Scientists say the Earth's core is slowing down and it could possibly be rotating in reverse.
How is this possible?
What does it mean for our planet?

Scientists say earth's mysterious inner core is changing shape

A new study reveals that Earth's inner core is rotating slower than the rest of the planet. Scientists suggest this shift could impact Earth's magnetic field and even alter the length of our days. What does this mean for our planet’s future?

What if the earth stopped spinning? Unprecedented changes in Earth’s inner core

Study: Core rotating slower than the rest of the planet

In 2024, scientists came up with a strange theory that the Moon got substantially cooler during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the lockdown was the reason for it. The hypothesis forced normal people to think about the time when Earth was gripped by the pandemic in early 2020 and nations imposed lockdowns. But now, scientists have said that the two aspects - the pandemic and Moon's temperature - were not related.&nbsp;
Last year, scientists from the Physical Research Laboratory in India's Ahmedabad observed that lunar nighttime surface temperatures dipped substantially across six observation sites on the near side of the Moon between April and May 2020.&nbsp;
Their findings were published in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society: Letters.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/earth-faces-2032-collision-risk-scientists-track-potential-impact-threat-8697308">Earth faces 2032 collision risk; scientists track potential impact threat</a>
However, researchers from the Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&amp;T) and the University of West Indies (UWI) found issues with the hypothesis when they analysed the data closely.&nbsp;
In the latest study, published in the same journal, researchers noted that just like in 2020, there was also a dip in lunar temperatures in 2018. There was a steady decline in 2019. The collective timestamp doesn't align with the period of the Covid pandemic and its lockdowns.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/earths-temporary-mini-moon-may-have-been-a-piece-of-actual-moon-8662139">Earth's temporary &lsquo;mini moon&rsquo; may have been a piece of actual moon</a>
As quoted by Science Alert, civil engineer William Schonberg from Missouri S&amp;T said, "The idea that our activity, or lack of activity, on Earth would have a significant influence on the temperatures of the Moon &ndash; which is almost 240,000 miles from us &ndash; didn't seem likely, but we decided to keep an open mind and conduct additional research."&nbsp;
The study noted that the temperature readings gathered by NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter suggest cyclical fluctuations instead of one significant dip.&nbsp;
In the latest article, the researchers said several factors are responsible for any change in Moon's temperature and also weighed in on a 2021 study which found that emissions reduction during the pandemic could only have affected the lower parts of Earth's atmosphere.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hubble-space-telescope-nasas-plan-for-more-cosmic-discoveries-728929">Hubble Space Telescope faces a hiccup, but to stay in service for 'years to come'</a>
"We're not disputing that the temperatures did go down at different times during the time frame studied, but it seems to be a bit of a stretch to state with any certainty that human activity was the primary cause of this," Schonberg added.&nbsp;
In the conclusion of the new study, the researchers said that be it Covid or any other period, human activity is unlikely to have an impact on the temperatures on the Moon.&nbsp;
"During the Moon's nighttime, there is a small possibility that heat and radiation from Earth might have a very small effect on the lunar surface temperatures," Schonberg said.&nbsp;
"But this influence would probably be so minimal that it would be difficult to measure or even notice," he added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Science | Trending | Data from NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter suggests natural fluctuations in Moon's temperatures rather than human-induced changes during the Covid pandemic 

In 2024, scientists came up with a strange theory that the Moon got substantially cooler during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the lockdown was the reason for it. The hypothesis forced normal people to think about the time when Earth was gripped by the pandemic in early 2020 and nations imposed lockdowns. But now, scientists have said that the two aspects - the pandemic and Moon's temperature - were not related. Last year, scientists from the Physical Research Laboratory in India's Ahmedabad observed that lunar nighttime surface temperatures dipped substantially across six observation sites on the near side of the Moon between April and May 2020. Their findings were published in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society: Letters. Also read: Earth faces 2032 collision risk; scientists track potential impact threat However, researchers from the Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T) and the University of West Indies (UWI) found issues with the hypothesis when they analysed the data closely. In the latest study, published in the same journal, researchers noted that just like in 2020, there was also a dip in lunar temperatures in 2018. There was a steady decline in 2019. The collective timestamp doesn't align with the period of the Covid pandemic and its lockdowns. Also read: Earth's temporary ‘mini moon’ may have been a piece of actual moon As quoted by Science Alert, civil engineer William Schonberg from Missouri S&T said, "The idea that our activity, or lack of activity, on Earth would have a significant influence on the temperatures of the Moon – which is almost 240,000 miles from us – didn't seem likely, but we decided to keep an open mind and conduct additional research." The study noted that the temperature readings gathered by NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter suggest cyclical fluctuations instead of one significant dip. In the latest article, the researchers said several factors are responsible for any change in Moon's temperature and also weighed in on a 2021 study which found that emissions reduction during the pandemic could only have affected the lower parts of Earth's atmosphere. Also read: Hubble Space Telescope faces a hiccup, but to stay in service for 'years to come' "We're not disputing that the temperatures did go down at different times during the time frame studied, but it seems to be a bit of a stretch to state with any certainty that human activity was the primary cause of this," Schonberg added. In the conclusion of the new study, the researchers said that be it Covid or any other period, human activity is unlikely to have an impact on the temperatures on the Moon. "During the Moon's nighttime, there is a small possibility that heat and radiation from Earth might have a very small effect on the lunar surface temperatures," Schonberg said. "But this influence would probably be so minimal that it would be difficult to measure or even notice," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

No, humans did not really change Moon's temperatures during Covid lockdown: Study

An asteroid has a one in 83 chance of hitting Earth in just over seven years. While most space rocks pass by harmlessly, this one, known as 2024 YR4, which is about half the size of a football field, is too close for comfort. Here's more.

NASA scientist warns, we can't stop a big asteroid

Earth faces 2032 collision risk; scientists track potential impact threat

Earth braces for potential asteroid impact in 2032

Two 'secret' mountains have been discovered on the boundary between Africa and the Pacific Ocean, and they're 100 times taller than Everest.

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'4.6-billion-years old': This meteor crashed on Earth and it is older than the planet itself 

Murchison Meteorite

Older Than Earth

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In 1969, two months after the Apollo 11 Moon landing, a meteorite entered Earth's atmosphere, shattered, and scattered across 35 square kilometres near Murchison, Australia. It is now known as the Murchison meteorite.

'4.6-billion-years old': This meteor crashed on Earth and it is older than the planet itself

‘New Continent and Ocean’: Earth’s mantle is splitting apart faster than we thought

Pacific Ring of Fire

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New research reveals that Earth's mantle is divided by the Pacific Ring of Fire, a geological boundary reflecting the formation and breakup of the supercontinent Pangaea.

