualised 26 years ago to study the evolution of galaxies and exoplanets.&nbsp;

<h2>Location of the observatory</h2>

Speaking of the exact location, TAO is located on the summit of Atacama’s Cerro Chajnantor mountain that also has a significant meaning. Cerro Chajnantor means “place of departure” in the now-extinct Kunza language of the indigenous Likan Antai community.&nbsp;

The region’s high altitude, sparse atmosphere and perennially arid climate are hostile to humans but is an excellent spot for infrared telescopes like TAO. The observational accuracies of infrared telescopes depend a lot on low moisture levels, which render Earth’s atmosphere transparent in infrared wavelengths.&nbsp;

<h2>Construction was a political challenge&nbsp;</h2>

Constructing the telescope on the summit of Mt. Chajnantor "was an incredible challenge, not just technically, but politically too," Yuzuru Yoshii, a professor at the University of Tokyo in Japan who spearheaded TAO since 1998, said in a statement.&nbsp;

"I have liaised with Indigenous peoples to ensure their rights and views are considered, the Chilean government to secure permission, local universities for technical collaboration, and even the Chilean Health Ministry to make sure people can work at that altitude in a safe manner."

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"Thanks to all involved, research I've only ever dreamed about can soon become a reality, and I couldn't be happier," he added.

<h2>Specifications</h2>

The TAO’s telescope is 6.5 metres in length and consists of two science instruments designed to observe the universe in infrared, which is electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength longer than visible light but shorter than microwaves.&nbsp;

One of the instruments, SWIMS, will image galaxies from the very early universe to understand how they coalesced out of pristine dust and gas, a process whose specifics remain murky despite decades of research.&nbsp;

The second, named MIMIZUKU, will aid the overarching science goal by studying primordial disks of dust within which stars and galaxies are known to form, according to the mission plan.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/melting-ice-burning-skin-antarctic-wildlife-is-getting-sunburnt-scientists-warn-717361">Melting ice, burning skin: Antarctic wildlife is getting sunburnt, scientists warn</a>

"The better astronomical observations of the real thing can be, the more accurately we can reproduce what we see with our experiments on Earth," Riko Senoo, a graduate student at the University of Tokyo and a TAO researcher, said in the statement.

The observatory has been discussed for the past 26 years, but the on-site work began only in 2006 when the first access road to Mt. Chajnantor's summit was paved and a weather monitor was installed soon after.

(With inputs from agencies)

Good news for all astronomy enthusiasts! The world’s highest astronomical observatory at 5,640 metres (18,500 feet) above sea level is now open in the Atacama Desert.

Good news for all astronomy enthusiasts! The world’s highest astronomical observatory at 5,640 metres (18,500 feet) above sea level is now open in the Atacama Desert. Any stargazer who has camped on a mountainside is aware of how much clearer the stars look from there, now imagine observing the starry world from the highest point in the world. The University of Tokyo Atacama Observatory (TAO) is now built and fully operational, sitting on the summit of a mountain in the Atacama Desert. It is now the world’s highest location with a ground-based telescope that will give astronomers an infrared view of the universe. Also Read | 'Wall of Death' workout can keep astronauts fit on the Moon. Here's how it works But constructing this observatory at a peak of 5,640 metres was not an easy task, and took 26 years to come out in its present form. The TAO was first conceptualised 26 years ago to study the evolution of galaxies and exoplanets. Location of the observatory Speaking of the exact location, TAO is located on the summit of Atacama’s Cerro Chajnantor mountain that also has a significant meaning. Cerro Chajnantor means “place of departure” in the now-extinct Kunza language of the indigenous Likan Antai community. The region’s high altitude, sparse atmosphere and perennially arid climate are hostile to humans but is an excellent spot for infrared telescopes like TAO. The observational accuracies of infrared telescopes depend a lot on low moisture levels, which render Earth’s atmosphere transparent in infrared wavelengths. Construction was a political challenge Constructing the telescope on the summit of Mt. Chajnantor "was an incredible challenge, not just technically, but politically too," Yuzuru Yoshii, a professor at the University of Tokyo in Japan who spearheaded TAO since 1998, said in a statement. "I have liaised with Indigenous peoples to ensure their rights and views are considered, the Chilean government to secure permission, local universities for technical collaboration, and even the Chilean Health Ministry to make sure people can work at that altitude in a safe manner." Also Read | Chaos on Sun dazzles Mars with invisible Auroras "Thanks to all involved, research I've only ever dreamed about can soon become a reality, and I couldn't be happier," he added. Specifications The TAO’s telescope is 6.5 metres in length and consists of two science instruments designed to observe the universe in infrared, which is electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength longer than visible light but shorter than microwaves. One of the instruments, SWIMS, will image galaxies from the very early universe to understand how they coalesced out of pristine dust and gas, a process whose specifics remain murky despite decades of research. The second, named MIMIZUKU, will aid the overarching science goal by studying primordial disks of dust within which stars and galaxies are known to form, according to the mission plan. Also Read | Melting ice, burning skin: Antarctic wildlife is getting sunburnt, scientists warn "The better astronomical observations of the real thing can be, the more accurately we can reproduce what we see with our experiments on Earth," Riko Senoo, a graduate student at the University of Tokyo and a TAO researcher, said in the statement. The observatory has been discussed for the past 26 years, but the on-site work began only in 2006 when the first access road to Mt. Chajnantor's summit was paved and a weather monitor was installed soon after. (With inputs from agencies)

