Health & Fitness / The Times of India
Asteroid 2025 MA90 is set to pass today, that is July 15, 2025; however,, it is reportedly to safely pass by Earth. Scientists are monitoring it closely. This event allows the study of near-Earth objects. NASA confirms no impact risk. ISRO focuses on asteroid Apophis's 2029 flyby. Global cooperation is essential for planetary defence. Agencies are developing missions for asteroid study. Vigilance against cosmic hazards remains crucial.
In Kerala's Western Ghats, scientists have discovered a new butterfly species, Zographetus mathewi, highlighting the region's underexplored biodiversity. This rare skipper butterfly, found in low-elevation forests, is the 15th species in its genus and the fifth from India. The discovery emphasizes the importance of conserving these fragile lowland ecosystems and raises awareness about India's hidden biodiversity.
A 140,000-year-old skull discovered in Israel suggests a possible Neanderthal-Homo sapien hybrid child. Unearthed in Skhul Cave, the 5-year-old's remains display Homo sapien cranial features alongside a distinct Neanderthal-like jaw. Researcher Anne Dambricourt Malass's CT scan analysis challenges previous classifications.
A rare Martian meteorite and a dinosaur skeleton will headline Sothebys Geek Week 2025 auction in New York. The Martian meteorite, NWA 16788, weighs 54 pounds. It is the largest Martian rock ever found on Earth. A Ceratosaurus skeleton, over 6 feet tall, will also be auctioned. The event will feature 122 items, including rare meteorites and fossils.
NASA confirms the arrival of 3I/ATLAS, the third interstellar object. The ATLAS project spotted it in June 2025. Its speed and trajectory confirm it's not bound by the Sun. Scientists are eager to study this rare visitor from another star system. It will pass near Mars in October 2025.
The world's most powerful telescopes, including the James Webb Space Telescope and FAST, are revolutionizing our understanding of the universe. These advanced instruments, located on Earth and in space, capture light from distant galaxies and exoplanets, helping scientists explore cosmic origins and search for life.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is returning to Earth on July 15 after 18 days on the ISS, marking India's return to human spaceflight after 41 years. As part of Axiom Mission 4, he conducted over 60 experiments, including ISRO-designed projects for the Gaganyaan mission. Shukla honored ISRO and India's space legacy during his farewell, inspiring future generations.
A recent study unveils the extraordinary 26-million-year global journey of seemingly ordinary grass-yellow butterflies, known as 'Eurema.' These delicate tropical fliers, with their lemon-hued wings, have circumnavigated the world without modern technology or even a fixed body plan. Biologists have pieced together this incredible story, highlighting the remarkable resilience and adaptability of these often-overlooked creatures.
Scientists are working on a novel solution to combat the Himalayan cold. They are developing a thermochemical reactor using strontium bromide. This salt stores summer heat and releases it during winter. The aim is to provide sustainable heating for homes. Field trials are planned with the Indian Army. This innovation could reduce reliance on diesel and firewood.
Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and his Ax-4 mission crewmates are set to undock from the ISS on July 14, targeting a California coast splashdown around July 15. The Crew Dragon, Grace, will execute a series of maneuvers, including a critical deorbit burn and atmospheric re-entry with peak heating.
Shubhanshu Shukla sent a patriotic message from the ISS. He used a famous line from Rakesh Sharma. NASA and Axiom Space hosted a farewell for the Axiom-4 crew. The crew conducted over 60 experiments in 17 days. Shukla performed materials research for ISRO. The astronauts shared dishes from their home countries. Shukla may advise India's Gaganyaan program after his return.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla's journey from Lucknow to the International Space Station exemplifies India's rise in space exploration. Inspired by the Kargil War, he secretly joined the NDA, later becoming a distinguished fighter and test pilot. Selected for the Gaganyaan mission and Axiom Mission 4, Shukla conducted vital research on the ISS, marking a milestone for India.
Earth's rotation is currently experiencing some of its shortest days this year, with recent rotations clocking in milliseconds under 24 hours. This phenomenon is attributed to factors like core movements and atmospheric changes, despite a long-term trend of lengthening days.