A new theoretical research has made a stunning revelation that the Earth is currently crossing an ocean of&nbsp;dark matter and this&nbsp;invisible ocean's waves have been slamming against the upper atmosphere of our planet and generating detectable radio waves.&nbsp;

As per the research, these detectable radio waves have been helping in finally finding this universe's elusive component.

A lot of astrophysical and cosmological evidence, like certain galaxies' inexplicable rotation curves and the largest structures' growth in the cosmic space, has pointed towards the dark matter's existence.&nbsp;

The attempts made to explain these observations with alternative formulations of&nbsp;gravity&nbsp;have not succeeded. Astronomers currently believe that dark matter is some kind of matter which only rarely interacts with normal matter or light.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/comet-crashed-with-earth-set-the-planet-ablaze-thousands-of-years-ago-study-736991">Comet crashed on Earth, set the planet ablaze thousands of years ago: Study</a>

According to scientists, dark matter&nbsp;is made of massive particles, however, the search for such kinds of particles has not yielded any results.

An alternative, as per the scientists, is that dark matter is exceptionally light and exists as either a form of theoretical particles called "axions" or like an exotic form of photon which carries a bit of mass.

Dark matter, with its incredible lightness, is millions of times lighter in comparison to the lightest known particles and can act in strange ways.&nbsp;

The dark matter, instead of looking like individual point-like bullets, will behave more like large waves&nbsp;which are sloshing around the cosmos.

<h2>Scientists say dark matter's interaction point is ionosphere&nbsp;</h2>

In a&nbsp;recent study, which was published to the preprint server arXiv, the models of ultralight dark matter, which were not entirely dark, were explored by physicists and they allowed it to interact extremely rarely with normal matter.&nbsp;

In the universe, the plasma is being spewed by all stars in the form of stellar wind.&nbsp;

The production of radio waves has been explored because of the dark matter interacting with environments like the interstellar medium or the solar corona.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Study: Secret aliens could be here on Earth already

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/study-secret-aliens-could-be-here-on-earth-already-731848/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the new research, an interaction point - which is very close to Earth - has been discovered by scientists which is our planet's ionosphere.

The ionosphere of the Earth is the thin and hot layer of the upper atmosphere and it is filled with a loose collection of ionised (charged) particles — which is a plasma.

In this, the waves are sloshing through it and the researchers have found that those waves can interact with hypothetical dark matter waves, which are said to be washing over Earth.

(With inputs from agencies)

A new theoretical research has made a stunning revelation that the Earth is currently crossing an ocean of dark matter and this invisible ocean's waves have been slamming against the upper atmosphere of our planet and generating detectable radio waves.

A new theoretical research has made a stunning revelation that the Earth is currently crossing an ocean of dark matter and this invisible ocean's waves have been slamming against the upper atmosphere of our planet and generating detectable radio waves. As per the research, these detectable radio waves have been helping in finally finding this universe's elusive component. A lot of astrophysical and cosmological evidence, like certain galaxies' inexplicable rotation curves and the largest structures' growth in the cosmic space, has pointed towards the dark matter's existence. The attempts made to explain these observations with alternative formulations of gravity have not succeeded. Astronomers currently believe that dark matter is some kind of matter which only rarely interacts with normal matter or light. Also Read: Comet crashed on Earth, set the planet ablaze thousands of years ago: Study According to scientists, dark matter is made of massive particles, however, the search for such kinds of particles has not yielded any results. An alternative, as per the scientists, is that dark matter is exceptionally light and exists as either a form of theoretical particles called "axions" or like an exotic form of photon which carries a bit of mass. Dark matter, with its incredible lightness, is millions of times lighter in comparison to the lightest known particles and can act in strange ways. The dark matter, instead of looking like individual point-like bullets, will behave more like large waves which are sloshing around the cosmos. Scientists say dark matter's interaction point is ionosphere In a recent study, which was published to the preprint server arXiv, the models of ultralight dark matter, which were not entirely dark, were explored by physicists and they allowed it to interact extremely rarely with normal matter. In the universe, the plasma is being spewed by all stars in the form of stellar wind. The production of radio waves has been explored because of the dark matter interacting with environments like the interstellar medium or the solar corona. Watch: Study: Secret aliens could be here on Earth already In the new research, an interaction point - which is very close to Earth - has been discovered by scientists which is our planet's ionosphere. The ionosphere of the Earth is the thin and hot layer of the upper atmosphere and it is filled with a loose collection of ionised (charged) particles — which is a plasma. In this, the waves are sloshing through it and the researchers have found that those waves can interact with hypothetical dark matter waves, which are said to be washing over Earth. (With inputs from agencies)

Earth is crossing an ocean of mysterious dark matter. Here's how it is impacting our atmosphere

The landlocked country of Mongolia in East Asia was once an ocean which was created by an upwelling of boiling rock from the Earth's crust more than 400 million years ago.&nbsp;

The ocean, after its creation by tearing of Earth's crust, had survived for 115 million years.&nbsp;

This ocean's geological history is likely to help researchers understand Wilson cycles and the process through which supercontinents break apart and eventually, join again.&nbsp;

A geoscientist at the National Spanish Research Council in Madrid and study co-author&nbsp; Daniel Pastor-Galan said that these are slow and broad-scale processes which move ahead by less than an inch every year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mongolian-climber-found-dead-on-mount-everest-rescue-operations-underway-for-another-722607">Mongolian climber found dead on Mount Everest, rescue operations underway for another</a>

"It's telling us about processes in the earth that are not very easy to understand and that are also not very easy to see," said Pastor-Galan, while speaking to Live Science.

Till now the breakup of the last supercontinent Pangea - which happened 250 million years ago - has been accurately reconstructed by the geoscientists.

But before that, it was difficult to create an exact model of how the interaction between the mantle and the crust happened.

<h2>Volcanic rocks from the Devonian period found in Mongolia</h2>

The researchers, in the new study, were left intrigued by volcanic rocks in northwestern Mongolia, which belonged to the Devonian period (419 million to 359 million years ago).&nbsp;

The Devonian period refers to the "Age of the Fishes" when the oceans were dominated by the fish and plants started to spread on the land.

In that period, two major continents - Laurentia and Gondwana - existed along with a long stretch of microcontinents which eventually became Asia.&nbsp;

In a slow process, the microcontinents merged in a process known as accretion.

During the fieldwork in northwest Mongolia, the researchers discovered the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean which had opened up in the region nearly 410 million and 415 million years ago.

Watch:&nbsp;Mongolia's ruling party wins general elections

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mongolias-ruling-party-wins-general-elections-736374/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The volcanic rocks' chemistry revealed that there was a mantle plume present, which is a stream of hot and buoyant mantle rock.

"Mantle plumes are usually involved in the first stage of the Wilson cycle: the breakup of continents and opening of the ocean, such as the Atlantic Ocean," said study lead author&nbsp;Mingshuai Zhu, who is a professor of geology and geophysics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, while speaking to Live Science.&nbsp;

The ocean had opened in the same spot where Mongolia exists which is a common way ocean life-cycles work, said Pastor-Galan.

"A good thing is that a hotspot is relatively stable so they keep on, for many millions of years, in the same place," said Pastor-Galan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The landlocked country of Mongolia in East Asia was once an ocean which was created by an upwelling of boiling rock from the Earth's crust more than 400 million years ago.

The landlocked country of Mongolia in East Asia was once an ocean which was created by an upwelling of boiling rock from the Earth's crust more than 400 million years ago. The ocean, after its creation by tearing of Earth's crust, had survived for 115 million years. This ocean's geological history is likely to help researchers understand Wilson cycles and the process through which supercontinents break apart and eventually, join again. A geoscientist at the National Spanish Research Council in Madrid and study co-author Daniel Pastor-Galan said that these are slow and broad-scale processes which move ahead by less than an inch every year. Also Read: Mongolian climber found dead on Mount Everest, rescue operations underway for another "It's telling us about processes in the earth that are not very easy to understand and that are also not very easy to see," said Pastor-Galan, while speaking to Live Science. Till now the breakup of the last supercontinent Pangea - which happened 250 million years ago - has been accurately reconstructed by the geoscientists. But before that, it was difficult to create an exact model of how the interaction between the mantle and the crust happened. Volcanic rocks from the Devonian period found in Mongolia The researchers, in the new study, were left intrigued by volcanic rocks in northwestern Mongolia, which belonged to the Devonian period (419 million to 359 million years ago). The Devonian period refers to the "Age of the Fishes" when the oceans were dominated by the fish and plants started to spread on the land. In that period, two major continents - Laurentia and Gondwana - existed along with a long stretch of microcontinents which eventually became Asia. In a slow process, the microcontinents merged in a process known as accretion. During the fieldwork in northwest Mongolia, the researchers discovered the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean which had opened up in the region nearly 410 million and 415 million years ago. Watch: Mongolia's ruling party wins general elections The volcanic rocks' chemistry revealed that there was a mantle plume present, which is a stream of hot and buoyant mantle rock. "Mantle plumes are usually involved in the first stage of the Wilson cycle: the breakup of continents and opening of the ocean, such as the Atlantic Ocean," said study lead author Mingshuai Zhu, who is a professor of geology and geophysics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, while speaking to Live Science. The ocean had opened in the same spot where Mongolia exists which is a common way ocean life-cycles work, said Pastor-Galan. "A good thing is that a hotspot is relatively stable so they keep on, for many millions of years, in the same place," said Pastor-Galan. (With inputs from agencies)

Landlocked country of Mongolia was an ocean for 115 million years after tearing off Earth's mantle

In a new study, scientists have found that the crashing of an atmospheric comet in the atmosphere of Earth set the planet on fire nearly 12,000 years ago.&nbsp;

The geological history of our planet is hidden in the layers of dirt and stone where lies the evidence of celestial impacts, ancient cultures and climatic shifts.&nbsp;

Approximately 12,800 years ago, the Earth witnessed extreme environmental change during the Younger Dryas period and the planet even caught fire due to the crashing of a comet.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/asteroids-thrashing-mars-more-than-ever-thought-leaving-craters-on-red-planet-736281">&nbsp;Asteroids thrashing Mars more than ever thought, leaving craters on Red Planet</a>

During this period, the planet witnessed a significant climatic shift which abruptly ended a warming trend and started a near-glacial&nbsp;period.&nbsp;

According to the Younger Dryas Impact Hypothesis, a cosmic airburst triggered this cooling event when a fragmented&nbsp;comet&nbsp;crashed into the atmosphere of the Earth nearly 12,800 years ago.

<h2>Scientists find evidence of Younger Dryas airburst</h2>

In a new study, the scientists have found more evidence which supports this hypothesis.&nbsp;

They have discovered the traces of cosmic airbursts which were scattered across various sites in the eastern United States - which covers Maryland, New Jersey and South Carolina.&nbsp;

In the new evidence, they have found materials indicative of the force and temperature which were part of such an event - like platinum, microspherules, melt glass, and shock-fractured quartz.

“What we’ve found is that the pressures and temperatures were not characteristic of major crater-forming impacts but were consistent with so-called ‘touchdown’ airbursts that don’t form much in the way of craters,” said&nbsp;UC Santa Barbara&nbsp;Professor James Kennett, who headed the study.

