Others / The Times of India
A mysterious metallic sphere discovered in Colombia has sparked debate, with some speculating about extraterrestrial origins due to its seamless construction. Researchers are studying the object, while others suggest it could be an art installation.
Space advocates, including those from Mississippi's Stennis Space Center and Louisiana's Michoud Assembly Facility, rallied in Washington, D.C., to protect NASA programs amid proposed budget cuts. They emphasized the importance of continued funding for the Artemis program, which is vital for America's space ambitions and supports thousands of jobs in the Gulf Coast region.
SpaceX's Starship rocket exploded during a test. The issue was a fuel reaction in an engine. The company made fixes, including better insulation. The Federal Aviation Administration approved the changes. A new test flight is set for May 27. This flight will reuse a Super Heavy booster. SpaceX aims to use Starship for Moon and Mars missions.
IIT-Guwahati researchers have created an eco-friendly wastewater treatment using biochar from mushroom waste and laccase enzyme. The BHEEMA technology effectively removes harmful antibiotics, like Ciprofloxacin, without producing toxic byproducts, unlike traditional methods. Achieving 90-95% degradation in three hours, this cost-effective system, costing 4,000-5,000, is a sustainable alternative.
A groundbreaking study reveals that Earth's core isn't as isolated as once thought. Researchers discovered that valuable metals, including gold, are gradually leaking from the core into the mantle and crust. This discovery, based on isotopic analysis of volcanic rocks, suggests a greater interconnection between the core and mantle, potentially influencing the distribution of precious metals on Earth's surface.
Challenging conventional wisdom, modern science explores concepts that redefine life and death, suggesting death might be a mental illusion. Biocentrism posits that consciousness shapes the universe, supported by quantum physics' observation-dependent reality. The concept of time as a construct and parallel universes further implies consciousness continuity, potentially easing death anxiety and reshaping our understanding of existence.
A large asteroid, 2003 MH4, will pass by Earth on May 24. It is about the size of the Eiffel Tower. The asteroid will travel at 30,060 kilometers per hour. NASA considers this a close encounter. Continuous monitoring of near-Earth objects is important. Even small gravitational changes can alter an asteroid's path.
SpaceX has received FAA approval for the ninth Starship launch after addressing issues from Flight 8's explosion. The upcoming launch includes an expanded Aircraft Hazard Area and requires non-peak transit hours. A key goal is reusing the Super Heavy booster from Flight 7, demonstrating crucial reusability for future space missions, with a potential launch window opening on May 27.
Recent intense solar flares, originating from sunspot AR4087, have triggered global concerns about potential space weather impacts. A FEMA-led drill simulating a solar superstorm exposed critical preparedness gaps across agencies. Recommendations from SWORM emphasize enhanced monitoring, interagency cooperation, and public education to bolster resilience against future solar events, safeguarding essential infrastructure and national security.
NASA and SpaceX have rescheduled the undocking of the Dragon cargo capsule from the ISS to May 23 due to adverse weather. Part of the CRS-32 mission, the Dragon will return scientific experiments and supplies to Earth. The mission delivered 6,700 pounds of cargo to the ISS. NASA will livestream the undocking, but the splashdown will not be webcast.
Scientists have identified *Ikaria wariootia*, a tiny wormlike creature from 555 million years ago, as the earliest known bilaterian. This discovery from South Australia reveals the origin of bilateral body structure, a key feature in most animals today. The fossil's characteristics and burrowing behavior provide insights into early animal evolution and locomotion.
In a global scientific race, US and Japan are exploring the universe's existence mystery. The US-led Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) in South Dakota and Japan's Hyper-Kamiokande are constructing detectors to study neutrinos. These elusive particles may explain why matter exists despite the theoretical annihilation with antimatter after the Big Bang.
Archaeologists in Egypt unearthed 5,000-year-old wine jars, many sealed, in Queen Meret-Neith's tomb at Abydos. This find provides direct evidence of early winemaking, offering insights into ancient Egyptian production, preservation, and usage of wine. Chemical analysis and grape seeds could reshape our understanding of ancient viticulture and its cultural significance.
Researchers propose a lunar space elevator using existing materials, potentially revolutionizing space travel within decades. Anchored on the moon and extending to Earth's orbit, this spaceline could drastically cut mission costs and fuel needs. It would also enable a sustainable human presence in space, facilitating lunar bases and interplanetary missions.
Scientists are using satellite data to monitor tree health near volcanoes. Trees absorb volcanic carbon dioxide, which makes them greener. NASA's AVUELO project and other satellites track these changes. This helps detect early signs of volcanic activity. The goal is to improve volcano early warning systems, especially in remote areas. Ground observations are crucial for verifying satellite data.