Showing posts with label science. Show all posts
Showing posts with label science. Show all posts


Scott Parazynski: From Space Shuttle to the Summit of Mount Everest

Whether it’s through NASA missions or climbing Mount Everest, Scott Parazynski recounts his motivating story and offers guidance to explorers on achieving success.

In March 2009, American Scott Parazynski — a seasoned astronaut with five NASA space shuttle flights under his belt, including seven extravehicular activities, and over 23 million miles (37 million kilometers) logged — decided to retire from wearing his spacesuit.

"The opportunity to fly came only once, perhaps repeated two times at most, yet I was eager to extend my capabilities as both an innovator and business leader," states the individual who is 63 years old.

Several months following his retirement, the US space agency , Parazynski attempted to summit Mount Everest However, at 7,470 metres (24,500 feet), he had to abandon due to a back injury.

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Unshaken, he made another attempt the next year and successfully scaled Earth's tallest mountain above sea level. He achieved this feat by reaching the summit at 4 am on May 20, 2009, which marked his status as the first individual to have traveled into space and also climbed the world’s highest peak.

Parazynski is a physician by background—he served as the personal doctor to his idol, John Glenn, onboard the Discovery shuttle during the former US senator’s comeback trip to space in 1998.

His other daring accomplishments encompass scuba diving within a volcanic lake amidst the Andes mountain range in South America, being the first person to descend into Nicaragua’s Masaya volcano, and exploring Antarctica, where he managed the healthcare for personnel involved in the United States government’s Antarctic program.

He is also a seasoned pilot, boasting over 2,500 flight hours, as well as an accomplished athlete; in 1988, he participated in the tryouts for the U.S. Olympic luge team. "I fell just short of making it," he admits.

I aim to motivate individuals not only to aspire to be astronauts but also to strive to be their highest selves, contributing to society in fields like science, engineering, math, or anything else they're passionate about.
Scott Parazynski, ex-NASA astronaut

Even with his accomplishments, Parazynski stays modest and equally enjoys discussing his successes as much as his setbacks, which he openly shared in his 2017 autobiography. The Sky Below.

“I didn’t want this book to focus solely on life’s triumphs,” states Parazynski. He mentions that many autobiographies and biographies he has read tend to revolve around “Take a look at how splendid and effortless my journey through life was.”

He remarks that life is difficult, thus he feels proud as it showcases overcoming hurdles and challenges throughout. The Sky Below .

His rich life journey has made him a highly requested speaker worldwide, and this month he was featured in Hong Kong speaking at events organized by the Royal Geographical Society Hong Kong.

I aim to inspire individuals not only to aspire to be astronauts, but to strive to be their highest selves and contribute positively to society through fields like science, engineering, math, or anything else they're passionate about—I simply wish to encourage people to make an effort towards advancing our world in whichever manner they can.

At the Mandarin Oriental hotel In Hong Kong’s Central district, Parazynski walks confidently into the clubroom with his hand extended.

What strikes you initially is his height, approximately six feet two inches (188cm), though he appeared even more towering when in space.

"When we venture into space, our bodies undergo several changes such as weakening muscles and reduced bone density along with increased strain on the heart — it diminishes slightly unless rigorous daily exercise is maintained," says Parazynski, who previously focused his initial medical studies on designing workout equipment for extended space missions.

In space, Parazynski grew approximately two and a half inches taller.

"He explains that we naturally have a curved spine, but in space, without the downward pull of gravity, the spine elongates." Several trips to space led to a herniated disk. tear in his lower back .

For individuals spending extended periods in space—six months or longer—they get exposed to significant amounts of radiation, which increases their chances of developing cancer.

Adapting to life on Earth poses difficulties as well.

"After every mission, you experience an amazing rush, followed by the mundane tasks of taking out the trash, navigating traffic, and paying the bills," he remarks, chuckling.

However, he wouldn’t change it for anything else; his career has been “a blessing” — a childhood aspiration turned reality.

At a young age, he became acquainted with the space sector. "My father worked at Boeing And I was involved in the space program that assisted in building the rockets which initially sent astronauts to the moon as part of Project Apollo, so I was really into that."

His passion for travel was instilled quite young as well. At the age of eleven, he relocated with his family to Senegal in Western Africa, followed by moves to Lebanon, Greece, and Iran.

Throughout all those years, his dream was to become an astronaut.

I kept it under wraps as I believed folks might consider me outlandish, yet it lingered at the edge of my thoughts.

Following his medical studies and graduation from Stanford University in the U.S., Parazynski became part of NASA in 1992.

“I possessed the necessary qualifications to apply, which allowed me to chase my childhood ambition and spend 17 years at NASA,” states Parazynski, who was inducted into the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame in 2016.

While working at NASA, he accumulated over 47 hours of extravehicular activity during spacewalks. This includes one conducted in 2007 aimed at repairing a solar panel on the International Space Station. International Space Station where he was situated on a 90-foot extension arm, facing the danger of electric shock. This mission is considered one of the most hazardous space walks in history.

However, every risk taken was worthwhile, he states. Catching sight of the Earth's curve from space for the initial time left him astounded. He emphasizes that nothing could have adequately prepared him for this experience.

You're moving at breakneck speeds, you know, about 25,000 kilometers per hour, completing an orbit around the Earth every 90 minutes, which means you'll see either a sunrise or a sunset approximately every 25 minutes.

Like numerous astronauts before him, space travel has had a transformative impact on Parazynski. "Upon returning, everyone experiences a significant change for the better—typically developing a strong commitment to environmentalism."

Few return with a spiritual awakening, though I wasn’t blessed with one; nonetheless, I felt an overwhelming sense of fortune and humility.

I departed feeling amazed and driven to contribute everything possible towards enhancing the quality of life on our planet.

One of the most amazing experiences I've had was flying beneath the Northern Lights during the nighttime.
Scott Parazynski

This involves interacting with Proteus Ocean Group, a cutting-edge underwater scientific research facility established by Fabien Cousteau, who is the grandson of renowned French sea explorer. Jacques Cousteau .

Parazynski's dedication to protecting the oceans has been ignited by his enduring fascination with diving, which began when he was just 1 eleven years old.

The seas are essential for our planet’s survival; thus, I am dedicated to safeguarding them... Since 70 percent of our world is submerged under water, it would only be fitting to rename it Planet Ocean rather than Planet Earth.

Currently, Parazynski’s primary role involves leading OnwardAir, an eco-tech company he established. The business focuses on creating electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles enhanced with sophisticated control systems.

He is equally thrilled about the "renaissance of space travel".

What’s currently going on in the realm of commercial space flights? SpaceX , Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic Companies that can securely and repeatedly bring more individuals into space are truly thrilling.

He heaps praise onto NASA's Artemis program, which represents a significant move toward sending humans back to the moon, and he speaks positively about the plans put forth by Elon Musk aims to establish a colony on Mars "is human destiny".

Regarding the status of space exploration, this is a non-partisan matter in the United States, according to Parazynski.

He notes that there’s significant backing for space exploration, which is fantastic, yet simultaneously, substantial reductions are being made across all agencies, making it difficult to predict how this will ultimately turn out.

He highlights that one of the greatest aspects of investing in space is how it yields returns across various sectors here on Earth.