<h2>What was the Younger Dryas period?</h2>

To the climate researchers, the Younger Dryas has great importance. It provides them with valuable insights into the rapid changes which are possible to occur in the climate system of Earth.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Asteroid 2024 MK passes Earth at 300,000 km

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/asteroid-2024-mk-passes-earth-at-300000-km-736813/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The period also illustrates the interconnectedness of our terrestrial, atmospheric and oceanic systems.

The Younger Dryas also shows the sudden return of icy atmosphere on Earth's surface which disrupts the gentle warming of the climate on Earth after the last Ice Age. It is said that this icy condition remained from 12,900 to 11,700 years ago.

This abrupt climatic change also affected the global vegetation layouts and led to the extinction of various large animal species.&nbsp;

The end of the Younger Dryas period also came as suddenly as it started as the temperatures in Greenland went up by 10°C in just ten years.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a new study, scientists have found that the crashing of an atmospheric comet in the atmosphere of Earth set the planet on fire nearly 12,000 years ago. The geological history of our planet is hidden in the layers of dirt and stone where lies the evidence of celestial impacts, ancient cultures and climatic shifts.

In a new study, scientists have found that the crashing of an atmospheric comet in the atmosphere of Earth set the planet on fire nearly 12,000 years ago. The geological history of our planet is hidden in the layers of dirt and stone where lies the evidence of celestial impacts, ancient cultures and climatic shifts. Approximately 12,800 years ago, the Earth witnessed extreme environmental change during the Younger Dryas period and the planet even caught fire due to the crashing of a comet. Also Read: Asteroids thrashing Mars more than ever thought, leaving craters on Red Planet During this period, the planet witnessed a significant climatic shift which abruptly ended a warming trend and started a near-glacial period. According to the Younger Dryas Impact Hypothesis, a cosmic airburst triggered this cooling event when a fragmented comet crashed into the atmosphere of the Earth nearly 12,800 years ago. Scientists find evidence of Younger Dryas airburst In a new study, the scientists have found more evidence which supports this hypothesis. They have discovered the traces of cosmic airbursts which were scattered across various sites in the eastern United States - which covers Maryland, New Jersey and South Carolina. In the new evidence, they have found materials indicative of the force and temperature which were part of such an event - like platinum, microspherules, melt glass, and shock-fractured quartz. “What we’ve found is that the pressures and temperatures were not characteristic of major crater-forming impacts but were consistent with so-called ‘touchdown’ airbursts that don’t form much in the way of craters,” said UC Santa Barbara Professor James Kennett, who headed the study. What was the Younger Dryas period? To the climate researchers, the Younger Dryas has great importance. It provides them with valuable insights into the rapid changes which are possible to occur in the climate system of Earth. Watch: Asteroid 2024 MK passes Earth at 300,000 km The period also illustrates the interconnectedness of our terrestrial, atmospheric and oceanic systems. The Younger Dryas also shows the sudden return of icy atmosphere on Earth's surface which disrupts the gentle warming of the climate on Earth after the last Ice Age. It is said that this icy condition remained from 12,900 to 11,700 years ago. This abrupt climatic change also affected the global vegetation layouts and led to the extinction of various large animal species. The end of the Younger Dryas period also came as suddenly as it started as the temperatures in Greenland went up by 10°C in just ten years. (With inputs from agencies)

Comet crashed on Earth, set the planet ablaze thousands of years ago: Study

The potentially hazardous asteroid "2024 MK" passed by Earth at a distance of approximately 300,000 km, according to the Keldysh Institute of Applied Mathematics of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Watch in for more details!

Asteroid 2024 MK passes Earth at 300,000 km

Boeing's Starliner capsule return journey to Earth has gone on indefinite hold because of new thruster tests' pending results and the ongoing analysis of helium leaks which started during the capsule's journey to the International Space Station, stated NASA on Friday (June 28).

However, the space agency has said that Starliner commander Barry "Butch" Wilmore and his co-pilot Sunita Williams are not "stranded" in space.

"We don't have a targeted (landing) date today," said Steve Stich, who is &nbsp;NASA's Commercial Crew Programme manager, while speaking to the reporters during a teleconference.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/boeings-starliner-capsule-extends-iss-stay-again-to-assess-helium-system-leaks-thruster-performance-734121">Boeing's Starliner capsule extends ISS stay again, to assess helium system leaks &amp; thruster performance</a>

"We're not going to target a specific date until we get that testing completed. So essentially, it's complete the testing, complete the fault tree, bring that analysis into (the mission management team), and then have an agency-level review. And then we'll lay out the rest of the plan from undocking to landing. I think we're on a good path," he said.

<h2>What is the issue with spacecraft?</h2>

NASA and Boeing have been troubled by the Starliner's service module, which has the helium lines, thrusters and other critical systems. It&nbsp;gets discarded before its re-entry into Earth's atmosphere and ends getting burnt.

Because of this, engineers will not be able to study the hardware and hence, wish to collect as much data as possible before the two astronauts go back to the Earth.

However, the extended stay of the astronauts at the space station has made it appear to many that they are stranded in orbit.

Boeing's Starliner programme manager Stich and Mark Nappi stated that this is a mischaracterisation.

<h2>Astronauts 'not in any rush to come home': NASA&nbsp;</h2>

"It's pretty painful to read the things that are out there. We've got a really good test flight...and it's being viewed rather negatively. We're not stuck on ISS. The crew is not in any danger, and there's no increased risk when we decide to bring Suni and Butch back to Earth," Nappi said.

Watch:&nbsp;NASA further delays return date of Boeing's Starliner on Earth

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-further-delays-return-date-of-boeings-starliner-on-earth-734879/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Stich further said that he wants "to make it very clear that Butch and Suni are not stranded in space. Our plan is to continue to return them on Starliner and return them home at the right time. We'll have a little bit more work to do to get there for the final return, but they're safe on the space station. Their spacecraft is working well, and they're enjoying their time on the space station."

“We're not in any rush to come home,” he added.

On June 5, the Starliner was launched on the first piloted test flight of the programme with a known helium leak. The other four leaks happened when the ship was headed to the space station.

(With inputs from agencies)

Boeing's Starliner capsule return journey to Earth has gone on indefinite hold because of new thruster tests' pending results and the ongoing analysis of helium leaks which started during the capsule's journey to the International Space Station, stated NASA on Friday (June 28).

Boeing's Starliner capsule return journey to Earth has gone on indefinite hold because of new thruster tests' pending results and the ongoing analysis of helium leaks which started during the capsule's journey to the International Space Station, stated NASA on Friday (June 28). However, the space agency has said that Starliner commander Barry "Butch" Wilmore and his co-pilot Sunita Williams are not "stranded" in space. "We don't have a targeted (landing) date today," said Steve Stich, who is NASA's Commercial Crew Programme manager, while speaking to the reporters during a teleconference. Also Read: Boeing's Starliner capsule extends ISS stay again, to assess helium system leaks & thruster performance "We're not going to target a specific date until we get that testing completed. So essentially, it's complete the testing, complete the fault tree, bring that analysis into (the mission management team), and then have an agency-level review. And then we'll lay out the rest of the plan from undocking to landing. I think we're on a good path," he said. What is the issue with spacecraft? NASA and Boeing have been troubled by the Starliner's service module, which has the helium lines, thrusters and other critical systems. It gets discarded before its re-entry into Earth's atmosphere and ends getting burnt. Because of this, engineers will not be able to study the hardware and hence, wish to collect as much data as possible before the two astronauts go back to the Earth. However, the extended stay of the astronauts at the space station has made it appear to many that they are stranded in orbit. Boeing's Starliner programme manager Stich and Mark Nappi stated that this is a mischaracterisation. Astronauts 'not in any rush to come home': NASA "It's pretty painful to read the things that are out there. We've got a really good test flight...and it's being viewed rather negatively. We're not stuck on ISS. The crew is not in any danger, and there's no increased risk when we decide to bring Suni and Butch back to Earth," Nappi said. Watch: NASA further delays return date of Boeing's Starliner on Earth Stich further said that he wants "to make it very clear that Butch and Suni are not stranded in space. Our plan is to continue to return them on Starliner and return them home at the right time. We'll have a little bit more work to do to get there for the final return, but they're safe on the space station. Their spacecraft is working well, and they're enjoying their time on the space station." “We're not in any rush to come home,” he added. On June 5, the Starliner was launched on the first piloted test flight of the programme with a known helium leak. The other four leaks happened when the ship was headed to the space station. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA says Boeing Starliner crew not 'stranded' in space, but has 'no date' of their return to Earth

In a thrilling close shave, being described as a “potentially hazardous” celestial event, a mountain-sized “planet killer” asteroid will whiz past the Earth on Thursday (June 27).&nbsp;

Named as 2011 UL21, the stellar rock, having a whopping width of 1.1 to 2.4 miles (1.7 to 3.8 km), will speed past our planet at approximately 58,000 mph (93,000 km/h).&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/eerie-glowing-spot-on-jupiter-holding-secrets-of-dark-matter-scientists-suggest-735614">Eerie glowing spot on Jupiter holding secrets of dark matter, scientists suggest</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Should we worry? Scientists say the asteroid poses no threat</h2>

Despite its size and proximity, the asteroid will zip by at a distance of approximately 4.1 million miles (6.6 million km) from Earth, 17 times farther away than the moon- a safe vicinity that offers no threat to our planet, either now or in the foreseeable future, as per observations by the European Space Agency (ESA).

However, NASA classified it as a potentially hazardous object, highlighting the asteroid’s potential to cause continental-scale damage if it were to hit Earth, and the least likely prospects of it releasing debris into the atmosphere while passing by that could trigger climate changes.

Due to this capacity, the asteroid, which orbits the Sun once every three years, has earned the moniker of “planet killer”.

Larger than 99% of known near-Earth asteroids, this rock is smaller than the largest space rock (Vredefort asteroid) that hit the Earth's surface in past by 10 times, according to the ESA.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-unveils-breathtaking-images-of-gigantic-jets-over-himalayan-peaks-735769">NASA unveils breathtaking images of gigantic jets over Himalayan peaks</a>

<h2>How to catch the rare spectacle live&nbsp;</h2>

You can observe the closest approach of the 2011 UL21 asteroid through a free livestream by the Virtual Telescope Project (VTP), featuring views from the Bellatrix Astronomical Observatory in Ceccano, Italy.

The livestream begins at 4 PM ET (1:30 AM IST) on June 27, with the near skim expected approximately 15 minutes later. 
Aiming to catch a glimpse of the enormous asteroid turned a speck of light zipping across the starry night, astronomers and space enthusiasts are gearing up across the world.

Through using suitable equipment such as strong telescopes, observers present in the Northern Hemisphere can also see the speeding space rock under optimal conditions.

However, the significance of the event extends beyond just a night-sky spectacle.&nbsp;

Offering insights into asteroid behaviour and enhancing planetary defense strategies, this encounter underscores the need for continued vigilance of asteroids that could pose a threat to Earth.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a thrilling close shave, being described as a “potentially hazardous” celestial event, a mountain-sized “planet killer” asteroid will whiz past the Earth on Thursday (June 27).