A new continent and ocean? Earth’s mantle is splitting apart faster than we thought

A team of scientists led by Joanne Stephenson from the Australian National University (ANU) has made a surprising discovery about Earth's inner core. Their research suggests that the core may have an additional, hidden layer inside it, challenging what scientists have long believed about the planet's structure. This research was published in the Journal of Geophysical Research.
<h2>Challenging long-standing beliefs</h2>
For decades, Earth has been understood to have four main layers: the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core. The inner core, mostly made of iron and nickel, has always been thought to be solid and uniform. However, this new study indicates there could be more to the story.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/230m-away-from-docking-isro-spadex-satellites-are-at-their-closest-so-far-8610805">230m away from docking- ISRO Spadex satellites are at their closest so far</a>
<h2>Seismic waves reveal new clues</h2>
The team used data from seismic waves&mdash;energy waves that travel through the Earth after earthquakes&mdash;to study the inner core. They found that these waves travel at different speeds in different directions, suggesting that the inner core might have two layers instead of one. This discovery could be the result of two separate cooling events in Earth's history.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/mark-zuckerberg-slams-joe-biden-administration-claims-officials-would-scream-and-curse-to-get-certain-covid-19-content-removed-from-facebook-8609556">Zuckerberg claims Biden officials would 'scream' to enforce Covid 'censorship' on Facebook</a>
<h2>Hints of two cooling events &nbsp;</h2>
One of the most intriguing findings is that the structure of iron inside the inner core might have changed over time. Scientists believe that this could be the result of two separate cooling events in Earth's history. This discovery could explain some inconsistencies seen in earlier models of Earth&rsquo;s core.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/china-mulling-recreating-three-gorges-dam-project-in-space-8607027">China mulling re-creating &lsquo;Three Gorges Dam project&rsquo; in space. Here is how</a>
<h2>Data gaps and future research</h2>
While the results are exciting, the researchers caution that there are still gaps in the data, particularly from polar regions, which could affect the conclusions. Despite this, the study is a major step forward in understanding the mysteries of Earth&rsquo;s interior.

Science | Their research suggests that the core may have an additional, hidden layer inside it, challenging what scientists have long believed about the planet's structure. This research was published in the Journal of Geophysical Research.

A team of scientists led by Joanne Stephenson from the Australian National University (ANU) has made a surprising discovery about Earth's inner core. Their research suggests that the core may have an additional, hidden layer inside it, challenging what scientists have long believed about the planet's structure. This research was published in the Journal of Geophysical Research. Challenging long-standing beliefs For decades, Earth has been understood to have four main layers: the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core. The inner core, mostly made of iron and nickel, has always been thought to be solid and uniform. However, this new study indicates there could be more to the story. Also Read | 230m away from docking- ISRO Spadex satellites are at their closest so far Seismic waves reveal new clues The team used data from seismic waves—energy waves that travel through the Earth after earthquakes—to study the inner core. They found that these waves travel at different speeds in different directions, suggesting that the inner core might have two layers instead of one. This discovery could be the result of two separate cooling events in Earth's history. Also Read | Zuckerberg claims Biden officials would 'scream' to enforce Covid 'censorship' on Facebook Hints of two cooling events One of the most intriguing findings is that the structure of iron inside the inner core might have changed over time. Scientists believe that this could be the result of two separate cooling events in Earth's history. This discovery could explain some inconsistencies seen in earlier models of Earth’s core. Also Read | China mulling re-creating ‘Three Gorges Dam project’ in space. Here is how Data gaps and future research While the results are exciting, the researchers caution that there are still gaps in the data, particularly from polar regions, which could affect the conclusions. Despite this, the study is a major step forward in understanding the mysteries of Earth’s interior.

Scientists uncover evidence of second core layer beneath Earth's surface

This month, six planets in the solar system - Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Venus, Neptune, and Saturn will appear in Earth's skies in a "parade of planets." Watch this report for more details!

Planetary parade to occur on january 21 and March 8, 2025

California, United States
Researchers from the United States, France and Germany have discovered that Earth’s natural satellite may have been formed as early as 4.53 billion years ago. This estimate derived from the new analysis is hundreds of millions of years earlier than previous ones.
This discovery may help in answering other questions about the Moon like why it has less metal compared to Earth and why it has fewer big impact basins than expected. The research can also provide better insights into the evolution and history of our own planet, according to the team led by geologist Francis Nimmo of the University of California Santa Cruz.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/skygazers-get-a-rare-cosmic-treat-as-cold-moon-shines-in-sky-after-19-years-784317">Skygazers get a rare cosmic treat as 'Cold Moon' shines after 19 years</a>
Earlier, it was believed that the Moon was formed after a large object, roughly the size of Mars, struck the Earth, while it was still in its formation stages about 4.35 billion years ago. However, the new research suggests it was formed much earlier and then experienced a dramatic “re-melting” at the time which was assumed for its creation.
According to the research, this re-melting event occurred due to the Earth’s and Moon’s gravitational pull tugging at each other, called a tidal force, which caused it to stretch and squish and warm the Moon drastically due to friction.
The study also explains the existence of zircon crystals, a mineral found on lunar rocks during the Apollo mission. The age of this mineral can be determined by observing the ratio of uranium to lead.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/saturns-rings-may-have-existed-since-the-solar-system-was-created-study-784694">Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study</a>
The zircon crystals have been dated significantly older than the age of the Moon. While one crystal has been measured to be 4.46 billion years old, another was calculated to have formed 4.51 billion years ago.
The melting process altered the lunar surface, causing the metals to sink below and hiding the Moon’s real age, according to the study that was published in the journal Nature. This would imply that our planet has been with its natural satellite for almost its entire lifespan as it is estimated to have formed 4.54 billion years ago.
(With inputs from agencies)

This discovery may help in answering other questions about the Moon like why it has less metal compared to Earth and why it has fewer big impact basins than expected



California, United States Researchers from the United States, France and Germany have discovered that Earth’s natural satellite may have been formed as early as 4.53 billion years ago. This estimate derived from the new analysis is hundreds of millions of years earlier than previous ones. This discovery may help in answering other questions about the Moon like why it has less metal compared to Earth and why it has fewer big impact basins than expected. The research can also provide better insights into the evolution and history of our own planet, according to the team led by geologist Francis Nimmo of the University of California Santa Cruz. Also read | Skygazers get a rare cosmic treat as 'Cold Moon' shines after 19 years Earlier, it was believed that the Moon was formed after a large object, roughly the size of Mars, struck the Earth, while it was still in its formation stages about 4.35 billion years ago. However, the new research suggests it was formed much earlier and then experienced a dramatic “re-melting” at the time which was assumed for its creation. According to the research, this re-melting event occurred due to the Earth’s and Moon’s gravitational pull tugging at each other, called a tidal force, which caused it to stretch and squish and warm the Moon drastically due to friction. The study also explains the existence of zircon crystals, a mineral found on lunar rocks during the Apollo mission. The age of this mineral can be determined by observing the ratio of uranium to lead. Also read | Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study The zircon crystals have been dated significantly older than the age of the Moon. While one crystal has been measured to be 4.46 billion years old, another was calculated to have formed 4.51 billion years ago. The melting process altered the lunar surface, causing the metals to sink below and hiding the Moon’s real age, according to the study that was published in the journal Nature. This would imply that our planet has been with its natural satellite for almost its entire lifespan as it is estimated to have formed 4.54 billion years ago. (With inputs from agencies)

The Moon may be much older than we thought, new study suggests

NASA on Wednesday (Dec 18) announced that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck in space for more than 180 days now, will now stay on the International Space Station (ISS) at least till March 2025.&nbsp;

Their return has been delayed many times now. Previously, they were scheduled to fly back in February 2025.