"When I enter a hospital's operating room or intensive care unit, there are numerous technologies present with roots tracing back to the space program," he explains.

In outer space, we needed to determine ways to support life for the initial astronauts and conduct surgeries as well as lab experiments.

You need to shrink various sensors and devise innovative methods for operating without gravity, yet this also opens up possibilities for treating individuals in distant and rural areas... it essentially marked the start of telemedicine and telehealth.

And we mustn't overlook that space travel sounds great, offering those fortunate—or wealthy—enough to witness it an unparalleled visual spectacle, especially during the spacewalks where “you’re outside in your own small spacecraft, surrounded by the cosmos and gazing down at our home planet.”

Among the most impressive experiences I've had was soaring through the Northern Lights during the nighttime," recounts Parazynski. "A delicate veil of faint luminescence stretched hundreds of miles vertically across the sky, and we passed directly through it. Absolutely surreal.

A notable moment was capturing images of Mount Everest from space—a challenging task given the supersonic speed during travel.

For individuals looking for motivation from one who has pushed boundaries extensively, Parazynski mentions that he uses pre-visualization—a method he acquired during his time as an athlete.

By mentally rehearsing the sequence of events from that day’s ascent, or a complex medical operation, or a challenging extravehicular activity, you significantly increase your chances of success.

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Copyright © 2025. South ChinaMorning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.



The Tiny World That Stunned the Skies: Pluto's Discovery 95 Years Ago Today

(Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the distance between Pluto and the Sun. The accurate figure is 3.7 billion miles.)

What was found in Flagstaff, Arizona, and eliminated in Prague?

If you said "Pluto's planethood," then your understanding of astronomy is spot-on.

Begin your day with more knowledge. Receive all the essential news directly in your mailbox every morning.

Feb. 18 marks the 95th anniversary of the discovery of our solar system's former ninth planet—not a planet.

Here’s what you should know regarding the brief existence of what was, within one person's lifespan, considered the tiniest planet in our solar system.

When was Pluto discovered?

Clyde Tombaugh, an American astronomer working at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, found Pluto in 1930.

Chilly, dimly lit, and far away, it was renamed after the Roman deity of the Underworld In Greek mythology, the associated deity is Hades.

The planet's presence was initially hypothesized over three decades prior by American astronomer Percival Lowell. His analysis of planetary orbit patterns, meteor shower trajectories, and comet paths guided him to this conclusion. propose the presence of a ninth planet , which became known as Planet X.

Lowell looked for this distant planet, yet he passed away in 1916 without ever locating it.

Utilizing an instrument referred to as a blink comparator In 1930, Tombaugh ultimately discovered the enigmatic celestial object. The process entailed capturing sets of photographs of the night sky taken a few evenings apart and subsequently utilizing a specialized device to swiftly alternate between the two images. By doing this rapid alternation—or “blinking”—between pictures, the astronomer could detect subtle variations and identify motion.

Tombaugh endured long months at the unheated Lowell Observatory until February 1930 when he spotted a heavenly body moving between two images, as detailed in a study published by the institution. American Physical Society The discovery was reported on March 13, 1930.

Pluto's reign

For years, students memorized the saying "My Very Educated Mother Just Served Us Nine Pizzas" to recall the sequence of planets in our solar system: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto.

Pluto was the final and smallest among them.

A small frozen planet, roughly half the size of the United States, typically resided about 3.7 billion miles away from the Sun. Its orbit was notably peculiar—highly elliptical and inclined at an angle. Sometimes it gets as close to the Sun as Neptune does. .

It features an atmosphere composed of methane, nitrogen, and carbon monoxide, with a surface temperature ranging from minus 378 to minus 396 degrees Fahrenheit, far too frigid to support life.

In 2015, NASA dispatched its spacecraft, New Horizons, for a close encounter. This mission verified that the small planet had an underground ocean concealed under its dense, icy crust.

When was Pluto reclassified as not being a planet, and what were the reasons for this change?

Pluto has consistently found itself in a precarious position regarding its status as a planet. With a width of just 1,477 miles, it measures merely one-fifth the size of our home planet, Earth.

It has five recognized satellites: Charon, Nix, Hydra, Kerberos, and Styx, which are all names derived from characters in Greek mythology linked to the underworld.

However, Charon was only half as large as Pluto, making it quite substantial in comparison. The Pluto-Charon system is often called a binary pair of planets. , according to NASA.

In August 2006, during the International Astronomical Union General Assembly, a resolution was passed to redesignate Pluto as a dwarf planet. This decision was based on the fact that it failed to meet one of the three new requirements established for classifying celestial bodies as planets. They were :

  • The body needs to revolve around its host star, similar to how Earth and Jupiter circle the Sun.
  • It is big enough to have a nearly spherical shape.
  • This significant impact plays a crucial role in maintaining the orbital stability of nearby celestial bodies.

Due to failing to meet the final criteria, Pluto was downgraded to a dwarf planet following extensive discussions. This decision came from a majority vote conducted during the International Astronomical Union’s yearly gathering in Prague.

This led to significant public outrage. Caltech astronomer Michael Brown, whose research contributed to the demotion, received irate emails from students and some vulgar telephone calls .

He ultimately released a book called "Why I Executed Pluto and Why It Deserved It."

Tombaugh passed away in 1997. Never realizing the world he found had lost its planetary status .

The article initially appeared on USA TODAY. The small world once deemed a planet: Pluto's discovery celebrates its 95th anniversary today.



Webb Telescope's Exoplanet Images Leave Researchers Stunned, NASA Reports

The James Webb Space Telescope Scientists have, for the first time, directly detected the crucial molecule of carbon dioxide in planets beyond our solar system. announced Monday.

According to experts, the gas giants cannot support alien life forms; however, they provide insights into an enduring puzzle concerning the formation of far-off worlds. research published in The Astrophysical Journal .

The HR 8799 star system, located about 130 light-years away from Earth, is merely 30 million years old — quite young when contrasted with our own solar system, which has existed for approximately 4.6 billion years. According to the research findings, a group of scientists based in the U.S., utilizing data from Webb, were able to directly observe carbon dioxide present in the atmospheres of all four recognized planets within this system.

Webb's latest images of two well-known systems, HR 8799 and 51 Eridani and their planets have amazed scientists, providing further insights into the chemical composition of youthful gas giants,” as stated by NASA. statement .

They employed Webb’s coronagraph tools, designed to obstruct light from luminous stars so as to obtain a clearer image of the planets orbiting these stars.

"Imagine holding your thumbnail up against the sun as you gaze into the sky," said lead study author William Balmer, an astrophysicist at Johns Hopkins University, to AFP.

Typically, the Webb telescope identifies exoplanets by observing them as they pass in front of their parent star.

The "transit technique" enabled Webb to indirectly discover CO2 in the atmosphere of the gas giant WASP-39 back in 2022.

However, with this recent finding, "what we’re observing is the actual light emanating from the planet rather than just the signature of that light coming from the host star," explained Balmer.

This isn’t simple—Balmer likened the task to trying to see fireflies with a flashlight next to a lighthouse.

Although these gas giants might not support life themselves, it's conceivable that they could have had moons capable of hosting life, he noted.

Several ongoing missions aim to discover whether life exists within the huge oceans hidden beneath the frozen crusts of multiple Jovian satellites.

