<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidf7peVO5ti6c9" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Scientists have found a new mega predator, a Jurassic giant who topped the food chain for 80 million years.</p>

<p>According to a study published in&nbsp;<em>Scientific Reports</em>, Lorrainosaurus had a 4.3-foot-long jaw and torpedo-shaped body. It belonged to the clade of pliosaurs called Thalassophonea or sea murderers, which existed 170 million years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers first found the sea monster's fossils in 1983. However, the new study, published on Oct 16, re-analyses the remains of the predator. The study's authors told Live Science it belonged to a previously unknown species, representing the oldest "mega predatory" pliosaur recorded.</p>

<p>Daniel Madzia, the study's co-author and a palaeontologist with the Institute of Paleobiology at the Polish Academy of Sciences, said, "Pliosaurids were the rulers of the Mesozoic seas. We are at the very beginning of a fascinating evolutionary history that we don't understand yet."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-canister-containing-asteroid-samples-is-giving-nasa-a-hard-time-heres-why-650620">A canister containing asteroid samples is giving NASA a hard time. Here's why</a></p>

<p>The research team excavated the fossils from the former region of Lorraine in northeastern France. A study from 1994,&nbsp;<em>published in Bulletin des Académie et Société Lorraine des Sciences&nbsp;</em>and written by Pascal Godefroit, assigned the species to a genus of pliosaurs called Simolestes and called it S. keileni.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the&nbsp;new study found striking differences between S. keileni and other Simolestes, like broader splenials (bones in the lower jaw).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, the sea monster's mandible (the skull's most prominent and vital bone) was at least a foot longer than other Simolestes species.</p>

<p>Lorrainosaurus dined on sharks, sea turtles, and other plesiosaurs. "It ate whatever it wanted to eat. It was one of the largest marine predators of its time," Madzia said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="www.wionews.com/science/giant-solar-storm-to-hit-earth-on-oct-24-heres-how-to-protect-yourself-650597">Giant solar storm to hit Earth on Oct 24. Here's how to protect yourself</a></p>

<p>The research team created the genus Lorrainosaurus to give the creature its place on the pliosaur evolutionary tree. L. keileni's re-study pushed back the rise of massive predatory pliosaurs by up to five million years, said Madzia.</p>

<p>It might not be a significant number in geological timescales. But it implies they existed right after the Jurassic food chain pivoted around 175 million years ago. It saw the plunge in the population of apex predators, like dolphin-like ichthyosaurs, and the rise of pliosaurs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The average length of an L. keileni was over 20 feet. However, the sea murderers could grow up to 50 feet long.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Scientists have found a new mega predator, a Jurassic giant who topped the food chain for 80 million years. According to a study published in Scientific Reports, Lorrainosaurus had a 4.

Scientists have found a new mega predator, a Jurassic giant who topped the food chain for 80 million years. According to a study published in Scientific Reports, Lorrainosaurus had a 4.3-foot-long jaw and torpedo-shaped body. It belonged to the clade of pliosaurs called Thalassophonea or sea murderers, which existed 170 million years ago. Researchers first found the sea monster's fossils in 1983. However, the new study, published on Oct 16, re-analyses the remains of the predator. The study's authors told Live Science it belonged to a previously unknown species, representing the oldest "mega predatory" pliosaur recorded. Daniel Madzia, the study's co-author and a palaeontologist with the Institute of Paleobiology at the Polish Academy of Sciences, said, "Pliosaurids were the rulers of the Mesozoic seas. We are at the very beginning of a fascinating evolutionary history that we don't understand yet." ALSO READ | A canister containing asteroid samples is giving NASA a hard time. Here's why The research team excavated the fossils from the former region of Lorraine in northeastern France. A study from 1994, published in Bulletin des Académie et Société Lorraine des Sciences and written by Pascal Godefroit, assigned the species to a genus of pliosaurs called Simolestes and called it S. keileni. However, the new study found striking differences between S. keileni and other Simolestes, like broader splenials (bones in the lower jaw). Moreover, the sea monster's mandible (the skull's most prominent and vital bone) was at least a foot longer than other Simolestes species. Lorrainosaurus dined on sharks, sea turtles, and other plesiosaurs. "It ate whatever it wanted to eat. It was one of the largest marine predators of its time," Madzia said. ALSO READ | Giant solar storm to hit Earth on Oct 24. Here's how to protect yourself The research team created the genus Lorrainosaurus to give the creature its place on the pliosaur evolutionary tree. L. keileni's re-study pushed back the rise of massive predatory pliosaurs by up to five million years, said Madzia. It might not be a significant number in geological timescales. But it implies they existed right after the Jurassic food chain pivoted around 175 million years ago. It saw the plunge in the population of apex predators, like dolphin-like ichthyosaurs, and the rise of pliosaurs. The average length of an L. keileni was over 20 feet. However, the sea murderers could grow up to 50 feet long. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

This mega sea predator lived 170 million years ago and gobbled up everything in sight, says study

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidLVzGgzT353qU" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>NASA's Johnson Space Center has been struggling to open a canister which kept an asteroid sample safe during its journey through space.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A month ago, pristine samples from an asteroid landed on Earth, enclosed within a tight capsule. However, the curation team for the OSIRIS-REx mission, the first US mission to collect a sample from asteroid Bennu, has been having trouble opening the TAGSAM (Touch-and-Go Sample Acquisition Mechanism) head.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team has been handling the TAGSAM head carefully using a specialised glovebox under the nitrogen flow to prevent contamination.</p>

<p>In a blog post,&nbsp;NASA said, "After multiple attempts at removal, the team discovered that they could not remove two of the 35 fasteners on the TAGSAM head with the current tools approved for use in the OSIRIS-REx glovebox. The team has been developing and implementing new approaches to extract the material inside the head while continuing to keep the sample safe and pristine."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="www.wionews.com/science/giant-solar-storm-to-hit-earth-on-oct-24-heres-how-to-protect-yourself-650597" target="_blank">Giant solar storm to hit Earth on Oct 24: Here's how to protect yourself</a></p>

<p>On the initial removal of the aluminium lid on the canister, the mission team found black dust and debris on the avionics deck. On 11 October 2023, NASA revealed the first sample collected from TAGSAM's outer covering. However, it mentioned that the team still hasn't opened the sample canister.</p>

<p>So far, the curation team has removed some of the material from inside the canisters using tweezers. "The tools for any proposed solution to extract the remaining material from the head must be able to fit inside the glovebox and not compromise the scientific integrity of the collection, and any procedures must be consistent with the clean room's standards," NASA wrote in its blog post.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sperm-caught-breaking-newtons-third-law-of-motion-know-how-650556" target="_blank">Human sperm is breaking one of Newton's laws of motion and the finding may be revolutionary</a></p>

<p>According to NASA, the asteroid samples collected exceed the mission's goal of gathering 60 grams of debris from the asteroid. The space agency has recovered 70.3 grams of rocks and dust. The research team has also found an abundance of carbon and water molecules in the samples.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Launched in September 2016, the OSIRIS-REx mission reached asteroid Bennu in December 2018. The spacecraft landed on Bennu and collected a sample from its surface in October 2020. Then, OSIRIS-REx dropped the asteroid sample in the Utah desert on 24 September 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although the mission has hit a temporary block, the initial findings from the asteroid sample look promising.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


NASA's Johnson Space Center has been struggling to open a canister which kept an asteroid sample safe during its journey through space. A month ago, pristine samples from an asteroid landed on Earth, enclosed within a tight capsule.

NASA's Johnson Space Center has been struggling to open a canister which kept an asteroid sample safe during its journey through space. A month ago, pristine samples from an asteroid landed on Earth, enclosed within a tight capsule. However, the curation team for the OSIRIS-REx mission, the first US mission to collect a sample from asteroid Bennu, has been having trouble opening the TAGSAM (Touch-and-Go Sample Acquisition Mechanism) head. The team has been handling the TAGSAM head carefully using a specialised glovebox under the nitrogen flow to prevent contamination. In a blog post, NASA said, "After multiple attempts at removal, the team discovered that they could not remove two of the 35 fasteners on the TAGSAM head with the current tools approved for use in the OSIRIS-REx glovebox. The team has been developing and implementing new approaches to extract the material inside the head while continuing to keep the sample safe and pristine." ALSO READ | Giant solar storm to hit Earth on Oct 24: Here's how to protect yourself On the initial removal of the aluminium lid on the canister, the mission team found black dust and debris on the avionics deck. On 11 October 2023, NASA revealed the first sample collected from TAGSAM's outer covering. However, it mentioned that the team still hasn't opened the sample canister. So far, the curation team has removed some of the material from inside the canisters using tweezers. "The tools for any proposed solution to extract the remaining material from the head must be able to fit inside the glovebox and not compromise the scientific integrity of the collection, and any procedures must be consistent with the clean room's standards," NASA wrote in its blog post. ALSO READ | Human sperm is breaking one of Newton's laws of motion and the finding may be revolutionary According to NASA, the asteroid samples collected exceed the mission's goal of gathering 60 grams of debris from the asteroid. The space agency has recovered 70.3 grams of rocks and dust. The research team has also found an abundance of carbon and water molecules in the samples. Launched in September 2016, the OSIRIS-REx mission reached asteroid Bennu in December 2018. The spacecraft landed on Bennu and collected a sample from its surface in October 2020. Then, OSIRIS-REx dropped the asteroid sample in the Utah desert on 24 September 2023. Although the mission has hit a temporary block, the initial findings from the asteroid sample look promising. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

A canister containing asteroid samples is giving NASA a hard time. Here's why

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidFFa66yhOpcce" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Astronomers have recorded a mysterious signal coming from far away in the distant universe that took eight billion years to reach us.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a paper published in&nbsp;<em>Science&nbsp;</em>journal, the distinctive signal represents 'fast radio bursts' or FRBs, a cosmic phenomenon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>FRBs are intense but brief pulses of radio waves. They are similar to the radiation emitted by our cell phones or microwaves. However, they originate from distant sources in the universe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>FRBs are extremely rare. Despite having the world's most sensitive radio, telescope and computing systems, it's challenging for astronomers to detect FRBs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ryan Shannon, an author of the latest study with Swinburne University of Technology, told Newsweek that FRBs "last only a small fraction of a second."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Most FRBs do not repeat, meaning if we want to understand what they are or where they come from, we need to be quick to respond and gather as much detail about them in the few thousandths of the second they pass by Earth," Shannon added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ancient-whispers-scientists-unveil-hidden-sounds-of-pando-the-worlds-largest-tree-649079">Ancient whispers: Scientists unveil hidden sounds of Pando, the 'world's largest tree'</a></p>

<p>In the latest study, the detected FRB, dubbed FRB 20220610A, is the most distinct and ancient recorded to date. The unusually high-energy FRB occurred around eight billion years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the authors, the latest discovery gives new data about the distant universe and questions the present models of FRB emission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Astronomers have only detected 50 FRBs to date. The low sample size makes it more challenging to study them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the source of FRBs remains a mystery. "While we still don't know what causes them, determining that will be a tall task. We are still able to use them as tools. FRBs have the signature of all of the gas they travel through. It makes them incredibly useful for probing the tenuous gas between galaxies," Shannon said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some studies suggest that FRBs originate from magnetars, which are young, hyper-magnetized neutron stars. Neutron stars are dense stars that roughly have the same mass as the Earth's Sun. However, they are only the size of a small city with strong magnetic fields.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Australian SKA Pathfinder detected the most recent FRB on 10 June 2022. According to Shannon, FRB 20220610A emitted more energy in a few milliseconds than the sun does in 30 years. However, according to the latest findings, it broke the record for the most distant FRB by around 50 per cent, confirming that such phenomena occur in extremely distant galaxies.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Astronomers have recorded a mysterious signal coming from far away in the distant universe that took eight billion years to reach us. According to a paper published in Science journal, the distinctive signal represents 'fast radio bursts' or FRBs, a cosmic phenomenon.

Astronomers have recorded a mysterious signal coming from far away in the distant universe that took eight billion years to reach us. According to a paper published in Science journal, the distinctive signal represents 'fast radio bursts' or FRBs, a cosmic phenomenon. FRBs are intense but brief pulses of radio waves. They are similar to the radiation emitted by our cell phones or microwaves. However, they originate from distant sources in the universe. FRBs are extremely rare. Despite having the world's most sensitive radio, telescope and computing systems, it's challenging for astronomers to detect FRBs. Ryan Shannon, an author of the latest study with Swinburne University of Technology, told Newsweek that FRBs "last only a small fraction of a second." "Most FRBs do not repeat, meaning if we want to understand what they are or where they come from, we need to be quick to respond and gather as much detail about them in the few thousandths of the second they pass by Earth," Shannon added. ALSO READ | Ancient whispers: Scientists unveil hidden sounds of Pando, the 'world's largest tree' In the latest study, the detected FRB, dubbed FRB 20220610A, is the most distinct and ancient recorded to date. The unusually high-energy FRB occurred around eight billion years ago. According to the authors, the latest discovery gives new data about the distant universe and questions the present models of FRB emission. Astronomers have only detected 50 FRBs to date. The low sample size makes it more challenging to study them. However, the source of FRBs remains a mystery. "While we still don't know what causes them, determining that will be a tall task. We are still able to use them as tools. FRBs have the signature of all of the gas they travel through. It makes them incredibly useful for probing the tenuous gas between galaxies," Shannon said. Some studies suggest that FRBs originate from magnetars, which are young, hyper-magnetized neutron stars. Neutron stars are dense stars that roughly have the same mass as the Earth's Sun. However, they are only the size of a small city with strong magnetic fields. The Australian SKA Pathfinder detected the most recent FRB on 10 June 2022. According to Shannon, FRB 20220610A emitted more energy in a few milliseconds than the sun does in 30 years. However, according to the latest findings, it broke the record for the most distant FRB by around 50 per cent, confirming that such phenomena occur in extremely distant galaxies. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

A radio signal took 8 billion years to reach Earth, but its source is a mystery

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidFFa66yhOpcce" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>The Orionid meteor shower will peak on October 21 and 22, with around 23 meteors expected per hour in clear skies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Orionids are known for their brightness and speed. According to NASA, these meteors produce one of the most beautiful showers of the year.</p>

<p>Here's your ultimate guide to watching the Orionoid meteor shower.</p>

<h2><strong>How to watch the Orionoid meteor shower</strong></h2>

<p>Anyone in the world can witness the Orionoid meteor shower. The best time to watch the Orionoids will be the hours after midnight. If you wish to observe the spectacular phenomena, look for clear skies and minimal light pollution. Moreover, you do not require any special equipment to view the shower. However, NASA recommends finding a dark place and setting up a sleeping bag, blanket or lawn chair for comfort.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If you're in the Northern Hemisphere, lie down with your feet facing southeast. However, if you're in the Southern Hemisphere, lie down with your feet facing northeast.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-unveils-stunning-lunar-shadow-image-from-ring-of-fire-solar-eclipse-649157" target="_blank">NASA unveils stunning lunar shadow image from 'ring of fire' solar eclipse</a></p>

<p>According to the International Meteor Organization (IMO), most meteors will be visible in the lower half of the sky unless the sky near your horizon is bright.&nbsp;</p>

<p>You must give your eyes at least 30 minutes to adjust to the dark sky. Meanwhile, avoid looking at your phone or a flashlight. Otherwise, your night vision will need another 30 minutes to kick in.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the Orionids</strong></h2>

<p>The Orionids travel at 148,000 miles per hour into the Earth's atmosphere. They often leave stunning bright trails, lasting for several seconds to minutes. Moreover, NASA said they can also turn into fireballs (very bright meteors).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/when-is-winter-solstice-in-2023-all-you-need-to-know-649152" target="_blank">When is the winter solstice in 2023? All you need to know</a></p>

<p>Stargazers watching the Orionids can expect to see a meteor every few minutes. However, in rare cases, observers have reported seeing three times as many. But the IMO said they are not expecting stronger activity this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On October 21, the moon will be around 37 per cent. It will set around midnight, giving a better chance to view the Orionoid meteor shower. In 2023, the Orionoid shower will continue until November 22. It will overlap several other showers like the Northern Taurids, which will peak on November 11 and 12. It will also coincide briefly with the Geminids.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The Orionid meteor shower will peak on October 21 and 22, with around 23 meteors expected per hour in clear skies. The Orionids are known for their brightness and speed.