However, the agency now said that Williams and Willmore would now return to Earth along with astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov after the four-member Crew-10 mission reaches the space station.

"The agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission with NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Suni Williams, Butch Wilmore, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov will return to Earth following the arrival of Crew-10 to the orbital laboratory," NASA said in a statement.&nbsp;

"NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 now is targeting no earlier than late March 2025 to launch four crew members to the International Space Station," the agency stated.&nbsp;

They further added, "Known as a handover period, it allows Crew-9 to share any lessons learned with the newly arrived crew and support a better transition for ongoing science and maintenance at the complex."

<h2>Sunita Williams and her condition in space</h2>

William, 58, and Wilmore, 61, have been stuck in space for more than six months now. They got to the ISS on the Boeing Starliner spacecraft.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/another-day-another-sleigh-sunita-williams-and-fellow-iss-crew-prepare-to-celebrate-christmas-in-space-784705">Also read:&nbsp;‘Another day, another sleigh’: Sunita Williams and fellow ISS crew prepare to celebrate Christmas in space</a>

Initially, the craft was meant to depart for home on June 26. However, it faced several glitches, including leaks in the propulsion system and some of its thrusters shutting down, before reaching the ISS.&nbsp;

Despite making several attempts, NASA and Boeing could not trust it to bring the astronauts back safely to Earth.&nbsp;

<h2>Why was it delayed?</h2>

The agency said the launch was delayed to give teams time to complete processing on a new Dragon spacecraft for the mission. "The new spacecraft is set to arrive at the company’s processing facility in Florida in early January."

Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Programme, said, "Fabrication, assembly, testing, and final integration of a new spacecraft is a painstaking endeavour that requires great attention to detail. We appreciate the hard work by the SpaceX team to expand the Dragon fleet in support of our missions and the flexibility of the station program and expedition crews as we work together to complete the new capsule’s readiness for flight.”

Watch |&nbsp;Sunita Williams' Return Delayed: NASA Announces Extended ISS Stay for Stranded Astronauts

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After careful consideration, the team has reached a decision that launching Crew-10 in late March would be the best option for meeting NASA's requirements and achieving space station objectives for 2025.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA on Wednesday (Dec 18) announced that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck in space for more than 180 days now, will now stay on the International Space Station (ISS) at least till March 2025.

NASA on Wednesday (Dec 18) announced that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck in space for more than 180 days now, will now stay on the International Space Station (ISS) at least till March 2025. Their return has been delayed many times now. Previously, they were scheduled to fly back in February 2025. However, the agency now said that Williams and Willmore would now return to Earth along with astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov after the four-member Crew-10 mission reaches the space station. "The agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission with NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Suni Williams, Butch Wilmore, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov will return to Earth following the arrival of Crew-10 to the orbital laboratory," NASA said in a statement. "NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 now is targeting no earlier than late March 2025 to launch four crew members to the International Space Station," the agency stated. They further added, "Known as a handover period, it allows Crew-9 to share any lessons learned with the newly arrived crew and support a better transition for ongoing science and maintenance at the complex." Sunita Williams and her condition in space William, 58, and Wilmore, 61, have been stuck in space for more than six months now. They got to the ISS on the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. Also read: ‘Another day, another sleigh’: Sunita Williams and fellow ISS crew prepare to celebrate Christmas in space Initially, the craft was meant to depart for home on June 26. However, it faced several glitches, including leaks in the propulsion system and some of its thrusters shutting down, before reaching the ISS. Despite making several attempts, NASA and Boeing could not trust it to bring the astronauts back safely to Earth. Why was it delayed? The agency said the launch was delayed to give teams time to complete processing on a new Dragon spacecraft for the mission. "The new spacecraft is set to arrive at the company’s processing facility in Florida in early January." Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Programme, said, "Fabrication, assembly, testing, and final integration of a new spacecraft is a painstaking endeavour that requires great attention to detail. We appreciate the hard work by the SpaceX team to expand the Dragon fleet in support of our missions and the flexibility of the station program and expedition crews as we work together to complete the new capsule’s readiness for flight.” Watch | Sunita Williams' Return Delayed: NASA Announces Extended ISS Stay for Stranded Astronauts × After careful consideration, the team has reached a decision that launching Crew-10 in late March would be the best option for meeting NASA's requirements and achieving space station objectives for 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

Sunita Williams's return further delayed until March 2025. Here's why

Washington, United States
NASA on Wednesday (Dec 18) announced that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck in space for more than 180 days now, will now stay on the International Space Station (ISS) at least till March 2025. 
Their return has been delayed many times now. Previously, they were scheduled to fly back in February 2025.
However, the agency now said that Williams and Willmore would now return to Earth along with astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov after the four-member Crew-10 mission reaches the space station.
"The agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission with NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Suni Williams, Butch Wilmore, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov will return to Earth following the arrival of Crew-10 to the orbital laboratory," NASA said in a statement. 
"NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 now is targeting no earlier than late March 2025 to launch four crew members to the International Space Station," the agency stated. 
They further added, "Known as a handover period, it allows Crew-9 to share any lessons learned with the newly arrived crew and support a better transition for ongoing science and maintenance at the complex."
<h2>Sunita Williams and her condition in space</h2>
William, 58, and Wilmore, 61, have been stuck in space for more than six months now. They got to the ISS on the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/another-day-another-sleigh-sunita-williams-and-fellow-iss-crew-prepare-to-celebrate-christmas-in-space-784705">Also read: ‘Another day, another sleigh’: Sunita Williams and fellow ISS crew prepare to celebrate Christmas in space</a>
Initially, the craft was meant to depart for home on June 26. However, it faced several glitches, including leaks in the propulsion system and some of its thrusters shutting down, before reaching the ISS. 
Despite making several attempts, NASA and Boeing could not trust it to bring the astronauts back safely to Earth. 
<h2>Why was it delayed?</h2>
The agency said the launch was delayed to give teams time to complete processing on a new Dragon spacecraft for the mission. "The new spacecraft is set to arrive at the company’s processing facility in Florida in early January."
Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Programme, said, "Fabrication, assembly, testing, and final integration of a new spacecraft is a painstaking endeavour that requires great attention to detail. We appreciate the hard work by the SpaceX team to expand the Dragon fleet in support of our missions and the flexibility of the station program and expedition crews as we work together to complete the new capsule’s readiness for flight.”
Watch | Sunita Williams' Return Delayed: NASA Announces Extended ISS Stay for Stranded Astronauts
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After careful consideration, the team has reached a decision that launching Crew-10 in late March would be the best option for meeting NASA's requirements and achieving space station objectives for 2025. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Their return has been delayed many times now. Previously, they were scheduled to fly back in February 2025. 



