The Times of India News

Mice are indispensable in biomedical research due to their genetic and anatomical similarities to humans, short lifespans, and rapid reproduction. They have been crucial in developing treatments for cancers, vaccines for pandemics like COVID-19, and understanding neurodegenerative disorders. Ethical guidelines ensure responsible use, with advancements like CRISPR enhancing accuracy and reducing animal numbers.

Scientists are baffled by solid gold particles found in Norway spruce needles. Previously thought impossible, this discovery reveals a partnership between trees and specific bacteria. These microbes, not the trees, are believed to convert dissolved gold ions into solid nanoparticles, a process crucial for understanding mineral deposits and potentially cleaning polluted environments.

Jupiter will be exceptionally bright and large in the night sky this January, peaking around January 10, 2026, during Earth's opposition. This celestial event, occurring roughly every 13 months, makes the planet easily visible to the naked eye, even offering glimpses of its moons with binoculars.

SpaceX plans to lower Starlink satellites to a safer orbit in 2026. This move aims to reduce collision risks and space debris. Satellites will burn up faster at the end of their life. This decision follows a recent satellite failure. SpaceX is the world's largest satellite operator. The change focuses on safety and sustainability in low Earth orbit.

Astronauts aboard the International Space Station experienced New Year 2026 sixteen times, witnessing the transition to a new year with each of their 90-minute orbits. This unique perspective highlights the vast differences in time perception between Earth and space, where daily cycles of daylight and darkness are compressed. Their adherence to Greenwich Mean Time structures life in orbit.

A German firm is turning cockroaches into spy tools and rescuers. These insects can navigate dangerous areas where machines and people cannot. Equipped with tiny cameras and microphones, they gather intelligence. The technology also holds promise for disaster response, locating survivors in collapsed buildings. This innovation is reshaping defense and surveillance capabilities.

China's Shenzhou-20 mission faced a critical delay when a small crack appeared in the return capsule's window. This damage, caused by fast-moving space debris, threatened the astronauts' safety. An emergency mission launched a replacement spacecraft, ensuring a safe return. The incident underscores the significant risks posed by even microscopic space junk and prompts a review of orbital safety measures.

Astronomers found a giant hourglass shape around a galaxy called ESO 130 G012. This structure is made of radio waves and stretches over 160,000 light-years. It extends far beyond the galaxy's visible stars. Scientists are studying how this enormous outflow formed. It may be from steady star formation or a past black hole event.

Prepare for a spectacular celestial event as the Wolf Supermoon illuminates the UK on January 3rd, 2026. This exceptionally bright and large full moon will be visible just after sunset, offering breathtaking views. 2026 is an unusual year with 13 full moons, including a blue moon in May, making this January's Wolf Moon a must-see.