The Orionid meteor shower will peak on October 21 and 22, with around 23 meteors expected per hour in clear skies. The Orionids are known for their brightness and speed. According to NASA, these meteors produce one of the most beautiful showers of the year. Here's your ultimate guide to watching the Orionoid meteor shower. How to watch the Orionoid meteor shower Anyone in the world can witness the Orionoid meteor shower. The best time to watch the Orionoids will be the hours after midnight. If you wish to observe the spectacular phenomena, look for clear skies and minimal light pollution. Moreover, you do not require any special equipment to view the shower. However, NASA recommends finding a dark place and setting up a sleeping bag, blanket or lawn chair for comfort. If you're in the Northern Hemisphere, lie down with your feet facing southeast. However, if you're in the Southern Hemisphere, lie down with your feet facing northeast. ALSO READ | NASA unveils stunning lunar shadow image from 'ring of fire' solar eclipse According to the International Meteor Organization (IMO), most meteors will be visible in the lower half of the sky unless the sky near your horizon is bright. You must give your eyes at least 30 minutes to adjust to the dark sky. Meanwhile, avoid looking at your phone or a flashlight. Otherwise, your night vision will need another 30 minutes to kick in. About the Orionids The Orionids travel at 148,000 miles per hour into the Earth's atmosphere. They often leave stunning bright trails, lasting for several seconds to minutes. Moreover, NASA said they can also turn into fireballs (very bright meteors). ALSO READ | When is the winter solstice in 2023? All you need to know Stargazers watching the Orionids can expect to see a meteor every few minutes. However, in rare cases, observers have reported seeing three times as many. But the IMO said they are not expecting stronger activity this year. On October 21, the moon will be around 37 per cent. It will set around midnight, giving a better chance to view the Orionoid meteor shower. In 2023, the Orionoid shower will continue until November 22. It will overlap several other showers like the Northern Taurids, which will peak on November 11 and 12. It will also coincide briefly with the Geminids. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Orionoid Meteor Shower 2023: Check when, where and how to watch the Orionoids this weekend

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidGENAMwZFgl3A" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>A recent study has revealed that the cause behind the largest marsquake that occurred on 4 May 2022 was not a meteor but something else.</p>

<p>According to the paper published in the&nbsp;<em>Geophysical Research Letters&nbsp;</em>journal<em>,&nbsp;</em>two of the most shocking quakes on Mars did not occur because of a meteor or any object from the sky. The most likely explanation is that the tectonic forces within Mars released suddenly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The marsquake, S1222a, had a magnitude of 4.7 and caused shakings around the planet to resonate for six hours.</p>

<p>Dr Benjamin Fernando, the lead author of the recently published paper, contacted space agencies of various countries to survey the marsquake. But after exploring 144.8 million square kilometres of Mars, Fernando's team could not find a crater, concluding that an asteroid did not cause the tremor. "The most exciting thing about this research has been bringing together researchers from across the world to search for the crater, including those from nations who do not routinely collaborate in space research," he told IFLScience.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The research team InSight concluded that Mars is more geographically active than they expected, as per previous measurements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Dr Fernando believes Mars still does not have active tectonic plates, and the stress release within Mars' crust caused the tremors. He said, "These stresses are the result of billions of years of evolution, including the cooling and shrinking of different parts of the planet at different rates."</p>

<p>"We still do not fully understand why some parts of the planet seem to have higher stresses than others, but these results help us to investigate further. One day, this information may help us to understand where it would be safe for humans to live on Mars and where you might want to avoid it!" he added.</p>

<p>Dr Daniela Tirsch, the science coordinator for the high-resolution stereo camera on board the ESA's Mars Express spacecraft, explained, "This experiment shows how important it is to maintain a diverse set of instruments at Mars, and we are glad to have played our part in completing the multi-instrumental and international approach of this study."</p>

<p>Other international collaborators have also echoed these sentiments.</p>

<p>Dr Jianjun Liu, National Astronomical Observatories, Chinese Academy of Sciences, said, "We are willing to collaborate with scientists around the world to share and apply this scientific data to get more knowledge about Mars, and are proud to have provided data from the colour images on Tianwen-1 to contribute to this effort."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A recent study has revealed that the cause behind the largest marsquake that occurred on 4 May 2022 was not a meteor but something else. According to the paper published in the Geophysical Research Letters journal, two of the most shocking quakes on Mars did not occur because of a meteor or any object from the sky.

A recent study has revealed that the cause behind the largest marsquake that occurred on 4 May 2022 was not a meteor but something else. According to the paper published in the Geophysical Research Letters journal, two of the most shocking quakes on Mars did not occur because of a meteor or any object from the sky. The most likely explanation is that the tectonic forces within Mars released suddenly. The marsquake, S1222a, had a magnitude of 4.7 and caused shakings around the planet to resonate for six hours. Dr Benjamin Fernando, the lead author of the recently published paper, contacted space agencies of various countries to survey the marsquake. But after exploring 144.8 million square kilometres of Mars, Fernando's team could not find a crater, concluding that an asteroid did not cause the tremor. "The most exciting thing about this research has been bringing together researchers from across the world to search for the crater, including those from nations who do not routinely collaborate in space research," he told IFLScience. The research team InSight concluded that Mars is more geographically active than they expected, as per previous measurements. However, Dr Fernando believes Mars still does not have active tectonic plates, and the stress release within Mars' crust caused the tremors. He said, "These stresses are the result of billions of years of evolution, including the cooling and shrinking of different parts of the planet at different rates." "We still do not fully understand why some parts of the planet seem to have higher stresses than others, but these results help us to investigate further. One day, this information may help us to understand where it would be safe for humans to live on Mars and where you might want to avoid it!" he added. Dr Daniela Tirsch, the science coordinator for the high-resolution stereo camera on board the ESA's Mars Express spacecraft, explained, "This experiment shows how important it is to maintain a diverse set of instruments at Mars, and we are glad to have played our part in completing the multi-instrumental and international approach of this study." Other international collaborators have also echoed these sentiments. Dr Jianjun Liu, National Astronomical Observatories, Chinese Academy of Sciences, said, "We are willing to collaborate with scientists around the world to share and apply this scientific data to get more knowledge about Mars, and are proud to have provided data from the colour images on Tianwen-1 to contribute to this effort." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Mars shook for over 6 hours in 2022 and its source is quite shocking

<p>A dwarf planet near Mars might help researchers detect alien life in space, as a recent study points towards the presence of organic matter on that planet in abundance.</p>

<p>The planet is called Ceres and is located in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.</p>

<p>It was in 2017 that the presence of organic matter was first detected on the planet. But now it has been revealed that the presence is more widespread than earlier thought.</p>

<p>"The organics were initially detected in the vicinity of a large impact crater, which is what motivated us to look at how impacts affect these organics," Terik Daly, a planetary scientist at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, and leader of the study, said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are finding that organics may be more widespread than first reported and that they seem to be resilient to impacts with Ceres-like conditions," Daly added.</p>

<h2><strong>What does the presence of organic matter mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The widespread presence of organic matter means that Ceres may actually have the necessary building blocks to support life.</p>

<p>"Although researchers have performed impact and shock experiments on various types of organics in the past," Daly said, "what was missing was a study dedicated to the type of organics detected on Ceres using the same type of analytical method used by the Dawn spacecraft to detect them."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | 'Aliens are out there': NASA chief's admission as hunt begins for extraterrestrial life</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-aliens-are-out-there-nasa-chiefs-admission-as-hunt-begins-for-extraterrestrial-life-636438/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The scientists will compare the two data sets gathered from the organics of the planet and map areas having the most potential of supporting extraterrestrial life.</p>

<p>"By capitalising on the strengths of two different datasets collected over Ceres, we've been able to map potential organic-rich areas on Ceres at higher resolution," Juan Rizos, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Maryland who also worked on the study, said in the statement.</p>

<h2><strong>A large interior reservoir of organics might be found</strong></h2>

<p>Scientists even believe that a large interior reservoir of organics might be found on the planet, which would mean that oxygen is present on the planet and also life.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-life-search-gets-easier-as-scientists-develop-this-new-and-simple-test-639698"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Hunt for alien life just got easier, thanks to this simple AI test</strong></a></p>

<p>"While the origin of the organics remains poorly understood, we now have good evidence that they formed in Ceres and likely in the presence of water. There is a possibility that a large interior reservoir of organics may be found inside Ceres," said Juan Rizos.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A dwarf planet near Mars might help researchers detect alien life in space, as a recent study points towards the presence of organic matter on that planet in abundance.

A dwarf planet near Mars might help researchers detect alien life in space, as a recent study points towards the presence of organic matter on that planet in abundance. The planet is called Ceres and is located in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. It was in 2017 that the presence of organic matter was first detected on the planet. But now it has been revealed that the presence is more widespread than earlier thought. "The organics were initially detected in the vicinity of a large impact crater, which is what motivated us to look at how impacts affect these organics," Terik Daly, a planetary scientist at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, and leader of the study, said in a statement. "We are finding that organics may be more widespread than first reported and that they seem to be resilient to impacts with Ceres-like conditions," Daly added. What does the presence of organic matter mean? The widespread presence of organic matter means that Ceres may actually have the necessary building blocks to support life. "Although researchers have performed impact and shock experiments on various types of organics in the past," Daly said, "what was missing was a study dedicated to the type of organics detected on Ceres using the same type of analytical method used by the Dawn spacecraft to detect them." Watch: Gravitas | 'Aliens are out there': NASA chief's admission as hunt begins for extraterrestrial life × The scientists will compare the two data sets gathered from the organics of the planet and map areas having the most potential of supporting extraterrestrial life. "By capitalising on the strengths of two different datasets collected over Ceres, we've been able to map potential organic-rich areas on Ceres at higher resolution," Juan Rizos, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Maryland who also worked on the study, said in the statement. A large interior reservoir of organics might be found Scientists even believe that a large interior reservoir of organics might be found on the planet, which would mean that oxygen is present on the planet and also life. Also read: Hunt for alien life just got easier, thanks to this simple AI test "While the origin of the organics remains poorly understood, we now have good evidence that they formed in Ceres and likely in the presence of water. There is a possibility that a large interior reservoir of organics may be found inside Ceres," said Juan Rizos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Scientists find dwarf planet near Mars that might be hosting alien life

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidzWMd32XkcSEc" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>A new analysis has revealed the reason for the presence of Neanderthal DNA in human populations in Europe and Asia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study, published in&nbsp;<em>Science Advances&nbsp;</em>journal, has deepened scientists' understanding of the ancient genomes that may have medical relevance today. It tracks the hereditary legacy of the age-old relatives of our species with more accuracy, using the critical mass of significant data.</p>

<p>Many humans alive today have a tiny per cent of Neanderthal DNA because of the prehistoric sexual encounters between our ancestors and the Stone Age hominins, who became extinct around 40,000 years ago. However, East Asian populations have a slightly higher concentration of Neanderthal DNA in their genomes.</p>

<p>This difference has always baffled scientists as they have found Neanderthal remains extensively across Europe and the Middle East but not further east of the Altai Mountains in Central Asia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-shares-amazing-picture-of-solar-eclipse-clicked-from-space-648675">NASA shares amazing picture of solar eclipse clicked from space</a></p>

<p>"So what's puzzling is that in an area where we've never found any Neanderthal remains, there's more Neanderthal DNA," said study co-author Mathias Currat, a senior lecturer of genetics and evolution at the University of Geneva.</p>

<p>Neanderthal DNA makes up about 2 per cent of the genetic makeup of Eurasians. However, it makes up about 4 per cent of the genetic makeup of East Asians, Currat said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currat and his colleagues at the University of Geneva analysed the distribution of the DNA inherited from Neanderthals in the genomes of humans over the past 40,000 years. After the research, they came up with a possible explanation for this discrepancy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are beginning to have enough data to describe more and more precisely the percentage of DNA of Neanderthal origin in the genome of Sapiens at certain periods of prehistory," Currat explained.</p>

<p>According to the study, the distribution of Neanderthal DNA did not always look as it does now.</p>

<p>The research found that in samples older than 20,000 years, genomes of Stone Age Homo sapiens in Europe contained a slightly higher proportion of Neanderthal DNA than those from Asia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus, the present pattern of a higher percentage of Neanderthal ancestry in Asian populations compared to those in Europe developed at a later stage, the research team concluded. It possibly happened during the Neolithic transition when farming replaced hunting and gathering as a way of life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Currat said it was unclear how this transition unfolded in Asia due to the relative lack of data. The study included 1,517 samples from Europe versus 1,108 from Asia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A new analysis has revealed the reason for the presence of Neanderthal DNA in human populations in Europe and Asia. The study, published in Science Advances journal, has deepened scientists' understanding of the ancient genomes that may have medical relevance today.

A new analysis has revealed the reason for the presence of Neanderthal DNA in human populations in Europe and Asia. The study, published in Science Advances journal, has deepened scientists' understanding of the ancient genomes that may have medical relevance today. It tracks the hereditary legacy of the age-old relatives of our species with more accuracy, using the critical mass of significant data. Many humans alive today have a tiny per cent of Neanderthal DNA because of the prehistoric sexual encounters between our ancestors and the Stone Age hominins, who became extinct around 40,000 years ago. However, East Asian populations have a slightly higher concentration of Neanderthal DNA in their genomes. This difference has always baffled scientists as they have found Neanderthal remains extensively across Europe and the Middle East but not further east of the Altai Mountains in Central Asia. ALSO READ | NASA shares amazing picture of solar eclipse clicked from space "So what's puzzling is that in an area where we've never found any Neanderthal remains, there's more Neanderthal DNA," said study co-author Mathias Currat, a senior lecturer of genetics and evolution at the University of Geneva. Neanderthal DNA makes up about 2 per cent of the genetic makeup of Eurasians. However, it makes up about 4 per cent of the genetic makeup of East Asians, Currat said. Currat and his colleagues at the University of Geneva analysed the distribution of the DNA inherited from Neanderthals in the genomes of humans over the past 40,000 years. After the research, they came up with a possible explanation for this discrepancy. "We are beginning to have enough data to describe more and more precisely the percentage of DNA of Neanderthal origin in the genome of Sapiens at certain periods of prehistory," Currat explained. According to the study, the distribution of Neanderthal DNA did not always look as it does now. The research found that in samples older than 20,000 years, genomes of Stone Age Homo sapiens in Europe contained a slightly higher proportion of Neanderthal DNA than those from Asia. Thus, the present pattern of a higher percentage of Neanderthal ancestry in Asian populations compared to those in Europe developed at a later stage, the research team concluded. It possibly happened during the Neolithic transition when farming replaced hunting and gathering as a way of life. However, Currat said it was unclear how this transition unfolded in Asia due to the relative lack of data. The study included 1,517 samples from Europe versus 1,108 from Asia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Why do some people have more Neanderthal DNA than others? Scientists now have an explanation

<p>Scientists for the very first time have detected quartz particles within the atmosphere of an exoplanet. The groundbreaking discovery was made by astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope.</p>

<p>Quartz particles are found in abundance on Earth, the moon and other bodies of the Milky Way galaxy. Silicate particles have earlier been detected in exoplanets but they are magnesium-based, not quartz.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We fully expected to see magnesium silicates,” said an author of the study published Monday in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, Hannah Wakeford.</p>

<p>“But what we’re seeing instead are likely the building blocks of those, the tiny ‘seed’ particles needed to form the larger silicate grains we detect in cooler exoplanets and brown dwarfs,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>About the exoplanet</strong></h2>

<p>The exoplanet here in question is known as WASP-17b, a gas giant located 1,300 light-years away from Earth and first discovered in 2009.</p>

<p>The planet is extremely hot and is tidally locked to its star. This means that while one side of the planet experiences searing temperatures, the permanent dark side remains chilling cool.</p>

<p>According to David Grant, the lead study author, “WASP-17 b is extremely hot — around 2,700 degrees Fahrenheit (1,500 degrees Celsius) — and the pressure where the quartz crystals form high in the atmosphere is only about one-thousandth of what we experience on Earth’s surface.”</p>

<h2><strong>How scientists discovered quartz at WASP-17b?</strong></h2>

<p>A team of scientists made the discovery during a 10-hour window, as the exoplanet crossed in front of its star and allowed the experts to get a filtered view of the starlight.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Scientists on the brink of discovering the fifth force of nature</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-on-the-brink-of-discovering-the-fifth-force-of-nature-624919/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The quartz is hexagonal in shape, but of size equal to only “one-millionth of a centimetre — so small that 10,000 of the grains could fit side by side across a human hair,” says the study.</p>

<h2><strong>Why the research is important?</strong></h2>

<p>The study allows the scientific community to have a better understanding of the atmospheres, environmental conditions and weather on planets outside of our solar system.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-mysterious-singing-plasma-waves-around-mercury-647713"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Scientists find mysterious ‘singing’ plasma waves around Mercury</strong></a></p>

<p>“If we only consider the oxygen that is in these gases, and neglect to include all of the oxygen locked up in minerals like quartz, we will significantly underestimate the total abundance,” Wakeford said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“These beautiful silica crystals tell us about the inventory of different materials and how they all come together to shape the environment of this planet,” he says further.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Scientists for the very first time have detected quartz particles within the atmosphere of an exoplanet. The groundbreaking discovery was made by astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope.