"Key piece of proof"

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is crucial for life on our planet, which makes it an important element in the quest to find extraterrestrial life.

Since CO2 turns into tiny ice particles in the extreme chill of space, detecting it can provide insights into how planets form.

According to Balmer, Jupiter and Saturn likely initially formed through a "bottom-up" mechanism where numerous small ice fragments combined to create a solid nucleus. This core subsequently attracted gases to expand into massive planets.

Thus, the recent finding serves as a "crucial piece of evidence" indicating that distant planets may also develop through processes akin to those observed in nearby planetary systems, according to Balmer.

However, how widespread this phenomenon is across the universe remains uncertain.

The aim of this type of research is to gain insight into our solar system, life, and our place within it by comparing them to other exoplanetary systems, thus helping us better understand our position in the universe, Balmer said We aim to capture images of other solar systems and observe their similarities or differences relative to our own. This will help us understand whether our solar system is exceptionally unusual or rather typical among others.

Astronomers have currently identified almost 6,000 exoplanets, most of which are quite large — and so far, none has been found to be inhabitable.

According to Balmer, the "significant advancement we need to achieve" is concentrating our efforts on planets of similar size to Earth.

The NASA Nancy Grace Roman space telescope plans to utilize a coronagraph for this purpose shortly following its anticipated launch in 2027.

The previous year, the Webb telescope discovered carbon dioxide And hydrogen peroxide present on the surface of Charon, which is Pluto's biggest satellite.

Balmer aims to utilize Webb for observing additional four-planet systems, yet he also noted that future funding has become uncertain.

The previous week saw the Trump administration declare that NASA's top scientist had been let go, suggesting that further reductions loom for the American space agency.



Scientists Create First Ever "Supersolid" Light: Here's Why It Matters

For the first time, researchers have transformed light into a "'supersolid" — a strange state of matter that is both solid and liquid at the same time.

Although scientists have made supersolids out of atoms before, this is the first instance of coupling light and matter to create a supersolid and it opens new doors for studying condensed-matter physics, researchers explained in a paper published March 5 in journal Science .

But what exactly is a supersolid, and why is this new development so exciting? Here's everything you need to know.

What is a supersolid?

Supersolids are a strange state of matter defined by quantum mechanics where particles condense into an orderly, crystalline solid but also move like a liquid that has no viscosity. (Viscosity refers to a substance's internal friction, governing how smoothly it flows). Usually, solids don't move on their own, but supersolids change direction and density depending on particle interactions while maintaining an organized lattice structure.

Why are supersolids so cold?

Supersolids require extremely low temperatures to form — usually very close to absolute zero (minus 459.67 degrees Fahrenheit, or minus 273.15 degrees Celsius). Most of the particles have to occupy the lowest energy state available, and heat makes particles jump up and down like excitable toddlers in a ball pit.

If a material is cold enough, the temperature no longer obscures how the particles interact with each other. Instead, the tiny effects of quantum mechanics become the defining factors in how the material behaves.

Picture this: the toddlers have left and the ball pit has quieted down. We now have the chance to examine undisturbed how the various elements within the ball pit interrelate, shaping its overall nature.

Related: 32 physics experiments that transformed our understanding of the world

In what way could a fluid possess zero viscosity?

Viscosity quantifies the ease with which a fluid can alter its form. Fluids possessing greater viscosity tend to adhere more closely together and thus oppose motion; for instance, syrup pours out slowly as opposed to the swift flow of water from a faucet. With the exception of superfluids and supersolids, all fluids exhibit some degree of viscosity.

The most well-known instance of a fluid without viscosity is helium chilled to temperatures just above absolute zero. Even at absolute zero, particles do not remain entirely stationary; instead, they exhibit slight movement due to the uncertainty principle In the instance of the helium-4 isotope, these particles move quite vigorously — so much so that a sample of helium-4 cannot freeze at absolute zero without approximately 25 atmospheres of pressure being exerted to compress the particles tightly together.

At absolute zero, Helium-4 exhibits unusual movements due to various quantum effects, leading to significant alterations in its behaviour. The liquid loses all friction (thus becoming non-viscous) and can easily escape from containers, along with displaying several other peculiar traits.

What methods can we use to turn light into a solid substance?

Supersolids have been made from atomic gases Previously. Nevertheless, the latest study employed a innovative approach that depends on the characteristics of "polariton" systems.

Polaritons arise from the interaction between photons (light) and quasiparticles such as excitons via robust electromagnetic forces. These entities exhibit characteristics enabling them to collapse into their minimum achievable energy level akin to certain atomic gases. Essentially, this process combines light with matter, resulting in both being able to form a supersolid when brought together.

Why are supersolids useful?

Supersolids are crucial for investigation as they reveal the impact of minuscule, quantum-level particle interactions free from thermal interference. By examining their properties and behaviors, we gain insights into the very construction of atoms and particles themselves. This research fundamentally enhances our understanding of the universe around us.

Through further study and innovation, supersolids might find applications in various fields. quantum computing , superconductors , seamless lubricants, and uses we've only just started imagining. The number of potential opportunities awaiting us remains vast — developing a supersolid from light represents significant progress.



Scientists Say Living on the Moon Might Be Easier Than We Thought

It could be simpler for us to explore and reside on the Moon That's more than we initially believed, according to scientists.

According to a recent study, ice might be found beneath the Moon's surface in larger areas of its polar regions than previously thought.

Utilizing that ice and converting it into water will probably play a crucial role in our investigation or potential settlement of the Moon. However, the exact quantity available remains uncertain.

The probability of discovering ice correlates with the surface temperature on the lunar surface.

However, our recordings of the Moon's surface temperatures were conducted during the Apollo missions in the 1970s — which touched down near the equatorial region, quite distant from our planned landing site for future trips to the Moon. Additionally, within these areas of the Moon, the inclination of the terrain has minimal impact on the ambient temperature.

Currently, scientists have utilized data from ChaSTE—a temperature measurement experiment conducted via the Vikram lander aboard India's Chandrayaan-3 mission. This lander reached the southern polar area of the moon in 2023.

They managed to examine both inclined and level sections of the terrain, discovering that areas with inclines facing away from the sun could potentially remain cold enough for frost to form close to the surface. These conditions may occur on the moon—specifically in locations where NASA’s forthcoming manned Artemis missions intend to touch down.

The results are detailed in a recent study titled 'Higher Surface Temperatures Near South Polar Region of the Moon Measured by ChaSTE Experiment on Board Chandrayaan-3,' which has been published in the journal. Communications Earth & Environment .

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Scientists Unveil Tiniest Galaxy Yet Discovered: "A Functional Human Sized Down to a Grain of Rice"

Scientists have identified a group of miniature galaxies situated approximately 3 million light-years distant, which encompasses the tiniest and dimmest galaxy known to date.

This galaxy, named Andromeda XXXV, along with its companions circling around our neighboring galaxy, Andromeda, might alter our perceptions of cosmic evolution.

This is due to dwarf galaxies of such a tiny size typically being obliterated under the hotter and more dense environments. early universe And yet, for some reason, this small galaxy managed to survive without getting destroyed.

Despite their small scale—approximately one-millionth the size of our Milky Way—they function just as well as full-sized galaxies," explained team member and University of Michigan professor Eric Bell in a press release. "Imagine a person with all the capabilities intact, yet shrunk down to the size of a single grain of rice.