In a thrilling close shave, being described as a “potentially hazardous” celestial event, a mountain-sized “planet killer” asteroid will whiz past the Earth on Thursday (June 27). Named as 2011 UL21, the stellar rock, having a whopping width of 1.1 to 2.4 miles (1.7 to 3.8 km), will speed past our planet at approximately 58,000 mph (93,000 km/h). Also read: Eerie glowing spot on Jupiter holding secrets of dark matter, scientists suggest Should we worry? Scientists say the asteroid poses no threat Despite its size and proximity, the asteroid will zip by at a distance of approximately 4.1 million miles (6.6 million km) from Earth, 17 times farther away than the moon- a safe vicinity that offers no threat to our planet, either now or in the foreseeable future, as per observations by the European Space Agency (ESA). However, NASA classified it as a potentially hazardous object, highlighting the asteroid’s potential to cause continental-scale damage if it were to hit Earth, and the least likely prospects of it releasing debris into the atmosphere while passing by that could trigger climate changes. Due to this capacity, the asteroid, which orbits the Sun once every three years, has earned the moniker of “planet killer”. Larger than 99% of known near-Earth asteroids, this rock is smaller than the largest space rock (Vredefort asteroid) that hit the Earth's surface in past by 10 times, according to the ESA. Also read: NASA unveils breathtaking images of gigantic jets over Himalayan peaks How to catch the rare spectacle live You can observe the closest approach of the 2011 UL21 asteroid through a free livestream by the Virtual Telescope Project (VTP), featuring views from the Bellatrix Astronomical Observatory in Ceccano, Italy. The livestream begins at 4 PM ET (1:30 AM IST) on June 27, with the near skim expected approximately 15 minutes later. Aiming to catch a glimpse of the enormous asteroid turned a speck of light zipping across the starry night, astronomers and space enthusiasts are gearing up across the world. Through using suitable equipment such as strong telescopes, observers present in the Northern Hemisphere can also see the speeding space rock under optimal conditions. However, the significance of the event extends beyond just a night-sky spectacle. Offering insights into asteroid behaviour and enhancing planetary defense strategies, this encounter underscores the need for continued vigilance of asteroids that could pose a threat to Earth. (With inputs from agencies)

Earth’s near miss! Mountain-size asteroid to fly-by at close range; here’s how to watch it live

In a stunning discovery, scientists&nbsp;have spotted an asteroid which is tagging along with Earth in its annual revolution around the Sun.&nbsp;

The asteroid, which has been dubbed as 2023 FW13, has been termed a “quasi-moon” or “quasi-satellite" by the experts.

The asteroid has been classified as a "quasi-moon" because it has been orbiting the sun in a similar time frame as the Earth. However, the asteroid was also impacted by Earth's gravitational pull.

Asteroid 2023 FW13&nbsp;measures nearly 50 feet (15 meters) in diameter and is located at a distance of nearly nine million miles (14 million kilometres) from the Earth.

The scientists used the&nbsp;Pan-STARRS&nbsp;survey telescope for spotting the 2023 FW13 on March 28, 2023.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earths-near-miss-mountain-size-asteroid-to-fly-by-at-close-range-heres-how-to-watch-it-live-735789">Earth’s near miss! Mountain-size asteroid to fly-by at close range; here’s how to watch it live</a>

The telescope was kept on the top of Haleakala, which is a dormant volcano on the Hawaiian Island of Maui.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Canada-France-Hawaii telescope as well as two observatories in Arizona (which are the&nbsp;Kitt Peak National Observatory&nbsp;and&nbsp;Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter) confirmed the asteroid's presence in the Earth’s vicinity.

The asteroid was officially listed by the&nbsp;Minor Planet Center&nbsp;at the International Astronomical Union on April 1. The organisation is responsible for designating new moons, planets as well as other astronomical objects in our solar system.

<h2>How asteroid 2023 FW13 was classified as a 'quasi-moon'?</h2>

The listing of the asteroid came to the attention of journalist and astronomer Adrien Coffinet. He used an orbit simulator to map the path of the asteroid. The orbit simulator was developed by amateur astronomer Tony Dunn.&nbsp;

In the model, 2023 FW13 was seen revolving around the sun at the same time as the Earth does. Since the asteroid circles around our planet hence, Coffinet classified it as a “quasi-moon".

Senior research scientist at the&nbsp;Space Science Institute&nbsp;in Boulder, Colorado Alan Harris emphasised that since the Earth plays an important role in the motion of the asteroid, its classification as a “quasi-satellite” is a little far-fetched.

According to the scientists, 2023 FW13 appears to be the cosmic companion of our planet since at least 100 BCE.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russian satellite breaks up in space, forces ISS astronauts to shelter

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-satellite-breaks-up-in-space-forces-iss-astronauts-to-shelter-735851/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The asteroid is most likely to follow our planet in its orbit around the sun till around 3,700 CE. “It seems to be the longest quasi-satellite of Earth known to date,” said Coffinet.

The asteroid, even though hovers relatively close to our planet, is unlikely to collide with the Earth.

“The good news is, such an orbit doesn’t result in an impacting trajectory ‘out of the blue,’” said Harris.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a stunning discovery, scientists have spotted an asteroid which is tagging along with Earth in its annual revolution around the Sun. The asteroid, which has been dubbed as 2023 FW13, has been termed a “quasi-moon” or “quasi-satellite" by the experts.

In a stunning discovery, scientists have spotted an asteroid which is tagging along with Earth in its annual revolution around the Sun. The asteroid, which has been dubbed as 2023 FW13, has been termed a “quasi-moon” or “quasi-satellite" by the experts. The asteroid has been classified as a "quasi-moon" because it has been orbiting the sun in a similar time frame as the Earth. However, the asteroid was also impacted by Earth's gravitational pull. Asteroid 2023 FW13 measures nearly 50 feet (15 meters) in diameter and is located at a distance of nearly nine million miles (14 million kilometres) from the Earth. The scientists used the Pan-STARRS survey telescope for spotting the 2023 FW13 on March 28, 2023. Also Read: Earth’s near miss! Mountain-size asteroid to fly-by at close range; here’s how to watch it live The telescope was kept on the top of Haleakala, which is a dormant volcano on the Hawaiian Island of Maui. The Canada-France-Hawaii telescope as well as two observatories in Arizona (which are the Kitt Peak National Observatory and Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter) confirmed the asteroid's presence in the Earth’s vicinity. The asteroid was officially listed by the Minor Planet Center at the International Astronomical Union on April 1. The organisation is responsible for designating new moons, planets as well as other astronomical objects in our solar system. How asteroid 2023 FW13 was classified as a 'quasi-moon'? The listing of the asteroid came to the attention of journalist and astronomer Adrien Coffinet. He used an orbit simulator to map the path of the asteroid. The orbit simulator was developed by amateur astronomer Tony Dunn. In the model, 2023 FW13 was seen revolving around the sun at the same time as the Earth does. Since the asteroid circles around our planet hence, Coffinet classified it as a “quasi-moon". Senior research scientist at the Space Science Institute in Boulder, Colorado Alan Harris emphasised that since the Earth plays an important role in the motion of the asteroid, its classification as a “quasi-satellite” is a little far-fetched. According to the scientists, 2023 FW13 appears to be the cosmic companion of our planet since at least 100 BCE. Watch: Russian satellite breaks up in space, forces ISS astronauts to shelter The asteroid is most likely to follow our planet in its orbit around the sun till around 3,700 CE. “It seems to be the longest quasi-satellite of Earth known to date,” said Coffinet. The asteroid, even though hovers relatively close to our planet, is unlikely to collide with the Earth. “The good news is, such an orbit doesn’t result in an impacting trajectory ‘out of the blue,’” said Harris. (With inputs from agencies)

Earth gets another 'moon'. This 'quasi-satellite' to lurk around for thousands of years

In a new study, a stunning revelation was made when currents were uncovered amid the turbulence which eerily reflected the winds flowing in the Earth's atmosphere and hinted that there can be some hidden forces which connect them.

According to a team of researchers from the University of Rostock in Germany and Kyushu University in Japan, the new discovery can help us better understand the environmental systems which circulate around the Earth. It is also likely to improve space and Earth&nbsp;weather forecasts.&nbsp;

At the top of Earth’s lower atmosphere, a layer of diffuse gases is present. This makes up the troposphere and stratosphere.&nbsp;

Larger statistical patterns are present within the swirl of winds which can be used by scientists to figure out deep mechanics of meteorology.&nbsp;

Till now, the structure of the thermosphere has remained mainly unexplored.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/elon-musks-starlink-satellites-could-deplete-earths-ozone-layer-warns-study-733305">Elon Musk's Starlink satellites could deplete Earth’s ozone layer, warns study</a>

In the new findings, patterns have been identified that reflect similar structures which have been measured far below.

"This means that both the thermosphere and the troposphere – despite having drastically different atmospheric compositions and dynamics – follow the same physical laws," said space scientist Huixin Liu, from Kyushu University.

"How the energy flows and dissipates in these two regions is very similar,” he added.'

<h2>Here's how the team analysed the winds</h2>

To reach the study’s conclusions, the cross-track winds were analysed by the team in the thermosphere with the use of satellite data from the Challenging Minisatellite Payload and the Gravity Field and Steady State Ocean Circulation Explorer.

In their analysis, the researchers used third-order structure functions which are statistical tools that help spot&nbsp;patterns in winds&nbsp;and turbulence.

The researchers observed that even though there were different conditions in each atmosphere layer, a lot of the 'rules' remained the same.

Watch:&nbsp;China's CHANG'E- 6 returns to Earth after collecting moon samples

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It was also observed that the tendency of the winds to circle in one direction was the same in the thermosphere and the lower atmosphere.

"This suggests that similar underlying large-scale turbulence mechanisms may be at play,"&nbsp;stated the researchers in their published paper.

"Similar to atmospheric weather forecasting, comprehending the energy distributions in the thermosphere is vital to advance our understanding of space dynamics,"&nbsp;Liu said.

"We hope these findings can be used to improve space weather forecasting and ensure the continued functionality and safety of satellite-based technologies essential to everyday life," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a new study, a stunning revelation was made when currents were uncovered amid the turbulence which eerily reflected the winds flowing in the Earth's atmosphere and hinted that there can be some hidden forces which connect them.