Washington, United States NASA on Wednesday (Dec 18) announced that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck in space for more than 180 days now, will now stay on the International Space Station (ISS) at least till March 2025. Their return has been delayed many times now. Previously, they were scheduled to fly back in February 2025. However, the agency now said that Williams and Willmore would now return to Earth along with astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov after the four-member Crew-10 mission reaches the space station. "The agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission with NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Suni Williams, Butch Wilmore, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov will return to Earth following the arrival of Crew-10 to the orbital laboratory," NASA said in a statement. "NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 now is targeting no earlier than late March 2025 to launch four crew members to the International Space Station," the agency stated. They further added, "Known as a handover period, it allows Crew-9 to share any lessons learned with the newly arrived crew and support a better transition for ongoing science and maintenance at the complex." Sunita Williams and her condition in space William, 58, and Wilmore, 61, have been stuck in space for more than six months now. They got to the ISS on the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. Also read: ‘Another day, another sleigh’: Sunita Williams and fellow ISS crew prepare to celebrate Christmas in space Initially, the craft was meant to depart for home on June 26. However, it faced several glitches, including leaks in the propulsion system and some of its thrusters shutting down, before reaching the ISS. Despite making several attempts, NASA and Boeing could not trust it to bring the astronauts back safely to Earth. Why was it delayed? The agency said the launch was delayed to give teams time to complete processing on a new Dragon spacecraft for the mission. "The new spacecraft is set to arrive at the company’s processing facility in Florida in early January." Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Programme, said, "Fabrication, assembly, testing, and final integration of a new spacecraft is a painstaking endeavour that requires great attention to detail. We appreciate the hard work by the SpaceX team to expand the Dragon fleet in support of our missions and the flexibility of the station program and expedition crews as we work together to complete the new capsule’s readiness for flight.” Watch | Sunita Williams' Return Delayed: NASA Announces Extended ISS Stay for Stranded Astronauts × After careful consideration, the team has reached a decision that launching Crew-10 in late March would be the best option for meeting NASA's requirements and achieving space station objectives for 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

Researchers from the United States, France and Germany have discovered that Earth’s natural satellite may have been formed as early as 4.53 billion years ago. This estimate derived from the new analysis is hundreds of millions of years earlier than previous ones.

This discovery may help in answering other questions about the Moon like why it has less metal compared to Earth and why it has fewer big impact basins than expected. The research can also provide better insights into the evolution and history of our own planet, according to the team led by geologist Francis Nimmo of the University of California Santa Cruz.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/skygazers-get-a-rare-cosmic-treat-as-cold-moon-shines-in-sky-after-19-years-784317">Skygazers get a rare cosmic treat as 'Cold Moon' shines after 19 years</a>

Earlier, it was believed that the Moon was formed after a large object, roughly the size of Mars, struck the Earth, while it was still in its formation stages about 4.35 billion years ago. However, the new research suggests it was formed much earlier and then experienced a dramatic “re-melting” at the time which was assumed for its creation.

According to the research, this re-melting event occurred due to the Earth’s and Moon’s gravitational pull tugging at each other, called a tidal force, which caused it to stretch and squish and warm the Moon drastically due to friction.

The study also explains the existence of zircon crystals, a mineral found on lunar rocks during the Apollo mission. The age of this mineral can be determined by observing the ratio&nbsp;of uranium to lead.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/saturns-rings-may-have-existed-since-the-solar-system-was-created-study-784694">Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study</a>

The zircon crystals have been dated significantly older than the age of the Moon. While one crystal has been measured to be 4.46 billion years old, another was calculated to have formed 4.51 billion years ago.

The melting process altered the lunar surface, causing the metals to sink below and hiding the Moon’s real age, according to the study that was published in the journal Nature. This would imply that our planet has been with its natural satellite for almost its entire lifespan as it is estimated to have formed 4.54 billion years ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers from the United States, France and Germany have discovered that Earth’s natural satellite may have been formed as early as 4.53 billion years ago. This estimate derived from the new analysis is hundreds of millions of years earlier than previous ones.

Researchers from the United States, France and Germany have discovered that Earth’s natural satellite may have been formed as early as 4.53 billion years ago. This estimate derived from the new analysis is hundreds of millions of years earlier than previous ones. This discovery may help in answering other questions about the Moon like why it has less metal compared to Earth and why it has fewer big impact basins than expected. The research can also provide better insights into the evolution and history of our own planet, according to the team led by geologist Francis Nimmo of the University of California Santa Cruz. Also read | Skygazers get a rare cosmic treat as 'Cold Moon' shines after 19 years Earlier, it was believed that the Moon was formed after a large object, roughly the size of Mars, struck the Earth, while it was still in its formation stages about 4.35 billion years ago. However, the new research suggests it was formed much earlier and then experienced a dramatic “re-melting” at the time which was assumed for its creation. According to the research, this re-melting event occurred due to the Earth’s and Moon’s gravitational pull tugging at each other, called a tidal force, which caused it to stretch and squish and warm the Moon drastically due to friction. The study also explains the existence of zircon crystals, a mineral found on lunar rocks during the Apollo mission. The age of this mineral can be determined by observing the ratio of uranium to lead. Also read | Saturn's rings may have existed since the Solar System was created: Study The zircon crystals have been dated significantly older than the age of the Moon. While one crystal has been measured to be 4.46 billion years old, another was calculated to have formed 4.51 billion years ago. The melting process altered the lunar surface, causing the metals to sink below and hiding the Moon’s real age, according to the study that was published in the journal Nature. This would imply that our planet has been with its natural satellite for almost its entire lifespan as it is estimated to have formed 4.54 billion years ago. (With inputs from agencies)

New Delhi, India
Scientists have warned that a devastating solar superflare is overdue on Earth, which can be more powerful than billions of atomic bombs when it hits the planet.
The most accurate study done so far has explained that these superflares can wipe out satellites and power grids.
As per the researchers, these disastrous events happen to occur once every 100 years and not once every 1,000 to 10,000 as was believed earlier.
The study has hinted that Earth is likely to be hit by a solar flare which will release at least one octillion joules of energy.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-firm-space-ones-kairos-rocket-launch-delayed-for-third-time-amid-weather-woes-784071">Japanese firm Space One's Kairos rocket launch delayed for third time amid weather woes</a>
This can be 100 times stronger than the 1859 Carrington Event in which the telegraph network collapsed and the sheets of paper lying in offices were also ignited.
If Earth is hit by such a powerful event, it can be more devastating because of the world's increased dependence on satellite communication networks.
The superflare would impact in such a way that the power grids would be overloaded, satellites would be knocked out of orbit, global communication networks would be silenced and aircraft would be grounded around the world.
The Max Planck Institute's co-author Dr Natalie Krivova said, "The new data are a stark reminder that even the most extreme solar events are part of the sun's natural repertoire."
<h2>Scientists predict how often superflares occur</h2>
Since modern observation records of the radiation of the sun have been available since the space age began, it has been difficult to predict how often these superflares occur.
An international team of researchers, headed by the Max Planck Institute (MPI), are trying to find answers in the stars.
Watch: Solar Power Producers Signed Up For An OPEC-style Agreement 
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/13/1312_wion_OPEC_930AM-1734070815-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1312_wion_OPEC_930AM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=244&tags=market,trade,solar power,oil,WION" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
Director of the MPI and co-author of the study Dr Sami Solanki said, "We cannot observe the sun over thousands of years. Instead, however, we can monitor the behaviour of thousands of stars very similar to the sun over short periods of time."
The data was recorded by scientists from 56,450 Earth-like stars which were observed by NASA's Kepler telescope between 2009 and 2014.
In the observation, the researchers saw 2,889 superflares on 2,527 observed stars and concluded that a superflare occurs roughly once every century.
MPS first author Dr Valeriy Vasilyev said, "We were very surprised that sun-like stars are prone to such frequent superflares." 
(With inputs from agencies)