Meet Andromeda XXXV

Dwarf galaxies are not unfamiliar to scientists. Our home galaxy, the Milky Way , is orbited by many of these satellite galaxies trapped within the grasp of its larger galactic neighbors.

Nevertheless, many aspects of dwarf galaxies remain mysteries to scientists. Due to their smaller size, these galaxies emit less light compared to larger ones, which makes them more difficult to observe and investigate from far away.

Although astronomers have managed to pinpoint numerous dwarf galaxies revolving around the Milky Way, detecting similar small galaxies circling our luminous neighboring galaxies has proven extremely challenging. Thus, the small galaxies of the Milky Way Have served as our sole source of knowledge regarding tiny galactic entities.

This assignment is relatively easier when concerning the nearest large galaxy to the Milky Way, which is Andromeda. Dwarf galaxies have been observed near Andromeda. Previously, they were big and noticeable, merely reinforcing the data that astronomers had collected regarding dwarf galaxies orbiting the Milky Way.

To uncover these groundbreaking smaller and fainter dwarf galaxies, lead researcher Marcos Arias, an astronomer from the University of Michigan, along with his collaborators examined extensive astronomical databases. They were also granted observing time with major telescopes. Hubble Telescope to aid their search.

This discovery showed that Andromeda XXXV is not just a satellite galaxy, but its size is also significant enough to alter our understanding of galactic evolution theories.

I found this quite astonishing," Bell stated. "Given that it’s the dimmest object detected in the area, it presents an intriguing setup. However, multiple aspects about it were unforeseen.

A cosmic murder mystery

A crucial element of galactic evolution revolves around the duration of their star-forming periods This appeared to be the primary distinction between the Milky Way's dwarf galaxies and the less massive satellite galaxies orbiting Andromeda.

Arias noted that most of the Milky Way’s satellite galaxies possess extremely old stellar communities, ceasing star formation roughly 10 billion years back. In contrast, she pointed out that some analogous satellites orbiting Andromeda were still producing stars until approximately 6 billion years ago,

Stellar creation depends on a continuous supply of gas and dust to collapse and form new stars. Once this fuel runs out, star formation stops, effectively causing the galaxy to “die.”

Therefore, Bell characterized the circumstances surrounding these tiny galaxies as a "cold case" puzzle. Was star formation halted within the dwarf galaxies? gas supplies petered out On their own, or when these gases were stripped away by gravitational forces from a massive galactic host?

For the Milky Way, it seems that the supply of gas needed for star formation naturally dwindled over time. In contrast, for the smaller galaxies surrounding Andromeda, it looks like they were essentially “destroyed” by their larger host galaxy.

The lighting is somewhat dim, but it seems these galaxies either fell or were shoved out of place. It appears they were pushed," Bell stated. "This has taught us something fundamentally new regarding how galaxies form.

What is particularly intriguing is the prolonged duration of star formation observed in Andromeda XXXV. To grasp this phenomenon, we must look back to the era when the very first galaxies were formed.

Why doesn’t Andromeda XXXV qualify as a ‘deep-fried’ galaxy?

The initial era of the cosmos was characterized by extremely high temperatures and densities. This inflationary era was initiated by the Big Bang Continuing on, as the universe expanded and cooled, the initial atoms of hydrogen formed, leading to the creation of the first stars that clustered together. first galaxies.

These stars and galaxies emitted energy just like the earliest feeding black holes, which also helped reheat the universe. This event marked the demise of tiny galaxies, with experts suggesting that this heat essentially boiled away the gas required for star formation within these stellar clusters.

Nevertheless, against all odds, Andromeda XXXV endured!

Bell stated, "Initially we believed everything would essentially turn into ash since the whole cosmos transformed into a cauldron of searing hot liquid, resembling boiling oil. We anticipated that it would entirely exhaust its supply of gas; however, that seems not to be the case. This entity has an estimated mass of around 20,000 times that of our sun and continued to form stars without issue for several additional billions of years."

Exactly why Andromeda XXXV managed to avoid being destroyed remains an enigma.

“I don’t have a solution,” Bell stated. “The fact remains that the universe did experience warming; however, we’re now realizing the outcomes are far more complex than previously understood.”

NASA Other agencies are preparing missions that might uncover additional dwarf galaxies orbiting larger galaxies, which could shed light on this enigma. However, it’s likely that these discoveries may raise new queries similar to how the finding of Andromeda XXXV did.

Arias noted, 'We still have much to uncover.' There are numerous aspects we must continue to study — particularly concerning our immediate surroundings when it comes to galactic development, transformation, and organization — before we can deconstruct the chronology of the universe’s past and grasp how we arrived at this point.'

The team's study was released on Tuesday (March 11) in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.



Watch the Blue Ghost Lander Drill Into the Moon in This Mesmerizing Video!

The Blue Ghost lunar lander from Firefly continues to provide remarkable findings from the moon's surface.

Blue Ghost succeeded in its moon landing try On March 2, they landed close to Mons Latreille, an isolated lunar mountain within the expansive Mare Crisium ("Sea of Crises") located in the northeast part of the moon. the moon It soon focused on its scientific goals, which involved gathering data and capturing imagery from the moon’s close side. stunning image on the lunar sunrise.

Recent updates from Firefly Aerospace provide video footage capturing some of the action. Blue Ghost's payloads One of these experiments is LISTER, which stands for Lunar Instrumentation for Subsurface Thermal Exploration with Rapidity. This project has been actively drilling into the moon’s surface throughout this last week.

A video from the pneumatic, gas-driven drill created by Texas Tech University and Honeybee Robotics demonstrates it drilling into the lunar surface, causing minor explosive bursts that emit sparks, likely because of this interaction. electrically-charged lunar surface . LISTER, utilizing refined nitrogen, plans to achieve a depth of approximately 6-9 feet (2-3 meters). During this process, it will take temperature readings to investigate the flow of heat within the moon’s interior and observe thermal variations at different levels.

At the same time, the Blue Ghost lander released four tethers with electrodes along with an 8-foot (2.4-meter) tall mast as part of NASA’s Lunar Magnetotelluric Sounder (LMS) instrument designed to investigate the architecture and makeup of the Moon's mantle.

A different payload called Lunar PlanetVac effectively gathered, moved, and categorized lunar soil from the moon utilizing pressurized nitrogen gas. video demonstrating the instrument in use.

NASA has 10 cargoes on Blue Ghost As part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program, eight missions have already achieved their goals as of March 6, according to information from Firefly Aerospace. These include the SCALPSS experiment, designed to study how the lander’s engines affect lunar soil when BlueGhost lands on the Moon.

The advancement has been quite significant for Blue Ghost; however, the mission is nearing completion. On March 16, the sun is expected to set over Blue Ghost, leading to depletion of the solar-powered lander’s energy reserves, thus concluding its mission.

The lander is, however, getting ready to capture images of the sunset in order to gain insights into how lunar dust floats above the surface as the lunar day ends.



Mars Beaches Discovered: Rover Finds Evidence of Ancient Shorelines


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  • SCIENTISTS UNCOVER MARTIAN FINDING THAT MIGHT EXPOSE EXTRATERRESTRIAL LIFE

This may not be the most apparent destination for a vacation.