In a new study, a stunning revelation was made when currents were uncovered amid the turbulence which eerily reflected the winds flowing in the Earth's atmosphere and hinted that there can be some hidden forces which connect them. According to a team of researchers from the University of Rostock in Germany and Kyushu University in Japan, the new discovery can help us better understand the environmental systems which circulate around the Earth. It is also likely to improve space and Earth weather forecasts. At the top of Earth’s lower atmosphere, a layer of diffuse gases is present. This makes up the troposphere and stratosphere. Larger statistical patterns are present within the swirl of winds which can be used by scientists to figure out deep mechanics of meteorology. Till now, the structure of the thermosphere has remained mainly unexplored. Also Read: Elon Musk's Starlink satellites could deplete Earth’s ozone layer, warns study In the new findings, patterns have been identified that reflect similar structures which have been measured far below. "This means that both the thermosphere and the troposphere – despite having drastically different atmospheric compositions and dynamics – follow the same physical laws," said space scientist Huixin Liu, from Kyushu University. "How the energy flows and dissipates in these two regions is very similar,” he added.' Here's how the team analysed the winds To reach the study’s conclusions, the cross-track winds were analysed by the team in the thermosphere with the use of satellite data from the Challenging Minisatellite Payload and the Gravity Field and Steady State Ocean Circulation Explorer. In their analysis, the researchers used third-order structure functions which are statistical tools that help spot patterns in winds and turbulence. The researchers observed that even though there were different conditions in each atmosphere layer, a lot of the 'rules' remained the same. Watch: China's CHANG'E- 6 returns to Earth after collecting moon samples It was also observed that the tendency of the winds to circle in one direction was the same in the thermosphere and the lower atmosphere. "This suggests that similar underlying large-scale turbulence mechanisms may be at play," stated the researchers in their published paper. "Similar to atmospheric weather forecasting, comprehending the energy distributions in the thermosphere is vital to advance our understanding of space dynamics," Liu said. "We hope these findings can be used to improve space weather forecasting and ensure the continued functionality and safety of satellite-based technologies essential to everyday life," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Is the wind on Earth being controlled by currents at the edge of space? Study hints so

Scientists at NASA have, once again, achieved a remarkable feat. They were able to fix 47 year old space probe, Voyager 1, from 15 billion miles away. The Voyager 1, is the farthest manmade object from the Earth.

Gravitas: NASA scientists fix Voyager 1 from 30 billion kilometres away

A number of asteroids, each about the size of an airplane, are expected to make close approaches to Earth this week, NASA said in a statement earlier this week. Among the five asteroids, the largest is estimated to be 110 feet in diameter, while the closest will come within 447,000 miles of our planet.

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

While it is common for large asteroids to pass by Earth at a safe distance, this week’s cluster is notable for the number of such encounters. Asteroid 2024 LU1, which is about 71 feet in diameter, made its closest approach on Monday (June 17), passing within 1,150,000 miles of Earth.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | The impact of NASA asteroid deflection

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The next close approach is scheduled for June 19, featuring the largest of the group, which will still be the farthest at a distance of 447,000 miles.

<h2>Which asteroids can be hazardous?</h2>

Asteroids are typically composed of rocky, dusty, and metallic materials. Most asteroids orbit within the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, but some follow paths that bring them closer to Earth. These near-Earth asteroids are part of a larger category known as near-Earth objects (NEOs), which also includes comets. NEOs are defined as celestial objects that come within 1.3 astronomical units of the Sun, and within 0.3 astronomical units of Earth’s orbit.&nbsp;

0.3 astronomical units is approximately 28 million miles.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fastest-spinning-asteroid-recently-hit-earths-atmosphere-and-crashed-in-berlin-716624">Fastest-spinning asteroid recently hit Earth’s atmosphere and crashed in Berlin</a>

For an asteroid to be classified as a potentially hazardous asteroid (PHA), it must be at least 140 metres in diameter and come within 7.48 million kilometres of Earth. An asteroid of this size that enters Earth's atmosphere and does not completely burn up could cause significant damage, especially if it were to strike a populated area.

<h2>Difference between asteroids and meteoroids&nbsp;</h2>

Asteroids are different from meteoroids. The former are smaller Sun-orbiting rocks or particles less than three feet in size. When a meteoroid enters Earth's atmosphere, it creates a light phenomenon known as a meteor. If any part of a meteoroid or asteroid survives the atmospheric entry and lands on Earth's surface, it is called a meteorite.

To monitor and prepare for potential asteroid threats, NASA’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO) plays a crucial role. The PDCO is responsible for coordinating efforts and creating plans to protect Earth from the potential impacts of hazardous space objects.

A number of asteroids, each about the size of an airplane, are expected to make close approaches to Earth this week, NASA said in a statement earlier this week. Among the five asteroids, the largest is estimated to be 110 feet in diameter, while the closest will come within 447,000 miles of our planet.

A number of asteroids, each about the size of an airplane, are expected to make close approaches to Earth this week, NASA said in a statement earlier this week. Among the five asteroids, the largest is estimated to be 110 feet in diameter, while the closest will come within 447,000 miles of our planet. What does it mean? While it is common for large asteroids to pass by Earth at a safe distance, this week’s cluster is notable for the number of such encounters. Asteroid 2024 LU1, which is about 71 feet in diameter, made its closest approach on Monday (June 17), passing within 1,150,000 miles of Earth. Also watch | Gravitas | The impact of NASA asteroid deflection × The next close approach is scheduled for June 19, featuring the largest of the group, which will still be the farthest at a distance of 447,000 miles. Which asteroids can be hazardous? Asteroids are typically composed of rocky, dusty, and metallic materials. Most asteroids orbit within the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, but some follow paths that bring them closer to Earth. These near-Earth asteroids are part of a larger category known as near-Earth objects (NEOs), which also includes comets. NEOs are defined as celestial objects that come within 1.3 astronomical units of the Sun, and within 0.3 astronomical units of Earth’s orbit. 0.3 astronomical units is approximately 28 million miles. Also read | Fastest-spinning asteroid recently hit Earth’s atmosphere and crashed in Berlin For an asteroid to be classified as a potentially hazardous asteroid (PHA), it must be at least 140 metres in diameter and come within 7.48 million kilometres of Earth. An asteroid of this size that enters Earth's atmosphere and does not completely burn up could cause significant damage, especially if it were to strike a populated area. Difference between asteroids and meteoroids Asteroids are different from meteoroids. The former are smaller Sun-orbiting rocks or particles less than three feet in size. When a meteoroid enters Earth's atmosphere, it creates a light phenomenon known as a meteor. If any part of a meteoroid or asteroid survives the atmospheric entry and lands on Earth's surface, it is called a meteorite. To monitor and prepare for potential asteroid threats, NASA’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO) plays a crucial role. The PDCO is responsible for coordinating efforts and creating plans to protect Earth from the potential impacts of hazardous space objects.

Asteroid alert! Several plane-sized objects hurtling towards Earth this week

There are innumerable proofs and theories regarding how Earth was formed but the timelines for the appearance of freshwater reservoirs on Earth remained uncertain, until now. Researchers now have found evidence of freshwater in a major breakthrough.

Freshwater from atmospheric sources appeared on Earth’s surface about 4 million years ago, which is 500 million years earlier than previously thought, as per a new study published in Nature Geoscience.

Researchers found the evidence for the same in ancient zircon crystals from Jack Hills situated in Western Australia. The team conducted oxygen isotope analysis on these crystals which determined when their hydrological cycle might have begun. These zircons were found to be resilient against weathering and environmental changes. The crystals, which are the oldest on Earth, provided rare and deep insights into the planet’s early history.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/4000-year-old-minoan-stone-monument-discovered-in-greeces-crete-during-airport-excavation-732741">4,000-year-old Minoan stone monument discovered in Greece's Crete during airport excavation</a>

“We were able to date the origins of the hydrological cycle, which is the continuous movement of water between land, oceans, and the atmosphere through processes like evaporation and precipitation. This cycle is essential for sustaining ecosystems and life on our planet,” said Dr Hamed Gamaleldien, a lead researcher from Curtin University's School of Earth and Planetary Sciences and Khalifa University in the UAE.

Dr Gamaleldien further explained that analysing the ancient zircons pushed back the timeline for the appearance of freshwater on Earth by 500 million years.

“By examining tiny zircon crystals, we found exceptionally light oxygen isotopic signatures, which are indicative of interaction with fresh water rather than salty ocean water, dating back 4 billion years,” he said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-lost-city-of-pearls-off-uae-coast-732700">Lost city from 4th century famous for its pearls discovered near UAE</a>

These light oxygen isotopes were typically the result of interactions between hot, fresh water and rock several kilometres below the Earth's surface.

“For the zircons we analyzed to have such light oxygen signatures, the rock must have been altered by freshwater, melted, and then solidified again. This evidence of freshwater 4 billion years ago challenges the theory that Earth was entirely covered by an ocean at that time,” Dr Gamaleldien added.

Dr. Hugo KH Olierook, another researcher from Curtin University's School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, emphasised the significance of this discovery for understanding Earth’s formation and the origin of life.

“Our research represents a significant advancement in understanding Earth’s early history and opens doors for future studies on the origins of life,” said Olierook.

(With inputs from agencies)

There are innumerable proofs and theories regarding how Earth was formed but the timelines for the appearance of freshwater reservoirs on Earth remained uncertain, until now.

There are innumerable proofs and theories regarding how Earth was formed but the timelines for the appearance of freshwater reservoirs on Earth remained uncertain, until now. Researchers now have found evidence of freshwater in a major breakthrough. Freshwater from atmospheric sources appeared on Earth’s surface about 4 million years ago, which is 500 million years earlier than previously thought, as per a new study published in Nature Geoscience. Researchers found the evidence for the same in ancient zircon crystals from Jack Hills situated in Western Australia. The team conducted oxygen isotope analysis on these crystals which determined when their hydrological cycle might have begun. These zircons were found to be resilient against weathering and environmental changes. The crystals, which are the oldest on Earth, provided rare and deep insights into the planet’s early history. Also Read | 4,000-year-old Minoan stone monument discovered in Greece's Crete during airport excavation “We were able to date the origins of the hydrological cycle, which is the continuous movement of water between land, oceans, and the atmosphere through processes like evaporation and precipitation. This cycle is essential for sustaining ecosystems and life on our planet,” said Dr Hamed Gamaleldien, a lead researcher from Curtin University's School of Earth and Planetary Sciences and Khalifa University in the UAE. Dr Gamaleldien further explained that analysing the ancient zircons pushed back the timeline for the appearance of freshwater on Earth by 500 million years. “By examining tiny zircon crystals, we found exceptionally light oxygen isotopic signatures, which are indicative of interaction with fresh water rather than salty ocean water, dating back 4 billion years,” he said. Also Read | Lost city from 4th century famous for its pearls discovered near UAE These light oxygen isotopes were typically the result of interactions between hot, fresh water and rock several kilometres below the Earth's surface. “For the zircons we analyzed to have such light oxygen signatures, the rock must have been altered by freshwater, melted, and then solidified again. This evidence of freshwater 4 billion years ago challenges the theory that Earth was entirely covered by an ocean at that time,” Dr Gamaleldien added. Dr. Hugo KH Olierook, another researcher from Curtin University's School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, emphasised the significance of this discovery for understanding Earth’s formation and the origin of life. “Our research represents a significant advancement in understanding Earth’s early history and opens doors for future studies on the origins of life,” said Olierook. (With inputs from agencies)

Freshwater and key conditions for life first appeared on Earth 4 billion years ago, study suggests

Are we alone in this universe? A recent study claims aliens could be living among us. Watch to know more!

Study: Secret aliens could be here on Earth already

The rotation of Earth's inner core really has slowed down, a new study has confirmed, opening up questions about what's happening in the center of the planet and how we might be affected.

