Did humans really outbreed Neanderthals? A new mathematical model says yes
New research suggests Neanderthals didn't face a sudden extinction but were gradually absorbed into the growing human population. A mathematical model indicates repeated, small-scale human migrations led to genetic dilution, effectively merging Neanderthal DNA over thousands of years. This demographic shift, rather than conflict, explains their fading identity, with their genes now present in modern humans.
NASA is set to unveil stunning new images of the rare interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, a visitor from another star system. Discovered earlier this year, this marks only the third such object observed in our solar system. The live event will offer insights into its journey and composition, providing a unique glimpse into distant cosmic environments.
NASA captures record-breaking images of the fastest-spinning asteroid in space
NASA's stunning radar images reveal asteroid 2025 OW, a tiny object spinning incredibly fast, challenging current scientific understanding of small space bodies. This rapid rotation forces a rethink of asteroid composition and strength, impacting planetary defense strategies and future asteroid mining prospects. The discovery offers crucial insights into asteroid evolution and the near-Earth population.
What if cockroaches vanished from the planet? Scientists warn of unexpected consequences
Cockroaches, often seen as pests, play a vital role in ecosystems. These resilient insects are crucial for nutrient recycling in forests, act as a food source for various animals, and support agricultural decomposition. Their disappearance would disrupt food chains, slow down soil enrichment, and remove key indicators of environmental health, impacting the planet's delicate balance.
Chandrayaan 4 in 2028: ISRO aims to triple spacecraft production and expand global space economy
ISRO is set for an intense launch schedule, with seven missions planned before year-end, including India's first industry-built PSLV. Chandrayaan-4, a complex lunar sample-return mission, is targeted for 2028. India also plans its own space station by 2035 and aims to significantly boost its share in the global space economy, driven by private sector growth.
How interstellar objects reach Earth and where they are most likely to land
New simulations reveal interstellar objects don't arrive uniformly, with concentrations from the solar apex and galactic plane. Earth's orbital motion creates seasonal impact patterns, peaking in Northern Hemisphere winter. Most impacts are predicted near the equator, with a slight Northern Hemisphere bias due to orbital geometry and the Sun's influence.
Why that song is stuck in your head: The science behind catchy tunes that replay on loop
A common phenomenon, earworms are tunes that get stuck in your head. Scientists explain these musical loops are caused by repetitive patterns and emotional connections. Brain regions like the auditory cortex and memory centres are involved. Our brains are wired to remember music due to its evolutionary role. Strategies exist to stop these repeating tunes.
How nuclear power aims to wean Finland off Russian energy
The weird science behind why music gives you goosebumps
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.
How stellar eruptions might shape the fate of alien worlds: Could distant stars threaten exoplanets
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.
Dogs were travelling the world with humans over 10,000 years ago, with surprisingly diverse forms
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.
How was the first full-colour photograph of Earth captured by NASA
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.