The researchers have estimated that the eruption of solar flares occurs once every 100 years 



New Delhi, India Scientists have warned that a devastating solar superflare is overdue on Earth, which can be more powerful than billions of atomic bombs when it hits the planet. The most accurate study done so far has explained that these superflares can wipe out satellites and power grids. As per the researchers, these disastrous events happen to occur once every 100 years and not once every 1,000 to 10,000 as was believed earlier. The study has hinted that Earth is likely to be hit by a solar flare which will release at least one octillion joules of energy. Also Read: Japanese firm Space One's Kairos rocket launch delayed for third time amid weather woes This can be 100 times stronger than the 1859 Carrington Event in which the telegraph network collapsed and the sheets of paper lying in offices were also ignited. If Earth is hit by such a powerful event, it can be more devastating because of the world's increased dependence on satellite communication networks. The superflare would impact in such a way that the power grids would be overloaded, satellites would be knocked out of orbit, global communication networks would be silenced and aircraft would be grounded around the world. The Max Planck Institute's co-author Dr Natalie Krivova said, "The new data are a stark reminder that even the most extreme solar events are part of the sun's natural repertoire." Scientists predict how often superflares occur Since modern observation records of the radiation of the sun have been available since the space age began, it has been difficult to predict how often these superflares occur. An international team of researchers, headed by the Max Planck Institute (MPI), are trying to find answers in the stars. Watch: Solar Power Producers Signed Up For An OPEC-style Agreement Director of the MPI and co-author of the study Dr Sami Solanki said, "We cannot observe the sun over thousands of years. Instead, however, we can monitor the behaviour of thousands of stars very similar to the sun over short periods of time." The data was recorded by scientists from 56,450 Earth-like stars which were observed by NASA's Kepler telescope between 2009 and 2014. In the observation, the researchers saw 2,889 superflares on 2,527 observed stars and concluded that a superflare occurs roughly once every century. MPS first author Dr Valeriy Vasilyev said, "We were very surprised that sun-like stars are prone to such frequent superflares." (With inputs from agencies)

Earth to be hit by devastating solar flare which will be equal to billions of atomic bombs, warn scientists

Scientists have warned that a devastating solar superflare is overdue on Earth, which can be more powerful than billions of atomic bombs when it hits the planet.

The most accurate study done so far has explained that these superflares can wipe out satellites and power grids.

As per the researchers, these disastrous events happen to occur once every 100 years and not once every 1,000 to 10,000 as was believed earlier.

The study has hinted that Earth is likely to be hit by a solar flare which will release at least one octillion joules of energy.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-firm-space-ones-kairos-rocket-launch-delayed-for-third-time-amid-weather-woes-784071">Japanese firm Space One's Kairos rocket launch delayed for third time amid weather woes</a>

This can be 100 times stronger than the 1859 Carrington Event in which the telegraph network collapsed and the sheets of paper lying in offices were also ignited.

If Earth is hit by such a powerful event, it can be more devastating because of the world's increased dependence on satellite communication networks.

The superflare would impact in such a way that the power grids would be overloaded, satellites would be knocked out of orbit, global communication networks would be silenced and aircraft would be grounded around the world.

The Max Planck Institute's co-author Dr Natalie Krivova said, "The new data are a stark reminder that even the most extreme solar events are part of the sun's natural repertoire."

<h2>Scientists predict how often superflares occur</h2>

Since modern observation records of the radiation of the sun have been available since the space age began, it has been difficult to predict how often these superflares occur.

An international team of researchers, headed by the Max Planck Institute (MPI), are trying to find answers in the stars.

Watch:&nbsp;Solar Power Producers Signed Up For An OPEC-style Agreement&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/solar-power-producers-signed-up-for-an-opec-style-agreement-world-business-watch-wion-783649/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Director of the MPI and co-author of the study Dr Sami Solanki said, "We cannot observe the sun over thousands of years. Instead, however, we can monitor the behaviour of thousands of stars very similar to the sun over short periods of time."

The data was recorded by scientists from 56,450 Earth-like stars which were observed by NASA's Kepler telescope between 2009 and 2014.

In the observation, the researchers saw 2,889 superflares on 2,527 observed stars and concluded that a superflare occurs roughly once every century.

MPS first author Dr Valeriy Vasilyev said, "We were very surprised that sun-like stars are prone to such frequent superflares."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists have warned that a devastating solar superflare is overdue on Earth, which can be more powerful than billions of atomic bombs when it hits the planet.

Scientists have warned that a devastating solar superflare is overdue on Earth, which can be more powerful than billions of atomic bombs when it hits the planet. The most accurate study done so far has explained that these superflares can wipe out satellites and power grids. As per the researchers, these disastrous events happen to occur once every 100 years and not once every 1,000 to 10,000 as was believed earlier. The study has hinted that Earth is likely to be hit by a solar flare which will release at least one octillion joules of energy. Also Read: Japanese firm Space One's Kairos rocket launch delayed for third time amid weather woes This can be 100 times stronger than the 1859 Carrington Event in which the telegraph network collapsed and the sheets of paper lying in offices were also ignited. If Earth is hit by such a powerful event, it can be more devastating because of the world's increased dependence on satellite communication networks. The superflare would impact in such a way that the power grids would be overloaded, satellites would be knocked out of orbit, global communication networks would be silenced and aircraft would be grounded around the world. The Max Planck Institute's co-author Dr Natalie Krivova said, "The new data are a stark reminder that even the most extreme solar events are part of the sun's natural repertoire." Scientists predict how often superflares occur Since modern observation records of the radiation of the sun have been available since the space age began, it has been difficult to predict how often these superflares occur. An international team of researchers, headed by the Max Planck Institute (MPI), are trying to find answers in the stars. Watch: Solar Power Producers Signed Up For An OPEC-style Agreement Director of the MPI and co-author of the study Dr Sami Solanki said, "We cannot observe the sun over thousands of years. Instead, however, we can monitor the behaviour of thousands of stars very similar to the sun over short periods of time." The data was recorded by scientists from 56,450 Earth-like stars which were observed by NASA's Kepler telescope between 2009 and 2014. In the observation, the researchers saw 2,889 superflares on 2,527 observed stars and concluded that a superflare occurs roughly once every century. MPS first author Dr Valeriy Vasilyev said, "We were very surprised that sun-like stars are prone to such frequent superflares." (With inputs from agencies)

A unique astronomical event will take place on December 7 when Earth will align itself between Jupiter and the Sun.&nbsp;

Due to this alignment, the gas giant will remain visible all through the night and the skywatchers will get a rare chance to see the biggest planet of our solar system.

As per the experts, Jupiter will be 611 million kilometres or 380 million miles away from Earth at approximately 5:00 am (local time) on December 6.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/space-station-avoids-major-collision-with-space-junk-without-the-manoeuvre-777566">Space station avoids major collision with space junk. 'Without the manoeuvre...'</a>

This closeness between the two planets will guarantee that Jupiter will shine its brightest and give skywatchers the best viewing opportunity to take a look at its atmospheric belts and Galilean moons.