Scientists for the very first time have detected quartz particles within the atmosphere of an exoplanet. The groundbreaking discovery was made by astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope. Quartz particles are found in abundance on Earth, the moon and other bodies of the Milky Way galaxy. Silicate particles have earlier been detected in exoplanets but they are magnesium-based, not quartz. “We fully expected to see magnesium silicates,” said an author of the study published Monday in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, Hannah Wakeford. “But what we’re seeing instead are likely the building blocks of those, the tiny ‘seed’ particles needed to form the larger silicate grains we detect in cooler exoplanets and brown dwarfs,” he added. About the exoplanet The exoplanet here in question is known as WASP-17b, a gas giant located 1,300 light-years away from Earth and first discovered in 2009. The planet is extremely hot and is tidally locked to its star. This means that while one side of the planet experiences searing temperatures, the permanent dark side remains chilling cool. According to David Grant, the lead study author, “WASP-17 b is extremely hot — around 2,700 degrees Fahrenheit (1,500 degrees Celsius) — and the pressure where the quartz crystals form high in the atmosphere is only about one-thousandth of what we experience on Earth’s surface.” How scientists discovered quartz at WASP-17b? A team of scientists made the discovery during a 10-hour window, as the exoplanet crossed in front of its star and allowed the experts to get a filtered view of the starlight. Watch: Scientists on the brink of discovering the fifth force of nature × The quartz is hexagonal in shape, but of size equal to only “one-millionth of a centimetre — so small that 10,000 of the grains could fit side by side across a human hair,” says the study. Why the research is important? The study allows the scientific community to have a better understanding of the atmospheres, environmental conditions and weather on planets outside of our solar system. Also read: Scientists find mysterious ‘singing’ plasma waves around Mercury “If we only consider the oxygen that is in these gases, and neglect to include all of the oxygen locked up in minerals like quartz, we will significantly underestimate the total abundance,” Wakeford said. “These beautiful silica crystals tell us about the inventory of different materials and how they all come together to shape the environment of this planet,” he says further. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Scientists detect quartz particles in an exoplanet in major breakthrough

<p>It appears to be part monkey, part fish and part reptile. Labelled as “Fiji Mermaid,” the remains of this mysterious creature have long sparked curiosity among scientists from all over the world.</p>

<p>The remains date back to the late 19th century. It is believed that they were brought to Indiana from Japan by a US sailor, who donated these to the Clark County Historical Society in 1906.</p>

<p>Now, a group of students is trying to find out what exactly is this creature.</p>

<h2><strong>Ongoing study</strong></h2>

<p>Students in (Northern Kentucky University) NKU's radiology department are now conducting experiments on this creature with the help of some sophisticated modern technology.</p>

<p>"I think it's really cool," said radiologic science major Amanda Nashalsky. "I've never seen anything like this. I wasn't really sure what to expect. Even looking up pictures of it online, it's so much smaller than I expected," she said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Aliens: Are we looking in the wrong place?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/aliens-are-we-looking-in-the-wrong-place-604934/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>According to radiologic science professor Dr Joseph Cress, their motive is to provide as many insights as possible without dissecting the artefact.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"With X-rays, we're the eyes of healthcare, and so, if we can see something without really dissecting it and holding the integrity of this artifact, then why not? We have the labs here at NKU and we have the CT scanner," he was quoted as saying by Local12 website.</p>

<h2><strong>Results will be shared with the Cincinnati Zoo</strong></h2>

<p>According to Natalie Fritz, archivist and outreach director for the Clark County Historical Society at the Heritage Center, they were first contacted by Brian Hackett, an associate professor and director at NKU to get the artefact to the university lab for the purpose of conducting a CT scan.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj_1ouDlvWBAxUVz6ACHZ_LB88QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/space-storms-leaving-weird-impact-on-birds-claim-scientists-645870" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/science/space-storms-leaving-weird-impact-on-birds-claim-scientists-645870&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj_1ouDlvWBAxUVz6ACHZ_LB88QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Space storms leaving weird impact on birds, claim scientists</a></strong></p>

<p>“They were looking for a similar project, like an unknown antique, to shed some like on and give a good experience to the students in the radiology program ... A unique experience to have for the students,” Fritz said.</p>

<p>Once the students conclude their scans and analysis, the results will be sent to the Cincinnati Zoo and the Newport Aquarium, where experts can further investigate what specifically makes up this particular Fiji Mermaid.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


It appears to be part monkey, part fish and part reptile. Labelled as “Fiji Mermaid,” the remains of this mysterious creature have long sparked curiosity among scientists from all over the world.

It appears to be part monkey, part fish and part reptile. Labelled as “Fiji Mermaid,” the remains of this mysterious creature have long sparked curiosity among scientists from all over the world. The remains date back to the late 19th century. It is believed that they were brought to Indiana from Japan by a US sailor, who donated these to the Clark County Historical Society in 1906. Now, a group of students is trying to find out what exactly is this creature. Ongoing study Students in (Northern Kentucky University) NKU's radiology department are now conducting experiments on this creature with the help of some sophisticated modern technology. "I think it's really cool," said radiologic science major Amanda Nashalsky. "I've never seen anything like this. I wasn't really sure what to expect. Even looking up pictures of it online, it's so much smaller than I expected," she said. Watch: Aliens: Are we looking in the wrong place? × According to radiologic science professor Dr Joseph Cress, their motive is to provide as many insights as possible without dissecting the artefact. "With X-rays, we're the eyes of healthcare, and so, if we can see something without really dissecting it and holding the integrity of this artifact, then why not? We have the labs here at NKU and we have the CT scanner," he was quoted as saying by Local12 website. Results will be shared with the Cincinnati Zoo According to Natalie Fritz, archivist and outreach director for the Clark County Historical Society at the Heritage Center, they were first contacted by Brian Hackett, an associate professor and director at NKU to get the artefact to the university lab for the purpose of conducting a CT scan. Also read: Space storms leaving weird impact on birds, claim scientists “They were looking for a similar project, like an unknown antique, to shed some like on and give a good experience to the students in the radiology program ... A unique experience to have for the students,” Fritz said. Once the students conclude their scans and analysis, the results will be sent to the Cincinnati Zoo and the Newport Aquarium, where experts can further investigate what specifically makes up this particular Fiji Mermaid. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Radiology experts try to solve the mystery behind ‘Fiji Mermaid’

<p>A recent intriguing research has revealed that fluorescence in mammals is much more common than thought, even as they try to find out its purpose.</p>

<p>Scientists studied 125 species for research purposes and found that 86 per cent of them had fur that glowed under UV light. Also, all of them showed some form of fluorescence. The study has been published in the journal Royal Society Open Science.</p>

<p>“We didn’t know that so many mammals had glowing skin or glowing fur,” said Dr. Kenny Travouillon, curator of mammalogy at the Western Australian Museum and the study’s lead author.</p>

<p>Fluorescence is the emission of light by a substance that has absorbed light or other electromagnetic radiation. Animals that have this ability tend to glow under UV light because proteins in their fur or skin absorb the radiation and emit it as visible light.</p>

<h2><strong>All mammals possess fluorescent teeth</strong></h2>

<p>According to Travouillon, all mammals, including humans, possess fluorescent teeth, and many also exhibit fluorescence in their nails.</p>

<p>However, in the case of the dwarf spinner dolphin, the researchers found that its teeth were the only body part displaying fluorescence.</p>

<h2><strong>Preserved and frozen animal specimens investigated</strong></h2>

<p>To investigate this phenomenon, the researchers conducted their analysis using a combination of preserved and frozen animal specimens, primarily sourced from the Western Australian Museum's collection. This approach aimed to eliminate the possibility that the fluorescence was merely a result of the preservation process.</p>

<p>The study, published in the journal Royal Society Open Science, acknowledged that the intensity of fluorescence observed in some specimens could be influenced by the preservation method.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Scientists design a drug that mimics all benefits of exercise</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-design-a-drug-that-mimics-all-benefits-of-exercise-641683/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The team discovered that unpreserved frozen platypus specimens exhibited the least fluorescence, with a more visible glow in specimens preserved with borax and an even stronger fluorescence in those preserved with arsenic.</p>

<p>While the exact purpose of fluorescence in mammals remains a mystery, the study's authors propose that it might serve to make animals more visible and enhance visual communication, particularly among nocturnal species.</p>

<h2><strong>Purpose of fluorescence in mammals</strong></h2>

<p>The exact purpose of fluorescence in mammals is still unknown, with some experts saying it might have something to make animals appear brighter and “enhance visual signalling, especially for nocturnal species”.</p>

<p>“Carnivores usually have spots or stripes on their back. I think this could be potentially a way for them to recognise each other within their own species,” Travouillon said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-moonshot-plans-involve-making-human-settlements-by-2040-641690"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;NASA`s moonshot plans involve making human settlements by 2040</strong></a></p>

<p>“But a lot of animals only have this glowing on their bellies, because that’s not visible to predators … maybe members of their species, when they get close, will be able to recognise them,” he added.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A recent intriguing research has revealed that fluorescence in mammals is much more common than thought, even as they try to find out its purpose. Scientists studied 125 species for research purposes and found that 86 per cent of them had fur that glowed under UV light.

A recent intriguing research has revealed that fluorescence in mammals is much more common than thought, even as they try to find out its purpose. Scientists studied 125 species for research purposes and found that 86 per cent of them had fur that glowed under UV light. Also, all of them showed some form of fluorescence. The study has been published in the journal Royal Society Open Science. “We didn’t know that so many mammals had glowing skin or glowing fur,” said Dr. Kenny Travouillon, curator of mammalogy at the Western Australian Museum and the study’s lead author. Fluorescence is the emission of light by a substance that has absorbed light or other electromagnetic radiation. Animals that have this ability tend to glow under UV light because proteins in their fur or skin absorb the radiation and emit it as visible light. All mammals possess fluorescent teeth According to Travouillon, all mammals, including humans, possess fluorescent teeth, and many also exhibit fluorescence in their nails. However, in the case of the dwarf spinner dolphin, the researchers found that its teeth were the only body part displaying fluorescence. Preserved and frozen animal specimens investigated To investigate this phenomenon, the researchers conducted their analysis using a combination of preserved and frozen animal specimens, primarily sourced from the Western Australian Museum's collection. This approach aimed to eliminate the possibility that the fluorescence was merely a result of the preservation process. The study, published in the journal Royal Society Open Science, acknowledged that the intensity of fluorescence observed in some specimens could be influenced by the preservation method. Watch: Scientists design a drug that mimics all benefits of exercise × The team discovered that unpreserved frozen platypus specimens exhibited the least fluorescence, with a more visible glow in specimens preserved with borax and an even stronger fluorescence in those preserved with arsenic. While the exact purpose of fluorescence in mammals remains a mystery, the study's authors propose that it might serve to make animals more visible and enhance visual communication, particularly among nocturnal species. Purpose of fluorescence in mammals The exact purpose of fluorescence in mammals is still unknown, with some experts saying it might have something to make animals appear brighter and “enhance visual signalling, especially for nocturnal species”. “Carnivores usually have spots or stripes on their back. I think this could be potentially a way for them to recognise each other within their own species,” Travouillon said. Also read: NASA`s moonshot plans involve making human settlements by 2040 “But a lot of animals only have this glowing on their bellies, because that’s not visible to predators … maybe members of their species, when they get close, will be able to recognise them,” he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Fluorescence in mammals highly common but purpose still unknown: Study

<p>Microplastics have finally found their way to the clouds, Japanese researchers have revealed in a damning research. Researchers believe this could have a grave impact on ocean ecosystem and climate change.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Headed by Waseda University professor Hiroshi Okochi and others, the research team examined 44 samples of water collected from clouds. Analysts found that the water had at least 70 particles of microplastics.</p>

<p>The water was collected from mountains at the summit and foot of Mount Fuji and the summit of Mount Tanzawa-Oyama, west of Yokohama in Kanagawa prefecture.</p>

<p>"To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on airborne microplastics in cloud water," the authors wrote in their research paper.</p>

<h2><strong>Impact on climate change</strong></h2>

<p>Microplastics can cause severe damage to climate and the human body if their presence in clouds is not contained through coordinated efforts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If the issue of 'plastic air pollution' is not addressed proactively, climate change and ecological risks may become a reality, causing irreversible and serious environmental damage in the future," lead author Hiroshi Okochi of Waseda University warned in a statement Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Experts see hope in gloomy climate reports | WION Climate Tracker</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/experts-see-hope-in-gloomy-climate-reports-wion-climate-tracker-640117/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>He added that when exposed to sunlight and ultraviolet radiations at the height of a cloud, microplastics can contribute to greenhouse gasses.</p>

<h2><strong>What are microplastics?</strong></h2>

<p>Microplastics are plastic particles measuring less than 5 millimetres in size. They originate from various sources, including industrial waste, textiles, synthetic car tires, personal care items, and more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These minuscule particles have been found inside fish in the deepest parts of the ocean, scattered throughout Arctic sea ice, and covering the snow in the Pyrenees mountains that stretch between France and Spain.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nations-voice-their-concerns-about-climate-change-wion-climate-tracker-640128"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Nations voice their concerns about climate change | WION Climate Tracker</strong></a></p>

<p>However, the methods by which they are transported have remained poorly understood, especially when it comes to the airborne transport of microplastics, as research in this area has been limited.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Microplastics have finally found their way to the clouds, Japanese researchers have revealed in a damning research. Researchers believe this could have a grave impact on ocean ecosystem and climate change.