Earth's inner core rotation slowing down; deceleration of core confirmed: study

The latest study has confirmed that the Earth’s inner core is slowing down in relation to the surface of the planet. The decrease in speed started over 10 years ago - around 2010. This apparently happened for the first time since scientists developed the capacity to measure it.&nbsp;

The inner core is solid and made up of iron and nickel. It is a very hot and dense centre of our planet, with temperatures up to 5,500 degrees Celsius. The liquid iron-nickel outer core surrounds a solid iron-nickel spherical within it. The inner core is roughly the size of the moon and rests more than 3,000 miles beneath our feet.&nbsp;

Researchers can't visit or view it but they can study it using the seismic waves of earthquakes.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-supernova-remained-brilliantly-bright-40-years-after-its-explosion-731437">This supernova remained brilliantly bright 40 years after its explosion</a>&nbsp;

Scientists at the University of Southern California have proven that the Earth's inner core is backtracking, meaning slowing down. The study, titled, "Inner core backtracking by seismic waveform change reversals", was published in Nature on Wednesday (Jun 12).&nbsp;

"The pattern of matches, together with previous studies, demonstrates that the inner core gradually super-rotated from 2003 to 2008, and then from 2008 to 2023 sub-rotated two to three times more slowly back through the same path," the researchers said.&nbsp;

John Vidale, Dean's Professor of Earth Sciences at the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, said as quoted by the official site: "When I first saw the seismograms that hinted at this change, I was stumped."&nbsp;

"But when we found two dozen more observations signaling the same pattern, the result was inescapable. The inner core had slowed down for the first time in many decades. Other scientists have recently argued for similar and different models, but our latest study provides the most convincing resolution," Vidale added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-species-of-pterosaur-discovered-using-100-million-year-old-fossilised-bones-731232">New species of pterosaur discovered using 100-million-year-old fossilised bones</a>&nbsp;

The official release mentioned that the inner core is considered to be reversing and backtracking relative to the planet's surface as a result of moving somewhat slower than the Earth's mantle for the first time in about 40 years.&nbsp;

This could eventually alter the entire planet's rotation, prolonging our days, but if there are any noticeable consequences, they will most likely be on the geomagnetic field.&nbsp;

Vidale also said that the backtracking of the inner core may alter the length of a day by fractions of a second. As quoted, he said, "It's very hard to notice, on the order of a thousandth of a second, almost lost in the noise of the churning oceans and atmosphere."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The latest study has confirmed that the Earth’s inner core is slowing down in relation to the surface of the planet. The decrease in speed started over 10 years ago - around 2010.

The latest study has confirmed that the Earth’s inner core is slowing down in relation to the surface of the planet. The decrease in speed started over 10 years ago - around 2010. This apparently happened for the first time since scientists developed the capacity to measure it. The inner core is solid and made up of iron and nickel. It is a very hot and dense centre of our planet, with temperatures up to 5,500 degrees Celsius. The liquid iron-nickel outer core surrounds a solid iron-nickel spherical within it. The inner core is roughly the size of the moon and rests more than 3,000 miles beneath our feet. Researchers can't visit or view it but they can study it using the seismic waves of earthquakes. Also read: This supernova remained brilliantly bright 40 years after its explosion Scientists at the University of Southern California have proven that the Earth's inner core is backtracking, meaning slowing down. The study, titled, "Inner core backtracking by seismic waveform change reversals", was published in Nature on Wednesday (Jun 12). "The pattern of matches, together with previous studies, demonstrates that the inner core gradually super-rotated from 2003 to 2008, and then from 2008 to 2023 sub-rotated two to three times more slowly back through the same path," the researchers said. John Vidale, Dean's Professor of Earth Sciences at the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, said as quoted by the official site: "When I first saw the seismograms that hinted at this change, I was stumped." "But when we found two dozen more observations signaling the same pattern, the result was inescapable. The inner core had slowed down for the first time in many decades. Other scientists have recently argued for similar and different models, but our latest study provides the most convincing resolution," Vidale added. Also read: New species of pterosaur discovered using 100-million-year-old fossilised bones The official release mentioned that the inner core is considered to be reversing and backtracking relative to the planet's surface as a result of moving somewhat slower than the Earth's mantle for the first time in about 40 years. This could eventually alter the entire planet's rotation, prolonging our days, but if there are any noticeable consequences, they will most likely be on the geomagnetic field. Vidale also said that the backtracking of the inner core may alter the length of a day by fractions of a second. As quoted, he said, "It's very hard to notice, on the order of a thousandth of a second, almost lost in the noise of the churning oceans and atmosphere." (With inputs from agencies)

Earth's inner core rotation slowed for over a decade. It might impact your days

The Earth's inner core is slowing its rotation. Scientists have revealed the significant change raising questions about its potential impact. Scientists say that Earth's inner core has changed its rotation. This reports tells you more!

Earth's days may be getting little longer: Unveiling the planet's mysteries

Travelling to outer space is no easy task but a tough female astronaut can conquer it all.

New research by scientists intended to study the ways in which a human body reacts to the challenges in outer space has suggested that women are more resilient to the physiological stresses of space travel than men.

The study helmed by Christopher Mason, a physiology professor at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York, also says that women space travellers quickly recover upon landing back to&nbsp;Earth as compared to men.

“Males appear to be more affected by spaceflight for almost all cell types and metrics,” the research paper mentioned.&nbsp;

Researchers examined data that they collected from over 60 astronauts (both male and female) who travelled to outer space to find out how their immune systems reacted to the spaceflight.&nbsp;

They also collected similar data from the four&nbsp;individuals who were a part of SpaceX's Inspiration4 mission and flew around Earth for three days in 2021 and compared the two.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronauts-may-suffer-permanent-kidney-damage-after-travelling-to-mars-study-731029">A trip to Mars might cost astronauts their kidneys, study on space flights reveals</a>

The results demonstrated that the men experienced more disruptions in their gene activity as compared to women and took more time to come back to normal upon returning to Earth.

“The aggregate data thus far indicates that the gene regulatory and immune response to space flight is more sensitive in males,” the scientists wrote. “More studies will be needed to confirm these trends, but such results can have implications for recovery times and possibly crew selection, for example, more females, for high-altitude, lunar, and deep space missions.”

It is not yet known why women could be more resilient to spaceflight than men, however, Mason said that one of the contributing factors to this might be a female body's power to cope up with the demands of pregnancy.

“Being able to tolerate large changes in physiology and fluid dynamics may be great for being able to manage pregnancy but also manage the stress of spaceflight at a physiological level,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

Travelling to outer space is no easy task but a tough female astronaut can conquer it all. New research by scientists intended to study the ways in which a human body reacts to the challenges in outer space has suggested that women are more resilient to the physiological stresses of space travel than men.

Travelling to outer space is no easy task but a tough female astronaut can conquer it all. New research by scientists intended to study the ways in which a human body reacts to the challenges in outer space has suggested that women are more resilient to the physiological stresses of space travel than men. The study helmed by Christopher Mason, a physiology professor at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York, also says that women space travellers quickly recover upon landing back to Earth as compared to men. “Males appear to be more affected by spaceflight for almost all cell types and metrics,” the research paper mentioned. Researchers examined data that they collected from over 60 astronauts (both male and female) who travelled to outer space to find out how their immune systems reacted to the spaceflight. They also collected similar data from the four individuals who were a part of SpaceX's Inspiration4 mission and flew around Earth for three days in 2021 and compared the two. Also read: A trip to Mars might cost astronauts their kidneys, study on space flights reveals The results demonstrated that the men experienced more disruptions in their gene activity as compared to women and took more time to come back to normal upon returning to Earth. “The aggregate data thus far indicates that the gene regulatory and immune response to space flight is more sensitive in males,” the scientists wrote. “More studies will be needed to confirm these trends, but such results can have implications for recovery times and possibly crew selection, for example, more females, for high-altitude, lunar, and deep space missions.” It is not yet known why women could be more resilient to spaceflight than men, however, Mason said that one of the contributing factors to this might be a female body's power to cope up with the demands of pregnancy. “Being able to tolerate large changes in physiology and fluid dynamics may be great for being able to manage pregnancy but also manage the stress of spaceflight at a physiological level,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Women may be more resilient to physiological stresses of space travel than men, says study

Researchers are suggesting that exposure to interstellar clouds may have triggered multiple ice ages on Earth, changed the chemistry of the atmosphere on the planet and eventually led to the emergence of humankind.

Astrophysicists from Harvard University, Johns Hopkins and Boston University suggested that nearly two million years ago, the solar system clashed with a large and dense interstellar cloud because of which Earth was exposed to radiation which altered the planet's climate.&nbsp;

In a statement, astronomy professor at Boston University and fellow at Harvard Radcliffe Institute Merav Opher said, "This paper is the first to quantitatively show there was an encounter between the sun and something outside of the&nbsp;Solar System&nbsp;that would have affected Earth's climate."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-develops-breakthrough-technology-to-hunt-for-habitable-water-worlds-730501">NASA develops breakthrough technology to hunt for habitable ‘water worlds’</a>

“Stars move, and now this paper is showing not only that they move, but they encounter drastic changes," he added.

Meanwhile, in an email to Gizmodo, lead author of the study Opher said that the team is “still trying to quantify it with modern climate models” but due to an increase of hydrogen and dust “Earth would have entered&nbsp;an Ice Age.”&nbsp;

<h2>Earth pushed outside heliosphere due to interstellar cloud</h2>

A bubble, known as heliosphere, covers the entire solar system and protects planets from radiation as well as other damaging cosmic rays which can affect our DNA.

The shield is filled with charged particles which are emitted from the sun and are known as the solar wind.

The scientists suggested that an interstellar cloud is likely to have shrunk the heliosphere so much that Earth was left outside of it and it was exposed to the radiation of the galaxy as well as particles which may have cooled the climate.

When Earth was without the protection of the heliosphere, it was then exposed to the interstellar medium. This means the atmosphere of our planet was likely affected by the combination of gas, dust as well as the atomic elements left behind by exploding stars, which included iron and plutonium.

Watch:&nbsp;UK: Scientists concerned about the state of water

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“Only rarely does our cosmic neighbourhood beyond the solar system affect life on Earth,” said paper coauthor and the director of Harvard University’s Institute for Theory and Computation, Avi Loeb. “It is exciting to discover that our passage through dense clouds a few million years ago could have exposed the Earth to a much larger flux of cosmic rays and hydrogen atoms. Our results open a new window into the relationship between the evolution of life on Earth and our cosmic neighbourhood.”

According to the researchers, Earth was outside the heliosphere nearly 10,000 years.&nbsp;

"This cloud was indeed in our past, and if we crossed something that massive, we were exposed to the interstellar medium," said Opher.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Researchers are suggesting that exposure to interstellar clouds may have triggered multiple ice ages on Earth, changed the chemistry of the atmosphere on the planet and eventually led to the emergence of humankind.