<h2>Here's how you can spot Jupiter</h2>

On December 7, the sky-gazers should try to look east-northeast close to the constellation Taurus. Jupiter is expected to rise at sunset and set at sunrise.&nbsp;

Using a telescope, people can look at the planet's intricate cloud bands and spot its four largest moons which are Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto.

During this celestial alignment, the sunlight will get reflected from Jupiter and take nearly 34 minutes to reach Earth. It will even be visible to the stargazers across India.&nbsp;

As per Forbes, the faster orbit of Earth will momentarily place it between the Sun and Jupiter.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/coming-soon-click-a-space-selfie-with-earth-photobombing-you-781034">Coming soon! Click a space selfie with Earth photobombing you</a>

Eventually, 100 per cent of the disc of Jupiter will be visible. This means Jupiter will be in opposition to the Earth and will become extremely bright.&nbsp;

<h2>Here's what is 'full' Jupiter</h2>

A full Jupiter means the planet's opposition to the Earth because the Sun fully illuminates its sun-facing side.&nbsp;

From Earth, people can see the sun-facing side of Jupiter and much similar to a full moon, 50 per cent of the moon remains always lit by the Sun. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A unique astronomical event will take place on December 7 when Earth will align itself between Jupiter and the Sun. Due to this alignment, the gas giant will remain visible all through the night and the skywatchers will get a rare chance to see the biggest planet of our solar system.

A unique astronomical event will take place on December 7 when Earth will align itself between Jupiter and the Sun. Due to this alignment, the gas giant will remain visible all through the night and the skywatchers will get a rare chance to see the biggest planet of our solar system. As per the experts, Jupiter will be 611 million kilometres or 380 million miles away from Earth at approximately 5:00 am (local time) on December 6. Also Read: Space station avoids major collision with space junk. 'Without the manoeuvre...' This closeness between the two planets will guarantee that Jupiter will shine its brightest and give skywatchers the best viewing opportunity to take a look at its atmospheric belts and Galilean moons. Here's how you can spot Jupiter On December 7, the sky-gazers should try to look east-northeast close to the constellation Taurus. Jupiter is expected to rise at sunset and set at sunrise. Using a telescope, people can look at the planet's intricate cloud bands and spot its four largest moons which are Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto. During this celestial alignment, the sunlight will get reflected from Jupiter and take nearly 34 minutes to reach Earth. It will even be visible to the stargazers across India. As per Forbes, the faster orbit of Earth will momentarily place it between the Sun and Jupiter. Also Read: Coming soon! Click a space selfie with Earth photobombing you Eventually, 100 per cent of the disc of Jupiter will be visible. This means Jupiter will be in opposition to the Earth and will become extremely bright. Here's what is 'full' Jupiter A full Jupiter means the planet's opposition to the Earth because the Sun fully illuminates its sun-facing side. From Earth, people can see the sun-facing side of Jupiter and much similar to a full moon, 50 per cent of the moon remains always lit by the Sun. (With inputs from agencies)

Earth is set to align between Jupiter and Sun in rare astronomical event on Dec 7

Earth now officially has two moons after its gravity caught an asteroid. Our planet captured asteroid 2024 PT5 on Sunday, September 29, which has now become our mini-moon. However, do you know that this is not the first time Earth has had a mini-moon?

The asteroid was discovered on August 7 by the Asteroid Terrestrial-Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS). Carlos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos, researchers at Spain’s Universidad Complutense de Madrid, were the first to spot it and published their findings in Research Notes of the AAS.&nbsp;

These space rocks regularly travel around the sun like other asteroids. But when they come near Earth, sometimes the planet's gravity pulls them in. It is definitely a rare event, however, not the first.&nbsp;

<h2>Other mini-moons</h2>

The two astronomers say in their paper that our planet has had a mini-moon previously as well. The first such recorded event happened in 1981. A cosmic body, called 2022 NX1, was temporarily captured by Earth's gravity. The mini-moon returned in 2022. Both times, it stayed only for a short period of time. It will return to Earth in 2051.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-will-soon-have-two-moons-just-not-in-the-way-you-think-758421">Earth will soon have two moons, just not in the way you think</a>

Another short-lived mini-moon, as per the authors, was 1991 VG. It was captured for a short time in 1992 February during a flyby. Both of the above never completed a full revolution of Earth.

However, in 2006 we had a mini-moon that stayed with us for a full year. Asteroid 2006 RH120 remained gravitationally bound to Earth until July 2007 after getting caught in July 2006.&nbsp;

Another asteroid that stayed with us for many years was 2020 CD3. It remained in orbit for years and escaped early in May 2020.

<h2>Asteroid 2024 PT5</h2>

Our latest mini-moon is similar to the 2022 NX1. It will not complete a full orbit of Earth and will remain with us only for a few days before flying away on November 25. 2024 PT5 lives in the Arjuna asteroid belt. Space rocks living in this region follow orbits similar to Earth’s, which is about 93 million miles from the sun.

Some of the objects from the Arjuna asteroid belt can approach Earth at an extremely close range of around 2.8 million miles.&nbsp;

It is not possible to see the mini-moon since it is too small and dim. Amateur telescopes and binoculars are not going to be enough to see it. Our Moon is about 2,159 miles in diameter, while the new entrant is believed to be just 37 feet wide.

Earth now officially has two moons after its gravity caught an asteroid. Our planet captured asteroid 2024 PT5 on Sunday, September 29, which has now become our mini-moon.

Earth now officially has two moons after its gravity caught an asteroid. Our planet captured asteroid 2024 PT5 on Sunday, September 29, which has now become our mini-moon. However, do you know that this is not the first time Earth has had a mini-moon? The asteroid was discovered on August 7 by the Asteroid Terrestrial-Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS). Carlos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos, researchers at Spain’s Universidad Complutense de Madrid, were the first to spot it and published their findings in Research Notes of the AAS. These space rocks regularly travel around the sun like other asteroids. But when they come near Earth, sometimes the planet's gravity pulls them in. It is definitely a rare event, however, not the first. Other mini-moons The two astronomers say in their paper that our planet has had a mini-moon previously as well. The first such recorded event happened in 1981. A cosmic body, called 2022 NX1, was temporarily captured by Earth's gravity. The mini-moon returned in 2022. Both times, it stayed only for a short period of time. It will return to Earth in 2051. Also Read: Earth will soon have two moons, just not in the way you think Another short-lived mini-moon, as per the authors, was 1991 VG. It was captured for a short time in 1992 February during a flyby. Both of the above never completed a full revolution of Earth. However, in 2006 we had a mini-moon that stayed with us for a full year. Asteroid 2006 RH120 remained gravitationally bound to Earth until July 2007 after getting caught in July 2006. Another asteroid that stayed with us for many years was 2020 CD3. It remained in orbit for years and escaped early in May 2020. Asteroid 2024 PT5 Our latest mini-moon is similar to the 2022 NX1. It will not complete a full orbit of Earth and will remain with us only for a few days before flying away on November 25. 2024 PT5 lives in the Arjuna asteroid belt. Space rocks living in this region follow orbits similar to Earth’s, which is about 93 million miles from the sun. Some of the objects from the Arjuna asteroid belt can approach Earth at an extremely close range of around 2.8 million miles. It is not possible to see the mini-moon since it is too small and dim. Amateur telescopes and binoculars are not going to be enough to see it. Our Moon is about 2,159 miles in diameter, while the new entrant is believed to be just 37 feet wide.