Big! World's highest astronomical observatory is finally open and sits atop Chile's Andes Mountains

While fishing for bony fish off the Chilean coast, some fishermen made an unexpected discovery in their gill nets—they had captured a species believed to be lost. Described in 1887 as the Chilean angel shark, this small, flat shark resembling a ray lives&nbsp;in shallow coastal waters. However, a recent study published in the European Journal of Taxonomy (April 25th) suggested&nbsp;that the initial description was incomplete and inaccurate, according to The Miami Herald.

The researchers found that the 1887 study provided only a few body measurements, which were insufficient to distinguish this specimen from its close relatives. Additionally, the collected animal was lost, leaving a significant gap in&nbsp;scientific understanding of the Chilean angel shark. While occasional bycatches provided glimpses of the species over time, a comprehensive description remained elusive. Then, fate intervened, and the elusive sharks landed in the hands of the fishermen.

<h2>Researches confirm the discovery of once-lost Chilean angel shark</h2>

After catching their unexpected discovery, the fishermen froze two whole sharks and the head of a third before sending&nbsp;them to the National Museum of Natural History in Santiago, Chile. Researchers there were excited to confirm that they had found two Squatina armata, also known as Angelote in Spanish and Chilean angel shark in English.

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The study details the sharks as measuring slightly over three&nbsp;feet long and having flattened bodies, making them resemble rays more than sharks.

Adding to their distinctive appearance, these sharks have "enlarged dorsal thorns" – small, sharp, hook-shaped protrusions found on both their heads and backs, according to the researchers.

Despite this encounter, the Chilean angel shark remains shrouded in mystery. Limited research and rare sightings have led to their classification as "critically endangered" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.&nbsp;

According to NOAA, these creatures are "nocturnal bottom-dwellers," spending most of their lives buried within the sand and mud of coastal sediment.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiny-sea-creatures-could-help-unravel-flight-mh370s-mysterious-disappearance-heres-how-698967">Also read |&nbsp;Tiny sea creatures could help unravel flight MH370’s mysterious disappearance. Here’s how</a>

"Recent taxonomic studies on angel sharks ... with this updated morphological characterization of the Chilean angel shark, questions on geographic range, estimations of abundance, and real incidence in landings can be clarified to ultimately inform better conservation practices of this critically endangered species and other angel sharks on the Pacific coast of America," the researchers said.

The sharks were caught near Playa Seremeno in northern Chile on the Pacific coast.

(With inputs from agencies)

While fishing for bony fish off the Chilean coast, some fishermen made an unexpected discovery in their gill nets—they had captured a species believed to be lost.

While fishing for bony fish off the Chilean coast, some fishermen made an unexpected discovery in their gill nets—they had captured a species believed to be lost. Described in 1887 as the Chilean angel shark, this small, flat shark resembling a ray lives in shallow coastal waters. However, a recent study published in the European Journal of Taxonomy (April 25th) suggested that the initial description was incomplete and inaccurate, according to The Miami Herald. The researchers found that the 1887 study provided only a few body measurements, which were insufficient to distinguish this specimen from its close relatives. Additionally, the collected animal was lost, leaving a significant gap in scientific understanding of the Chilean angel shark. While occasional bycatches provided glimpses of the species over time, a comprehensive description remained elusive. Then, fate intervened, and the elusive sharks landed in the hands of the fishermen. Researches confirm the discovery of once-lost Chilean angel shark After catching their unexpected discovery, the fishermen froze two whole sharks and the head of a third before sending them to the National Museum of Natural History in Santiago, Chile. Researchers there were excited to confirm that they had found two Squatina armata, also known as Angelote in Spanish and Chilean angel shark in English. Also read | Enormous 15ft sea creature washes up on UK coast, stunning beachgoers The study details the sharks as measuring slightly over three feet long and having flattened bodies, making them resemble rays more than sharks. Adding to their distinctive appearance, these sharks have "enlarged dorsal thorns" – small, sharp, hook-shaped protrusions found on both their heads and backs, according to the researchers. Despite this encounter, the Chilean angel shark remains shrouded in mystery. Limited research and rare sightings have led to their classification as "critically endangered" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. According to NOAA, these creatures are "nocturnal bottom-dwellers," spending most of their lives buried within the sand and mud of coastal sediment. Also read | Tiny sea creatures could help unravel flight MH370’s mysterious disappearance. Here’s how "Recent taxonomic studies on angel sharks ... with this updated morphological characterization of the Chilean angel shark, questions on geographic range, estimations of abundance, and real incidence in landings can be clarified to ultimately inform better conservation practices of this critically endangered species and other angel sharks on the Pacific coast of America," the researchers said. The sharks were caught near Playa Seremeno in northern Chile on the Pacific coast. (With inputs from agencies)

Rare ocean predator missing since 1800s found in Chilean fishers' net

Chile is observing National morning after three Military police officers were killed in an armed ambush by unidentified assailants. Watch in for more details!