But Mars once had sunny, sandy shores with calm, rippling waters, as indicated by a recent research findings.

Scientists have found indications of a 'getaway-like' setting on Mars, even though there appears to be no observable liquid water present. The surface of Mars as we see it today.

A global group of researchers utilized information from China China's Zhurong Mars rover aims to uncover concealed strata of rocks beneath the planet’s surface, which strongly indicate the existence of an ancient northern ocean.

The latest study provides the strongest indication so far that the planet previously had a substantial amount of water and a more conducive setting for life, according to the scientists.

The Zhurong rover landed on Mars In 2021, within the region called Utopia Planitia, it transmitted information about the local geology in quest of evidence indicating past presence of water or ice.

In contrast to other rovers, this one was fitted with ground-penetrating radar, enabling it to investigate Mars’ subsurface. By utilizing both low and high-frequency radar signals, it could delve into the Martian soil and pinpoint hidden rock structures beneath.

Through examining the buried layers of sediments, researchers can now construct a more comprehensive understanding of Earth's past.

Upon reviewing the radar data, the team discovered a comparable stratified arrangement akin to that found on terrestrial shorelines.

They observed 'foreshore' deposits, which are inclined layers sloping toward the ocean. These formations occur as sediments are transported by tidal movements and wave actions into extensive bodies of water.

When comparing the Martian data with radar pictures of shoreline formations on Earth, the team discovered remarkable parallels.

The dip angles measured on Mars were well within the range found in coastal sedimentary formations on Earth.

The discovery indicates that Mars was once a much wetter place than it is today, further supporting the hypothesis of a past ocean that encompassed a significant area around the north pole of the globe , the researchers said.

The research additionally offers fresh insights into the development of Mars' environment, indicating that a hospitable warm and moist era may have lasted for as long as hundreds of million years.

Benjamin Cardenas, co-author from Pennsylvania State University, stated, "We're discovering locations on Mars where old shorelines of ancient seas once stood and where former river deltas existed .

'We discovered signs of wind, waves, an abundance of sand — essentially, a perfect beach for a holiday.'

Dr. Michael Manga from the University of California, Berkeley, was also among the contributors to the paper.

The formations do not resemble sand dunes," he stated. "They are not similar to an impact crater nor do they appear to be lava flows. It was at this point that we began considering the possibility of ancient oceans.

The alignment of these elements parallels where the ancient coastline likely existed. These features possess the appropriate direction and gradient to back up the theory that an extensive body of water persisted long enough to form a sandy shore similar to a beach.

The research was documented in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences journal.

Read more


Radical Study Claims Earth Has Six Continents, Not Seven

Disregard everything you learned about elementary school geography. Earth apparently doesn’t have seven continents after all.

From an early age, we're led to believe that the planet consists of seven continents: Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Oceania, Europe, North America, and South America. However, recent studies indicate that this might not be entirely accurate.

A research paper, released earlier last year in the journal Gondwana Research suggests that we genuinely only have six continents.

This remarkable assertion stems from an extensive investigation into the geological mechanisms responsible for the separation of Europe and North America, as well as the evolution of these continents throughout history.

Dr. Jordan Phethean, who leads the study from the University of Derby, clarified for Earth.com His team’s discoveries suggest that "the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates haven't truly separated yet, contrary to the long-held belief that this occurred 52 million years ago."

Rather, he explained, these plates are continually stretching and therefore remain in the phase of separating, instead of standing as completely distinct units.

Put simply, North America and Europe might be viewed as one large continent instead of being seen as separate entities.

The research centers on the volcanic island of Iceland, believed to have originated approximately 60 million years past due to the Mid-Atlantic Ridge activity.

This geological border, created by the intersection of the North American and Eurasian plates, is believed to have triggered the formation of a hot mantle plume, which eventually led to the creation of the island. Earth.com notes.

By meticulously examining tectonic activities throughout Africa, Phethean and his team have contested this hypothesis and proposed an innovative alternative concept.

They contend that Iceland, together with the Greenland-Iceland-Faroe Islands Ridge (GIFR), comprises geological pieces originating from both the European and North American tectonic plates.

As a result, this indicates that these areas are not considered separate landmasses anymore; instead, they form parts of an extensive continental framework that is interconnected.

Scientists have introduced the term "Rifted Oceanic Magmatic Plateau" (ROMP) to characterize this novel geologic phenomenon, potentially altering our understanding of how Earth's continents were formed and separated.

Indeed, owing to its importance, Phethean has likened the discovery to the Earth Science counterpart of uncovering the Lost City of Atlantis .

He explains this is due to him and his team discovering "pieces of a submerged lost continent hidden under the ocean and covered by kilometers of thin layers of lava."

Moreover, the study reveals remarkable parallels between Iceland and Ethiopia's volcanically active Afar region.

If their research turns out to be correct, it implies that the European and North American continents are continuing to separate from each other and hence remain connected.

Pethean recognizes that his team’s discoveries might surprise some people, yet he maintains that their work is firmly rooted in thorough investigation.

"It’s contentious to propose that the GIFR includes a significant portion of continental crust and that the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates may not have completely separated," he acknowledged, emphasizing that his research backs up these ideas.

Despite this, the study remains at the theoretical stage, and the researchers plan to carry out additional experiments on Iceland’s volcanic rocks to gather more definitive proof of an old continental crust.

They are additionally using computer simulations and plate tectonic modeling to gain deeper insights into the formation of the ROMP.

This study builds upon Phethean’s previous finding of a hidden “proto-microcontinent” situated between Canada and Greenland.

This remote continent is approximately the same size as England and lies beneath the Davis Strait, near Baffin Island.

Pethean highlighted that "rifting and microcontinent creation continue to occur," providing valuable insights for researchers studying continental dynamics and plate tectonics.

This information could assist specialists in forecasting what our Earth might resemble in the far-off future and aid in identifying potential locations for valuable resources.

The article was initially posted on August 7, 2024.

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The "Moon Illusion" Has Stumped Scientists for Millennia: Unraveling the Mystery

It's an illusion That has puzzled individuals from the realms of philosophy and science across millennia—but what is the reason behind this? Moon appear bigger when it rises or sets?

Queries about the visual illusion of the moon seeming bigger when it's close to the horizon can be traced back as far as the 4th century BCE.

That's right, even Aristotle He rubbed his chin as he contemplated the cause of this phenomenon. His conclusion was that the Earth’s atmosphere might have some sort of magnification effect that distorts how we perceive the moon.

At the point where the horizon meets the sky, the place where the moon illusion becomes evident, the philosopher surmised that light must travel through a thicker layer of the Earth’s thick atmosphere. This passage acts akin to a magnifying lens, amplifying what we perceive.

According to this theory, Aristotle grasped how the moon illusion deceives the human eye instead of attributing it to the moon or outer space—although not all of his ideas were equally perceptive.

It’s an optical illusion for humans since even though photographs taken of the moon show consistent dimensions every night, our perception makes it seem as if its size changes in the evening sky.

Therefore, we have all acknowledged that this phenomenon is due to an optical illusion, with modern explanations attributing it to our brain’s inability to accurately gauge the Moon’s actual size and distance.