Earth has had two moons in the past. One of the mini-moons has visited twice and will return in 27 years

Scientists recently discovered the fossilised remains of a giant “terror bird" in South America’s Tatacoa Desert which has shifted focus on the formidable predator from the Phorusrhacid family.

In the new study, it was found that these giant meat-eating Phorusrhacid birds, also known as “terror birds”, were among the most impressive predators who ever roamed on the Earth.

As per the researchers, these flightless birds existed from 60 million to 2 million years ago in South America.

These birds were up to 10 feet tall and had massive and hooked beaks. The legs were really strong and good for running. The environment was dominated by terror birds as they hunted small and mid-sized animals.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-historic-first-highly-endangered-great-indian-bustard-is-born-by-artificial-insemination-in-rajasthan-774628">In a historic first, baby of highly endangered Great Indian Bustard born by artificial insemination</a>

The birds were able to sprint at high speeds and chase their prey while using their powerful beaks to deliver lethal strikes.&nbsp;

According to some scientists, the birds sometimes also hunted in packs. They ruled for millions of years and filled the gaps which were left by the extinction of the dinosaurs.&nbsp;

<h2>Here's what a 'leg bone' tells about 'terror birds'</h2>

The leg bone, which was a relic from the Miocene epoch that was dating back around 12 million years, held the secrets of these ancient birds.&nbsp;

Associate professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Dr Siobhan Cooke said that the bone's size indicated that this terror bird may be the largest known ancient bird among its species. It was said that the bird was approximately 5 to 20 per cent larger in comparison to Phorusrhacids.

In the bone, the researchers found deep pits, which are peculiar to Phorusrhacids and teeth marks which belonged to a prehistoric caiman, Purussaurus.

Watch:&nbsp;Canada Reports First Case Of Bird Flu In A Human

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canada-reports-first-case-of-bird-flu-in-a-human-775295/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“We suspect that the terror bird would have died as a result of its injuries given the size of crocodilians 12 million years ago,” explained Dr Cooke.

According to researchers, the modern long-legged bird native to South America, seriema, was a distant relative of Phorusrhacids.

“It’s a different kind of ecosystem than we see today or in other parts of the world during a period before South and North America were connected,” said Dr Cooke.

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists recently discovered the fossilised remains of a giant “terror bird" in South America’s Tatacoa Desert which has shifted focus on the formidable predator from the Phorusrhacid family.

Scientists recently discovered the fossilised remains of a giant “terror bird" in South America’s Tatacoa Desert which has shifted focus on the formidable predator from the Phorusrhacid family. In the new study, it was found that these giant meat-eating Phorusrhacid birds, also known as “terror birds”, were among the most impressive predators who ever roamed on the Earth. As per the researchers, these flightless birds existed from 60 million to 2 million years ago in South America. These birds were up to 10 feet tall and had massive and hooked beaks. The legs were really strong and good for running. The environment was dominated by terror birds as they hunted small and mid-sized animals. Also Read: In a historic first, baby of highly endangered Great Indian Bustard born by artificial insemination The birds were able to sprint at high speeds and chase their prey while using their powerful beaks to deliver lethal strikes. According to some scientists, the birds sometimes also hunted in packs. They ruled for millions of years and filled the gaps which were left by the extinction of the dinosaurs. Here's what a 'leg bone' tells about 'terror birds' The leg bone, which was a relic from the Miocene epoch that was dating back around 12 million years, held the secrets of these ancient birds. Associate professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Dr Siobhan Cooke said that the bone's size indicated that this terror bird may be the largest known ancient bird among its species. It was said that the bird was approximately 5 to 20 per cent larger in comparison to Phorusrhacids. In the bone, the researchers found deep pits, which are peculiar to Phorusrhacids and teeth marks which belonged to a prehistoric caiman, Purussaurus. Watch: Canada Reports First Case Of Bird Flu In A Human “We suspect that the terror bird would have died as a result of its injuries given the size of crocodilians 12 million years ago,” explained Dr Cooke. According to researchers, the modern long-legged bird native to South America, seriema, was a distant relative of Phorusrhacids. “It’s a different kind of ecosystem than we see today or in other parts of the world during a period before South and North America were connected,” said Dr Cooke. (With inputs from agencies)

Earth hosted 'terror birds' who ate meat and ruled the planet ages ago

An international team of scientists discovered evidence of a major extinction event after the period of rain called the Carnian Pluvial Episode (CPE), which lasted for one million years.&nbsp;

As per the researchers, this extinction event led to the dinosaurs emerging as the dominant creatures on Earth.

Professor Mike Benton from the&nbsp;University of Bristol and Dr Jacopo Dal Corso from the&nbsp;China University of Geosciences&nbsp;at Wuhan carried out this research.&nbsp;

<h2>What was Carnian Pluvial Episode?</h2>

In the&nbsp;Late Triassic period, the continents were joined with each other in a supercontinent called Pangea which was surrounded by the Panthalassa Ocean.&nbsp;

Pangea's interior was dry and arid and rainfall occurred close to the coastal regions.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/first-ever-dinosaur-fossil-unearthed-in-hong-kong-report-770455">First-ever dinosaur fossil unearthed in Hong Kong: Report</a>

A dramatic turn came in the dry spell when geologists Schlager and Schollnberger found a layer of dark grey rock in the Northern Limestone Alps of Australia in the 1970s.&nbsp;

The layer hinted at wet conditions getting sandwiched between arid periods which suggested the occurrence of the Carnian Pluvial Episode.

<h2>What led to the shift towards a wetter climate?</h2>

The massive volcanic eruptions which occurred in Wrangellia Province, an area which included parts of Alaska and British Columbia, are believed to have led to climate change.&nbsp;

Huge amounts of&nbsp;carbon dioxide were released in these eruptions&nbsp;into the atmosphere.

“The eruptions peaked in the Carnian,” said Dr&nbsp;Jacopo Dal Corso. “They were so huge, they pumped vast amounts of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, leading to spikes of global warming," he added.

Watch:&nbsp;Fossilised Dinosaurs Emerging As A New Asset Class?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fossilised-dinosaurs-emerging-as-a-new-asset-class-769684/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Because of the surge in&nbsp;greenhouse gases, the global temperatures increased by five&nbsp;to seven&nbsp;degrees Fahrenheit, which then increased evaporation from the seas and led to increased rainfall across the Earth.&nbsp;

There was significant biodiversity loss because of this climate chaos. A lot of species failed to adapt to the environmental changes which led to mass extinction.&nbsp;

Some animals disappeared and new ones emerged in the ecosystem.&nbsp;

“The new floras probably provided slim pickings for the surviving&nbsp;herbivorous reptiles,” said Professor Mike Benton.

“We now know that dinosaurs originated some 20 million years before this event, but they remained quite rare and unimportant until the Carnian Pluvial Episode hit. It was the sudden arid conditions after the humid episode that gave dinosaurs their chance," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

An international team of scientists discovered evidence of a major extinction event after the period of rain called the Carnian Pluvial Episode (CPE), which lasted for one million years.