Microplastics have finally found their way to the clouds, Japanese researchers have revealed in a damning research. Researchers believe this could have a grave impact on ocean ecosystem and climate change. Headed by Waseda University professor Hiroshi Okochi and others, the research team examined 44 samples of water collected from clouds. Analysts found that the water had at least 70 particles of microplastics. The water was collected from mountains at the summit and foot of Mount Fuji and the summit of Mount Tanzawa-Oyama, west of Yokohama in Kanagawa prefecture. "To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on airborne microplastics in cloud water," the authors wrote in their research paper. Impact on climate change Microplastics can cause severe damage to climate and the human body if their presence in clouds is not contained through coordinated efforts. "If the issue of 'plastic air pollution' is not addressed proactively, climate change and ecological risks may become a reality, causing irreversible and serious environmental damage in the future," lead author Hiroshi Okochi of Waseda University warned in a statement Wednesday. Watch: Experts see hope in gloomy climate reports | WION Climate Tracker × He added that when exposed to sunlight and ultraviolet radiations at the height of a cloud, microplastics can contribute to greenhouse gasses. What are microplastics? Microplastics are plastic particles measuring less than 5 millimetres in size. They originate from various sources, including industrial waste, textiles, synthetic car tires, personal care items, and more. These minuscule particles have been found inside fish in the deepest parts of the ocean, scattered throughout Arctic sea ice, and covering the snow in the Pyrenees mountains that stretch between France and Spain. Also read: Nations voice their concerns about climate change | WION Climate Tracker However, the methods by which they are transported have remained poorly understood, especially when it comes to the airborne transport of microplastics, as research in this area has been limited. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Microplastics found in cloud for first time, researchers sound warning bell

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid7EmZFQncvt89" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>A recent study has found that the most intense heat wave ever recorded on Earth was in Antarctica in March 2022, when the temperatures near the eastern coast reached 39 degrees Celsius above average.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some researchers at the site wore shorts, while some removed their shirts to loll in the warmth. However, scientists from other regions believe such a high temperature in the area was unimaginable, the Washington Post reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Edward Blanchard-Wrigglesworth, an atmospheric scientist at the University of Washington and the study's author, said, "It was just very apparent that it was a remarkable event. We found that temperature anomaly, the 39-degree temperature anomaly. That's the largest anywhere ever measured anywhere in the world."</p>

<p>Generally, the temperatures in March on the east coast of Antarctica near Dome C are around minus 54 degrees Celsius, marking a transition into autumn on the continent. However, on 18 March 2022, temperatures reached minus 10 degrees Celsius, warmer than the hottest temperature recorded during the summer months in that region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lunar-soil-low-gravity-why-didnt-chandrayaan-3-leave-indias-imprint-on-moons-surface-639325" target="_blank">Lunar soil? Low gravity? Why didn't Chandrayaan-3 leave India's imprint on Moon's surface?&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Blanchard-Wrigglesworth and his team studied how and why such an unbelievable heatwave occurred, especially when there was less sunlight. They found that extreme heat was part of Antarctica's natural variability. However, the warming climate did have the same effect.</p>

<p>According to the study published in the peer-reviewed journal&nbsp;<em>Geophysical Research Letters</em>, winds usually blow from west to east around Antarctica, helping the continent to isolate from warmer regions farther north and allowing it to stay cold. However, like the heatwaves in the United States, the winds curled, enabling warm air from southern Australia to move to East Antarctica in only four days. Furthermore, the northern winds brought a lot of moisture, bringing snow, rain and melting on the eastern coast of the ice sheet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the same time, Antarctica also experienced the lowest sea ice on record. However, the team suggested it was not due to the influence of the heatwave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study found that the big swings in weather are not unusual in the polar regions. The research team analysed data from the global weather station and found the highest temperature changes from average usually occur in high latitudes. European countries or the United States never experience such anomalous heat waves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As we go higher in the atmosphere, the air gets cooler. However, high latitudes with snow have colder air near the ground and warmer air above it. In such spots, a warm air mass can dive in to replace the cold air and form warm weather. These events usually occur during or around winter. "That's what we saw for the Antarctic heat wave. These events erode that inversion," Blanchard-Wrigglesworth said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A recent study has found that the most intense heat wave ever recorded on Earth was in Antarctica in March 2022, when the temperatures near the eastern coast reached 39 degrees Celsius above average.

A recent study has found that the most intense heat wave ever recorded on Earth was in Antarctica in March 2022, when the temperatures near the eastern coast reached 39 degrees Celsius above average. Some researchers at the site wore shorts, while some removed their shirts to loll in the warmth. However, scientists from other regions believe such a high temperature in the area was unimaginable, the Washington Post reported. Edward Blanchard-Wrigglesworth, an atmospheric scientist at the University of Washington and the study's author, said, "It was just very apparent that it was a remarkable event. We found that temperature anomaly, the 39-degree temperature anomaly. That's the largest anywhere ever measured anywhere in the world." Generally, the temperatures in March on the east coast of Antarctica near Dome C are around minus 54 degrees Celsius, marking a transition into autumn on the continent. However, on 18 March 2022, temperatures reached minus 10 degrees Celsius, warmer than the hottest temperature recorded during the summer months in that region. ALSO READ | Lunar soil? Low gravity? Why didn't Chandrayaan-3 leave India's imprint on Moon's surface? Blanchard-Wrigglesworth and his team studied how and why such an unbelievable heatwave occurred, especially when there was less sunlight. They found that extreme heat was part of Antarctica's natural variability. However, the warming climate did have the same effect. According to the study published in the peer-reviewed journal Geophysical Research Letters, winds usually blow from west to east around Antarctica, helping the continent to isolate from warmer regions farther north and allowing it to stay cold. However, like the heatwaves in the United States, the winds curled, enabling warm air from southern Australia to move to East Antarctica in only four days. Furthermore, the northern winds brought a lot of moisture, bringing snow, rain and melting on the eastern coast of the ice sheet. During the same time, Antarctica also experienced the lowest sea ice on record. However, the team suggested it was not due to the influence of the heatwave. The study found that the big swings in weather are not unusual in the polar regions. The research team analysed data from the global weather station and found the highest temperature changes from average usually occur in high latitudes. European countries or the United States never experience such anomalous heat waves. As we go higher in the atmosphere, the air gets cooler. However, high latitudes with snow have colder air near the ground and warmer air above it. In such spots, a warm air mass can dive in to replace the cold air and form warm weather. These events usually occur during or around winter. "That's what we saw for the Antarctic heat wave. These events erode that inversion," Blanchard-Wrigglesworth said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Antarctica witnessed most intense heatwave ever recorded on Earth in 2022, reveals study

<p>Researchers have rediscovered a species of small holly tree in Brazil earlier thought extinct for more than 200 years.</p>

<p>The tree was found during an expedition drive started six days ago in the urban city of Igarassu, in Pernambuco state. The tree, 'Ilex sapiiformis' also known as the Pernambuco holly, was “one of our top 25 most wanted lost species”, said Re:wild, the conservation group behind the expedition.</p>

<p>Scientists have termed the discovery an “incredible find.”</p>

<p>“It is the 9th of our most wanted lost species to be rediscovered since our Search for Lost Species launched in 2017,” Re:wild wrote on Instagram.</p>

<h2><strong>8 of the 25 most wanted species found so far</strong></h2>

<p>Experts from Re:wild and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) have compiled a list of more than 2,200 missing species across 160 nations.</p>

<p>It includes species that have been lost to science for at least 10 years - but many have been thought extinct for much longer. So far, the team has been able to rediscover at least eight of the top 25 most wanted animals and plants.</p>

<h2><strong>How was the rediscovery made?</strong></h2>

<p>The team was able to identify Pernambuco Holly trees through its tiny white flowers, as reported by Euronews. The location where the tree was found has been urbanised over the last decades but the area once used to have dense tropical forest.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Sixth mass extinction underway at accelerating rate, warns study</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sixth-mass-extinction-underway-at-accelerating-rate-warns-study-638947/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"It seemed that the world had stopped turning its gears,” project team member Juliana Alencar said in a statement.<br />
<br />
“Nature surprises us.&nbsp;Finding a species that hasn't been heard of in nearly two centuries doesn't happen every day. It was an incredible moment,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>What next?</strong></h2>

<p>The expedition group leader Gustavo Martinelli now says a breeding programme is in the offing to help the tree reclaim its past glory.</p>

<p>"The search for more Pernambuco Holly trees isn't over yet! The team is hoping to organise additional searches with other local partners to find more individuals of the species,” according to Re:wild.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/once-extinct-scientists-one-step-closer-to-resurrecting-tasmanian-tiger-637805"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Scientists one step closer to resurrecting Tasmanian tiger that went extinct 100 years ago</strong></a></p>

<p>“The goal is to collaborate with partners to better protect the forests where the Pernambuco Holly was found and establish a captive breeding program for the tree," the group added.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Researchers have rediscovered a species of small holly tree in Brazil earlier thought extinct for more than 200 years. The tree was found during an expedition drive started six days ago in the urban city of Igarassu, in Pernambuco state.

Researchers have rediscovered a species of small holly tree in Brazil earlier thought extinct for more than 200 years. The tree was found during an expedition drive started six days ago in the urban city of Igarassu, in Pernambuco state. The tree, 'Ilex sapiiformis' also known as the Pernambuco holly, was “one of our top 25 most wanted lost species”, said Re:wild, the conservation group behind the expedition. Scientists have termed the discovery an “incredible find.” “It is the 9th of our most wanted lost species to be rediscovered since our Search for Lost Species launched in 2017,” Re:wild wrote on Instagram. 8 of the 25 most wanted species found so far Experts from Re:wild and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) have compiled a list of more than 2,200 missing species across 160 nations. It includes species that have been lost to science for at least 10 years - but many have been thought extinct for much longer. So far, the team has been able to rediscover at least eight of the top 25 most wanted animals and plants. How was the rediscovery made? The team was able to identify Pernambuco Holly trees through its tiny white flowers, as reported by Euronews. The location where the tree was found has been urbanised over the last decades but the area once used to have dense tropical forest. Watch: Sixth mass extinction underway at accelerating rate, warns study × "It seemed that the world had stopped turning its gears,” project team member Juliana Alencar said in a statement. “Nature surprises us. Finding a species that hasn't been heard of in nearly two centuries doesn't happen every day. It was an incredible moment,” he added. What next? The expedition group leader Gustavo Martinelli now says a breeding programme is in the offing to help the tree reclaim its past glory. "The search for more Pernambuco Holly trees isn't over yet! The team is hoping to organise additional searches with other local partners to find more individuals of the species,” according to Re:wild. Also read: Scientists one step closer to resurrecting Tasmanian tiger that went extinct 100 years ago “The goal is to collaborate with partners to better protect the forests where the Pernambuco Holly was found and establish a captive breeding program for the tree," the group added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Scientists in Brazil rediscover tree deemed extinct for over 200 years

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidWbL8NhNaMa7B" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidWbL8NhNaMa7B" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>NASA has revealed that an asteroid will pass Earth at an extremely close distance on Friday, September 22. According to the details by NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), Asteroid 2023 RQ6 will make its first-ever approach to Earth on Friday.</p>

<p>Its orbit will bring the asteroid as close as 6.4 million kilometres near Earth. Although this distance might seem like a lot, it is short in astronomical sense. NASA has estimated its travelling speed as 33,912 kilometres per hour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NASA has not classified the Asteroid 2023 RQ6 as a Potentially Hazardous Object because it will not impact Earth's surface despite a close call. The asteroid is approximately 75 feet wide. Thus, it is not huge enough to be classified as a Potentially Hazardous Object. It is as big as an aircraft in terms of size.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-new-virus-at-depths-of-pacific-ocean-638411" target="_blank">Scientists find new virus at depths of Pacific Ocean</a></p>

<p>Asteroid 2023 RQ6 belongs to the Apollo group of Near-Earth Asteroids, named after the giant 1862 Apollo asteroid, discovered by German astronomer Kerl Reinmuth in the 1930s. They are Earth-crossing space rocks with semi-major axes bigger than Earth's.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Most asteroids found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter can be observed with the help of advanced ground and space-based telescopes. However, scientists at NASA have recently observed three elusive asteroids hiding behind the glare of the Sun.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/trending/whats-the-source-of-co2-on-jupiters-moon-europa-scientists-finally-have-answers-638377" target="_blank"><strong>&nbsp;</strong>What's the source of CO2 on Jupiter's moon Europa? Scientists finally have answers</a></p>

<p>According to the latest discovery made by NASA, one of these asteroids is a large object which can be potentially hazardous to Earth. A team used the Dark Energy Camera (DECam) mounted on Victor M. Blanco's 4-metre telescope in Chile to find and observe these asteroids. It is challenging to locate celestial objects in the region around the Sun, as astronomers have to deal with the Sun's glaze.</p>

<p>Besides Asteroid 2023 RQ6, Asteroid 2023 SJ made its closest approach to Earth on September 21. It has a width between 52 feet and 118 feet.</p>

<p>According to a recent report by the OSIRIS-REx science team, Bennu, a near-Earth asteroid, could drift into the planet's orbit and hit the planet by September 2182. NASA has been tracking Bennu, first discovered in 1999, for 25 years. Bennu passes near Earth every six years and has had three close encounters with Earth in 1999, 2005, and 2011.</p>

<p><em>(With input from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


NASA has revealed that an asteroid will pass Earth at an extremely close distance on Friday, September 22. According to the details by NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), Asteroid 2023 RQ6 will make its first-ever approach to Earth on Friday.

NASA has revealed that an asteroid will pass Earth at an extremely close distance on Friday, September 22. According to the details by NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), Asteroid 2023 RQ6 will make its first-ever approach to Earth on Friday. Its orbit will bring the asteroid as close as 6.4 million kilometres near Earth. Although this distance might seem like a lot, it is short in astronomical sense. NASA has estimated its travelling speed as 33,912 kilometres per hour. NASA has not classified the Asteroid 2023 RQ6 as a Potentially Hazardous Object because it will not impact Earth's surface despite a close call. The asteroid is approximately 75 feet wide. Thus, it is not huge enough to be classified as a Potentially Hazardous Object. It is as big as an aircraft in terms of size. ALSO READ | Scientists find new virus at depths of Pacific Ocean Asteroid 2023 RQ6 belongs to the Apollo group of Near-Earth Asteroids, named after the giant 1862 Apollo asteroid, discovered by German astronomer Kerl Reinmuth in the 1930s. They are Earth-crossing space rocks with semi-major axes bigger than Earth's. Most asteroids found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter can be observed with the help of advanced ground and space-based telescopes. However, scientists at NASA have recently observed three elusive asteroids hiding behind the glare of the Sun. ALSO READ | What's the source of CO2 on Jupiter's moon Europa? Scientists finally have answers According to the latest discovery made by NASA, one of these asteroids is a large object which can be potentially hazardous to Earth. A team used the Dark Energy Camera (DECam) mounted on Victor M. Blanco's 4-metre telescope in Chile to find and observe these asteroids. It is challenging to locate celestial objects in the region around the Sun, as astronomers have to deal with the Sun's glaze. Besides Asteroid 2023 RQ6, Asteroid 2023 SJ made its closest approach to Earth on September 21. It has a width between 52 feet and 118 feet. According to a recent report by the OSIRIS-REx science team, Bennu, a near-Earth asteroid, could drift into the planet's orbit and hit the planet by September 2182. NASA has been tracking Bennu, first discovered in 1999, for 25 years. Bennu passes near Earth every six years and has had three close encounters with Earth in 1999, 2005, and 2011. (With input from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Asteroid to make its first-ever close approach to Earth! NASA predicts

<p>In a ground-breaking research conducted at Cardiff University in Wales, a researcher has tried to figure out when the universe’s first continents were formed.</p>

<p>Jane Greaves, an astronomy professor in the School of Physics and Astronomy, recently published her new research, titled “When Were the First Exocontinents?”</p>

<p>She asserts that the search for other habitable planets in our solar system can become more effective if the relation between life and continents is better understood.</p>

<p>In her research, Greaves says that it should be possible to calculate when the first continents formed in the universe by analysing the radioactive elements present in the core of the Earth. She also asserts that those radioactive elements came from neutron star collisions, thus paving the way to better analyse the universe through analysing our Earth’s mantle.</p>

<h2><strong>Relation between life and continents on a planet</strong></h2>

<p>Plate tectonics, while not necessarily essential for life, hold a crucial role in regulating Earth's temperature by dissipating heat from its core.</p>

<p>This thermal control prevents an excessive buildup of heat, which could harm Earth's protective magnetosphere. This also paves the way for the evolution of life.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Aliens: Are we looking in the wrong place?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/aliens-are-we-looking-in-the-wrong-place-604934/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Furthermore, plate tectonics contribute to Earth's positioning in the habitable "Goldilocks Zone." Although early life on Earth emerged when plate tectonics were less active, they became vital for the persistence and evolution of complex life forms like humans.</p>

<p>Greaves's research aims to enhance the search for habitable exoplanets. If continents and the plate tectonics that give rise to them prove critical for life, then focusing our quest on rocky planets with plate tectonics can significantly improve our chances of discovering habitable worlds.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Understanding the core</strong></h2>

<p>Deep within Earth's core reside radioactive isotopes like Uranium-238, Thorium-232, and Potassium-40, which release heat as they undergo decay over geological timescales.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per Greaves, we can dive into the details and history of our universe by analysing these elements.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/breakthrough-google-develops-ai-tool-capable-of-predicting-harmful-genetic-mutations-637699"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Breakthrough? Google develops AI tool capable of predicting harmful genetic mutations</strong></a></p>

<p>Her work provides a broader perspective in our quest to understand them. Her findings suggest that the appearance of continents on Earth represents the middle ground among various scenarios.</p>

<h2><strong>Tectonics on Earth</strong></h2>

<p>Earth's plate tectonics began roughly 3 billion years ago, about 9.5 billion years after the universe’s inception. Greaves indicates that continents formed on thin disk stars a staggering 2 billion years prior to Earth's appearance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, her work suggests that, on most planets, the formation of continents occurs at a slower pace compared to Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


In a ground-breaking research conducted at Cardiff University in Wales, a researcher has tried to figure out when the universe’s first continents were formed. Jane Greaves, an astronomy professor in the School of Physics and Astronomy, recently published her new research, titled “When Were the First Exocontinents?

