Others / The Times of India
A groundbreaking study has settled a 40-year debate: the 'tiny tyrant' fossil is not a juvenile Tyrannosaurus rex but a distinct species, Nanotyrannus lancensis. Researchers analyzed the 'dueling dinosaurs' specimen, revealing it was a 20-year-old adult with unique skull and limb features, suggesting a more complex Cretaceous ecosystem than previously believed.
Archaeologists have discovered a 42,000-year-old yellow ochre stick in Crimea and Ukraine, suggesting Neanderthals possessed artistic capabilities. This ancient tool, meticulously shaped and reused, indicates symbolic behavior and creativity, challenging the long-held perception of Neanderthals as less sophisticated than early humans. The find suggests a rich Neanderthal art scene predating Homo sapiens.
A rare cosmic visitor, 3I/ATLAS, the third confirmed interstellar object, was discovered in July 2025. This object, on a hyperbolic orbit, originated from beyond our solar system and will depart permanently. Visible only through powerful telescopes as a faint blue-green dot, it offers a unique opportunity to study material from another star system.
SpaceX has submitted a simplified Starship mission plan to NASA, aiming for a faster and safer lunar landing. This comes amid NASA's concerns about the rocket's readiness for Artemis III, with the agency reportedly facing internal pressures. SpaceX highlighted its development milestones and upcoming tests, including crucial in-space refuelling demonstrations.
A rare interstellar visitor, comet 3I/ATLAS, is currently traversing our solar system, offering scientists a unique chance to study an object from another star. This comet, unlike those orbiting our Sun, follows a one-time hyperbolic path. Best viewing opportunities are in the eastern predawn sky mid-to-late November 2025, requiring at least an eight-inch telescope.
NASA's new research reframes orbital debris as a financial risk, quantifying the economic impact of collisions and mission losses. This cost-benefit analysis prioritizes efficient mitigation strategies like rapid deorbiting. Furthermore, studies reveal space debris holds latent resource potential, suggesting a dual approach of removal and in-space recycling for metals like aluminum and titanium.
Astronomers have identified 3I/ATLAS, an ancient, ice-rich interstellar comet potentially older than our solar system. Discovered by the University of Oxford, its origin in the Milky Way's thick disk offers a unique glimpse into early galactic processes. Scientists anticipate studying its composition as it nears the Sun, providing vital clues about the formation of stars and planetary systems.
Scientists are investigating a mysterious pulse signal from interstellar object 3I/ATLAS. The signal reportedly follows a Fibonacci pattern and is detected at a frequency linked to interstellar communication. Researchers are cautiously exploring the possibility of an intelligent transmission. This discovery has sparked global curiosity about extraterrestrial life and potential signals from space.
Sardinian spiders are decorating their webs with elaborate patterns, baffling scientists for years. New research suggests these 'stabilimenta' aren't just for show but act as acoustic architecture, redirecting vibrations to help spiders detect prey faster. This discovery could inspire advanced vibration sensors for human technology.
Scientists have discovered the oldest directly dated ice and air on Earth in East Antarctica, dating back six million years. This ancient ice, found near the surface, offers unprecedented insights into Earth's past climate, revealing significantly warmer temperatures and higher sea levels. The findings provide crucial context for understanding modern global warming by showcasing natural climate fluctuations.
A rare visitor from deep space, comet 3I/ATLAS, is now in our solar system. Scientists worldwide are observing this interstellar comet. It offers a unique chance to study material from other star systems. This observation will help improve our ability to detect and track potential threats from space. Lessons learned will strengthen Earth's planetary defence.

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