Researchers are suggesting that exposure to interstellar clouds may have triggered multiple ice ages on Earth, changed the chemistry of the atmosphere on the planet and eventually led to the emergence of humankind. Astrophysicists from Harvard University, Johns Hopkins and Boston University suggested that nearly two million years ago, the solar system clashed with a large and dense interstellar cloud because of which Earth was exposed to radiation which altered the planet's climate. In a statement, astronomy professor at Boston University and fellow at Harvard Radcliffe Institute Merav Opher said, "This paper is the first to quantitatively show there was an encounter between the sun and something outside of the Solar System that would have affected Earth's climate." Also Read: NASA develops breakthrough technology to hunt for habitable ‘water worlds’ “Stars move, and now this paper is showing not only that they move, but they encounter drastic changes," he added. Meanwhile, in an email to Gizmodo, lead author of the study Opher said that the team is “still trying to quantify it with modern climate models” but due to an increase of hydrogen and dust “Earth would have entered an Ice Age.” Earth pushed outside heliosphere due to interstellar cloud A bubble, known as heliosphere, covers the entire solar system and protects planets from radiation as well as other damaging cosmic rays which can affect our DNA. The shield is filled with charged particles which are emitted from the sun and are known as the solar wind. The scientists suggested that an interstellar cloud is likely to have shrunk the heliosphere so much that Earth was left outside of it and it was exposed to the radiation of the galaxy as well as particles which may have cooled the climate. When Earth was without the protection of the heliosphere, it was then exposed to the interstellar medium. This means the atmosphere of our planet was likely affected by the combination of gas, dust as well as the atomic elements left behind by exploding stars, which included iron and plutonium. Watch: UK: Scientists concerned about the state of water “Only rarely does our cosmic neighbourhood beyond the solar system affect life on Earth,” said paper coauthor and the director of Harvard University’s Institute for Theory and Computation, Avi Loeb. “It is exciting to discover that our passage through dense clouds a few million years ago could have exposed the Earth to a much larger flux of cosmic rays and hydrogen atoms. Our results open a new window into the relationship between the evolution of life on Earth and our cosmic neighbourhood.” According to the researchers, Earth was outside the heliosphere nearly 10,000 years. "This cloud was indeed in our past, and if we crossed something that massive, we were exposed to the interstellar medium," said Opher. (With inputs from agencies)

Earth's collision with interstellar space clouds triggered Ice Age and existence of humans: Study

Astronomers, with the help of the Hubble telescope, have now detected a rare intermediate-size black hole.&nbsp;

This black hole is hiding the Earth's cosmic backyard at a distance of 6,000 light-years away within a globular star cluster.&nbsp;

The iconic Hubble Space Telescope has been used by astronomers to observe a compact region of space which has a mass of 800 Suns and is likely to be a black hole.

As per a press statement, the scientists claimed that they had discovered the “best evidence yet for the presence of a rare class of intermediate-sized black holes.”

The intermediate-mass black hole candidate is located nearly 6,000 light-years away and the nearby star cluster Messier 4's core.

Also&nbsp;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>

It is an ultradense region of space filled with the mass of 800 suns, which leads to nearby stars orbiting it like "bees swarming around a hive," as per the researchers who detected it.

In a statement, the Space Telescope Science Institute in Maryland's study lead author&nbsp;and astrophysicist Eduardo Vitral said, "It's too tiny for us to be able to explain other than it being a single black hole. Alternatively, there might be a stellar mechanism we simply don't know about, at least within current physics."

<h2>How did the scientists detect black holes?</h2>

The data collected by the European Space Agency's star-mapping&nbsp;Gaia spacecraft was used by the team to study the chaotic motion of stars at M4's centre.&nbsp;

In this region, they are trapped in the gravitational field of suspected black holes, "like bees swarming around a hive," said the team members.

"If the object isn't a single intermediate-mass black hole, it would require an estimated 40 smaller black holes crammed into a space only one-tenth of a light-year across to produce the observed stellar motions," wrote team members, in the same statement.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Scientists unveil Black Hole's plunge, bizarre region around black holes found

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-unveil-black-holes-plunge-bizarre-region-around-black-holes-found-722629/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The consequences are that they would merge and/or be ejected in a game of interstellar pinball," he added.

<h2>What are intermediate-mass black holes?&nbsp;</h2>

Intermediate-mass black holes, which range between 100 to 100,000 times the sun's mass, are among the most elusive black holes present in the universe.&nbsp;

Although scientists have found several promising candidates, they have not confirmed the existence of any intermediate-mass black holes.

In a statement, project scientist at the Gaia telescope Timo Prusti said, "Science is rarely about discovering something new in a single moment. It’s about becoming more certain of a conclusion step by step, and this could be one step towards being sure that intermediate-mass black holes exist."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Astronomers, with the help of the Hubble telescope, have now detected a rare intermediate-size black hole. This black hole is hiding the Earth's cosmic backyard at a distance of 6,000 light-years away within a globular star cluster.

Astronomers, with the help of the Hubble telescope, have now detected a rare intermediate-size black hole. This black hole is hiding the Earth's cosmic backyard at a distance of 6,000 light-years away within a globular star cluster. The iconic Hubble Space Telescope has been used by astronomers to observe a compact region of space which has a mass of 800 Suns and is likely to be a black hole. As per a press statement, the scientists claimed that they had discovered the “best evidence yet for the presence of a rare class of intermediate-sized black holes.” The intermediate-mass black hole candidate is located nearly 6,000 light-years away and the nearby star cluster Messier 4's core. Also Read: Black holes captured acting like a Death Star’s weapon, point jets at new targets It is an ultradense region of space filled with the mass of 800 suns, which leads to nearby stars orbiting it like "bees swarming around a hive," as per the researchers who detected it. In a statement, the Space Telescope Science Institute in Maryland's study lead author and astrophysicist Eduardo Vitral said, "It's too tiny for us to be able to explain other than it being a single black hole. Alternatively, there might be a stellar mechanism we simply don't know about, at least within current physics." How did the scientists detect black holes? The data collected by the European Space Agency's star-mapping Gaia spacecraft was used by the team to study the chaotic motion of stars at M4's centre. In this region, they are trapped in the gravitational field of suspected black holes, "like bees swarming around a hive," said the team members. "If the object isn't a single intermediate-mass black hole, it would require an estimated 40 smaller black holes crammed into a space only one-tenth of a light-year across to produce the observed stellar motions," wrote team members, in the same statement. Watch: Scientists unveil Black Hole's plunge, bizarre region around black holes found "The consequences are that they would merge and/or be ejected in a game of interstellar pinball," he added. What are intermediate-mass black holes? Intermediate-mass black holes, which range between 100 to 100,000 times the sun's mass, are among the most elusive black holes present in the universe. Although scientists have found several promising candidates, they have not confirmed the existence of any intermediate-mass black holes. In a statement, project scientist at the Gaia telescope Timo Prusti said, "Science is rarely about discovering something new in a single moment. It’s about becoming more certain of a conclusion step by step, and this could be one step towards being sure that intermediate-mass black holes exist." (With inputs from agencies)

A rare black hole is lurking 6,000 light-years away in Earth's cosmic backyard

An asteroid is expected to fly close to Earth on Saturday (June 8). NASA's Centre for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) has named the asteroid 2024KA1. It&nbsp;is 99-foot wide and travelling at a speed of 29,961 kmph.&nbsp;

2024KA1 is expected to reach close to Earth at 16:36 IST. The asteroid will come within a distance of 1.8 million km from Earth.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/worlds-largest-telescope-to-have-powerful-technology-to-hunt-alien-life-729813">World's largest telescope to have powerful technology to hunt 'alien' life</a>

Researchers have categorised near-earth objects into two: potentially hazardous asteroids (PHAs) and the ones that don't pose a threat to planet Earth.&nbsp;

Scientists have categorised this asteroid in the Apollo group and stated that it poses no threat to Earth.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia arrests French scholar suspected of collecting Intelligence

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To detect any potential hazard, the advanced technology present at NASA along with distinguished astronomers helps monitor NEOs or Near-Earth Objects. Such ongoing observations provide information that aids in determining if an object is potentially dangerous to the Earth.&nbsp;

<h2>What are Apollo group of asteroids?&nbsp;</h2>

Asteroids in the Apollo group are Near Earth Asteroids (NEAs). The average distance of such asteroids from the Sun is greater than that from Earth.&nbsp;

In common language, such asteroids are called Earth-crossing asteroids.&nbsp;

A few characteristic features of asteroids in the Apollo group are that they are irregular in shape and their perihelion distance is 1.017 AU (Earth's aphelion).&nbsp;

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The name Apollo draws from the German astronomer Karl Reinmuth (1892-1979) who made the initial discovery of the group in 1932.&nbsp;

There are now about 1600 known Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs) in the Apollo group.&nbsp;

They are projected to have a relatively brief lifespan, of about 10 million years, as they are likely to collide with the inner planets.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

An asteroid is expected to fly close to Earth on Saturday (June 8). NASA's Centre for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) has named the asteroid 2024KA1. It is 99-foot wide and travelling at a speed of 29,961 kmph.

An asteroid is expected to fly close to Earth on Saturday (June 8). NASA's Centre for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) has named the asteroid 2024KA1. It is 99-foot wide and travelling at a speed of 29,961 kmph. 2024KA1 is expected to reach close to Earth at 16:36 IST. The asteroid will come within a distance of 1.8 million km from Earth. Also read | World's largest telescope to have powerful technology to hunt 'alien' life Researchers have categorised near-earth objects into two: potentially hazardous asteroids (PHAs) and the ones that don't pose a threat to planet Earth. Scientists have categorised this asteroid in the Apollo group and stated that it poses no threat to Earth. Watch | Russia arrests French scholar suspected of collecting Intelligence To detect any potential hazard, the advanced technology present at NASA along with distinguished astronomers helps monitor NEOs or Near-Earth Objects. Such ongoing observations provide information that aids in determining if an object is potentially dangerous to the Earth. What are Apollo group of asteroids? Asteroids in the Apollo group are Near Earth Asteroids (NEAs). The average distance of such asteroids from the Sun is greater than that from Earth. In common language, such asteroids are called Earth-crossing asteroids. A few characteristic features of asteroids in the Apollo group are that they are irregular in shape and their perihelion distance is 1.017 AU (Earth's aphelion). Also read | Watch: SpaceX completes test of 5,000-tonne Starship, the most powerful launch vehicle The name Apollo draws from the German astronomer Karl Reinmuth (1892-1979) who made the initial discovery of the group in 1932. There are now about 1600 known Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs) in the Apollo group. They are projected to have a relatively brief lifespan, of about 10 million years, as they are likely to collide with the inner planets. (With inputs from agencies)

99-foot wide Apollo group asteroid 2024KA1 to pass Earth at a distance of 1.8 million km

The storms on Jupiter have apparent similarities to those on Earth, a new study found. It offers a new way of understanding similar meteorological processes here on our planet.&nbsp;

The finding is quite fascinating as the two planets are millions of miles away from each other and Jupiter is more than 11 times bigger than Earth. The science communication site The Nine Planets revealed that the average distance between Earth and Jupiter is 444 million miles (714 million km).&nbsp;

The study titled, "Frontogenesis at Jovian high latitudes", was published on June 6 in the journal Nature Physics. It analysed infra-red images taken by the Juno spacecraft at the Jovian poles.&nbsp;