An international team of scientists discovered evidence of a major extinction event after the period of rain called the Carnian Pluvial Episode (CPE), which lasted for one million years. As per the researchers, this extinction event led to the dinosaurs emerging as the dominant creatures on Earth. Professor Mike Benton from the University of Bristol and Dr Jacopo Dal Corso from the China University of Geosciences at Wuhan carried out this research. What was Carnian Pluvial Episode? In the Late Triassic period, the continents were joined with each other in a supercontinent called Pangea which was surrounded by the Panthalassa Ocean. Pangea's interior was dry and arid and rainfall occurred close to the coastal regions. Also Read: First-ever dinosaur fossil unearthed in Hong Kong: Report A dramatic turn came in the dry spell when geologists Schlager and Schollnberger found a layer of dark grey rock in the Northern Limestone Alps of Australia in the 1970s. The layer hinted at wet conditions getting sandwiched between arid periods which suggested the occurrence of the Carnian Pluvial Episode. What led to the shift towards a wetter climate? The massive volcanic eruptions which occurred in Wrangellia Province, an area which included parts of Alaska and British Columbia, are believed to have led to climate change. Huge amounts of carbon dioxide were released in these eruptions into the atmosphere. “The eruptions peaked in the Carnian,” said Dr Jacopo Dal Corso. “They were so huge, they pumped vast amounts of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, leading to spikes of global warming," he added. Watch: Fossilised Dinosaurs Emerging As A New Asset Class? Because of the surge in greenhouse gases, the global temperatures increased by five to seven degrees Fahrenheit, which then increased evaporation from the seas and led to increased rainfall across the Earth. There was significant biodiversity loss because of this climate chaos. A lot of species failed to adapt to the environmental changes which led to mass extinction. Some animals disappeared and new ones emerged in the ecosystem. “The new floras probably provided slim pickings for the surviving herbivorous reptiles,” said Professor Mike Benton. “We now know that dinosaurs originated some 20 million years before this event, but they remained quite rare and unimportant until the Carnian Pluvial Episode hit. It was the sudden arid conditions after the humid episode that gave dinosaurs their chance," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Dinosaurs took over Earth after one million years of continuous rain on planet

A new study has revealed how a massive meteorite strike over 3 billion years ago may have helped life on Earth. Watch this report for more details!

Ancient Meteorite Strike Created Ideal Conditions For Life: Study

Scientists have been able to trace the origin of more than 70 per cent of the meteorites which have hit Earth.&nbsp;

Nearly 466 million years ago, a massive swarm of asteroids violently bombarded Earth which was believed to have occurred because a large asteroid had broken into smaller fragments as it travelled in orbit between Mars and Jupiter.&nbsp;

The Massalia asteroid family is a group of asteroids which have similar orbits and is likely to be the source of this massive infall.

This asteroid family dominates around 40 per cent of all meteorites which have fallen to Earth and two other families of space rocks have been named as the source of many of these Earth-bound meteorites.

In the new research, three asteroid families have been held responsible for more than 70 per cent of meteorites. These three families are Karin, Koronis and Massalia. They have been formed because of the collisions in the main asteroid belt.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-tracks-three-huge-asteroids-racing-towards-earth-will-they-become-an-immediate-threat-767071">NASA tracks three huge asteroids racing towards Earth. Will they become an immediate threat?</a>

These families were formed 5.8 million years ago, 7.5 million years ago, and 40 million years ago respectively.&nbsp;

“The most recent collisional events that happened in the asteroid belt are completely dominating the flux of material to our planet,” said Michael Marsset, lead author and a research fellow at the European Southern Observatory, while speaking to Gizmodo.&nbsp;

“You might think that the meteorite flux should be a blend of all the compositional classes we observe in the asteroid belt but it’s not at all the case, it’s dominated by three asteroids that fragmented recently," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Collisional cascade inside asteroid families still active, hints researcher</h2>

“Such major collisions do not happen every day—every 30 to 50 million years sounds right as a frequency, although there were three major collisions over the past 8 million years or so,” said Pierre Vernazza, a researcher at the French National Centre for Scientific Research while speaking to Gizmodo.

“The collisional cascade inside these families is still active. That’s why they’re dominating this production of meteorites," Marsset said.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Scientists Propose Nuclear Solution To Save Earth From Asteroid Armageddon

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-propose-nuclear-solution-to-save-earth-from-asteroid-armageddon-761817/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meteorites which have fallen on Earth carry the mysteries of the solar system.&nbsp;

“The meteorites have preserved in their present-day composition a lot of information about our early protoplanetary disk,” Marsset explained.&nbsp;

"By linking these meteorites that we can study in fine detail in our laboratory to specific families in the asteroid belt, we can reconstruct the original compositional gradient and thermal gradient of our protoplanetary disk. This ultimately is the goal of this kind of study. This is what we want to learn," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists have been able to trace the origin of more than 70 per cent of the meteorites which have hit Earth. Nearly 466 million years ago, a massive swarm of asteroids violently bombarded Earth which was believed to have occurred because a large asteroid had broken into smaller fragments as it travelled in orbit between Mars and Jupiter.

Scientists have been able to trace the origin of more than 70 per cent of the meteorites which have hit Earth. Nearly 466 million years ago, a massive swarm of asteroids violently bombarded Earth which was believed to have occurred because a large asteroid had broken into smaller fragments as it travelled in orbit between Mars and Jupiter. The Massalia asteroid family is a group of asteroids which have similar orbits and is likely to be the source of this massive infall. This asteroid family dominates around 40 per cent of all meteorites which have fallen to Earth and two other families of space rocks have been named as the source of many of these Earth-bound meteorites. In the new research, three asteroid families have been held responsible for more than 70 per cent of meteorites. These three families are Karin, Koronis and Massalia. They have been formed because of the collisions in the main asteroid belt. Also Read: NASA tracks three huge asteroids racing towards Earth. Will they become an immediate threat? These families were formed 5.8 million years ago, 7.5 million years ago, and 40 million years ago respectively. “The most recent collisional events that happened in the asteroid belt are completely dominating the flux of material to our planet,” said Michael Marsset, lead author and a research fellow at the European Southern Observatory, while speaking to Gizmodo. “You might think that the meteorite flux should be a blend of all the compositional classes we observe in the asteroid belt but it’s not at all the case, it’s dominated by three asteroids that fragmented recently," he added. Collisional cascade inside asteroid families still active, hints researcher “Such major collisions do not happen every day—every 30 to 50 million years sounds right as a frequency, although there were three major collisions over the past 8 million years or so,” said Pierre Vernazza, a researcher at the French National Centre for Scientific Research while speaking to Gizmodo. “The collisional cascade inside these families is still active. That’s why they’re dominating this production of meteorites," Marsset said. Watch: Scientists Propose Nuclear Solution To Save Earth From Asteroid Armageddon Meteorites which have fallen on Earth carry the mysteries of the solar system. “The meteorites have preserved in their present-day composition a lot of information about our early protoplanetary disk,” Marsset explained. "By linking these meteorites that we can study in fine detail in our laboratory to specific families in the asteroid belt, we can reconstruct the original compositional gradient and thermal gradient of our protoplanetary disk. This ultimately is the goal of this kind of study. This is what we want to learn," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists have found the origin of majority of meteorites that hit Earth. It is...

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