Nonetheless, there isn't a definitive explanation for this phenomenon; one potential cause might be the influence of our environment on how we perceive things — such as trees, mountains, and structures that lead us to believe the moon appears bigger and nearer when it's near the horizon.

When the moon sits high in the sky without anything nearby for scale, it can seem more distant and diminutive.

Does that sound familiar? It should, as the Ponzo illusion works similarly. The pair of converging lines alters how we perceive two lines of identical length.

Even though we might believe the top line appears bigger and more distant, this is incorrect; in reality, both lines are identical in size.

If unsure, we can check with NASA regarding this lunar optical effect.

"Without a full understanding of why we perceive it this way, we can still concur that whether real or an illusion, a large Moon remains a breathtaking spectacle," according to the space agency. IFL Science.

So, until we figure out precisely what our minds are doing, it’s likely for the best to simply appreciate the Moon illusion and the moody, atmospheric, and occasionally eerie scenes it generates.

Consider this the next time you look up at the moon...

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New Study Unveils How Hydrogen Sparked Life's Origins

New research shows how hydrogen gas plays a vital role in producing energy inside cells, and was critical for initiating life on Earth. Earth .

Now a study The research conducted by William F. Martin from the University of Düsseldorf and Martina Preiner from the Max Planck Institute (MPI) for Terrestrial Microbiology in Marburg emphasizes how early cellular life forms utilized hydrogen gas as their primary energy source.

The initial cells on our planet emerged from hydrogen gas generated in hydrothermal vents; the interaction between this hydrogen gas and carbon dioxide led to the formation of living molecules.

To extract energy, cells must drive electrons from hydrogen gas up an energetic gradient. "This is akin to compelling a river to flow upward rather than downward; thus, cells require sophisticated mechanisms," clarifies Max Brabender, one of the researchers involved in the study. The method through which cells accomplished this feat was uncovered just fifteen years prior by Wolfgang Buckel and Rolf Thauer.

They discovered that cells direct the two electrons from hydrogen along separate routes. One electron descends significantly, triggering a mechanism similar to a pulley system that propels the second electron upward against an energy gradient. This phenomenon is referred to as electron bifurcation. Within cells, this process involves multiple enzymes.

Therefore, figuring out how an endergonic reaction could take place in early evolution, before the existence of enzymes or cells, has been quite a challenging puzzle to solve.

Multiple theories suggest how the environment may have propelled electrons to higher energy levels towards ferredoxin prior to the emergence of electron bifurcation," explains Martin. "We've uncovered a mechanism so straightforward that it operates effectively under the natural settings found at hydrothermal vents.

Following the identification of electron bifurcation, researchers determined this mechanism to be both ancient and crucial for microorganisms utilizing hydrogen gas. However, what methods were employed to utilize hydrogen gas for carbon dioxide fixation prior to the emergence of proteins?

“ Metals offer insights," Preiner states. "In the emergence of life, metals within early environmental settings have the ability to drive electrons from hydrogen gas upwards, and traces of this primeval chemical process are still evident in the functioning of contemporary cellular systems."

However, simply having metals is insufficient.

"[Hydrogen gas] also needs to be generated by the environment," adds co-first author Delfina Pereira from Preiner’s laboratory.

Modern and ancient hydrothermal vents produce substantial quantities of hydrogen gas, which can transform iron-bearing minerals into lustrous metallic iron. This phenomenon isn’t novel; however, what’s surprising is that these natural processes occur extensively at hydrothermal vents. Furthermore, this naturally occurring deposit of iron might have been pivotal for the emergence of early life forms.

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Rock From Billions of Years Ago Reveals Secrets About the Moon

Eruptions occurred on the enigmatic far side of the moon. the moon Billions of years ago, according to new research, this has been confirmed.

Researchers examined moon dirt retrieved from Earth after being collected during missions. China Chang'e-6 spacecraft, which was the first to bring back samples of rock and soil from the less-explored far side.

Two distinct groups discovered pieces of volcanic stone estimated to be around 2.8 billion years old. Interestingly, one sample was even older, tracing back to approximately 4.2 billion years ago.

'To get a sample from this region is truly crucial since it's an area where we currently lack any data,' stated Christopher Hamilton, a planetary volcanologist at the University of Arizona.

Researchers have discovered evidence indicating that active volcanoes existed on the near side of the Moon—the face we can see from Earth—during a comparable period in history.

Earlier research, which included information from NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, indicated that the far side could potentially boast a history of volcanism as well.

The initial specimens collected from that area not oriented towards Earth indicate a dynamic past. These findings were released on Friday in both Nature and Science publications.

China has sent multiple space vehicles to the moon.

In 2020, the Chang'e-5 mission brought back lunar samples from the Moon's near side—the first such retrieval since the rock collections made by NASA's Apollo missions and the Soviet Union's craft in the 1970s.

In 2019, the Chang'e-4 probe made history as the first mission to land on the lunar far side.

The moon's distant side is dotted with impact craters and contains less of the smooth, darker areas found on its closer face, which were formed by ancient volcanic activity.

The reason behind the significant differences between the two halves remains unclear, according to study co-author Qiu-Li Li from the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Li stated that the recent discoveries show more than a billion years' worth of volcanic activity on the moon’s far side.

Subsequent studies will ascertain the reasons behind why the activity persisted for such an extended period.

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Scientists discover smallest galaxy ever seen: 'It's like having a perfectly functional human being that's the size of a grain of rice'

Astronomers have discovered a collection of tiny galaxies located roughly 3 million light-years away that includes the smallest and faintest galaxy ever seen.

This galaxy, designated Andromeda XXXV, and its compatriots orbiting our neighbor galaxy, Andromeda, could change how we think about cosmic evolution.

That's because dwarf galaxies this small should have been destroyed in the hotter and denser conditions of the early universe . Yet somehow, this tiny galaxy survived without being fried.

"These are fully functional galaxies, but they're about a millionth of the size of the Milky Way," team member and University of Michigan professor Eric Bell said in a statement. "It's like having a perfectly functional human being that's the size of a grain of rice."

Meet Andromeda XXXV

Dwarf galaxies themselves are nothing new to scientists. Our own galaxy, the Milky Way , is orbited by dozens of these satellite galaxies caught in the grip of its more immense galaxies.

There is, however, a great deal about dwarf galaxies that scientists don't know. This is because, being smaller, they are much dimmer than major galaxies, making them harder to spot and tougher to study at large distances.

While astronomers have been able to determine many dwarf galaxies in orbit around the Milky Way, identifying dwarf galaxies around our bright galactic neighbors has been incredibly difficult. This means that the dwarf galaxies of the Milky Way have been our only source of information about small satellite galaxies.

This task is somewhat less challenging around the closest major galaxy to the Milky Way, Andromeda. Other dwarf galaxies have been spotted around Andromeda before, but these have been large and bright, thus simply confirming the information that astronomers had gathered about dwarf galaxies around the Milky Way.

To discover these paradigm-shifting smaller and dimmer dwarf galaxies, team leader Marcos Arias, an astronomer at the University of Michigan, and his colleagues scoured various massive astronomical datasets. The team was also able to obtain time with the Hubble DiwidaTelescope to aid their search.

This revealed that not only is Andromeda XXXV a satellite galaxy, but it is also small enough to change theories of how galaxies evolve.