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The study noted that the images revealed ubiquitous vortices, which mean a region in a fluid in which the flow revolves around an axis line, with a diameter of hundreds to thousands of kilometres and filaments with a width of tens of kilometres embedded in between the vortices.&nbsp;

The latest research is led by Lia Siegelman, who is a physical oceanographer at UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography. The researchers said that their analysis shows that the filaments are dynamically active.&nbsp;

Siegelman first talked about this in 2018 when she made the connection between our planet and the gas giant. As per a report by phys.org, she noticed a striking similarity between images of Jupiter's huge cyclones and the ocean turbulence she was studying.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/australian-scientists-shocked-after-tiger-shark-vomits-spiky-echinda-729490">Australian scientists shocked after tiger shark vomits spiky echinda</a>&nbsp;

Siegelman said that air and water are both considered fluids to a physicist, hence, she applied ocean physics to Jupiter. "Jupiter is basically an ocean of gas," she said as quoted.&nbsp;

The initial observation was even published in Nature Physics in 2022, with Siegelman being a co-author. The earlier study had analysed high-resolution infrared images of Jupiter's cyclones taken by NASA's Juno spacecraft.&nbsp;

The initial study was aimed at Jupiter's cyclones. However, while studying, Siegelman also saw wispy tendrils, known as filaments, in the spaces between the gassy vortices.&nbsp;

For a follow-up study, Siegelman used Juno's detailed imagery as she wanted to understand how they are connected to cyclones on Earth.&nbsp;

The latest study found the filaments resemble what oceanographers and meteorologists refer to as fronts, which are the boundaries of gas or liquid masses with different densities due to changes in attributes such as temperature. On Earth, these are the "warm fronts" or "cold fronts". We see these words almost every day in weather forecasts.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The storms on Jupiter have apparent similarities to those on Earth, a new study found. It offers a new way of understanding similar meteorological processes here on our planet.

The storms on Jupiter have apparent similarities to those on Earth, a new study found. It offers a new way of understanding similar meteorological processes here on our planet. The finding is quite fascinating as the two planets are millions of miles away from each other and Jupiter is more than 11 times bigger than Earth. The science communication site The Nine Planets revealed that the average distance between Earth and Jupiter is 444 million miles (714 million km). The study titled, "Frontogenesis at Jovian high latitudes", was published on June 6 in the journal Nature Physics. It analysed infra-red images taken by the Juno spacecraft at the Jovian poles. Also read: Indo-French satellite 'TRISHNA' to study climate change. Here are details The study noted that the images revealed ubiquitous vortices, which mean a region in a fluid in which the flow revolves around an axis line, with a diameter of hundreds to thousands of kilometres and filaments with a width of tens of kilometres embedded in between the vortices. The latest research is led by Lia Siegelman, who is a physical oceanographer at UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography. The researchers said that their analysis shows that the filaments are dynamically active. Siegelman first talked about this in 2018 when she made the connection between our planet and the gas giant. As per a report by phys.org, she noticed a striking similarity between images of Jupiter's huge cyclones and the ocean turbulence she was studying. Also read: Australian scientists shocked after tiger shark vomits spiky echinda Siegelman said that air and water are both considered fluids to a physicist, hence, she applied ocean physics to Jupiter. "Jupiter is basically an ocean of gas," she said as quoted. The initial observation was even published in Nature Physics in 2022, with Siegelman being a co-author. The earlier study had analysed high-resolution infrared images of Jupiter's cyclones taken by NASA's Juno spacecraft. The initial study was aimed at Jupiter's cyclones. However, while studying, Siegelman also saw wispy tendrils, known as filaments, in the spaces between the gassy vortices. For a follow-up study, Siegelman used Juno's detailed imagery as she wanted to understand how they are connected to cyclones on Earth. The latest study found the filaments resemble what oceanographers and meteorologists refer to as fronts, which are the boundaries of gas or liquid masses with different densities due to changes in attributes such as temperature. On Earth, these are the "warm fronts" or "cold fronts". We see these words almost every day in weather forecasts. (With inputs from agencies)

Storms on Jupiter powered by processes similar to those on Earth: Study

NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) has now spotted an&nbsp;exoplanet which&nbsp;has left astronomers puzzled.&nbsp;

It has been observed that this planet remained in its atmosphere even after getting mercilessly bombarded with radiation from its red giant parent star. This star is also smaller, older and hotter than what was earlier believed by scientists to be possible for such a planet.

The extrasolar planet, or "exoplanet" in reality should be a bare husk of rock because of its proximity to the star TIC 365102760 which is located approximately 1,800 light-years away from Earth.

This strange world, which has been nicknamed "Phoenix," has come out from the flames of its host star which has a nice and&nbsp;puffy atmosphere.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/euclid-spots-seven-new-rogue-planets-heres-what-is-hidden-in-these-dark-worlds-729029">Euclid spots seven new rogue planets. Here’s what is hidden in these dark worlds</a>

Phoenix, officially designated as TIC 365102760 b, is part of a rare class of planets known as "hot Neptunes". These are the kind of dark worlds which have radii which is smaller compared to that of Jupiter, however, larger than the Earth.&nbsp;

According to the scientists, the planet will spiral into its giant star for nearly 100 million years.

The discovery of Phoenix has shown that different kinds of exoplanets&nbsp;exist across the universe and has demonstrated that a planetary system is able to evolve in many ways.&nbsp;

"This planet isn't evolving the way we thought it would. It appears to have a much bigger, less dense atmosphere than we expected for these systems," said team leader and Johns Hopkins University astrophysicist Sam Grunblatt, in a statement.&nbsp;

"How it held on to that atmosphere despite being so close to such a large host star is the big question," he added.

<h2>Here's what this hellish planet tells us about Earth's fate</h2>

TIC 365102760 is a&nbsp;type of red giant star which has spent nearly 10 billion years converting hydrogen to helium present at its core.&nbsp;

Once the hydrogen fuel needed for the&nbsp;nuclear fusion&nbsp;process was exhausted, the energy which was supporting the star against its own gravity would have had ended.

Watch:&nbsp;Sun leashes massive Solar flare

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Then the core of the star would have collapsed while its outer layers, where nuclear fusion is still taking place, should have swelled to around 100 times the star's original width.

"It's the smallest planet we've ever found around one of these red giants and probably the lowest mass planet orbiting a [red] giant star we've ever seen," said Grunblatt.&nbsp;

"That's why it looks really weird. We don't know why it still has an atmosphere when other 'hot Neptunes' that are much smaller and much denser seem to be losing their atmospheres in much less extreme environments," he added.

The findings of Phoenix have helped scientists understand what will happen to the atmosphere of Earth before it meets its final fate.&nbsp;

"We don't understand the late-stage evolution of planetary systems very well. This is telling us that maybe&nbsp;Earth's atmosphere&nbsp;won't evolve exactly how we thought it would," Grunblatt said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) has now spotted an exoplanet which has left astronomers puzzled. It has been observed that this planet remained in its atmosphere even after getting mercilessly bombarded with radiation from its red giant parent star.

NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) has now spotted an exoplanet which has left astronomers puzzled. It has been observed that this planet remained in its atmosphere even after getting mercilessly bombarded with radiation from its red giant parent star. This star is also smaller, older and hotter than what was earlier believed by scientists to be possible for such a planet. The extrasolar planet, or "exoplanet" in reality should be a bare husk of rock because of its proximity to the star TIC 365102760 which is located approximately 1,800 light-years away from Earth. This strange world, which has been nicknamed "Phoenix," has come out from the flames of its host star which has a nice and puffy atmosphere. Also Read: Euclid spots seven new rogue planets. Here’s what is hidden in these dark worlds Phoenix, officially designated as TIC 365102760 b, is part of a rare class of planets known as "hot Neptunes". These are the kind of dark worlds which have radii which is smaller compared to that of Jupiter, however, larger than the Earth. According to the scientists, the planet will spiral into its giant star for nearly 100 million years. The discovery of Phoenix has shown that different kinds of exoplanets exist across the universe and has demonstrated that a planetary system is able to evolve in many ways. "This planet isn't evolving the way we thought it would. It appears to have a much bigger, less dense atmosphere than we expected for these systems," said team leader and Johns Hopkins University astrophysicist Sam Grunblatt, in a statement. "How it held on to that atmosphere despite being so close to such a large host star is the big question," he added. Here's what this hellish planet tells us about Earth's fate TIC 365102760 is a type of red giant star which has spent nearly 10 billion years converting hydrogen to helium present at its core. Once the hydrogen fuel needed for the nuclear fusion process was exhausted, the energy which was supporting the star against its own gravity would have had ended. Watch: Sun leashes massive Solar flare Then the core of the star would have collapsed while its outer layers, where nuclear fusion is still taking place, should have swelled to around 100 times the star's original width. "It's the smallest planet we've ever found around one of these red giants and probably the lowest mass planet orbiting a [red] giant star we've ever seen," said Grunblatt. "That's why it looks really weird. We don't know why it still has an atmosphere when other 'hot Neptunes' that are much smaller and much denser seem to be losing their atmospheres in much less extreme environments," he added. The findings of Phoenix have helped scientists understand what will happen to the atmosphere of Earth before it meets its final fate. "We don't understand the late-stage evolution of planetary systems very well. This is telling us that maybe Earth's atmosphere won't evolve exactly how we thought it would," Grunblatt said. (With inputs from agencies)

This exoplanet is being bombarded with radiation by its giant star. This hints our Earth will...

In a fresh analysis of the ancient rare crystals - which were embedded in the rock present in the Australian outback - the scientists said that Earth had fresh water and dry land some four billion years ago.

This theory contradicts the earlier premise that the ocean had&nbsp;completely covered the planet. The chemicals present in the crystals showed that the hot and molten rocks from which they had originated had come in contact with freshwater during the formation of the crystals, as per the study published in the journal Nature Geoscience.

“By examining the age and oxygen isotopes in tiny crystals of the mineral zircon, we found unusually light isotopic signatures as far back as four billion years ago,” stated lead study author Hamed Gamaleldien, in a press release.&nbsp;

“Such light oxygen isotopes are typically the result of hot, fresh water altering rocks several kilometres below Earth’s surface," he added.&nbsp;

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-sun-captured-firing-off-intense-solar-flare-then-gulping-it-back-728981">&nbsp;Sun captured firing off intense solar flare, then gulping it back</a>

Gamaleldien&nbsp;said that they have found evidence of fresh water's presence on the dry land where water collected and slowly swept into the continental crust.

“We have two important things here. We have discovered the earliest evidence of fresh water and representative evidence for dry land above the sea,” the author said.

The research showed that the water cycle of Earth — when water travels between land, oceans and atmosphere through the process of evaporation and precipitation —&nbsp;was operational at that time.

<h2>Recipe for origins of life existed less than 600 million years after the formation of Earth</h2>

The authors said that the current finding reflected the presence of the origins of life on Earth nearly 600 million years after the planet's formation. This was long before the existence of the dinosaurs or the earliest known microbial life.&nbsp;

Gamaleldien said that the earliest evidence of life is fresh water which contains stromatolites and fossilised microbes&nbsp;which form mounds in hot springs almost 3.5 billion years ago.