Chile: President Gabriel Boric declares national mourning period after 3 police officers killed

Chile’s President Gabriel Boric has declared a three-day mourning period after armed assailants ambushed and killed three police officers in southern Chile. Watch in for more details!

Chilean President Boric declares national mourning period after 3 police officers killed

A Chilean TikToker named&nbsp;Luis Alvarez decided to splurge on a new television, but the method of payment was anything but ordinary. Equipped with just a metal detector, he&nbsp;scoured the area to collect the amount in about seven days, as reported by Reuters.&nbsp;

"It took me about seven days to collect the coins. As I said, it's the amount I usually collect every week, between 200,000 and 250,000 pesos ($210 - $263 USD) in coins alone, and because I had to buy a television because of an unfortunate event with my daughter. I put them together, I spent a whole night cleaning them. It was very late and I couldn't go to the bank. So I took all these coins and put them in little bags of 100 ($0.11 USD), 500 ($0.53 USD), 50 ($0.053 USD) and set off to find a store that would take them," he told&nbsp;Reuters.&nbsp;

Alvarez mentioned that every coin was discovered either in parks or on the beach.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/rare-ocean-predator-missing-since-1800s-found-in-chilean-fishers-net-715841">Also read |&nbsp;Rare ocean predator missing since 1800s found in Chilean fishers' net</a>

<h2>More instances of purchasing goods using coins</h2>

In a similar case in India, a man from Jaipur bought a&nbsp;Ather 450 electric scooter using only&nbsp;₹10 coins.

Tarun Mehta, CEO of Ather Energy, was impressed by the man's innovative payment approach and posted a photo of the happy e-scooter owner along with the money he used for the purchase.

"A new Ather owner just bought himself a 450 in Jaipur... all with 10Re coins!" Mr Mehta wrote while sharing the picture. The image shows the man holding a giant replica key of the e-scooter with a few others standing beside him. A table, kept in front of the group, is covered with numerous small bags filled with coins," Mehta wrote on X.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Chile: President Gabriel Boric declares national mourning period after 3 police officers killed

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chile-president-gabriel-boric-declares-national-mourning-period-after-3-police-officers-killed-715849/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the past year, a man from Assam gained popularity on social media after purchasing a scooter with a sack full of his savings in coins. Md Saidul Hoque, a small shopkeeper from Guwahati, had diligently set aside his hard-earned money over several years to fulfill his dream of owning a two-wheeler. He had been collecting ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, and ₹10 coins for the past 5-6 years.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Chilean TikToker named Luis Alvarez decided to splurge on a new television, but the method of payment was anything but ordinary. Equipped with just a metal detector, he scoured the area to collect the amount in about seven days, as reported by Reuters.

A Chilean TikToker named Luis Alvarez decided to splurge on a new television, but the method of payment was anything but ordinary. Equipped with just a metal detector, he scoured the area to collect the amount in about seven days, as reported by Reuters. "It took me about seven days to collect the coins. As I said, it's the amount I usually collect every week, between 200,000 and 250,000 pesos ($210 - $263 USD) in coins alone, and because I had to buy a television because of an unfortunate event with my daughter. I put them together, I spent a whole night cleaning them. It was very late and I couldn't go to the bank. So I took all these coins and put them in little bags of 100 ($0.11 USD), 500 ($0.53 USD), 50 ($0.053 USD) and set off to find a store that would take them," he told Reuters. Alvarez mentioned that every coin was discovered either in parks or on the beach. Also read | Rare ocean predator missing since 1800s found in Chilean fishers' net More instances of purchasing goods using coins In a similar case in India, a man from Jaipur bought a Ather 450 electric scooter using only ₹10 coins. Tarun Mehta, CEO of Ather Energy, was impressed by the man's innovative payment approach and posted a photo of the happy e-scooter owner along with the money he used for the purchase. "A new Ather owner just bought himself a 450 in Jaipur... all with 10Re coins!" Mr Mehta wrote while sharing the picture. The image shows the man holding a giant replica key of the e-scooter with a few others standing beside him. A table, kept in front of the group, is covered with numerous small bags filled with coins," Mehta wrote on X. Also watch | Chile: President Gabriel Boric declares national mourning period after 3 police officers killed In the past year, a man from Assam gained popularity on social media after purchasing a scooter with a sack full of his savings in coins. Md Saidul Hoque, a small shopkeeper from Guwahati, had diligently set aside his hard-earned money over several years to fulfill his dream of owning a two-wheeler. He had been collecting ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, and ₹10 coins for the past 5-6 years. (With inputs from agencies)

Man buys TV with coins collected from beaches, parks using metal detector in just 7 days

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