"It was really surprising," Bell said. "It's the faintest thing you find around, so it's just kind of a neat system. But it's also unexpected in a lot of different ways."

A cosmic murder mystery

One of the key aspects of galactic evolution is how long their star-forming periods last. This seemed to be the main difference between the Milky Way's dwarf galaxies and the smaller satellite galaxies of Andromeda.

"Most of the Milky Way satellites have very ancient star populations. They stopped forming stars about 10 billion years ago," Arias explained. "What we're seeing is that similar satellites in Andromeda can form stars up to a few billion years ago — around 6 billion years."

Star formation requires a steady supply of gas and dust to collapse and birth stellar bodies. When that gas is gone, star formation halts, and the galaxy "dies."

Thus, Bell described the situation around these small galaxies as a "murder mystery." Did star formation end when dwarf galaxies' gas supplies petered out on their own, or when these gases were gravitationally stripped away by a large galactic host?

In the case of the Milky Way, it appears that the gas for star formation petered out on its own; however, for the smaller galaxies around Andromeda, it appears they were "killed" by their parent galaxy.

"It's a little dark, but it's either did they fall or did they get pushed? These galaxies appear to have been pushed," Bell said. "With that, we've learned something qualitatively new about galaxy formation from them."

What is even more curious is the extended period of star formation experienced by Andromeda XXXV. To understand why, it is necessary to travel back in time to the the birth of the first galaxies.

Why isn't Andromeda XXXV a 'deep fried' galaxy?

The earliest epoch of the universe was marked by incredibly hot and dense conditions. This inflationary period, begun by the Big Bang , continued, and the universe dispersed and cooled. This allowed the first atoms of hydrogen to take shape, birthing the first stars, which gathered in the first galaxies.

These stars and galaxies blasted out energy as did the first feeding black holes reheating the cosmos. This signaled the death of very small galaxies, and scientists theorize this heat "cooked off" the gas needed for star formation in such collections of stars.

Yet, somehow, Andromeda XXXV survived!

"We thought they were basically all going to be fried because the entire universe turned into a vat of boiling oil," Bell said. "We thought that it would completely lose its gas, but apparently that doesn't happen, because this thing is about 20,000 solar masses and yet it was forming stars just fine for a few extra billion years."

Exactly why Andromeda XXXV managed to avoid being destroyed remains an enigma.

"I don't have an answer," Bell said. "It is also still true that the universe did heat up; we're just learning the consequences are more complicated than we thought."

NASA and other Diwidaagencies are planning missions that could discover further dwarf galaxies around other large galaxies and help solve this mystery. But there's a good chance that the solution will open up new questions just as the discovery of Andromeda XXXV has.

"We still have a lot to discover," Arias said. "There are so many things that we still need to learn — even about what's near to us — in terms of galaxy formation, evolution, and structure before we can reverse engineer the history of the universe and understand how we came to be where we are today."

The team's research was published on Tuesday (March 11) in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.



Mystery Unveiled: 'Yellow Brick Road to Atlantis' Discovered Underwater Off Australian Coast

A recently found enigmatic rocky formation akin to the legendary "yellow brick road" from the story appears in The Wizard of Oz has been nicknamed "the path to Atlantis"

The submerged route was uncovered in 2022 by marine scientists near the coastline. Hawaii on the Pacific Ocean floor.

They aimed to explore submarine formations called seamounts, which originate from volcanic processes.

In a clip posted by EVNaurilus on YouTube, The team aboard the Exploration Vessel Nautilus spotted a peculiar structure while conducting research in the region known as Lili'uokalani Ridge in the Pacific Ocean.

It is situated within the United States' Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.

As they broadcast their discoveries online, the scientists were seen coming across a structure that initially seemed like an artificial cobblestone path featuring distinct rectangular stones.

They playfully contemplated whether the yellow brick road they discovered at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean might be the "path to Atlantis," a mythical imperial superpower island referenced by the ancient Greek philosopher Plato.

As soon as the team noticed the formation, someone on the radio reported from a researcher stating that the route was "the path to Atlantis."

A different researcher replied to the question by inquiring if they were referring to "the yellow brick road."

Even though it might seem like a yellow brick road leading to the mythical city of Atlantis, it actually represents an instance of ancient volcanic activity still at work.

EVNautilus' YouTube caption elucidated: On top of Nootka Seamount, the crew observed a "desiccated lakebed" structure, which has been identified as a cracked layer of hyaloclastite rock (a type of volcanic rock created during intense eruptions when numerous rock pieces accumulate at the ocean floor).

They also mentioned that the fractured appearance of the rocks, which looks like cobblestone, is likely caused by repeated expansion and contraction from numerous volcanic activities occurring throughout history.

The unexplored region is helping scientists delve deeper into understanding life on and inside the rugged terrains of these profound, historic underwater mountains.

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Science's Top Theory About the Moon Might Be Dead Wrong

It has often been said that the Moon came into existence when a Mars-sized body dubbed Theia smashed into Earth , propelling matter into space which ultimately formed our cherished cosmic companion.

This concept, referred to as the giant impact hypothesis, aids in explaining why Earth and the Moon have several shared characteristics, such as similar minerals.

And yet, a new study Has created a significant gap in this broadly accepted theory due to one prominent reason: we lack any concrete proof of such a large-scale event occurring.

Paolo Sossi, the planetary scientist at the helm of this pioneering study, informed ScienceAlert The secret behind his team's latest discovery hinges on examining rocks sourced from the Earth’s mantle as well as those from the Moon.

He pointed out that the isotope ratios in both samples are virtually the same, but added that "if there were any signs of an impacting object, we would anticipate observing slight variations."

Therefore, he stated: “Our contention is that if an impact occurred, both celestial bodies would have had to mix thoroughly… or alternatively, the Moon must have originated through a distinct formation process.”

Frankly, this does not rule out that the massive collision might not have happened. It simply indicates that we cannot confidently assert that it occurred.

To put it differently, the genuine beginnings of the Moon still puzzle scientists.

If there wasn't such a significant collision, then how did the Moon originate?

In the end, the giant impact hypothesis has a great deal of merit. Following all, conditions were quite tumultuous during that time. Solar System was just beginning about 4.5 billion years ago.

There were numerous rocks scattered about, making it quite possible that our infant Earth was struck by an object similar to Theia.

According to Sossi and his team, the problem lies in the similarity between Earth and the Moon. Many components found on both celestial bodies exhibit matching ratios of isotopes—variations of atoms containing the same number of protons but differing neutron counts—in their nuclei. ScienceAlert notes.

Sossi pointed out that initially, this correlation was observed exclusively among oxygen isotopes. However, since the early 2010s, it has also been identified in chromium and titanium—elements that are present only within the rocky sections of celestial bodies.

In addition, since the isotopes of these elements show significant variation across different planetary materials, if there had been any sign of an impacting object, we would anticipate observing slight discrepancies in their isotopic compositions. However, no such disparities have been found when comparing the Earth and the Moon.

He went on: "It has similarly been demonstrated for numerous additional elements (such as iron, calcium, molybdenum, among others) indicating that the possibility of this occurring randomly is extraordinarily slim."

Additionally, a new research suggests that Earth and the Moon might be approximately the same age – or more precisely, they were formed within a short period of each other roughly 4.5 billion years ago.