In a ground-breaking research conducted at Cardiff University in Wales, a researcher has tried to figure out when the universe’s first continents were formed. Jane Greaves, an astronomy professor in the School of Physics and Astronomy, recently published her new research, titled “When Were the First Exocontinents?” She asserts that the search for other habitable planets in our solar system can become more effective if the relation between life and continents is better understood. In her research, Greaves says that it should be possible to calculate when the first continents formed in the universe by analysing the radioactive elements present in the core of the Earth. She also asserts that those radioactive elements came from neutron star collisions, thus paving the way to better analyse the universe through analysing our Earth’s mantle. Relation between life and continents on a planet Plate tectonics, while not necessarily essential for life, hold a crucial role in regulating Earth's temperature by dissipating heat from its core. This thermal control prevents an excessive buildup of heat, which could harm Earth's protective magnetosphere. This also paves the way for the evolution of life. Watch: Aliens: Are we looking in the wrong place? × Furthermore, plate tectonics contribute to Earth's positioning in the habitable "Goldilocks Zone." Although early life on Earth emerged when plate tectonics were less active, they became vital for the persistence and evolution of complex life forms like humans. Greaves's research aims to enhance the search for habitable exoplanets. If continents and the plate tectonics that give rise to them prove critical for life, then focusing our quest on rocky planets with plate tectonics can significantly improve our chances of discovering habitable worlds. Understanding the core Deep within Earth's core reside radioactive isotopes like Uranium-238, Thorium-232, and Potassium-40, which release heat as they undergo decay over geological timescales. As per Greaves, we can dive into the details and history of our universe by analysing these elements. Also read: Breakthrough? Google develops AI tool capable of predicting harmful genetic mutations Her work provides a broader perspective in our quest to understand them. Her findings suggest that the appearance of continents on Earth represents the middle ground among various scenarios. Tectonics on Earth Earth's plate tectonics began roughly 3 billion years ago, about 9.5 billion years after the universe’s inception. Greaves indicates that continents formed on thin disk stars a staggering 2 billion years prior to Earth's appearance. Additionally, her work suggests that, on most planets, the formation of continents occurs at a slower pace compared to Earth. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

When was the universe's first continent formed? Scientist offers clues

<p>Satellite data shows that sea-ice around Antarctica has receded to historically low levels, a worrying trend indicating areas earlier perceived as resistant to global warming are no longer able to hold up.</p>

<p>According to polar experts, thinning ice at the two poles could have far-reaching ramifications for the planet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will also have a huge impact on climate change as Antarctica’s ice plays a big role in regulating the global temperature. The white ice reflects the Sun’s energy back into the atmosphere and cools water beneath it.</p>

<p>The ice that floats on the Antarctic Ocean's surface now measures less than 17 million sq km - that is 1.5 million sq km of sea ice less than the September average, and well below previous winter record lows, BBC reported.</p>

<p>Scientists are now rushing to identify the factors behind this rapid decline of snow ice in the South Polar Region.</p>

<h2><strong>How sea ice is formed in Antarctica?</strong></h2>

<p>Sea ice forms during Antarctica's winter season (March to October), later melting in the summer. It's an integral part of a larger system that includes icebergs, land ice, and expansive ice shelves extending from the coast.</p>

<p>Sea ice serves as a protective barrier for land ice, preventing the ocean from warming. Dr. Caroline Holmes of the British Antarctic Survey warns that the consequences of diminishing sea ice might become apparent during the transition to summer, potentially leading to an unstoppable feedback loop of ice melting.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Antarctica heating faster than expected</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/antarctica-heating-faster-than-expected-634823/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>As sea ice diminishes, it unveils dark ocean areas that absorb sunlight instead of reflecting it. This leads to the absorption of heat energy by the water, further accelerating ice melt—a phenomenon known as the 'ice-albedo effect'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This could significantly increase heat in the environment, disrupting Antarctica's role as a global temperature regulator.</p>

<h2><strong>Why thinning sea ice is a big deal?</strong></h2>

<p>Since the 1990s, Antarctica's land ice loss has contributed to a 7.2mm rise in sea levels. Even modest sea-level increases can result in perilous storm surges, posing a threat to coastal communities. If substantial amounts of land ice were to melt, the consequences would be catastrophic for millions worldwide.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/antarctica-likely-warming-much-faster-than-prediction-of-climate-change-models-study-633633"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Antarctica likely warming much faster than climate change models predicted: Study</strong></a></p>

<p>Antarctica, an isolated continent surrounded by water, possesses its distinct weather and climate system. Until 2016, its winter sea ice was expanding. However, an extreme heatwave in March 2022 in East Antarctica caused temperatures to rise to -10C, far from the expected -50C.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Satellite data shows that sea-ice around Antarctica has receded to historically low levels, a worrying trend indicating areas earlier perceived as resistant to global warming are no longer able to hold up.

Satellite data shows that sea-ice around Antarctica has receded to historically low levels, a worrying trend indicating areas earlier perceived as resistant to global warming are no longer able to hold up. According to polar experts, thinning ice at the two poles could have far-reaching ramifications for the planet. It will also have a huge impact on climate change as Antarctica’s ice plays a big role in regulating the global temperature. The white ice reflects the Sun’s energy back into the atmosphere and cools water beneath it. The ice that floats on the Antarctic Ocean's surface now measures less than 17 million sq km - that is 1.5 million sq km of sea ice less than the September average, and well below previous winter record lows, BBC reported. Scientists are now rushing to identify the factors behind this rapid decline of snow ice in the South Polar Region. How sea ice is formed in Antarctica? Sea ice forms during Antarctica's winter season (March to October), later melting in the summer. It's an integral part of a larger system that includes icebergs, land ice, and expansive ice shelves extending from the coast. Sea ice serves as a protective barrier for land ice, preventing the ocean from warming. Dr. Caroline Holmes of the British Antarctic Survey warns that the consequences of diminishing sea ice might become apparent during the transition to summer, potentially leading to an unstoppable feedback loop of ice melting. Watch: Antarctica heating faster than expected × As sea ice diminishes, it unveils dark ocean areas that absorb sunlight instead of reflecting it. This leads to the absorption of heat energy by the water, further accelerating ice melt—a phenomenon known as the 'ice-albedo effect'. This could significantly increase heat in the environment, disrupting Antarctica's role as a global temperature regulator. Why thinning sea ice is a big deal? Since the 1990s, Antarctica's land ice loss has contributed to a 7.2mm rise in sea levels. Even modest sea-level increases can result in perilous storm surges, posing a threat to coastal communities. If substantial amounts of land ice were to melt, the consequences would be catastrophic for millions worldwide. Also read: Antarctica likely warming much faster than climate change models predicted: Study Antarctica, an isolated continent surrounded by water, possesses its distinct weather and climate system. Until 2016, its winter sea ice was expanding. However, an extreme heatwave in March 2022 in East Antarctica caused temperatures to rise to -10C, far from the expected -50C. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Sea ice around Antarctica recedes to historically low levels: Scientists

<p>New research has revealed that a hormone-disrupting chemical is present in the bodies of almost all Europeans, which amounts to a significant health risk.</p>

<p>The European Environment Agency revealed Thursday (Sept 14) that the hormone-disrupting chemical Bisphenol A (BPA) was detected in 71 to 100 per cent of adults in the 11 countries studied.</p>

<p>"A recent Horizon 2020 research initiative, HBM4EU, measured chemicals in people's bodies in Europe and detected BPA in the urine of 92 per cent of adult participants from 11 European countries," the agency wrote in a new report.</p>

<p>The chemical is widely used in food packaging across the union and was earlier used to make baby bottles until it was banned in Europe, the US and other nations a decade ago.</p>

<p>The EFSA in April had drastically reduced the recommended maximum daily intake of BPA allowed for consumers, slashing it by 20,000 times to 0.2 billionths of a gramme, down from four-millionths of a gramme.</p>

<h2><strong>Health concerns</strong></h2>

<p>The research has suggested that consumption of BPA above the specified level can lead to health disorders linked to hormone disruption, such as “breast cancer and infertility.”</p>

<p>It is still widely used to make plastic for food and drink packaging, meaning that most people are potentially exposed to this chemical while consuming food and drink.</p>

<h2><strong>Disagreement surfaces among agencies</strong></h2>

<p>However, there exists a dispute regarding the acceptable daily intake of BPA that one can safely consume throughout their lifetime without endangering human health.</p>

<p>The European Medicines Agency, responsible for drug approvals, has challenged the EFSA's updated maximum recommended limits.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Scientists create embryo model without sperm, egg or womb</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-create-embryo-model-without-sperm-egg-or-womb-633345/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>They have criticised the EFSA's methodology, suggesting that the organisation has acted hastily, particularly since there hasn't been a proven causal connection in studies involving animals or humans.</p>

<p>The EEA has nonetheless concluded that people's exposure to BPA "is well above acceptable health safety levels, according to updated research data."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-hints-of-life-on-this-distant-alien-planet-study-635424"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Scientists discover ‘hints of life’ on this distant alien planet: Study</strong></a></p>

<p>​"This poses a potential health risk to millions of people," it said.</p>

<p>​"The reported exceedances are minimum numbers. The probability exists that actually, all 11 countries have exceedance rates of 100 percent exposed above safe levels," it concluded.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


New research has revealed that a hormone-disrupting chemical is present in the bodies of almost all Europeans, which amounts to a significant health risk. The European Environment Agency revealed Thursday (Sept 14) that the hormone-disrupting chemical Bisphenol A (BPA) was detected in 71 to 100 per cent of adults in the 11 countries studied.

New research has revealed that a hormone-disrupting chemical is present in the bodies of almost all Europeans, which amounts to a significant health risk. The European Environment Agency revealed Thursday (Sept 14) that the hormone-disrupting chemical Bisphenol A (BPA) was detected in 71 to 100 per cent of adults in the 11 countries studied. "A recent Horizon 2020 research initiative, HBM4EU, measured chemicals in people's bodies in Europe and detected BPA in the urine of 92 per cent of adult participants from 11 European countries," the agency wrote in a new report. The chemical is widely used in food packaging across the union and was earlier used to make baby bottles until it was banned in Europe, the US and other nations a decade ago. The EFSA in April had drastically reduced the recommended maximum daily intake of BPA allowed for consumers, slashing it by 20,000 times to 0.2 billionths of a gramme, down from four-millionths of a gramme. Health concerns The research has suggested that consumption of BPA above the specified level can lead to health disorders linked to hormone disruption, such as “breast cancer and infertility.” It is still widely used to make plastic for food and drink packaging, meaning that most people are potentially exposed to this chemical while consuming food and drink. Disagreement surfaces among agencies However, there exists a dispute regarding the acceptable daily intake of BPA that one can safely consume throughout their lifetime without endangering human health. The European Medicines Agency, responsible for drug approvals, has challenged the EFSA's updated maximum recommended limits. Watch: Scientists create embryo model without sperm, egg or womb × They have criticised the EFSA's methodology, suggesting that the organisation has acted hastily, particularly since there hasn't been a proven causal connection in studies involving animals or humans. The EEA has nonetheless concluded that people's exposure to BPA "is well above acceptable health safety levels, according to updated research data." Also read: Scientists discover ‘hints of life’ on this distant alien planet: Study "This poses a potential health risk to millions of people," it said. "The reported exceedances are minimum numbers. The probability exists that actually, all 11 countries have exceedance rates of 100 percent exposed above safe levels," it concluded. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Almost all Europeans have hormone-disrupting chemical in their bodies: Research

<p>Having a greater sense of purpose in life can keep diseases like Alzheimer’s and other dementias away, researchers have found in a new study.</p>

<p>The study has also revealed that following a diagnosis of dementia, a person’s sense of purpose experiences a steady decline.</p>

<p>“Purpose in life is the feeling that one’s life is goal-oriented and has direction. It is an important component of well-being,” Angelina Sutin, lead author of the study published Wednesday in the journal JAMA Network Open, was quoted as saying by CNN.</p>

<p>“Previous studies have found that individuals with more purpose are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias,” she said in an email.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Here we look at the relation between purpose and cognitive impairment in the other direction: does impairment have an impact on feeling purposeful?”, she added.</p>

<h2><strong>Data from 30,000 individuals analysed</strong></h2>

<p>To establish the results, researchers examined data from over 30,000 individuals across two distinct studies: the Health and Retirement Study spanning from 2006 to 2021, and the National Health and Aging Trends Study covering the period from 2011 to 2021.</p>

<p>During the study, participants underwent multiple evaluations spanning several years to assess both cognitive impairment and their sense of purpose.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Scientists reveal how to detect signs of Dementia 9 years before diagnosis</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scientists-reveal-how-to-detect-signs-of-dementia-9-years-before-diagnosis-550942/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>While there were indications of declining feelings of purpose leading up to cognitive impairment, the decline became notably swifter once impairment was detected, as pointed out by Sutin.</p>

<p>These findings align with existing knowledge about deteriorations in mental well-being following a diagnosis, as noted by Dr Sam Fazio, senior director of quality care and psychosocial research at the Alzheimer’s Association.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-reveal-11-dementia-risk-factors-that-could-determine-who-all-are-at-risk-629154"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Scientists reveal 11 dementia risk factors that could determine who all are at risk</strong></a></p>

<p>It's worth noting that the identification of impairment was based on cognitive tasks rather than a diagnosis from a healthcare professional.</p>

<p>Nevertheless, the results hold strong credibility due to the utilisation of assessments spanning over a decade, with consistent trends observed in both study groups.</p>

<h2><strong>Importance of purpose in life</strong></h2>

<p>Experts believe it is critically important for an individual to have a strong sense of purpose in life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The opposite of purpose in life — apathy — is a significant problem in dementia. Individuals with dementia lose their drive to engage in life,” Sutin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It is critically important for individuals to maintain their purpose in life to prevent or at least delay this apathy, which can reduce quality of life,” she added.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Having a greater sense of purpose in life can keep diseases like Alzheimer’s and other dementias away, researchers have found in a new study. The study has also revealed that following a diagnosis of dementia, a person’s sense of purpose experiences a steady decline.