Watch:&nbsp;Scientists decode 'phonetic alphabet' of Sperm Whales

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-decode-phonetic-alphabet-of-sperm-whales-719281/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In a statement, a senior research fellow&nbsp;at Curtin’s School of Earth and Planetary Science and study co-author Hugo Olierook said, “This discovery not only sheds light on Earth’s early history but also suggests … landmasses and freshwater set the stage for life to flourish within a relatively short time frame — less than 600 million years after the planet formed."

“The findings mark a significant step forward in our understanding of Earth’s early history and open doors for further exploration into the origins of life,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a fresh analysis of the ancient rare crystals - which were embedded in the rock present in the Australian outback - the scientists said that Earth had fresh water and dry land some four billion years ago.

In a fresh analysis of the ancient rare crystals - which were embedded in the rock present in the Australian outback - the scientists said that Earth had fresh water and dry land some four billion years ago. This theory contradicts the earlier premise that the ocean had completely covered the planet. The chemicals present in the crystals showed that the hot and molten rocks from which they had originated had come in contact with freshwater during the formation of the crystals, as per the study published in the journal Nature Geoscience. “By examining the age and oxygen isotopes in tiny crystals of the mineral zircon, we found unusually light isotopic signatures as far back as four billion years ago,” stated lead study author Hamed Gamaleldien, in a press release. “Such light oxygen isotopes are typically the result of hot, fresh water altering rocks several kilometres below Earth’s surface," he added. Also Read: Sun captured firing off intense solar flare, then gulping it back Gamaleldien said that they have found evidence of fresh water's presence on the dry land where water collected and slowly swept into the continental crust. “We have two important things here. We have discovered the earliest evidence of fresh water and representative evidence for dry land above the sea,” the author said. The research showed that the water cycle of Earth — when water travels between land, oceans and atmosphere through the process of evaporation and precipitation — was operational at that time. Recipe for origins of life existed less than 600 million years after the formation of Earth The authors said that the current finding reflected the presence of the origins of life on Earth nearly 600 million years after the planet's formation. This was long before the existence of the dinosaurs or the earliest known microbial life. Gamaleldien said that the earliest evidence of life is fresh water which contains stromatolites and fossilised microbes which form mounds in hot springs almost 3.5 billion years ago. Watch: Scientists decode 'phonetic alphabet' of Sperm Whales In a statement, a senior research fellow at Curtin’s School of Earth and Planetary Science and study co-author Hugo Olierook said, “This discovery not only sheds light on Earth’s early history but also suggests … landmasses and freshwater set the stage for life to flourish within a relatively short time frame — less than 600 million years after the planet formed." “The findings mark a significant step forward in our understanding of Earth’s early history and open doors for further exploration into the origins of life,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Rare crystals reveal when Earth first had fresh water, hinting at origin of life

World Environment Day is celebrated annually on June 5 since 1973. It is an attempt to urge people to adopt sustainable practices and realise the need to preserve&nbsp;Earth. Nature is the reason for our existence, it is the source of all the activities that are carried out on this planet.

It is high time that people acknowledge the importance of nature. From providing vital resources for survival to ensuring mental peace in this fast-paced world, nature does it all. After all, nothing can replace the sense of calmness one feels while&nbsp;walking bare feet on the grass early in the morning.

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It is quite unfortunate, but due to the callous attitude of people, the environment is at stake. Humans are known to be selfish, the ones who put their personal needs before others. In the greed of development, countries have mindlessly set up factories by cutting down trees and not considering the adverse impact that the pollution caused by such factories will have on the planet.

This has led to several environmental problems such as global warming, loss of biodiversity, pollution, deforestation, etc. Individuals tend to develop a notion that their actions cannot improve the situation as they hold negligible importance in the ecosystem.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-climate-activist-arrested-after-sticking-protest-poster-on-famous-monet-painting-in-paris-727925">&nbsp;WATCH: Climate activist arrested after sticking protest poster on famous Monet painting in Paris</a>

However, this narrative is completely false. In order to change this mentality, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has initiated World Environment Day which is celebrated globally. The theme chosen for this year is&nbsp;land restoration, stopping desertification&nbsp;and building drought resilience.

This year, Saudi Arabia is the host and will be holding global celebrations. The Pacific and Asia regions are extraordinarily rich in biodiversity which is at risk of land degradation. With the rapid growth of population and urbanisation in these regions, there is a risk of water stress and urban drought&nbsp;in the areas.

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As part of a joint initiative of UNEP and ESCAP (United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific),&nbsp;discussions are being held with partners and stakeholders to discuss viable solutions to these problems and come up with a plan for a sustainable future.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World Environment Day is celebrated annually on June 5 since 1973. It is an attempt to urge people to adopt sustainable practices and realise the need to preserve Earth.

World Environment Day is celebrated annually on June 5 since 1973. It is an attempt to urge people to adopt sustainable practices and realise the need to preserve Earth. Nature is the reason for our existence, it is the source of all the activities that are carried out on this planet. It is high time that people acknowledge the importance of nature. From providing vital resources for survival to ensuring mental peace in this fast-paced world, nature does it all. After all, nothing can replace the sense of calmness one feels while walking bare feet on the grass early in the morning. Also read | Scientists find ‘Ghost Shark’ with giant head and iridescent eyes in Andaman Sea It is quite unfortunate, but due to the callous attitude of people, the environment is at stake. Humans are known to be selfish, the ones who put their personal needs before others. In the greed of development, countries have mindlessly set up factories by cutting down trees and not considering the adverse impact that the pollution caused by such factories will have on the planet. This has led to several environmental problems such as global warming, loss of biodiversity, pollution, deforestation, etc. Individuals tend to develop a notion that their actions cannot improve the situation as they hold negligible importance in the ecosystem. Also read | WATCH: Climate activist arrested after sticking protest poster on famous Monet painting in Paris However, this narrative is completely false. In order to change this mentality, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has initiated World Environment Day which is celebrated globally. The theme chosen for this year is land restoration, stopping desertification and building drought resilience. This year, Saudi Arabia is the host and will be holding global celebrations. The Pacific and Asia regions are extraordinarily rich in biodiversity which is at risk of land degradation. With the rapid growth of population and urbanisation in these regions, there is a risk of water stress and urban drought in the areas. Watch | Crude on track for 6th day of losses | Biden unveils Mexico border curbs As part of a joint initiative of UNEP and ESCAP (United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific), discussions are being held with partners and stakeholders to discuss viable solutions to these problems and come up with a plan for a sustainable future. (With inputs from agencies)

World Environment Day 2024: Facts, theme and more

Researchers said they were able to study the way volcanism shaped the crust and mantle of Mars based on the meteorites that broke off the red planet and landed on Earth, millions of years ago, according to the research published in Science Advances. &nbsp;

<h2>About the study</h2>

The researchers at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego said that they were able to ascertain that Mars has a distinct structure in its mantle and crust with discernible reservoirs thanks to the meteorites which broke off the red planet 11 million years ago.&nbsp;

“Martian meteorites are the only physical materials we have available from Mars,” said geologist James Day from the Scripps Oceanography Institute. The rocks analysed by Day and his team came in two forms – chassignites and nakhlites.&nbsp;

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The rocks allowed researchers to “make precise and accurate measurements and then quantify processes that occurred within Mars and close to the martian surface,” the geologist added.&nbsp;

He added, “They provide direct information on Mars’ composition that can ground truth mission science, like the ongoing Perseverance rover operations taking place there.”

One of the meteorites examined was chassignites, after a rock found in 1815 in Chassign, France and nakhlites after a specimen uncovered in Nakhla, Egypt, in 1905.

<h2>What did the researchers find?</h2>

According to the study, the two kinds of rocks also have different compositions, with nakhlite being a basaltic form of rock which includes minerals like augite and olivine. However, chassignite is almost entirely olivine.

After the analysis of the rocks, researchers found that they were once formed in the same Martian volcano around 1.3 billion years ago.&nbsp;

Upon careful examination and comparison, they were also able to determine that nakhlites were part of the Martian crust and the chassignites were part of the mantle below.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-group-of-mammals-suddenly-disappeared-50000-years-ago-ancient-bone-collagen-might-tell-why-727685">A group of mammals suddenly disappeared 50,000 years ago. Ancient bone collagen might tell why</a>

According to Day, by determining that the two rock formations are from the same volcanic system and that they interacted with Martian crust that was altered by atmospheric interactions, researchers can now identify a new rock type on the red planet.&nbsp;

He also noted that Mars’ volcanism has “incredible similarities,” but also differences to that of Earth’s. According to Day, similar nakhlites and chassignites were found in recent volcanism in places like Oahu in Hawaii.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the reservoirs in Mars are “extremely ancient” and seemed to have separated from one another shortly after the red planet formed, the researcher added.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Researchers said they were able to study the way volcanism shaped the crust and mantle of Mars based on the meteorites that broke off the red planet and landed on Earth, millions of years ago, according to the research published in Science Advances.

Researchers said they were able to study the way volcanism shaped the crust and mantle of Mars based on the meteorites that broke off the red planet and landed on Earth, millions of years ago, according to the research published in Science Advances. About the study The researchers at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego said that they were able to ascertain that Mars has a distinct structure in its mantle and crust with discernible reservoirs thanks to the meteorites which broke off the red planet 11 million years ago. “Martian meteorites are the only physical materials we have available from Mars,” said geologist James Day from the Scripps Oceanography Institute. The rocks analysed by Day and his team came in two forms – chassignites and nakhlites. Also Read | NASA debunks reports of ‘planetary parade’, gives list of celestial events for June The rocks allowed researchers to “make precise and accurate measurements and then quantify processes that occurred within Mars and close to the martian surface,” the geologist added. He added, “They provide direct information on Mars’ composition that can ground truth mission science, like the ongoing Perseverance rover operations taking place there.” One of the meteorites examined was chassignites, after a rock found in 1815 in Chassign, France and nakhlites after a specimen uncovered in Nakhla, Egypt, in 1905. What did the researchers find? According to the study, the two kinds of rocks also have different compositions, with nakhlite being a basaltic form of rock which includes minerals like augite and olivine. However, chassignite is almost entirely olivine. After the analysis of the rocks, researchers found that they were once formed in the same Martian volcano around 1.3 billion years ago. Upon careful examination and comparison, they were also able to determine that nakhlites were part of the Martian crust and the chassignites were part of the mantle below. Also Read | A group of mammals suddenly disappeared 50,000 years ago. Ancient bone collagen might tell why According to Day, by determining that the two rock formations are from the same volcanic system and that they interacted with Martian crust that was altered by atmospheric interactions, researchers can now identify a new rock type on the red planet. He also noted that Mars’ volcanism has “incredible similarities,” but also differences to that of Earth’s. According to Day, similar nakhlites and chassignites were found in recent volcanism in places like Oahu in Hawaii. On the other hand, the reservoirs in Mars are “extremely ancient” and seemed to have separated from one another shortly after the red planet formed, the researcher added. (With inputs from agencies)

Millions of years old pieces of Mars that landed on Earth reveal ancient volcanic secret

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