Others / The Times of India
Experiencing goosebumps from music, known as frisson, is a common yet profound physiological response. This occurs when specific musical moments, often involving surprise and emotional resonance, activate the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine. Factors like personal memories, emotional sensitivity, and certain musical elements contribute to this powerful, synchronized reaction between your brain, emotions, and body.
California startup TransAstra is revolutionizing space mining and debris removal with its inflatable Capture Bag. Designed in various sizes, this innovative device can envelop asteroids for resource extraction and collect hazardous space junk. Initial tests confirm its feasibility, with plans to capture the first asteroid by 2028, potentially ushering in a new era of space industrialization.
Scientists have detected the first direct evidence of a coronal mass ejection from a star beyond our Sun, specifically the M dwarf StKM1-1262. This massive expulsion of plasma, observed as a Type II radio burst, offers crucial insights into the space weather experienced by exoplanets, particularly those orbiting M dwarfs, and their potential for habitability.
Ancient dog skulls and DNA reveal a surprising diversity in shape and size over 10,000 years ago, long before modern breeds. These early canines were not just companions but travelled extensively with humans, adapting to various roles like hunting and guarding. Their genetic exchanges highlight a deep, enduring partnership that shaped both species.
NASA's 1967 ATS-3 satellite captured Earth's first true-colour image, revolutionizing weather forecasting and planetary understanding. This breakthrough, using a novel scanning camera, allowed scientists to distinguish cloud layers and storm patterns with unprecedented clarity. The vivid global portrait fostered environmental awareness, bridging science and public consciousness, and laid the foundation for modern satellite imaging.
Oregon's Axial Seamount, a highly active underwater volcano, is closely monitored for potential eruptions by mid-to-late 2026. Scientists track seafloor inflation and seismic activity, noting that eruptions follow periods of magma accumulation and stress. While predictions are based on historical patterns, new physics-based models are being tested to improve forecasting accuracy.
Spicy food, a chemical pain disguised as flavor, triggers our body's emergency response. Yet, humans embrace this discomfort, with the brain rewiring to find pleasure and a sense of control in overcoming the heat. This enign masochism, amplified by endorphins and social performance, offers a thrilling experience of danger without consequence.
Scientists have uncovered a remarkable 'remote touch' sense in humans, enabling detection of hidden objects beneath surfaces. Experiments show people can locate items buried in sand with surprising accuracy, a feat previously deemed impossible. This discovery, mimicking shorebirds, suggests our tactile perception is far more advanced than understood and has potential applications in robotics and exploration.
Scientists have detected the first radio signal from interstellar object 3I/ATLAS. This discovery confirms the object is a natural comet, not an alien probe. The signal revealed natural emissions from hydroxyl radicals, a sign of water activity. This finding settles debates about its origin. The object is an ancient comet from another star system.
A rare, powerful geomagnetic storm recently illuminated the American skies with vibrant auroras, captivating onlookers from coast to coast. This celestial spectacle, a beautiful byproduct of solar activity, momentarily united a divided nation in shared wonder. While the lights offered a breathtaking display, they also highlighted our technological vulnerability to such natural phenomena.

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