Having a greater sense of purpose in life can keep diseases like Alzheimer’s and other dementias away, researchers have found in a new study. The study has also revealed that following a diagnosis of dementia, a person’s sense of purpose experiences a steady decline. “Purpose in life is the feeling that one’s life is goal-oriented and has direction. It is an important component of well-being,” Angelina Sutin, lead author of the study published Wednesday in the journal JAMA Network Open, was quoted as saying by CNN. “Previous studies have found that individuals with more purpose are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias,” she said in an email. “Here we look at the relation between purpose and cognitive impairment in the other direction: does impairment have an impact on feeling purposeful?”, she added. Data from 30,000 individuals analysed To establish the results, researchers examined data from over 30,000 individuals across two distinct studies: the Health and Retirement Study spanning from 2006 to 2021, and the National Health and Aging Trends Study covering the period from 2011 to 2021. During the study, participants underwent multiple evaluations spanning several years to assess both cognitive impairment and their sense of purpose. Watch: Scientists reveal how to detect signs of Dementia 9 years before diagnosis × While there were indications of declining feelings of purpose leading up to cognitive impairment, the decline became notably swifter once impairment was detected, as pointed out by Sutin. These findings align with existing knowledge about deteriorations in mental well-being following a diagnosis, as noted by Dr Sam Fazio, senior director of quality care and psychosocial research at the Alzheimer’s Association. Also read: Scientists reveal 11 dementia risk factors that could determine who all are at risk It's worth noting that the identification of impairment was based on cognitive tasks rather than a diagnosis from a healthcare professional. Nevertheless, the results hold strong credibility due to the utilisation of assessments spanning over a decade, with consistent trends observed in both study groups. Importance of purpose in life Experts believe it is critically important for an individual to have a strong sense of purpose in life. “The opposite of purpose in life — apathy — is a significant problem in dementia. Individuals with dementia lose their drive to engage in life,” Sutin said. “It is critically important for individuals to maintain their purpose in life to prevent or at least delay this apathy, which can reduce quality of life,” she added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Not having a sense of purpose in life may lead to dementia: Study

<p>The Swiss researchers have found a way to generate electricity from brewery wastewater using bacteria. A team of scientists at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) engineered bacteria called ‘Escherichia coli’ to achieve this feat.</p>

<p>"E. coli can grow on a wide range of sources, which allowed us to produce electricity in a wide range of environments, including from wastewater," senior author and chemical engineer Ardemis Boghossian was quoted as saying by Science Alert.</p>

<h2><strong>Why is it significant?</strong></h2>

<p>As per Ardemis, scientists have already identified some exotic microbes that can naturally produce electricity. However, they can do so only in the presence of some special elements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But, the new bacteria engineered by the Swiss researchers can produce electricity in different kinds of atmospheres, making it viable for extensive and practical use.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Aliens: Are we looking in the wrong place?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/aliens-are-we-looking-in-the-wrong-place-604934/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>To better engineer the bacteria, the scientists modified its genome to include instructions for protein complexes found in Shewanella oneidensis, one of the best-known bacterial electricity generators.</p>

<p>By doing so, scientists were able to ramp up E. coli’s electro-activity two-fold.</p>

<p>However, it must be noted that those experiments were done under lab conditions, and it remains to be seen whether or not the same results can be achieved in industrial settings.</p>

<h2><strong>E. coli better suited for treating wastewater</strong></h2>

<p>Researchers have also found that E. coli is better suited to treat industrial wastewater rather than Shewanella oneidensis.</p>

<p>Breweries are generally required to treat the water they use for cleaning grains and rinsing tanks before disposing it of, as it contains a complex mixture of sugars, starches, alcohols, and yeast. If left untreated, this wastewater could lead to undesirable microbial growth.</p>

<p>To demonstrate their solution, the team conducted experiments using their engineered E. coli system, using a sample of wastewater obtained from a local brewery in Lausanne, Switzerland. Remarkably, the modified bacteria efficiently consumed this wastewater within 50 hours.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-hints-of-life-on-this-distant-alien-planet-study-635424"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Scientists discover ‘hints of life’ on this distant alien planet: Study</strong></a></p>

<p>"Our bioengineered electric bacteria were able to flourish exponentially by feeding off this waste," says Boghossian, whereas S. oneidensis, used as a comparator, wasn't able to digest the mixed effluent.</p>

<p>This development highlights the potential of engineered E. coli for industrial wastewater treatment, even though it generates electricity at a slightly slower rate compared to S. oneidensis, according to the researchers.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Swiss researchers have found a way to generate electricity from brewery wastewater using bacteria. A team of scientists at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) engineered bacteria called ‘Escherichia coli’ to achieve this feat.

The Swiss researchers have found a way to generate electricity from brewery wastewater using bacteria. A team of scientists at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) engineered bacteria called ‘Escherichia coli’ to achieve this feat. "E. coli can grow on a wide range of sources, which allowed us to produce electricity in a wide range of environments, including from wastewater," senior author and chemical engineer Ardemis Boghossian was quoted as saying by Science Alert. Why is it significant? As per Ardemis, scientists have already identified some exotic microbes that can naturally produce electricity. However, they can do so only in the presence of some special elements. But, the new bacteria engineered by the Swiss researchers can produce electricity in different kinds of atmospheres, making it viable for extensive and practical use. Watch: Aliens: Are we looking in the wrong place? × To better engineer the bacteria, the scientists modified its genome to include instructions for protein complexes found in Shewanella oneidensis, one of the best-known bacterial electricity generators. By doing so, scientists were able to ramp up E. coli’s electro-activity two-fold. However, it must be noted that those experiments were done under lab conditions, and it remains to be seen whether or not the same results can be achieved in industrial settings. E. coli better suited for treating wastewater Researchers have also found that E. coli is better suited to treat industrial wastewater rather than Shewanella oneidensis. Breweries are generally required to treat the water they use for cleaning grains and rinsing tanks before disposing it of, as it contains a complex mixture of sugars, starches, alcohols, and yeast. If left untreated, this wastewater could lead to undesirable microbial growth. To demonstrate their solution, the team conducted experiments using their engineered E. coli system, using a sample of wastewater obtained from a local brewery in Lausanne, Switzerland. Remarkably, the modified bacteria efficiently consumed this wastewater within 50 hours. Also read: Scientists discover ‘hints of life’ on this distant alien planet: Study "Our bioengineered electric bacteria were able to flourish exponentially by feeding off this waste," says Boghossian, whereas S. oneidensis, used as a comparator, wasn't able to digest the mixed effluent. This development highlights the potential of engineered E. coli for industrial wastewater treatment, even though it generates electricity at a slightly slower rate compared to S. oneidensis, according to the researchers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

E Coli can be used to generate electricity, Swiss researchers say

<p>A new intriguing study has claimed that the long-held belief that all apes and humans originated from Africa might not be true.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It all started with the discovery of an ancient ape skull, called an Anadoluvius turkae. The skull was found in Turkey’s Cankiri and appears to be at least 8.7 million years old.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If these claims are found to be true, then this would mean that apes in Europe existed way before they came to occupy Africa as no trace of early hominins, including humans and African apes, is found in Africa until seven million years ago.</p>

<p>Hence, this study challenges the theory which suggests that the ancestors of African apes and humans originated exclusively in Africa.</p>

<h2><strong>So, humans first evolved in Europe?</strong></h2>

<p>Instead, this discovery suggests that humans and apes might have first evolved in Europe and then migrated to Europe.</p>

<p>"Our findings further suggest that hominins not only evolved in western and central Europe but spent over five million years evolving there and spreading to the eastern Mediterranean before eventually dispersing into Africa, probably as a consequence of changing environments and diminishing forests," said Professor David Begun, a paleoanthropologist from the University of Toronto and co-senior author of the study.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Massive explosion from Sun felt on Earth and Mars</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/massive-explosion-from-sun-felt-on-earth-and-mars-630964/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"This new evidence supports the hypothesis that hominins originated in Europe and dispersed into Africa along with many other mammals between nine and seven million years ago, though it does not definitively prove it," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>More research needed</strong></h2>

<p>To establish this, additional fossils dating back seven to eight million years in both Europe and Africa would be necessary to establish a potential connection between these two groups, he emphasised.</p>

<p>This discovery implies that the ape's estimated weight ranged between 110 to 130 pounds, it might have inhabited a dry forest environment and probably had a significant terrestrial lifestyle.</p>

<h2><strong>What do critics say?</strong></h2>

<p>Unearthed in 2015, the skull's significance has only recently been discussed in a publication in the journal Communications Biology. However, some other researchers argue that these findings do not challenge our current understanding of human origins.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-believe-an-earth-like-planet-might-hiding-in-our-solar-system-631433"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Scientists believe an Earth-like planet might be hiding in our solar system</strong></a></p>

<p>"This has been a long-running debate regarding great ape and our origins," said Professor Chris Stringer, research leader in human evolution at the Natural History Museum in London.</p>

<p>"I don't think this find changes much from the discussions (in a recent paper in the journal Science) which concluded: 'Current evidence suggests that hominins originated in Africa from Miocene ape ancestors, unlike any living species'."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A new intriguing study has claimed that the long-held belief that all apes and humans originated from Africa might not be true. It all started with the discovery of an ancient ape skull, called an Anadoluvius turkae.

A new intriguing study has claimed that the long-held belief that all apes and humans originated from Africa might not be true. It all started with the discovery of an ancient ape skull, called an Anadoluvius turkae. The skull was found in Turkey’s Cankiri and appears to be at least 8.7 million years old. If these claims are found to be true, then this would mean that apes in Europe existed way before they came to occupy Africa as no trace of early hominins, including humans and African apes, is found in Africa until seven million years ago. Hence, this study challenges the theory which suggests that the ancestors of African apes and humans originated exclusively in Africa. So, humans first evolved in Europe? Instead, this discovery suggests that humans and apes might have first evolved in Europe and then migrated to Europe. "Our findings further suggest that hominins not only evolved in western and central Europe but spent over five million years evolving there and spreading to the eastern Mediterranean before eventually dispersing into Africa, probably as a consequence of changing environments and diminishing forests," said Professor David Begun, a paleoanthropologist from the University of Toronto and co-senior author of the study. Watch: Massive explosion from Sun felt on Earth and Mars × "This new evidence supports the hypothesis that hominins originated in Europe and dispersed into Africa along with many other mammals between nine and seven million years ago, though it does not definitively prove it," he added. More research needed To establish this, additional fossils dating back seven to eight million years in both Europe and Africa would be necessary to establish a potential connection between these two groups, he emphasised. This discovery implies that the ape's estimated weight ranged between 110 to 130 pounds, it might have inhabited a dry forest environment and probably had a significant terrestrial lifestyle. What do critics say? Unearthed in 2015, the skull's significance has only recently been discussed in a publication in the journal Communications Biology. However, some other researchers argue that these findings do not challenge our current understanding of human origins. Also read: Scientists believe an Earth-like planet might be hiding in our solar system "This has been a long-running debate regarding great ape and our origins," said Professor Chris Stringer, research leader in human evolution at the Natural History Museum in London. "I don't think this find changes much from the discussions (in a recent paper in the journal Science) which concluded: 'Current evidence suggests that hominins originated in Africa from Miocene ape ancestors, unlike any living species'." WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

New intriguing study claims humans might have first evolved in Europe, not Africa

<p>Scientists have discovered a tiny fossil mammal in Alaska that may have survived about 73 million years ago in one of the coldest conditions ever endured by living organisms on Earth.</p>

<p>The mammal is being described as an “ice mouse” by researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder in a study published in the Journal of Systematic Palaeontology.</p>

<h2><strong>Fossil given name ‘Sikuomys mikros’</strong></h2>

<p>The scientists have given the fossil a fitting name—Sikuomys mikros—from "Siku," an Iñupiaq word for "ice," and "mys" and "mikros," the Greek words for "mouse" and "little."</p>

<p>Simply put, experts have likened the fossil to a tiny mouse, who might have appeared like a modern-day shrew.</p>

<p>They weighed an estimated 11gm&nbsp;or even less. However, the study has clarified the mammal was actually not a mouse but hailed from a now-extinct family different altogether—Gypsonictopidae.</p>

<p>The ice mouse might have endured straight four months of unending darkness even as temperatures fell way below the freezing point.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Biden administration approves Alaska Oil Drilling Project&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/biden-administration-approves-alaska-oil-drilling-project-571876/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Eberle, curator of fossil vertebrates at the CU Museum of Natural History and professor in the Department of Geological Sciences, anticipated that "these guys probably didn't hibernate."</p>

<p>“They stayed active all year long, burrowing under leaf litter or underground and feeding on whatever they could sink their teeth into, probably insects and worms," she observed.</p>

<h2><strong>Why the discovery of the fossil is significant?</strong></h2>

<p>The find is significant as it is always difficult to spot mammal fossils of this tiny size. Some species have been identified only from a handful of tiny teeth, some even smaller than a grain of sand.</p>

<p>In Eberle’s words, “I always like working at the ends of the Earth. You never know what you're going to find, but you know it's going to be new."</p>

<h2><strong>Little mice challenging conventional beliefs</strong></h2>

<p>Many groups of Earth's mammals tend to become larger as they move towards higher latitudes and cooler climates. However, the ice mouse and its relatives defy this trend.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers have discovered related species living thousands of miles to the south that were three to five times larger than the tiny Sikuomys mikros.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-double-storey-alaska-house-collapses-into-river-amid-record-glacial-flooding-623371"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Watch: Double-storey Alaska house collapses into river amid record glacial flooding</strong></a></p>

<p>Eberle suggests that the small size of the ice mouse could be attributed to the scarcity of food during Alaskan winters.</p>

<p>This phenomenon is also observed in present-day shrews, where being small helps to reduce food and energy requirements.</p>

<p>It's possible that Sikuomys mikros spent the colder months underground in Alaska. This subterranean lifestyle might have provided a significant advantage to creatures like the ice mouse.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Scientists have discovered a tiny fossil mammal in Alaska that may have survived about 73 million years ago in one of the coldest conditions ever endured by living organisms on Earth.

Scientists have discovered a tiny fossil mammal in Alaska that may have survived about 73 million years ago in one of the coldest conditions ever endured by living organisms on Earth. The mammal is being described as an “ice mouse” by researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder in a study published in the Journal of Systematic Palaeontology. Fossil given name ‘Sikuomys mikros’ The scientists have given the fossil a fitting name—Sikuomys mikros—from "Siku," an Iñupiaq word for "ice," and "mys" and "mikros," the Greek words for "mouse" and "little." Simply put, experts have likened the fossil to a tiny mouse, who might have appeared like a modern-day shrew. They weighed an estimated 11gm or even less. However, the study has clarified the mammal was actually not a mouse but hailed from a now-extinct family different altogether—Gypsonictopidae. The ice mouse might have endured straight four months of unending darkness even as temperatures fell way below the freezing point. Watch: Biden administration approves Alaska Oil Drilling Project × Eberle, curator of fossil vertebrates at the CU Museum of Natural History and professor in the Department of Geological Sciences, anticipated that "these guys probably didn't hibernate." “They stayed active all year long, burrowing under leaf litter or underground and feeding on whatever they could sink their teeth into, probably insects and worms," she observed. Why the discovery of the fossil is significant? The find is significant as it is always difficult to spot mammal fossils of this tiny size. Some species have been identified only from a handful of tiny teeth, some even smaller than a grain of sand. In Eberle’s words, “I always like working at the ends of the Earth. You never know what you're going to find, but you know it's going to be new." Little mice challenging conventional beliefs Many groups of Earth's mammals tend to become larger as they move towards higher latitudes and cooler climates. However, the ice mouse and its relatives defy this trend. Researchers have discovered related species living thousands of miles to the south that were three to five times larger than the tiny Sikuomys mikros. Also read: Watch: Double-storey Alaska house collapses into river amid record glacial flooding Eberle suggests that the small size of the ice mouse could be attributed to the scarcity of food during Alaskan winters. This phenomenon is also observed in present-day shrews, where being small helps to reduce food and energy requirements. It's possible that Sikuomys mikros spent the colder months underground in Alaska. This subterranean lifestyle might have provided a significant advantage to creatures like the ice mouse. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Scientists in Alaska discover fossil of tiny ‘ice mouse’ that lived 73 million years ago

<p>Decades after a retired chicken farmer found curious bones in Australia's New South Wales, scientists have identified the remains as those belonging to an almost 250 million-year-old lizard-like species. With this, the mystery which has captivated scientists for years has finally come to an end.</p>

<h2><strong>A head-scratching mystery</strong></h2>

<p>The amazing discovery, as per experts, may "rewrite the evolution of amphibians in Australia," and prove that the nation was a "great place for animals to evolve and find refuge after mass extinctions".</p>

<p>As per a BBC report, scientists estimate that the "new" species of amphibians roamed Australia some 247 million years ago.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-unearth-a-248-million-years-old-marine-reptile-that-shared-this-curious-similarity-to-whales-623510">Scientists unearth 248 million-years-old marine reptile that shared this curious similarity to whales</a></strong></p>

<p>Based on the nearly complete skeleton, scientists estimate that the amphibian was approximately 1.5 metres (around 5 feet) long and had a salamander-shaped body.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The remarkable lizard-like amphibian is said to have survived not just one, but two mass-extinction events. It is part of the Temnospondyli family — which refers to resilient amphibians that survived two of the earth's five mass extinction event; including a series of volcanic eruptions that wiped off about 70-80 per cent of all dinosaurs around 66 million years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per experts, the amphibian which has been named Arenaepeton supinatus, latin for "sand creeper on its back" once lived in the freshwater lakes and streams of Sydney.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/newly-discovered-skull-in-china-baffles-scientists-is-it-a-new-lineage-of-humans-623180">Newly-discovered skull in China baffles scientists. Is it yet another lineage of humans?</a></strong></p>

<p>Lachlan Hart - the palaeontologist who ultimately decoded the petrified remains and identified the fossil, says that the find is remarkable, and shows that "Australia was a great place for animals to evolve and find refuge after mass extinctions."</p>

<p>Till date, only three fossils capturing the Temnospondyli species have been successfully identified in Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Where was the fossil found?</strong></h2>

<p>As per BBC, the find was serendipity. The farmer, Mihail Mihaildis, was attempting to fix a broken garden wall at his home in Umina, a suburb located around 86 kilometres from Sydney.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For this, he purchased a 1.6 tonne sandstone slab in which he ultimately found the immortalised outline of an unknown creature, this remarkable amphibian of the species Arenaepeton supinatus.&nbsp;The extraordinary find soon goes on full-time display at the Australian Museum.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Decades after a retired chicken farmer found curious bones in Australia's New South Wales, scientists have identified the remains as those belonging to an almost 250 million-year-old lizard-like species.