Various bits of evidence have prompted Sossi to determine that the duo originated from the same cloud of matter, thereby eliminating the necessity for any additional entity—be it Theia or anything else—to be part of the process.

Certainly, our planet and its natural satellite stand out in the Solar System as the only pair of sizable spherical entities featuring distinctively layered cores.

Actually, if the Moon – which isn’t significantly smaller than Mercury – were orbiting independently in space, it might well be classified as a planet itself. ScienceAlert points out.

The Moon is also acknowledged for its significant impact on the development of life on our planet Earth. It aids in stabilising the Earth's rotation and creates tidal movements that assist ocean circulation.

In simple terms, our Earth would be a vastly distinct world without our beloved companion.

Is it possible we'll definitively determine how the Moon came into being?

At present, we genuinely do not understand how Earth and the Moon formed from a cloud of stardust around 4.5 billion years ago. However, Sossi and his team believe there are methods to uncover this mystery.

He thinks that the subsequent move should be exploring what lies within the Moon, which is currently the focus of his team’s efforts.

"Sufficiently robust chemical and isotopic evidence has emerged to begin challenging the basic principles behind how the Moon was formed," according to Sossi.

We’re equally delighted to observe how the geophysical, geochemical, and dynamical constraints can intertwine to offer a fresh, comprehensive perspective on lunar formation.

He concluded: "We can discuss shared issues spanning different fields, which will eventually assist us in solving this puzzle."

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India Leads Four Nations in Revolutionary Satellite Docking Demonstrations, Says ISRO Chief

Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) [ India ], March 15 (ANI): India has become part of a select club comprising four countries that have successfully showcased the sophisticated technology satellite docking and un docking , India In space research organization ( ISRO ) Chairman Dr V Narayanan said on Friday following the successful completion of the SpaDEx (Space Docking Experiment) mission.

" India is now among the four nations globally to have achieved both docking and un docking technology," Narayanan told reporters.

When reminiscing about the organization's preparatory efforts prior to the mission, Narayanan stated that they conducted more than 120 computer simulations to ensure everything would go smoothly without any errors throughout the mission.

"On January 16, we achieved something significant; we successfully connected both the satellite Together, they were spinning as one unit. Next, we aimed to split them apart, the unrotated portion. docking We conducted numerous studies and analyses, developed a simulator, and performed 120 simulations to ensure accuracy. Our efforts culminated in success during our initial try when, on March 13th at 9:20 AM, everything went according to plan without any errors. docking process," the ISRO chairman said.

On January 16, ISRO Scientists successfully showcased their spacecraft. docking ability by docking two satellite s launched under SpaDex.

When asked about India In the realm of manned missions' future, the ISRO chairman highlighted that they glean insights from minor obstacles: "Every little setback, whether ours or someone else’s, provides us with valuable lessons. Given the complexity of this technology, learning is constant for us. Regardless of these challenges, we address them diligently, and our team remains assured about the level of commitment involved." India Scientists are something else.

Narayanan also disclosed another significant accomplishment of the space organization, mentioning that they had successfully tested the C32 cryogenic propulsion system, a technology previously withheld from them. India by multiple countries.

Significantly, we've created the C 32 cryogenically propelled system, and everyone needs to understand that this advanced technology was previously inaccessible. India By other nations, and we started with small steps. Now, we have created three cryogenic stages," the ISRO chairman told reporters.

We've conducted successful tests lasting 100 seconds. This marks another technological advancement that numerous countries lack. Two decades ago, this was an extremely challenging technology, but now it has become more accessible. ISRO ," he added.

The un docking The process entailed a meticulous series of occurrences, leading up to the detachment of the SDX-01 (Chaser) and SDX-02 (Target). satellite These satellites were launched on December 30, 2024, utilizing the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)-C60 from the Satish Dhwan Space Centre located in Sriharikota.

The process included the successful extension of SDX-2, the planned release of Capture Lever 3, and the disengagement of the Capture Lever in SDX-2. After these maneuvers, the decapture command was issued in both SDX-1 and SDX-2, leading to the successful separation of the satellite s.

The SpaDeX spacecraft was developed and brought to fruition by the UR Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), assisted by several other entities. ISRO centers (VSSC, LPSC, SAC, IISU, and LEOS). (ANI)

Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).


Alien Hunt Gets Easier: New Oxygen Reaction Discovery Could Be Key

'Just as oxygen is essential for the lungs, hope is vital to giving purpose to one’s life.'

This quote comes from the book "Eternal Hope" written by Emil Brunner, who was a Swiss theologian.

The man actually intended to convey that oxygen is the key to discovering life outside of our planet.

Oxygen is considered essential for life on Earth because it is primarily generated by living organisms.

However, researchers have found a novel method for oxygen to develop in planetary atmospheres dense with carbon dioxide, eliminating the requirement for living organisms.

Researchers told Space.com How they searched for innovative methods to generate molecular oxygen by colliding CO2 with helium.

This method of producing oxygen is termed an 'abiotic' process, which means it does not entail living organisms.

The enrichment of Earth’s atmosphere with oxygen, occurring approximately between 2.1 to 2.4 billion years ago, remains one of the greatest enigmas in history. Prior to this event, which geologists refer to as the Great Oxidation Event, much of our planet was enveloped in the pungent greenhouse gas CO2.

The presence of oxygen became noticeable in the atmosphere once ancient marine microorganisms developed the capability for photosynthesis. Following their exposure to sunlight, these organisms released oxygen into the environment.

Much of this oxygen did not persist for an extended period. Given the numerous volcanoes active back then, hydrogen likely consumed most of it.

However, after several hundreds of millions of years, as the Earth started to cool down, it provided an opportunity for our unusually oxygen-abundant atmosphere to develop.

Shan Xi Tian and Jie Hu from the University of Science and Technology of China chose to investigate how helium produced through interactions between solar winds and a planet's atmosphere might generate oxygen.

In this process, helium forms ions—charged particles that behave akin to wrecking balls, colliding with CO2 and causing it to smash into other molecules.

'This phenomenon can be observed in Mars' upper atmosphere as it contains numerous He+ ions (from solar winds) along with CO2,' explained Hu.

However, despite the formation of O+, O2+, and CO2+, O2 does not appear, at least not on Mars.

Tian and Hu employed three methods from their toolkit to put their concept to the test.

The initial method is time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometry, where particles become ions and are accelerated to achieve equal kinetic energy. The duration taken for them to cover the same distance is utilized to determine their mass.

The duo utilized a 'crossed-beam apparatus' for colliding two molecules, along with 'ion velocity maps' to document the paths and speeds of the resulting ions.

'We discovered a significantly different mechanism for producing O2 from molecular CO2,' Tian stated. 'Specifically, via the interaction between helium ions [He+] and CO2.'

To put it simply, Tian and Hu’s research discovered that life-supporting oxygen might develop on planets with CO2-heavy atmospheres before any living organisms have appeared there.

David Benoit, who serves as a senior lecturer in Molecular Physics and Astrochemistry at the University of Hull’s EA Milne Centre for Astrophysics, now indicates that the quest is underway to locate planets where this might plausibly occur.

'This innovative mechanism is expected to be included in upcoming models designed to forecast the atmospheres of other planets,' Benoit stated to Space.com. 'It will assist us in more accurately explaining the levels of oxygen we may discover.'

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