Decades after a retired chicken farmer found curious bones in Australia's New South Wales, scientists have identified the remains as those belonging to an almost 250 million-year-old lizard-like species. With this, the mystery which has captivated scientists for years has finally come to an end. A head-scratching mystery The amazing discovery, as per experts, may "rewrite the evolution of amphibians in Australia," and prove that the nation was a "great place for animals to evolve and find refuge after mass extinctions". As per a BBC report, scientists estimate that the "new" species of amphibians roamed Australia some 247 million years ago. Also read | Scientists unearth 248 million-years-old marine reptile that shared this curious similarity to whales Based on the nearly complete skeleton, scientists estimate that the amphibian was approximately 1.5 metres (around 5 feet) long and had a salamander-shaped body. The remarkable lizard-like amphibian is said to have survived not just one, but two mass-extinction events. It is part of the Temnospondyli family — which refers to resilient amphibians that survived two of the earth's five mass extinction event; including a series of volcanic eruptions that wiped off about 70-80 per cent of all dinosaurs around 66 million years ago. As per experts, the amphibian which has been named Arenaepeton supinatus, latin for "sand creeper on its back" once lived in the freshwater lakes and streams of Sydney. Also read | Newly-discovered skull in China baffles scientists. Is it yet another lineage of humans? Lachlan Hart - the palaeontologist who ultimately decoded the petrified remains and identified the fossil, says that the find is remarkable, and shows that "Australia was a great place for animals to evolve and find refuge after mass extinctions." Till date, only three fossils capturing the Temnospondyli species have been successfully identified in Australia. Where was the fossil found? As per BBC, the find was serendipity. The farmer, Mihail Mihaildis, was attempting to fix a broken garden wall at his home in Umina, a suburb located around 86 kilometres from Sydney. For this, he purchased a 1.6 tonne sandstone slab in which he ultimately found the immortalised outline of an unknown creature, this remarkable amphibian of the species Arenaepeton supinatus. The extraordinary find soon goes on full-time display at the Australian Museum. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scientists identify 248 million-year-old lizard-like creature that survived what dinosaurs couldn't

Harnessing energy through nuclear fusion has been the holy grail for the energy sector. This is the one solution that could allow humanity to break free from the clutches of fossil fuels aggravating climate crisis.

Nuclear Fusion: A carbon-free source of energy | World News | WION

<p>The planets in our solar system that have gone rogue do not number in billions, as was previously believed, but in trillions, scientists at NASA and Osaka University in Japan have estimated.</p>

<p>The estimate has been detailed in two papers reportedly&nbsp;accepted for publication in The Astronomical Journal, the New York Times reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers have concluded that these planets are six times more abundant than worlds orbiting their own suns. The researchers have also identified the second Earth-size free floater ever detected.</p>

<h2><strong>What are Rogue Planets?</strong></h2>

<p>Rogue planets are basically free-floating planets — dark, isolated orbs freely roaming the universe without any revolution to any host star. Let's say if the Earth stops revolving around Sun and doesn't end up revolving around some other host star in the meantime, it'll be called rogue.</p>

<h2><strong>How the estimation of total number of rogue planets has been made?</strong></h2>

<p>According to a report in the New York Times,&nbsp;David Bennett, an astronomer at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, and his team used nine years of data from the Microlensing Observations in Astrophysics telescope at the University of Canterbury Mount John Observatory in New Zealand.</p>

<p>Exoplanets were indirectly detected by an effect called microlensing.</p>

<p>The report adds that with help from empirical models, the researchers worked out the spread of the masses for more than 3,500 microlensing events.</p>

<p>This included stars, brown dwarfs and planet candidates.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;IIST: WION reports from Indian institute of space science and technology</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iist-wion-reports-from-indian-institute-of-space-science-and-technology-578373/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>In the process, the scientists assessed data from one of these planet candidates to be compelling enough to claim the discovery of a new rogue Earth.</p>

<p>From this analysis, the scientists&nbsp;estimate that there are about 20 times more free-floating worlds in our Milky Way than stars, with Earth-mass planets 180 times more common than rogue Jupiters.</p>

<h2><strong>Are most rogue planets Earth-sized or Jupiter-sized?</strong></h2>

<p>No, that is not the case. Most rogue worlds are small.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>That’s because planets&nbsp;go rogue when two protoplanets slam into each other.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-roman-telescope-can-find-400-earth-size-rogue-planets-reveals-study-620529">NASA's new telescope likely to spot 400 Earth-size rogue planets, reveals study</a></strong></p>

<p>Since they are revolving around no one but are free in the vastness of the universe, the gravity is not strong enough to hold together big-sized planets out there in their rogue glory.</p>

<p>During this collision, the&nbsp;force of the impact is so strong that it knocks out one of the emerging star systems altogether.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The planets in our solar system that have gone rogue do not number in billions, as was previously believed, but in trillions, scientists at NASA and Osaka University in Japan have estimated.

The planets in our solar system that have gone rogue do not number in billions, as was previously believed, but in trillions, scientists at NASA and Osaka University in Japan have estimated. The estimate has been detailed in two papers reportedly accepted for publication in The Astronomical Journal, the New York Times reported. The researchers have concluded that these planets are six times more abundant than worlds orbiting their own suns. The researchers have also identified the second Earth-size free floater ever detected. What are Rogue Planets? Rogue planets are basically free-floating planets — dark, isolated orbs freely roaming the universe without any revolution to any host star. Let's say if the Earth stops revolving around Sun and doesn't end up revolving around some other host star in the meantime, it'll be called rogue. How the estimation of total number of rogue planets has been made? According to a report in the New York Times, David Bennett, an astronomer at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, and his team used nine years of data from the Microlensing Observations in Astrophysics telescope at the University of Canterbury Mount John Observatory in New Zealand. Exoplanets were indirectly detected by an effect called microlensing. The report adds that with help from empirical models, the researchers worked out the spread of the masses for more than 3,500 microlensing events. This included stars, brown dwarfs and planet candidates. Also watch | IIST: WION reports from Indian institute of space science and technology × In the process, the scientists assessed data from one of these planet candidates to be compelling enough to claim the discovery of a new rogue Earth. From this analysis, the scientists estimate that there are about 20 times more free-floating worlds in our Milky Way than stars, with Earth-mass planets 180 times more common than rogue Jupiters. Are most rogue planets Earth-sized or Jupiter-sized? No, that is not the case. Most rogue worlds are small. That’s because planets go rogue when two protoplanets slam into each other. Also read | NASA's new telescope likely to spot 400 Earth-size rogue planets, reveals study Since they are revolving around no one but are free in the vastness of the universe, the gravity is not strong enough to hold together big-sized planets out there in their rogue glory. During this collision, the force of the impact is so strong that it knocks out one of the emerging star systems altogether. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Not billions, but trillions of planets have gone rogue in our galaxy

<p>Today, we have seven continents, but an intriguing future awaits us.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Geophysicist Ross Mitchell has recently unveiled his new book: "The Next Supercontinent" in which he talks about not only the past but also the distant future regarding what Earth might look like when all its continents merge into a single vast landmass.</p>

<h2><strong>Brief history</strong></h2>

<p>Mitchell takes us on a journey through time, exploring how the continents joined forces in the past to form supercontinents. We begin around 300 to 200 million years ago with Pangaea, a lush world filled with dinosaurs, centered on present-day Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;These pictures of Earth from Mars show there's no 'Planet B' for us</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/these-pictures-of-earth-from-mars-show-theres-no-planet-b-for-us-617175/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Travelling further back, we encounter Rodinia, a billion years ago, a barren landmass that included much of today's North America and Greenland. Then, two billion years ago, there was Columbia, the Siberia-centric first supercontinent, as some scientists believe.</p>

<h2><strong>Understanding how continents move</strong></h2>

<p>Understanding the movements of continents requires meticulous investigation. Scientists gather samples through fieldwork, determining the rock's age and latitude when it formed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The formation and breakup of supercontinents are linked to the behaviour of the "solid but pliable" mantle. Mantle is the layer between the Earth's crust and core that stores ever-existing heat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the book, the movement of&nbsp;continents occurs as heat rises in the mantle. The continents move towards that spot in the mantle which is comparatively cooler than other parts. That's how continents collide with each other, heralding the birth of a new supercontinent.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-report-hints-at-blocking-sunlight-to-cool-planet-earth-610980"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;White House report hints at blocking sunlight to cool planet Earth</strong></a></p>

<p>Eventually, when heat starts building up in the mantle below that giant continent, it starts to tear apart again, leading to the creation of new oceans and initiating another cycle.</p>

<h2><strong>Amasia: The next supercontinent?</strong></h2>

<p>Drawing from this knowledge of the past and understanding mantle mechanics, Mitchell predicts "Amasia" as the next supercontinent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Contrary to some theories suggesting it could form from the closing of the Pacific or Atlantic oceans, Mitchell argues that Amasia will emerge through the disappearance of the Arctic Ocean.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per his prediction, Amasia will form out of the merger of North America and Asia.</p>

<p>However, whether Mitchell's predictions about Amasia are accurate remains a question that none of us will live long enough to answer. It will be a matter for our coming generations to discover.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Today, we have seven continents, but an intriguing future awaits us. Geophysicist Ross Mitchell has recently unveiled his new book: "The Next Supercontinent" in which he talks about not only the past but also the distant future regarding what Earth might look like when all its continents merge into a single vast landmass.

Today, we have seven continents, but an intriguing future awaits us. Geophysicist Ross Mitchell has recently unveiled his new book: "The Next Supercontinent" in which he talks about not only the past but also the distant future regarding what Earth might look like when all its continents merge into a single vast landmass. Brief history Mitchell takes us on a journey through time, exploring how the continents joined forces in the past to form supercontinents. We begin around 300 to 200 million years ago with Pangaea, a lush world filled with dinosaurs, centered on present-day Africa. Watch: These pictures of Earth from Mars show there's no 'Planet B' for us × Travelling further back, we encounter Rodinia, a billion years ago, a barren landmass that included much of today's North America and Greenland. Then, two billion years ago, there was Columbia, the Siberia-centric first supercontinent, as some scientists believe. Understanding how continents move Understanding the movements of continents requires meticulous investigation. Scientists gather samples through fieldwork, determining the rock's age and latitude when it formed. The formation and breakup of supercontinents are linked to the behaviour of the "solid but pliable" mantle. Mantle is the layer between the Earth's crust and core that stores ever-existing heat. As per the book, the movement of continents occurs as heat rises in the mantle. The continents move towards that spot in the mantle which is comparatively cooler than other parts. That's how continents collide with each other, heralding the birth of a new supercontinent. Also read: White House report hints at blocking sunlight to cool planet Earth Eventually, when heat starts building up in the mantle below that giant continent, it starts to tear apart again, leading to the creation of new oceans and initiating another cycle. Amasia: The next supercontinent? Drawing from this knowledge of the past and understanding mantle mechanics, Mitchell predicts "Amasia" as the next supercontinent. Contrary to some theories suggesting it could form from the closing of the Pacific or Atlantic oceans, Mitchell argues that Amasia will emerge through the disappearance of the Arctic Ocean. As per his prediction, Amasia will form out of the merger of North America and Asia. However, whether Mitchell's predictions about Amasia are accurate remains a question that none of us will live long enough to answer. It will be a matter for our coming generations to discover. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

North America and Asia might collide to form next supercontinent on Earth, predicts scientist

<p>A rare fossil found in China has shed light on the possibility of mammals preying on plant-eating dinosaurs during the Mesozoic Era millions of years ago. The fossil discovered in northeastern China is rare because it shows two animals in an engaging state. Both animals were involved in mortal combat before suddenly being engulfed in a volcanic eruption and getting buried alive.</p>

<p>The four-legged mammal Repenomamus robustus - the size of a domestic cat - was found&nbsp;ferociously entangled with the beaked two-legged dinosaur Psittacosaurus lujiatunensis - as big as a medium-sized dog, Reuters explained.</p>

<h2><strong>Dinosaurs- Not always kings</strong></h2>

<p>The 125mn-year-old dramatic fossil implies that the food web during the Mesozoic era was much more complex than earlier thought. As per conventional belief, bigger dinosaurs would always prey on smaller mammals. That theory stands challenged today.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;A dinosaur that lived 125 million years ago</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-dinosaur-that-lived-125-million-years-ago-europes-largest-dinosaur-unearthed-487702/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"Here, we have good evidence for a smaller mammal preying on a larger dinosaur, which is not something we would have guessed without this fossil," said paleobiologist Jordan Mallon of the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think what's key here is that Mesozoic food webs were more complex than we had imagined," Mallon added.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Never seen before’</strong></h2>

<p>Stressing the significance of the finding, experts noted that this was for the first time that a fossil has shown a mammal preying on a dinosaur.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There have been specimens of carnivorous dinosaurs preying on plant-eating dinosaurs before, but there has never been an example of a mammal preying on a dinosaur," said Canadian Museum of Nature palaeontologist and study co-author Xiao-chun Wu.</p>

<h2><strong>Psittacosaurus (dinosaur) vs Repenomamus (mammals)</strong></h2>

<p>Psittacosaurus, an early relative of the horned dinosaur lineage, lacked facial horns and a head crest. Instead, it featured a parrot-like beak, which it used for feeding on plant material.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sothebys-to-auction-dinosaur-skeletons-one-evokes-loch-ness-monster-614725"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Sotheby`s to auction dinosaur skeletons, including one evoking Loch Ness monster</strong></a></p>

<p>Repenomamus, one of the largest mammals during the dinosaur age, boasted short and sprawling limbs, along with a long tail, sinuous body, robust skull, and shearing teeth. &nbsp;Paleontologist Mallon compared its appearance to that of a Chinese ferret-badger.</p>

<p>Previous evidence pointed to Repenomamus being a carnivorous predator. In one fossil discovery from the same region, the stomach contents of a Repenomamus specimen revealed the presence of baby Psittacosaurus bones, indicating its dino-eating habits.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A rare fossil found in China has shed light on the possibility of mammals preying on plant-eating dinosaurs during the Mesozoic Era millions of years ago. The fossil discovered in northeastern China is rare because it shows two animals in an engaging state.

A rare fossil found in China has shed light on the possibility of mammals preying on plant-eating dinosaurs during the Mesozoic Era millions of years ago. The fossil discovered in northeastern China is rare because it shows two animals in an engaging state. Both animals were involved in mortal combat before suddenly being engulfed in a volcanic eruption and getting buried alive. The four-legged mammal Repenomamus robustus - the size of a domestic cat - was found ferociously entangled with the beaked two-legged dinosaur Psittacosaurus lujiatunensis - as big as a medium-sized dog, Reuters explained. Dinosaurs- Not always kings The 125mn-year-old dramatic fossil implies that the food web during the Mesozoic era was much more complex than earlier thought. As per conventional belief, bigger dinosaurs would always prey on smaller mammals. That theory stands challenged today. Watch: A dinosaur that lived 125 million years ago × "Here, we have good evidence for a smaller mammal preying on a larger dinosaur, which is not something we would have guessed without this fossil," said paleobiologist Jordan Mallon of the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa. "I think what's key here is that Mesozoic food webs were more complex than we had imagined," Mallon added. ‘Never seen before’ Stressing the significance of the finding, experts noted that this was for the first time that a fossil has shown a mammal preying on a dinosaur. "There have been specimens of carnivorous dinosaurs preying on plant-eating dinosaurs before, but there has never been an example of a mammal preying on a dinosaur," said Canadian Museum of Nature palaeontologist and study co-author Xiao-chun Wu. Psittacosaurus (dinosaur) vs Repenomamus (mammals) Psittacosaurus, an early relative of the horned dinosaur lineage, lacked facial horns and a head crest. Instead, it featured a parrot-like beak, which it used for feeding on plant material. Also read: Sotheby`s to auction dinosaur skeletons, including one evoking Loch Ness monster Repenomamus, one of the largest mammals during the dinosaur age, boasted short and sprawling limbs, along with a long tail, sinuous body, robust skull, and shearing teeth. Paleontologist Mallon compared its appearance to that of a Chinese ferret-badger. Previous evidence pointed to Repenomamus being a carnivorous predator. In one fossil discovery from the same region, the stomach contents of a Repenomamus specimen revealed the presence of baby Psittacosaurus bones, indicating its dino-eating habits. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘Invincible’ dinosaur preyed on by mammal: Rare fossil discovery stuns scientists

<p>Love your naps? You'll now love them even more. A new study by MIT researchers, published in Scientific Reports has revealed that people are more creative after waking from the earliest stage of sleep. It was found that in the phase between when you're stuck between being asleep and being awake, your creative mind is quite fertile.</p>

<p>The researchers also found that when people are prompted to dream about a particular phase or topic during that sleep phase, they are more to perform creatively when asked to do three creative tasks around that topic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Now you must be wondering how naps enable creativity. Here's your answer:</strong></p>

<p>Kathleen Esfahany, the study's lead author and an MIT senior said when an individual is promoted to dream about a particular topic during sleep, he/she&nbsp;can have dream experiences that&nbsp;can be used later&nbsp;in creative tasks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study revealed that people who recieved the prompts or "targeted dream incubation," were able to create more creative stories than people who napped without a specific prompt or those who didn't sleep at all.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the findings, this dream stage enables the brain to make connections between disparate concepts which boosts creativity.</p>

<p>Adam Haar Horowitz, another leader of the study said that the connection between sleep and creativity also called N1 or hypnagogia has been known for a while, however, the new study wanted to explore whether it was possible to guide the content of people's dreams and how it would affect their creative process.</p>

<p><strong>The testing process:</strong></p>

<p>For this, the researchers developed a device called Dormio to target dream incubation. This includes a glove that measures three physiological markers of sleep- changes in muscle tone, heart rate and skin conductance by&nbsp;communicating these responses to smartphones or computers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A total of 49 participants were tested for the experiment. Individuals were asked to wear the glove and then take a nap. As soon as they would enter the N1 sleep rate, the app prompts them to dream about something specific. Right before they would jump into the next stage of sleep, the app wakes&nbsp;them up, asking them about the dream and recording their response.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The results revealed that individuals who napped for 45 minutes had the best performance in terms of creativity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study also discovered that during sleep onset, the brain was able to bring together concepts that won't happen during waking hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers further clarified that the Dormio device isn't particularly necessary for targeting dream incubation. They revealed that a device that can track sleep, play and record sound is suitable for this kind of enquiry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Love your naps? You'll now love them even more. A new study by MIT researchers, published in Scientific Reports has revealed that people are more creative after waking from the earliest stage of sleep.

Love your naps? You'll now love them even more. A new study by MIT researchers, published in Scientific Reports has revealed that people are more creative after waking from the earliest stage of sleep. It was found that in the phase between when you're stuck between being asleep and being awake, your creative mind is quite fertile. The researchers also found that when people are prompted to dream about a particular phase or topic during that sleep phase, they are more to perform creatively when asked to do three creative tasks around that topic. Now you must be wondering how naps enable creativity. Here's your answer: Kathleen Esfahany, the study's lead author and an MIT senior said when an individual is promoted to dream about a particular topic during sleep, he/she can have dream experiences that can be used later in creative tasks. The study revealed that people who recieved the prompts or "targeted dream incubation," were able to create more creative stories than people who napped without a specific prompt or those who didn't sleep at all. According to the findings, this dream stage enables the brain to make connections between disparate concepts which boosts creativity. Adam Haar Horowitz, another leader of the study said that the connection between sleep and creativity also called N1 or hypnagogia has been known for a while, however, the new study wanted to explore whether it was possible to guide the content of people's dreams and how it would affect their creative process. The testing process: For this, the researchers developed a device called Dormio to target dream incubation. This includes a glove that measures three physiological markers of sleep- changes in muscle tone, heart rate and skin conductance by communicating these responses to smartphones or computers. A total of 49 participants were tested for the experiment. Individuals were asked to wear the glove and then take a nap. As soon as they would enter the N1 sleep rate, the app prompts them to dream about something specific. Right before they would jump into the next stage of sleep, the app wakes them up, asking them about the dream and recording their response. The results revealed that individuals who napped for 45 minutes had the best performance in terms of creativity. The study also discovered that during sleep onset, the brain was able to bring together concepts that won't happen during waking hours. The researchers further clarified that the Dormio device isn't particularly necessary for targeting dream incubation. They revealed that a device that can track sleep, play and record sound is suitable for this kind of enquiry. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Love your naps? Scientists reveal secret connection between sleep and creativity

In a shocking astronomical discovery, the James Webb Telescope has unearthed six fully-formed galaxies in an earlier time frame of the universe. Stumping all previous scientific conjectures, astronomers made the astounding discovery of six massive galaxies dating back to 600 million years.

The Big Space: James Webb Telescope makes shocking discovery, shows extreme promise early on

<p>A small asteroid measuring about three feet entered the Earth's atmosphere and was seen lighting up the sky above the English Channel. &nbsp;The meteorite was seen in the sky around 03:00 GMT (8:30 am IST) creating a shooting star effect.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently known as Sar2667, the small asteroid exploded after it entered the Earth. It was visible from across Southern England, Wales all the way to Paris, BBC reported.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Asteroid, wowser!<br />
<br />
Here are four different views of asteroid <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAR2667?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAR2667</a> as it enters the atmosphere over Western Europe, over France &amp; UK<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meteor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meteor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/asteroid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#asteroid</a><a href="https://t.co/AgnP6KaB4j">pic.twitter.com/AgnP6KaB4j</a></p>
— Jerry Hicks (@JerryHicksUnite) <a href="https://twitter.com/JerryHicksUnite/status/1625062304164323328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>This instance was predicted by International Meteor Organisation (IMO), a Belgium-based non-profit organisation that "the object would have entered about four kilometres (2.5 miles) from the French coast, and would create a "fireball effect."</p>

<p>The organisation also added that it was expected to hit France's Rouen city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The European Space Agency said that it was a "sign of the rapid advancements in global asteroid detection capabilities!"</p>

<p>Several users on Twitter shared videos of the stunning star effect phenomenon that left them mesmerised.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sar2667?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sar2667</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/asteroid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#asteroid</a> Slow motion from countryside in Oise. <a href="https://t.co/McvhJXvYg8">pic.twitter.com/McvhJXvYg8</a></p>
— Bill Wash (@WashedWilly) <a href="https://twitter.com/WashedWilly/status/1625057537174151169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>One user said, "Got It! How beautiful! #Sar2667 #Asteroid."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I've posted this already but just realised there is sound! Is this just my phone, or is that fizzing sound a real thing that happens with fireballs? (Sound needs to be up high). <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/asteroid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#asteroid</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/meteor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#meteor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sar2667?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sar2667</a> <a href="https://t.co/HEFZe6Xzt4">pic.twitter.com/HEFZe6Xzt4</a></p>
— Ali Penny (@CloudberryJam) <a href="https://twitter.com/CloudberryJam/status/1625115293881180160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Another said, “Wow! Incredible lightshow with audible bang! #Sar2667.”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Got It! How beautiful! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sar2667?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sar2667</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Asteroid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Asteroid</a> <a href="https://t.co/tpLQkJpcCv">pic.twitter.com/tpLQkJpcCv</a></p>
— Kade 🧑🏻‍🔬🌌 (@KadeFlowers) <a href="https://twitter.com/KadeFlowers/status/1624967147708420103?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My effort taken on the beach in Hove <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sar2667?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sar2667</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/asteroid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#asteroid</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NASA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NASA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/uk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#uk</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/hove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#hove</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/brighton?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#brighton</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/brightonandhove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#brightonandhove</a> <a href="https://t.co/VmX6bpIZ86">pic.twitter.com/VmX6bpIZ86</a></p>
— Spbdude (@spbdude) <a href="https://twitter.com/spbdude/status/1624975057435996160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>A similar instance where an asteroid predicted to enter the atmosphere in advance was predicted in the sky above Ontario, Canada in November last year.</p>

<p>(with inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A small asteroid measuring about three feet entered the Earth's atmosphere and was seen lighting up the sky above the English Channel. The meteorite was seen in the sky around 03:00 GMT (8:30 am IST) creating a shooting star effect.

A small asteroid measuring about three feet entered the Earth's atmosphere and was seen lighting up the sky above the English Channel. The meteorite was seen in the sky around 03:00 GMT (8:30 am IST) creating a shooting star effect. Currently known as Sar2667, the small asteroid exploded after it entered the Earth. It was visible from across Southern England, Wales all the way to Paris, BBC reported. Asteroid, wowser! Here are four different views of asteroid #SAR2667 as it enters the atmosphere over Western Europe, over France & UK#Meteor #France #UK #asteroidpic.twitter.com/AgnP6KaB4j — Jerry Hicks (@JerryHicksUnite) February 13, 2023 × This instance was predicted by International Meteor Organisation (IMO), a Belgium-based non-profit organisation that "the object would have entered about four kilometres (2.5 miles) from the French coast, and would create a "fireball effect." The organisation also added that it was expected to hit France's Rouen city. The European Space Agency said that it was a "sign of the rapid advancements in global asteroid detection capabilities!" Several users on Twitter shared videos of the stunning star effect phenomenon that left them mesmerised. #Sar2667 #France #asteroid Slow motion from countryside in Oise. pic.twitter.com/McvhJXvYg8 — Bill Wash (@WashedWilly) February 13, 2023 × One user said, "Got It! How beautiful! #Sar2667 #Asteroid." I've posted this already but just realised there is sound! Is this just my phone, or is that fizzing sound a real thing that happens with fireballs? (Sound needs to be up high). #asteroid #meteor #Sar2667 pic.twitter.com/HEFZe6Xzt4 — Ali Penny (@CloudberryJam) February 13, 2023 × Another said, “Wow! Incredible lightshow with audible bang! #Sar2667.” Got It! How beautiful! #Sar2667 #Asteroid pic.twitter.com/tpLQkJpcCv — Kade 🧑🏻‍🔬🌌 (@KadeFlowers) February 13, 2023 × My effort taken on the beach in Hove #Sar2667 #asteroid #NASA #uk #hove #brighton #brightonandhove pic.twitter.com/VmX6bpIZ86 — Spbdude (@spbdude) February 13, 2023 × A similar instance where an asteroid predicted to enter the atmosphere in advance was predicted in the sky above Ontario, Canada in November last year. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'How beautiful': A tiny asteroid lights up night sky after hitting Earth's surface. Watch!

After the discovery of a planet oddly three billion kilometres away from Earth, a new research has now revealed another remote ringed planet has also been discovered in the solar system - the Dwarf planet. It is about 555 kilometres in diameter and almost half the size of Pluto.

European Space Agency scientists discover Dwarf planet ringed by dust, ice

<p>Summer is coming. At least in half the world. Those soon to be in the grip of sweaty months may be busy in making plans of an escape. Whatever these plans are, they may just not be enough to stop the greatest temperature rise phenomenon...global warming.&nbsp;Scientists, however,&nbsp;have come to the rescue in this regard.</p>

<p>A study has proposed that if we mine Moon (Yes that one!) and scatter the dirt around Earth, the sunlight can be dimmed a bit and it would take the edge off rising temperatures.</p>

<p>Ben Bromley, a theoretical physicist at the University of Utah has led the research which has been published in the scientific journal PLOS Climate.</p>

<p>The proposed "moonshot" idea proposes creating a "solar shield" by scattering millions of tonnes of dust mined from the Moon. The dust would be scattered in space about 1 million miles from the Earth.</p>

<p>“A really exciting part of our study was the realisation that the natural lunar dust grains are just the right size and composition for efficiently scattering sunlight away from Earth,” said Ben Bromley, as quoted by The Guardian.</p>

<p>“Since it takes much less energy to launch these grains from the moon’s surface, as compared with an Earth launch, the ‘moonshot’ idea really stood out for us.”</p>

<p>But why Moon dust? Bromley and his associates say the particles from the Moon are of the right size to scatter the sunlight. But the team also considered coal and sea salt which they say can dim the Sun by 2 per cent. But Moon dust was found to be an ideal candidate.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/discovery-of-saturn-like-ring-around-trans-neptunian-object-quaoar-amazes-astronomers-560149">Discovery of Saturn-like ring around trans-Neptunian object Quaoar amazes astronomers</a></strong></p>

<p>But mining such huge quantity of dust and carefully projecting it around the Earth would be a major engineering operation.&nbsp;While Bromley and his team propose such a radical idea to tackle global warming, he&nbsp;underlines that his study does not mean that world should not focus on reducing carbon emissions.</p>

<p>“Nothing should distract us from reducing greenhouse gas emissions here on Earth,” he said. “Our strategy may just be a moonshot, but we should explore all possibilities, in case we need more time to do the work here at home.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Summer is coming. At least in half the world. Those soon to be in the grip of sweaty months may be busy in making plans of an escape. Whatever these plans are, they may just not be enough to stop the greatest temperature rise phenomenon.

Summer is coming. At least in half the world. Those soon to be in the grip of sweaty months may be busy in making plans of an escape. Whatever these plans are, they may just not be enough to stop the greatest temperature rise phenomenon...global warming. Scientists, however, have come to the rescue in this regard. A study has proposed that if we mine Moon (Yes that one!) and scatter the dirt around Earth, the sunlight can be dimmed a bit and it would take the edge off rising temperatures. Ben Bromley, a theoretical physicist at the University of Utah has led the research which has been published in the scientific journal PLOS Climate. The proposed "moonshot" idea proposes creating a "solar shield" by scattering millions of tonnes of dust mined from the Moon. The dust would be scattered in space about 1 million miles from the Earth. “A really exciting part of our study was the realisation that the natural lunar dust grains are just the right size and composition for efficiently scattering sunlight away from Earth,” said Ben Bromley, as quoted by The Guardian. “Since it takes much less energy to launch these grains from the moon’s surface, as compared with an Earth launch, the ‘moonshot’ idea really stood out for us.” But why Moon dust? Bromley and his associates say the particles from the Moon are of the right size to scatter the sunlight. But the team also considered coal and sea salt which they say can dim the Sun by 2 per cent. But Moon dust was found to be an ideal candidate. Also Read | Discovery of Saturn-like ring around trans-Neptunian object Quaoar amazes astronomers But mining such huge quantity of dust and carefully projecting it around the Earth would be a major engineering operation. While Bromley and his team propose such a radical idea to tackle global warming, he underlines that his study does not mean that world should not focus on reducing carbon emissions. “Nothing should distract us from reducing greenhouse gas emissions here on Earth,” he said. “Our strategy may just be a moonshot, but we should explore all possibilities, in case we need more time to do the work here at home.” (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Scientists propose mining Moon dust, using it to shield Earth from harsh Sun to curb global warming

science-news

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

science news